Vaseline in cosmetics: good or bad? Petrolatum as a lubricant

In almost every home first aid kit there is a flat tin can of two halves, with the universal lubricant Vaseline.

This is a classic, familiar to us since Soviet times. Today, only the packaging has changed, the content remains the same. Not everyone knows that this famous box contains only one of possible formulations. Namely: medical vaseline.

In addition to it, cosmetic and technical vaseline is produced. With the first options, everything is clear, especially with the scope. We will consider the difference between a technical product and medicine. Moreover, there are not so many differences.

Basic composition and application

Without exception, all products of this line (including medical vaseline) are a mixture (with a high degree mutual distribution) of liquid and solid carbons.

At the same time, the composition remains stable in a given temperature range, and is a homogeneous mass, ready for use without prior preparation. Consistency (at operating temperature) - ointment medium degree density.

Historically, natural petroleum jelly was made from hardwood paraffin resins, however, for technical application it is too expensive technology.

The answer to the question: what is the difference between technical vaseline and medical vaseline is simple: a different basic basis.

• refined petroleum oil, the properties of which are determined by the current GOST 4113-80, is a universal base for creating any type of technical petroleum jelly;
• thickener: refractory hydrocarbons, usually paraffin and ceresin, providing the necessary consistency;
• adhesive additives that make petroleum jelly sticky;
• anti-corrosion additives.

As you can see, the composition is simple and effective. Of course, Vaseline cannot be used as a universal lubricant; any manufacturer of technical fluids offers a whole range of oils for this purpose.

Technical vaseline according to OST 38 1.56-74: description and properties - video

Nevertheless, he confidently occupies his niche:

Vaseline electrotechnical has one important feature: it practically does not conduct electricity. Therefore, it can be used to impregnate any separating materials (cloth, electrical paper) without the risk of short circuits or current leakage. Typical example: technical vaseline brand VTV 1.

Apart from industrial applications(actually for impregnation), used for mounting and protecting any contact connections.

In addition, grease can be applied to the sliding pads. At the point of contact, the vaseline is erased without changing the electrical conductivity of the connection. And the rest of the contact assembly will be protected from corrosion.

At various uses, the consistency of the grease may vary. For example, liquid petroleum jelly is usually used to impregnate release materials.

Vaseline technical: characteristics according to GOST and TU

The parameters are indicated for VTV-1, but they are similar for any other brands.

• consistency and color: uniform ointment of medium viscosity, light yellow or brown;
• the structure is fibrous, smooth, without lumps;
• dripping starts at: 54°C;
• kinematic viscosity measured at 70°C: 13;
• effective viscosity at typical temperature conditions of 0°C: 100 Pa*s;
• ultimate strength at 20°C: start of shear not less than 1000 Pa;
• acids and alkalis are absent.

The composition does not have a corrosive effect on metals, and effectively protects the surface from oxidation up to a temperature of 100°C.

Technical vaseline Contact 701, properties and application - video

Solubility in various liquids for any form of exposure:

• water - insoluble;
• electrolytes - insoluble;
• glycerin compounds - insoluble;
• alcohols - soluble with prolonged exposure;
• ethers, chloroform - soluble;
• oils - soluble with stirring.

What can replace technical vaseline?

• from the point of view of protecting electrical terminals and other elements from corrosion - suitable;
• as an impregnation of electrical separation materials: 100% no substitutes;
• for lubricating surfaces - all greases have characteristics different from petroleum jelly.

Compound.

The composition of petroleum jelly is a mixture of solid and liquid carbohydrates. Vaseline is obtained during the processing of petroleum fractions with a low boiling point, and its invention dates back to the middle of the 19th century.

Vaseline melts at 60°C, dissolves in ether and chloroform, and is miscible with all oils except castor. At the same time, it does not dissolve in either water or alcohol, therefore, when applied to the skin, it is washed off with difficulty.

Natural Vaseline is made from paraffin resins of natural origin. Artificial - from a mixture of ceresin and paraffin with the addition of purified vaseline or perfume oil and substances that increase viscosity. Artificial petroleum jelly has a hazy yellowish or White color. Compared to it, the natural preparation is more viscous and transparent, and also has an antimicrobial effect.

Vaseline application.

Types of Vaseline:

• technical,

• medical,

• cosmetic.

Technical Vaseline undergoes the least cleaning. Its color can vary from yellow to dark brown. Unlike other varieties, technical petroleum jelly has the smell of kerosene. Such vaseline is used in industry to protect metal parts from the damaging effects of moisture, to impregnate electrical insulators and to lubricate various contacts. Technical petroleum jelly contains acids, so if it comes into contact with the skin, irritation may occur.

