1. Classification of Vaseline

Based on its uses, petroleum jelly may be roughly classified into three categories: industrial, cosmetic, and medicinal.

i. Medical Vaseline
Because of its occlusive qualities, which form a barrier to protect the skin from moisture loss and promote healing, petroleum jelly is frequently utilized in the medical sector. It is frequently used to keep small wounds, burns, and abrasions wet and free of infection and aids in the healing process. The research “Clinical reliability and cost analysis of using petroleum jelly creams versus water-based gels for urethral catheterization” compares the cost and effectiveness of petroleum jelly with water-based gels for urethral catheterization, highlighting its application in a clinical environment. The study’s conclusion that petroleum jelly may be applied successfully in these kinds of treatments highlights the substance’s adaptability in medical settings.

The treatment of heel fissures is another medical use, as evidenced by a research comparing the effects of petroleum jelly and coconut oil on young women’s heel fissures.  The moisturizing qualities of petroleum jelly aid in the treatment of dry, cracked skin, a frequent podiatric ailment.

ii. Cosmestic Vaseline:

Cosmetic Vaseline’s moisturizing qualities are why it’s employed in the beauty and cosmetics industries. Hand creams, lip balms, and other skincare items frequently include it. It serves as a basis for cosmetic items and moisturizes dry lips and face, it’s occlusive properties assist to trap moisture, making it a useful treatment for dry skin. Despite the fact that petroleum jelly is usually regarded as safe for cosmetic usage, allergic responses can occasionally occur, as demonstrated by the instance of allergic contact cheilitis brought on by white petroleum jelly. This emphasizes the need of customers with sensitive skin or allergies exercising caution and awareness.

Figure 1: Vaseline Lip balm product

iii. Industrial Vaseline

Petroleum jelly is also used in a variety of industrial contexts. It is employed in the production of several goods, including polishes and candles, as well as lubricants and rust-preventive coatings. The characterisation of petroleum waxes, which are closely linked to petroleum jelly, for application in the food industry as coatings and texture enhancers is covered in the paper “Rapid Classification of Petroleum Waxes: A Vis-NIR Spectroscopy and Machine Learning Approach”.

Furthermore, the potential of petroleum jelly as a viscosity modifier and stabilizer in commercial formulations is demonstrated by the rheological properties of petroleum jelly formulations incorporating organically modified layered double hydroxides. This demonstrates how petroleum jelly may be used to improve the qualities of items in which it is integrated. Although industrial Vaseline is not meant for use in medicine or cosmetics, it has many of the same qualities.

2. Properties of Vaseline

Determining the quality and uses of petroleum jelly requires an understanding of its qualities. One of petroleum jelly’s most crucial characteristics is its color; its whiteness indicates its superior quality and thorough purification. The amount of heavy metals, sulfated ash, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in petroleum jelly also indicates its quality.
Other physical characteristics that vary depending on the producer of petroleum jelly include its viscosity, density, and melting point. The congealing point and penetration are also included in the petroleum jelly specification table.
The highest temperature at which petroleum jelly starts to semi-solidify from a liquid condition is known as the congealing point. Furthermore, petroleum jelly’s penetration shows how soft it is at room temperature. The chemical characteristics of petroleum jelly that control its volatility and reactivity are its flash point, acidity, and alkalinity, in that order.

Reference

Caniklioğlu, M., Öztekin, Ü., Sarı, S., Selmi, V., Gürtan, E., & Işıkay, L. (2021). Clinical reliability and cost analysis of using petroleum jelly creams versus water-based gels for urethral catheterization.

K, S., Venkata Ramana, V., & Srinivasa Rao, R. (2023). ALLERGIC CONTACT CHEILITIS OF BOTH LIPS CAUSED BY WHITE PETROLEUM JELLY. GLOBAL JOURNAL FOR RESEARCH ANALYSIS.

Barea-Sepúlveda M, Calle JLP, Ferreiro-González M, Palma M. Rapid Classification of Petroleum Waxes: A Vis-NIR Spectroscopy and Machine Learning Approach. Foods. 2023 Sep 7;12(18):3362. doi: 10.3390/foods12183362. PMID: 37761070; PMCID: PMC10528079.

Mosangi, D., Pillai, S.K., Moyo, L., & Ray, S.S. (2018). RHEOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF PETROLEUM JELLY FORMULATIONS CONTAINING ORGANICALLY MODIFIED LAYERED DOUBLE HYDROXIDES.

