VASELINE, ointment, 100 g, tube/jar
Valid Article
VASELINE
Definition
A translucent jelly consisting of a mixture of hydrocarbons, used as a lubricant or protective ointment.
It is recognised by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an approved over-the-counter skin protectant and remains widely used in cosmetic skin care.
Synonym
Petroleum jelly, petrolatum, white petrolatum, soft paraffin, or multi-hydrocarbon
Vaseline is a common brand name
Specifications
Petroleum jelly (also called petrolatum) is a mixture of mineral oils and waxes, which form a semisolid jelly-like substance.
Petroleum jelly's benefits come from its main ingredient petroleum, which helps seal the skin with a water-protective barrier and helps the skin heal and retain moisture.
Quality Standards Comment
- EP: Paraffin, white soft (vaselinum album)
- BP: white soft paraffin
- USP: Petrolatum
Technical specifications
Squeeze tube with lid
Content:
- for dressing purposes: tube of 100 gram
- as lubricant (for the autoclave cover): tube of 50 gram
Instructions for use
Precautions for Use
- As an oil based lubricant it interferes with the latex in condoms, making them more likely to break or be less effective.
- Petroleum jelly may also clog pores. People with acne or sensitive skin should avoid using petroleum jelly on acne-prone areas, such as the face.
- It is flammable, so people should avoid using it near fires, when smoking, or near other open flames.
Storage
Store below 30°C
MSF requirements
Essential item for basic care of patients. It is used for skin hydration in different situations:
- general patient care
- wound care for treatment of dry/dehydrated peri-wound skin area
- severe malnourished children with skin lesions