Medical Vaseline , like cosmetic, is thoroughly cleaned and has a white color. In medicine, it is mainly used externally as an emollient and protective agent, and also as a basis for medicinal ointments. Vaseline helps protect the skin from burns when cupping. Before an enema or gas tube their hard tips are lubricated with petroleum jelly to protect the mucous membrane from injury. Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly helps to heal small cracks in the skin and soften it after exposure to sun, wind or frost.

cosmetic vaseline used in the manufacture of many ointments and creams. AT pure form it is rarely used, since petroleum jelly is able to completely clog the pores of the skin and block the access of oxygen to it. However, petroleum jelly is great for softening the skin before a massage and for protecting the skin after a peel or dermabrasion. Vaseline retains the skin's moisture, preventing it from evaporating. This property has both positive and negative side. Protective Vaseline film helps the skin to relax and recover after cosmetic procedures. However, with skin problems, fluid retention adversely affects recovery processes.

In extremely rare cases an allergic rash may occur at the site of application of petroleum jelly. When applied to the skin, Vaseline is practically not absorbed into the blood, therefore it has no contraindications, except for individual intolerance.

Vaseline is well known to many since childhood. it affordable and still not lost popularity the product consists of a mixture of liquid and solid carbohydrates, has a thick consistency and color from transparent to caramel.

Vaseline is of artificial and natural origin, depending on the purpose of use, it is divided into technical, medical and cosmetic.

Benefit

Vaseline, when applied to the skin, forms the thinnest film that helps to avoid loss of moisture from the skin. This property is indispensable in frosty or windy weather, when, under the influence of adverse conditions, the skin quickly dry and rough.

The use of petroleum jelly prevents weathering and cracking of the epidermis.

Most creams cannot cope with this task - the high water content in cosmetics ah leads to at severe frosts they just freeze thus exacerbating skin damage.

It is known that the inhabitants of the Far North lubricate their faces fish oil before going outside in the cold season.

But since this tool is different strong smell and unpleasant consistency, in the middle lane they prefer to replace it with inexpensive and no less effective petroleum jelly.

The film formed by this popular remedy protects the face well from external pollution. Without penetrating deep into the dermis, Vaseline prevents it from entering the pores infections and formation of inflammatory processes.

Protection of the epidermis is especially necessary after peeling or dermabrasion, when the young layers of the skin are characterized by increased sensitivity and trauma.

Harm

Contrary to popular belief, petroleum jelly cannot effectively moisturize the skin. He does not penetrate through pores and serves only as protection against moisture loss.

A layer of Vaseline on the face does not allow the skin to "breathe", pores get clogged and the output of products of metabolic processes is disturbed.

A dense film of the product retains sebum on the face, thereby aggravating oily skin. The evaporation of water from the surface of the epidermis is disrupted, which can lead to slight swelling.

Important advice from the editors

If you want to improve the condition of your skin, Special attention It is worth paying attention to the creams that you use. Frightening figure - in 97% of creams famous brands there are substances that poison our body. The main components, because of which all the troubles on the labels are referred to as methylparaben, propylparaben, ethylparaben, E214-E219. Parabens have a negative effect on the skin, and can also cause hormonal imbalance. But the worst thing is that this muck gets into the liver, heart, lungs, accumulates in the organs and can cause cancer. We advise you to refrain from using products containing these substances. Recently, the experts of our editorial staff conducted an analysis of natural creams, where the first place was taken by funds from Mulsan Сosmetic, a leader in the production of completely natural cosmetics. All products are manufactured under strict quality control and certification systems. We recommend visiting the official online store mulsan.ru. If you doubt the naturalness of your cosmetics, check the expiration date, it should not exceed one year of storage.

Application

Despite the controversial properties of the product, vaseline widely applied in cosmetics (both industrial and homemade):

In addition, Vaseline makes an excellent home scrub for face.

It is enough just to mix the product with sea or ordinary coarse salt and apply on the face, gently rubbing into problem areas.

prevent dehydration sensitive skin around the eyes in rooms with low humidity will help applying the product at night in a small amount. In the morning, it is recommended to wash your face with cold water or wipe your face with ice cubes.

This method will keep the skin moist and prevent the formation of new wrinkles.

Mask Recipes

Based on petroleum jelly, there are a large number of recipes for skin care, they efficiency repeatedly tested by time. The composition of the masks includes inexpensive components that can be easily bought at any pharmacy or supermarket.

Rejuvenating mask: combine a tablespoon of honey with a spoon, add five drops of pharmacy. Mix one teaspoon of cosmetic vaseline with the resulting mass.

