For some time now, social networks and beauty forums only swear by two repairing balms: the Petroleum jellyAquaphor. These minimalist look treatments, often used for decades by dermatologists, come back in force thanks to the trend of slugging (This technique which consists in covering his face with an occlusive film in the evening to wake up a plump skin). But if the two products seem close, which one to choose on a daily basis?
Vaseline: a universal basic that divides
The petroleum jelly is the archetype of the cult product: a single ingredient, the Petolatum (or purified oil jelly). Used for over a hundred years, it acts as a perfect occlusive barrier: it prevents water from evaporating from the skin and protects against external aggressions. Result: lips that find their flexibility, peaceful hands, irritated areas that heal faster.
On Yuka, however, petroleum jelly gets 15/100. The reason? The presence of Petolatum, deemed problematic by the application because from petrochemicals and potentially polluting for the environment. But on the health side, dermatologists are unanimous: the oil used in cosmetics is Highly purified, safe and non -carcinogenic. In other words, a severe note that does not reflect the actual safety of the product.
Aquaphor: a more complete but also poorly rated balm
Faced with petroleum jelly, theAquaphor Healing Ointment (signed Eucerin) plays the card of the enriched formula. It contains 41 % of oil, but also moisturizing glycerin, soothing panthenol and a little Lanoline Emolliente. What combine protection, repair and application comfort. The texture is more flexible, more pleasant and less “engine oil” than petroleum jelly.
However, Yuka is not more tender with this product: 12/100 only. Again, it is the petolatum that drops the note. Added to the lanolin, sometimes pointed out for its allergening potential. Result: despite its qualities, Aquaphor suffers from an unjustly tarnished image in the application rankings.
Why does Yuka penalize oil so much?
Petolatum is the key ingredient of both products. Very effective in retaining hydration, it is classified as occlusive and protective. If Yuka assigns him a poor assessment, it is not for a direct danger on health, but because he is from oil. The application takes into account the environmental impact, as well as certain theoretical concerns around poorly purified substances.
However, in cosmetics sold in Europe, petlatum is subject to very strict standards: it is Refined, filtered and secure. He therefore does not present No risk proven for health, which is why dermatologists continue to recommend it, especially for atopic skin, scars and irritation.
Vaseline vs Aquaphor: What is the most effective on a daily basis?
On paper, petroleum jelly prevails with its Maximum tolerance: an ultra-short formula, without potential allergen, which is suitable for everyone. Its only defect: its heavy texture and its strictly protective function, without additional assets.
Aquaphor, for its part, seduced by its Restorative efficiency: glycerin and panthenol provide real added value, in particular to accelerate the healing of dry, irritated or damaged areas. But some sensitive skins can react to lanolin, and its note Yuka suffers from the same “petrolatum” as petroleum jelly.
Verdict: Yuka sanctions, dermatologists validate
In conclusion, if you only trust Yuka, the petroleum jelly (15/100) comes out winning against Aquaphor (12/100), but the two remain very badly rated. However, in practice, these balms are among the safest and recommended products in dermatology. Their poor evaluation does not mean that they are dangerous, but simply that they contain an ecologically controversial ingredient.
If you are looking for a simple, hypoallergenic and universal barrier, opt for the Petroleum jelly. If you want a more complete, pleasant and restful balm, choose theAquaphor. In both cases, do not be discouraged by the note: your skin may say thank you.
