Petrolatum

Petrolatum sits on the skin and reduces transepidermal water loss by up to about 98%, more than any other common occlusive. That lets the outer skin layer rehydrate and gives the barrier time to recover. It is recognized by the FDA as an over-the-counter skin protectant and is the standard comparator in moisturizer research.

In our directory: It’s a key ingredient in 2 products we review, most often moisturizers. Those products are mostly built for dryness relief, soothing and irritation-free. In formulas, it most often shares the label with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and glycerin.

Apply a thin layer as the last step at night over moisturizer, or to lips, cuticles and very dry patches. Less is more on the face.

References

1. 121 CFR 347.10 -- Skin protectant active ingredients — Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (U.S.)
2. 2Role of topical emollients and moisturizers in the treatment of dry skin barrier disorders — American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2003), via PubMed
3. 3The science behind skin care: Moisturizers — Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2018), via PubMed

Educational, not medical advice. Ingredient guides summarise published research and expert guidance; formulas and concentrations differ between products.