Petroleum Jelly or Vaseline: Everything You Need to Know; Available on: https://infinitygalaxy.org/what-is-petroleum-jelly-or-vaseline/

1. History of Lanolin

Ancient civilizations such as the Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans were pioneers in utilizing lanolin for various purposes. These societies understood the importance of lanolin as a multipurpose material with both medical and beauty effects, according to historical documents.Lanolin was highly valued for its emollient qualities in ancient Greece, where it was frequently used into cosmetics products. Hippocrates and Galen were among the Greek doctors and academics who recorded the use of lanolin as a medicinal remedy for wounds and skin ailments.In a similar vein, lanolin was a component of ancient Egyptian beauty rituals and cosmetics. Archaeological discoveries and Egyptian hieroglyphs attest to the usage of lanolin in lotions, balms, and fragrances. It is reported that Cleopatra, who was well-known for her beauty routine, preferred skincare products with lanolin as an ingredient.

Lanolin was essential to Europe’s growing textile industry in the Middle Ages. The medieval economy depended heavily on sheep husbandry and wool production, and lanolin extraction developed into a crucial step in the processing of wool.
Lanolin, which was subsequently employed in textile finishing to soften and waterproof garments, was extracted from wool by means of processes devised by medieval European cultures for washing and refining wool. Wool that was rich in lanolin was also traded as a valued good, boosting the income and well-being of the wool-producing areas.

The use of lanolin underwent a dramatic shift throughout the Industrial Revolution due to advances in manufacturing techniques and chemistry that increased its usage in a wider range of sectors. Lanolin discovered new use in cosmetics, industrial lubricants, and medicines with the rise of industrialization. Lanolin was a common component in pharmaceutical preparations in the 19th and 20th centuries, especially ointments and salves for skin conditions and wound healing. Its inherent emollient qualities make it a perfect foundation for topical drugs, securing its position in contemporary pharmacopoeias. Concurrently, the cosmetics industry adopted lanolin due to its benefits for moisturizing skin. Because of its superior moisturizing and protective properties, lanolin has emerged as a crucial component in skincare formulas, such as creams, lotions, and lip balms.

The history of lanolin reflects its enduring legacy as a natural resource cherished for its therapeutic, cosmetic, and industrial applications. Human culture and trade are intricately linked to the history of lanolin, spanning from prehistoric times to contemporary communities. Future generations will be able to benefit from lanolin’s heritage as a useful and adaptable material as we continue to explore its possibilities via scientific research and innovation.

Lanolin’s natural origin and many uses have made it valuable even in the current period. Lanolin has seen a comeback in favor as a desired ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products due to increased customer interest in natural and sustainable components. Furthermore, lanolin’s purity and efficacy have been improved by developments in lanolin extraction and processing methods, opening the door to the creation of premium lanolin-based formulations. The reduction of environmental effects related to lanolin production is another goal of initiatives to support sustainable methods in sheep husbandry and wool production.

2. Composition of Lanolin

Sterol esters, which are substances created when sterols (alcohol-based chemicals) combine with fatty acids, make up the majority of lanolin. A comprehensive chemical examination of lanolin demonstrates a diverse and abundant array of lipids, comprising:

• Cholesterol and its derivatives: Lanolin has a large amount of cholesterol, which helps to give it its emollient qualities. Lanolin extracts contain derivatives that have been found, including psi-cholesterol.
• Fat acids and fatty alcohols: These consist of long-chain acids and alcohols including oleic acid, palmitic acid, and pentadecenol. These elements are essential to lanolin’s moisturizing properties.
• Esters of wax: Alcohols and fatty acids are esterified to create these. They help lanolin retain its water-resistant qualities, which makes it a superior barrier cream.
• Alcohols derived from lanolin: complex alcohol combinations produced by lanolin esters being hydrolyzed. They improve the protecting and emollient qualities of lanolin-based products.

References

1 Clark EW. A brief history of lanolin. Pharm Hist (Lond). 1980 Dec;10(3):5-6. PMID: 11630744.

2 Ew, C. (1980). A brief history of lanolin. Pharmaceutical historian, 10, 5-6.

3 Grundy, D., Abraham, A., & Wilde, M.J. (2023). Investigating the Chemical Composition of Lanolin Waste to Improve the Production of Sustainable Natural Fibre Materials. ChromCom.

Yellow Vaseline, also known as yellow petrolatum or yellow petroleum jelly, is a variation of petroleum jelly that has a yellow color. While the regular white petroleum jelly is widely known and used for its moisturizing and protective properties, the yellow variant has some unique characteristics and applications. Here are a few points that highlight the uniqueness of Yellow Vaseline:

1. Color: The most apparent difference is the yellow color. This tint can be attributed to the inclusion of natural or artificial yellow dyes. The color distinction can be useful in specific applications or preferences where the yellow tint is desired or adds aesthetic value.

2. Medicinal Uses: Yellow Vaseline is commonly used in some medicinal applications, such as wound healing and skin protection. Its occlusive nature helps create a barrier on the skin’s surface, preventing moisture loss and protecting the skin from external irritants. The yellow tint can make it easier to spot the application area on the skin.