Mix and apply on the face after steaming.

Wash off with cool water after 15 minutes. We store the mixture in the refrigerator.

Moisturizing mask: rub finely a quarter, add a spoonful of vaseline and a spoonful of ground oatmeal. The mixture is applied to the face for 20 minutes. Repeat every evening for two weeks.

Mask for chapped lips: mix a spoonful of thick sour cream with an equal amount of vaseline. Lubricate the lips with a mixture every evening in the cold season. Such a mask will cope with cracks and peeling in a few days.

Effect of use

Protective properties vaseline as part of homemade masks will most favorably affect the condition of the skin:

1. At low temperatures the skin will remain smooth and velvety.
2. Small wrinkles will become less noticeable.
3. Damage and cracks in the epidermis will heal quickly.

The film formed by petroleum jelly when applied to the face as part of masks will allow the rest of the therapeutic components penetrate deeply into the pores.

Since Vaseline does not allow oxygen to enter the skin cells, too frequent use masks can clog pores and lead to acne.

Application a large number means for the night will cause the formation of edema and bags under the eyes. Therefore, it is recommended to use masks no more than twice a week.

With visible damage to the skin under the influence weather conditions allowed daily application therapeutic masks until full recovery.

Contraindications

Vaseline rarely causes allergic manifestations.

Only individual intolerance to the drug can serve as a contraindication.

Don't forget to check before buying. best before date indicated on reverse side jars.

Vaseline is not remedy for the skin, but its use will help to resist aggressive impact external environment . His competent application quickly relieve the skin of damage and maintain its smoothness and elasticity.

Recipe lip balm based on homemade vaseline in this video:

A jar of Vaseline can be found, perhaps, in any home. It is a very common medicinal and cosmetic product, which has practically no contraindications and side effects, and even has its own day - May 14 (it was on this day in 1878 that a patent was received on it in the USA). What is Vaseline, what types of it exist and in what situations can it be useful? Details in a new article on MedAboutMe.

• Vaseline is an ointment, the color of which can vary from clear to yellow (depending on the degree of purification).
• Vaseline is one of the products of oil refining.
• The main active ingredient in Vaseline is white liquid paraffin.
• Vaseline has neither color nor smell, so no one will know that a person used it.
• Vaseline can be mixed with any cosmetic oil other than castor oil, and the result is a mixture that will have both protective and nourishing properties for skin cells.

Medical vaseline and the use of this medicine

Medical vaseline is sold in aluminum tubes of 25 g each. It is used for topical application to damaged skin. After hitting this tool on problem areas skin it creates a certain protective barrier under which skin cells can regenerate fairly quickly. It is strictly forbidden to apply it to open wounds, including infected ones. Before the procedure, you need to clean the surface from contamination with water or special napkins. In addition, you should avoid getting it in the eyes or on the surface of the mucous membranes.

Instructions for use of Vaseline recommends applying a small amount of of this medicine and with light movements gently rub it into the skin. The second option for its use is the application.

Cosmetic vaseline is not absorbed into the deep layers of the skin, but only penetrates into the superficial ones, creating a kind of protective film. It does not affect the state of its cells, that is, no medicinal property does not possess (does not moisturize and nourish). However, petroleum jelly protects tissues from negative impact various environmental factors (wind, frost, snow, etc.).

Most often it is used for topical application to rough skin areas, which are located on the elbows and knees. It is well suited for protecting lips, face skin in the cold season. Cosmetic vaseline is part of a huge number of different creams, masks, hygienic lipsticks and other face and body skin care products.

Vaseline can be used to make massage mixture. To do this, a small amount of this substance can be mixed with 1-2 teaspoons of any cosmetic oil(except castor) and enrich this combination with 4-5 drops of your favorite essential oil. The use of this composition will make the massage unforgettable and very beneficial for the skin.

Are there any contraindications for using Vaseline?

Vaseline is one of the safest cosmetics because side effects at its use develop extremely seldom. The most common reaction is an allergy, the frequency of which is low, but no one can completely guarantee its absence. Therefore, before the first use, you can apply the substance to a small area. healthy skin and wait a few minutes.

Vaseline should not be applied to mucous membranes (in the mouth, vagina or rectum), and contact with the eyes should also be avoided, as a burning sensation and discomfort may occur. If this happens, then you should thoroughly rinse them with clean water.

Pregnancy, breastfeeding and childhood are not a contraindication for the use of petroleum jelly, since it is not absorbed into the skin cells and does not penetrate into the general bloodstream.

