Differences Between Vaseline And Petroleum Jelly

Vaseline vs Petroleum Jelly

Vaseline and petroleum jelly are often mistaken for being the same thing but what people do not know is that Vaseline and petroleum jelly still have distinct differences that many people are not aware of. Vaseline is widely known as a brand name of petroleum jelly and that is actually a fact. Although their differences may be not that noticeable, they do still exist.

Vaseline and Petroleum Jelly

In 1859, Vaseline was manufactured and was used mainly for medical purposes by Robert Cheeseborough, a young chemist during that time, working for the Cheeseborough Manufacturing Company. Later on in 1987, Unilever purchased it from Cheeseborough, but they decided to keep the name, which it still has. Vaseline is made up of pure petroleum jelly combined with minerals and microcrystalline wax which makes it smoother. It has fragrances such as lavender oil or baby powder. More often that not, it is sold in various forms in the market – Vaseline could be in the form of lotions, ointments or creams. It can also be used as a lubricant and it helps protect minor cuts and burns.

On the other hand, petroleum jelly is made up of a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons. In 1859, oil miners in Pennsylvania discovered the substance. It was stiff like cold wax and black in color. However, the end result of factory-made petroleum jelly smells like oil and gas mainly because it is extracted from real petroleum. Oftentimes, it is referred to as petrolatum, white petrolatum, or white paraffin. If it is derived from natural petroleum, it becomes a translucent, semisolid mix of hydrocarbons.  Oftentimes, it is sold in small purse-sized tubes, or sometimes larger tubs. Uses of petroleum jelly include lubricating, coating and moisturizing. Petroleum jellies aid the use of cosmetics, and the treatment of fungus, genital rashes, nosebleeds, diaper rashes, and even chest colds.

Health Is Wealth

Ultimately, the only main difference between Vaseline and petroleum jelly is that Vaseline is made up of pure petroleum jelly which contain minerals and microcrystalline wax so it is smoother, while petroleum jelly is made up of a partial solid mix of hydrocarbons that comes from mines.

Both Vaseline and petroleum jelly are used for the removal of make-up. However, according to most research, both are dangerous to one’s skin. Vaseline is not good for the skin because it sticks to the person’s skin and it cannot be cleaned off with water, or even with soap. It becomes sticky and it attracts dust particles, which later on cause acne. However, it is good for moisturizing dry areas, chapped, or sore skin. It is also used as a base for lip balms. Both Vaseline and petroleum jelly come from the same place where gasoline comes from so they are not exactly from clean nature. They are not eco-friendly either. While it is nice to use these products, the danger these things will bring will cost you even more – so it is just best to find alternative products.

Summary:

  1. Vaseline is widely known as a brand name of petroleum jelly. In 1859, Vaseline was manufactured and was used mainly for medical purposes by Robert Cheeseborough, a young chemist during that time, working for the Cheeseborough Manufacturing Company.

  2. Vaseline is made up of pure petroleum jelly combined with minerals and microcrystalline wax which makes it smoother. It has fragrances such as lavender oil or baby powder.

  3. On the other hand, petroleum jelly is made up of a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons. In 1859, oil miners in Pennsylvania discovered the substance. It was stiff like cold wax and black in its color. However, the end result of factory-made petroleum jelly smells like oil and gas mainly because it is extracted from real petroleum.