For those of you whodry skin condition and seems to be experiencinguncomfortable andgcute appearance,then pthe use of petroleum jelly as a cosmetic that moisturizes and cares for skin health can menso the solution.
Petroleum jelly or petrolatum is a semisolid mixture of hydrocarbons. Petrolatum itself is divided into natural, artificial, derivative and synthetic. Natural petrolatum is obtained from refining kerosene (petroleum) to remove odors and change color. This purification process is carried out by removing the yellow color of the kerosene so that it turns white.
Benefits of Petroleum Jelly for Moisturizing Dry Skin
In general, petrolatum has a clear white form of paraffin and is oily. White petrolatum is used to moisturize the skin. Using a skin moisturizer can help treat dry skin conditions, especially those with eczema or dermatitis. Most dry skin conditions can be caused by environmental factors, such as:
- Living in an area with low humidity
- Being in very hot or cold weather
- The effect of a long soak in hot water.
The benefits of petroleum jelly to treat and maintain healthy skin, among others:
- Functions to moisturize the skin by forming an oil layer that inhibits the process of evaporation of water on the skin's surface as the main factor causing dry skin.
- Ointment to reduce skin friction that can make skin blisters. Generally often found in overweight patients.
- To treat and reduce the severity of skin diseases, such as eczema or atopic eczema, namely skin problems characterized by itchy, scaly, itchy, and reddish skin.
Petroleum jelly is considered safe when applied externally, however, caution should be exercised when using it around the nose as it can cause inhalation of the gel or some lipid substances into the respiratory system. If left for a long time, this condition can be dangerous because of the risk of causing serious lung problems, namely lipid pneumonia or a disease caused by fatty deposits in the alveoli which can cause chest pain, coughing, and shortness of breath.
How To Take The Benefits Of Petroleum Jelly Safely?
The benefits of petroleum jelly to treat dry skin more effectively can be obtained if used regularly, especially before or after washing clothes. Bathing with hot water and laundry soap tends to strip the skin of its natural moisturizing oils. Follow the directions for using petroleum jelly to restore the smoothness, softness and moisture of your skin.
It should also be noted that the paraffin content in petrolatum is flammable. So, stay away from using petroleum jelly from fire, cigarettes, or other sources of ignition.
Use a petroleum jelly moisturizer after showering. Limit the maximum bath time between 5-10 minutes with warm water to prevent moisture loss from the skin. Dry by gently patting the body with a towel made of natural materials, such as cotton, and using your moisturizer. For best results, use clothing made of cotton or silk to provide oxygen to the skin. Avoid wearing woolen clothes or pants to prevent skin irritation.
Keep in mind, petroleum jelly is only used on the outer body area only. Be careful not to swallow petroleum jelly because its effects can be harmful to health. In severe cases, ingested petroleum can cause symptoms, such as coughing, diarrhea, shortness of breath, stomach pain, or irritation of the esophagus.
Excessive use of petroleum jelly can also cause skin irritation. Avoid using petroleum jelly in sensitive areas, such as the eyes, inside of the nose or mouth, and genitals. If the gel accidentally gets into the eyes, rinse immediately with clean water for about 15 minutes. Consult a dermatologist to get the right treatment before using in order to get the benefits of petroleum jelly for your skin.