One of combined funds, which include traditional medical vaseline, is its combination with 5% boric acid. The only indication for the use of this medicine is pediculosis. The drug is applied to the scalp and hair of a person who has lice, and after 30 minutes it is washed off with plenty of water and shampoo.

Unlike ordinary petroleum jelly, it is not used to protect the skin from wind and frost, and it is strictly forbidden to apply it to damaged skin. It is also not recommended for pregnant, lactating women and children under 1 year of age, so these individuals should choose Alternative option treatment for pediculosis.

Vaseline oil in cosmetology and medicine

Vaseline oil is a liquid that is sold in bottles of various sizes (from small jars of 10 ml to large bottles). It is also a product of oil refining, however, unlike traditional petroleum jelly, it has a lower density.

Vaseline oil has found a very wide application in cosmetology (for the preparation various means skin care), pharmaceutical industry (it is a solvent for some drugs, including penicillin), for lubrication separate parts mechanisms. It is also used in medicine, as it is available as a solution for topical application to the skin and ingestion.

Indications for skin application of oil are similar to those described for ointment vaseline. But according to the instructions medical use, 1-2 tablespoons of this substance can also be used orally for the treatment and prevention of constipation. Vaseline oil coats hard stools and has a laxative effect by stimulating intestinal motility. However, doctors warn: it is undesirable to use it on your own. Any constipation always has causes, which are sometimes quite serious. For example, the use of vaseline oil for intestinal obstruction or appendicitis can lead to disaster. Therefore, in any case, before starting its use, it is necessary to consult a doctor (preferably a surgeon).

The second problem with long-term use of vaseline oil may be the appearance of constipation against the background of its cancellation. Therefore, the course of treatment should not exceed 5-7 days. In addition, in pregnant women, this remedy can cause contraction of the walls of the uterus, so the doctor should choose an alternative option for them.

Many people associate petroleum jelly with a lubricant that can be used to add extra moisture to traditional or anal sex. It is a lubricant that reduces friction and makes it easier to slide. There are many jokes and anecdotes about this, but those who have tried to use it for this purpose are quickly convinced that this is not worth doing.

When applying Vaseline to the mucous membrane (which is prohibited, according to the instructions for medical use), it covers it with a film that is not absorbed into the cells. After the start intimate communication(especially if it happens with a condom) Vaseline begins to intensively injure the delicate surface of the mucosa, leading to its overdrying and extremely unpleasant sensations for both partners. As a result, there is a real risk of microtrauma and condom rupture, which increases the likelihood unwanted pregnancy and infection with venereal diseases.

So Vaseline as a lubricant is not unequivocally suitable: with a lack of natural lubrication, it is better to choose those products that are produced specifically for this purpose. They are sold in any pharmacy.

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Many of us would like to have an inexpensive and effective remedy which can be used in personal care. We invite you to find out beneficial features vaseline and methods of its use not only in cosmetic purposes. Read and take advantage.

Proven Methods!

Vaseline oil is a mixture of paraffin, microcrystalline wax and mineral oil. It prevents moisture from evaporating through the skin, clogging the pores and preventing the skin from breathing, which prevents it from drying out.

Moisturizes

Vaseline is an occlusive moisturizer. Occlusives form a sealant that locks water into the skin, thereby preventing dryness. Vaseline can eliminate dryness by preventing further water loss from the skin, allowing the skin to repair itself from within. Due to this property, vaseline oil is used to eliminate drying upper layers skin.

Softens

Healing cuts, abrasions and chapped lips

Petroleum jelly was originally developed for use on cuts and scrapes on the skin. Due to the occlusive properties of petroleum jelly, it simply seals a minor wound on the skin, which prevents bacteria and various contaminants from entering there, allowing the body to easily restore damaged tissues.

When Vaseline is applied to chapped lips, it works like a balm, soothing the surface and preventing moisture from evaporating.

Lubricate the thermometer

Vaseline oil is used as a lubricant. Experts recommend using Vaseline when measuring a child's temperature rectally. After cleaning the thermometer, lubricate its tip with petroleum jelly before inserting it into the baby's anus.

vaseline oil for constipation

If you suffer from constipation, among others natural remedies Vaseline can be used orally. The main advantage of vaseline oil over others vegetable oils, is that it is absolutely not absorbed in the intestine, which makes it possible to effectively lubricate both the colon itself and its contents. Thus, it stimulates intestinal peristalsis and facilitates the passage of feces.

Other Uses for Vaseline Oil

In addition to the above uses for petroleum jelly, it can also be used as a treatment applied to the pulse points on the neck and forearm to prolong the scent of a perfume. Also, vaseline oil can seal the split ends of the hair.