Petroleum Jelly for Scars

Petroleum jelly was first discovered in its raw form, some two hundred years ago. However, it became a popular ointment only a century ago. Petroleum jelly was first launched as an ointment for skin injuries, under the brand name 'Vaseline' in Brooklyn, New York. Ever since, it has been widely used to cure all sorts of skin problems. Pure petroleum jelly, which contains no chemicals or perfumes is considered as the best moisturizer even for sensitive skin.

What is Petroleum Jelly?
Petroleum jelly, also called as petrolatum is a flammable, semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons. It has a melting point of about 37°C. Its appearance is pale yellow and translucent. In its purest form, it does not have any taste or smell. It is hydrophobic (water repellent) and also insoluble in water. Petroleum jelly is often mistaken for glycerol due to their similar texture. However, glycerol is not a hydrocarbon, but an alcohol. Nonetheless, both have tremendous healing properties.

Petroleum Jelly for Scars
Petroleum jelly to heal scars is widely used in the field of medicine. Applying petroleum jelly on wound accelerates the healing process. Due to its hydrophobic properties, petroleum jelly prevents any fluids from entering the wound. It forms a barrier around the wound, so as to protect the wound from bacteria and other foreign objects. This barrier also prevents the loss of moisture from the wound. Moreover, petroleum jelly prohibits the formation of thick scab, which delays the healing process. This scab is also responsible for the wound marks. Its working mechanism is somewhat similar to silicon sheeting or a bandage.

Effectiveness of Petroleum Jelly in Treating Scars
Petroleum jelly is effective only for treating fresh cuts and wounds. It is hardly effective in treating old scars. In case of fresh wounds, petroleum jelly inhibits the formation of ugly scars on the skin. This is done by producing collagen in the body and petroleum jelly stimulates collagen production. Collagen is a component in the skin, which is responsible for its fullness. When the scar is old, petroleum jelly fails to stimulate collagen production. Thus, there is no scope for the improvement in the appearance of the scar. Also read on petroleum jelly side effects.

Petroleum Jelly for Skin
There are several uses of petroleum jelly in improving the overall quality of skin. Following are some of the petroleum jelly uses in skin care.

• Apply some petroleum jelly on chapped lips or dry hands to make them soft.
• Before going for any beauty treatment on hair or skin, dab generous amount of petroleum jelly to protect the skin or hair from harsh chemicals.
• Always apply a layer of white petroleum jelly before doing heavy make up, it helps later to remove make up quickly.
• While working with paints and greases, apply some petroleum jelly before wearing gloves.
• Put some petroleum jelly on your feet and gently massage before going to bed.

Petroleum jelly for scars is effective only as long as the wound is fresh. Also, you need additional treatment to encourage the healing process. In case of deep or serious wound, consult your physician before attempting to treat it with petroleum jelly.