Vaseline is the most popular petroleum jelly and is commonly used by women.But there are four key reasons why you should stop using it immediately.
DO YOU KNOW WHAT PETROLEUM JELLY IS ACTUALLY?
It is the oil refining process’ byproduct that is not eco-friendly as well as its long-term use can lead to a lot of health issues.
This ingredient was originally present in the bottom of oil rigs. However, it is also refined for use in beauty products. Some claim that petroleum jelly includes some harmful chemicals.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Petroleum jelly is often added in many skin care and beauty products, including lotions, creams, and even baby products. It is also known as Petrolatum, Paraffin oil, Liquid paraffin, or Mineral oil, and forms a protective skin barrier and holds in moisture.
As a result of the fact that this ingredient is not water soluble and waterproof, it can form a waterproof skin barrier.
You may think it is not a big deal, but it can also block the pores and result in bacteria and residue. Hence, you should avoid using the products containing this ingredient on sunburns or burns since it can prevent the body from healing itself.
At first glance, it may seem that the skin is well-moisturized and hydrated, but petroleum jelly does not include anything that can nourish the skin.
SIDE EFFECTS OF USING PRODUCTS CONTAINING PETROLEUM JELLY:
– IT POSSESSES HYDROCARBONS THAT COULD BE ACCUMULATED IN FAT TISSUES
Since the skin cannot metabolize petroleum jelly it acts as a barrier until it wears off. In such a way, it is not beneficial for the body and it contains some components, such as hydrocarbons, which could be absorbed in fat tissue throughout the body.
According to a recent study, food consumption, air inhalation, and dermal absorption can cause body contamination as a result of their mineral oil hydrocarbons.
What’s more, the study examined the long-term absorption potential of the hydrocarbons in the body as well as the ability of the mothers to pass them on to their children via breastfeeding. To be more specific, the results showed that there is a connection between the fat tissue amounts and those passed on in breast milk, meaning that there is a great possibility of long-term storage of these hydrocarbons within the human body.
Also, researchers pointed out that there is a strong correlation between contamination and using beauty and cosmetic products, so that the beauty products are considered as one of the main hydrocarbon exposure sources.
– IT MAY LEAD TO COLLAGEN BREAKDOWN
As petroleum jelly creates skin barrier, it may also contribute to breakdown of collagen.
Specifically, once a product containing this ingredient is applied on the skin, it actually blocks its natural ability to breathe and absorb the essential nutrients, thus slowing the process of cell renewal and resulting in collagen breakdown and wrinkles.
– It Could Increase the Risk of Estrogen Dominance
Nowadays, estrogen dominance is a common health issue, which is characterized by high estrogen and low progesterone levels, leading to hormonal imbalance. Unfortunately, it could lead to menstrual problems, allergies, sleep and autoimmune problems, hastened aging, nutrient deficiencies, infertility, and some cancer types.
It is a fact that there are various products containing petroleum jelly could elevate the risk of estrogen problems, since they may affect hormone receptors in the body, triggering estrogen dominance.
OVEREXPOSURE OF THIS INGREDIENT CAN ALSO RESULT IN MANY OTHER SERIOUS HEALTH PROBLEMS
Products containing petroleum jelly do possess other dangerous chemicals, such as 1,4 dioxane. Moreover, it is cancer-promoting component present in 1/4 of the tested beauty products.
In addition, lipid pneumonia could be caused when small petroleum jelly amounts are inhaled and stored in the lungs. In other words, it leads to a severe lung inflammation.
HERE ARE SOME NATURAL SUBSTITUTES FOR PETROLEUM-BASED PRODUCTS
We are going to present you several excellent substitutes for petroleum jelly products, which can also moisture and nourish the skin, such as:
– Shea Butter: It is naturally rich in Vitamins E, A, and F, and healthy fatty acids, which have an ability to nourish the skin, lower skin inflammation and elevate collagen production. It should not be combined for other products, but applied on its own on the skin.
– Beeswax: It should be added in some natural lip balms and body lotions and applied on the skin. Additionally, it is an excellent petroleum jelly substitute and offers the same results.
– Cocoa Butter: It is abundant in antioxidants and healthy fatty acids, making it an extraordinary skin product that could decrease the signs of aging.
– Coconut Oil: The oil abounds in lauric acid and healthy fatty acids that can deeply nourish the skin and act anti-inflammatory. But, as a result of the fact that coconut oil can lead to breakouts in some people, you should apply it on a small skin area in order to test it.
– Jojoba Oil: This oil can resemble sebum, i.e., the oily substance naturally generated by the body for nourishing and protecting the skin. You can prepare homemade body lotion by mixing Shea butter and Jojoba Oil.
– Almond Oil: It can nourish the skin and act as a fantastic substitute for petroleum jelly products.