What is the Difference Between Petrolatum and Petroleum Jelly?

Petrolatum and petroleum jelly are often used interchangeably, but they have some differences. The primary distinction between the two is their purity and composition:

• Petroleum Jelly: This is a mixture of semi-solid hydrocarbons that may contain some impurities. It is derived from petroleum and is composed primarily of hydrocarbons, making it resistant to flow, insoluble in water, and protective for the skin.
• Petrolatum: This is a purified form of petroleum jelly that is free of impurities. It is made by refining the hydrocarbon compounds in petroleum jelly to filter out any impurities.

Both petrolatum and petroleum jelly share many physical and chemical characteristics, such as being semi-solid, resistant to flow, insoluble in water, and protective for the skin. They are used for various purposes, including healing wounds and burns, and in the production of different skincare products. The difference between the two names is mainly regional, with "petrolatum" being the North American term for "petroleum jelly".

Comparative Table: Petrolatum vs Petroleum Jelly

Here is a table comparing the differences between petrolatum and petroleum jelly:

While petroleum jelly and petrolatum share many physical and chemical characteristics, the main difference between them is the purity level. Petrolatum is a purified form of petroleum jelly, free of impurities, making it a more refined product. Both substances are derived from petroleum and have a range of applications in skincare products.