3. Cosmetics and Skincare: Yellow Vaseline is occasionally used in cosmetics and skincare products. The color can add an appealing visual aspect to certain formulations, making them stand out or providing a specific look. It is sometimes used in lip balms, ointments, and creams to offer moisturization and protection.

4. Artistic and Creative Applications: The yellow color of this petroleum jelly variant opens up possibilities for artistic and creative applications. It can be used in crafts, DIY projects, or theatrical makeup to achieve desired effects, create textures, or enhance visual aesthetics.

5. Personal Preferences: Some individuals simply prefer the yellow tint of petroleum jelly over the traditional white variant. Personal preferences and aesthetics can play a role in choosing Yellow Vaseline for various applications.

While Yellow Vaseline has some unique characteristics, its core properties and benefits are similar to those of regular petroleum jelly. It is primarily used for its moisturizing, protective, and occlusive qualities, regardless of the color variation.

Feed grade Vitamin D3 500 refers to a specific form and concentration of Vitamin D3 that is commonly used in animal feed. Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is an essential nutrient for animals, including livestock and poultry. It plays a crucial role in calcium and phosphorus metabolism, bone health, and overall growth and development.

Feed grade Vitamin D3 500 indicates that the concentration of Vitamin D3 in the product is 500,000 International Units (IU) per gram. This concentration is commonly used in animal feed formulations to meet the dietary requirements of animals. The specific dosage and inclusion rate of Vitamin D3 in animal feed depend on the target species, age, weight, and specific nutritional needs.

China is one of the largest producers and consumers of petroleum jelly, commonly known as Vaseline. Vaseline is a brand name for petroleum jelly, which is a semi-solid mixture derived from petroleum. It is commonly used as a skin moisturizer, lubricant, and for various other applications.

In China, there are several manufacturers and suppliers of Vaseline. Some of the prominent companies include Sinopec, PetroChina, and CNOOC (China National Offshore Oil Corporation). These companies produce petroleum jelly as a byproduct of their petroleum refining processes.

Vaseline produced in China is widely available in the domestic market, and it is also exported to other countries. The product is used in various industries, including personal care, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial applications.

It’s important to note that Vaseline is a brand owned by Unilever, and while the term “Vaseline” is often used generically to refer to petroleum jelly, the actual brand Vaseline may not be the specific product available in China. However, petroleum jelly with similar properties and uses is produced and sold under different brand names in the Chinese market.

Lanolin wax, also known as wool wax or wool grease, is a natural substance derived from sheep’s wool. It is commonly used in various skincare and medicinal products due to its excellent moisturizing and protective properties. While lanolin wax is primarily known for its use in cosmetic applications, it does have certain medicinal uses as well.

Here are some medicinal uses and benefits of lanolin wax:

1. Skin Moisturization: Lanolin wax is highly effective in moisturizing dry and chapped skin. It forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and promoting hydration. This makes it beneficial for individuals with conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis.

2. Wound Healing: The emollient and soothing properties of lanolin wax make it useful in promoting wound healing. It helps create an optimal environment for the skin to regenerate and repair itself. Some medical dressings and ointments contain lanolin to aid in the healing process.

3. Nipple Care: Lanolin wax is commonly used to soothe and protect sore or cracked nipples during breastfeeding. It provides relief by moisturizing the delicate skin and creating a barrier between the nipple and clothing, reducing friction and irritation.

4. Lip Balm: Lanolin wax is often a key ingredient in lip balms and chapsticks due to its excellent moisturizing and protective properties. It helps to prevent chapping and keep the lips hydrated and supple.

5. Pharmaceutical Formulations: Lanolin wax can be used as a base or ingredient in certain pharmaceutical formulations, including ointments and creams. It aids in the absorption of other active ingredients into the skin, enhancing their effectiveness.

6. Dermatological Conditions: Lanolin wax is sometimes recommended for conditions like xerosis (dry skin), ichthyosis (scaly skin), and other skin conditions where moisturization and protection are essential. However, individual sensitivities or allergies to lanolin can occur, so it is important to perform a patch test before using products containing it.

PEG-75 Lanolin is a cosmetic ingredient commonly used in personal care products such as creams, lotions, and hair care products. It is derived from lanolin, a waxy substance extracted from sheep’s wool.

PEG-75 Lanolin is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivative of lanolin. PEGs are widely used in cosmetics as emulsifiers, solvents, and moisturizing agents. They help to stabilize the formulation, improve texture, and enhance the spreadability of the product.

Lanolin itself is known for its moisturizing and emollient properties. It helps to soften and smooth the skin by preventing water loss and improving the skin’s natural barrier function. Lanolin is often used in skincare products to provide hydration and relieve dryness.

PEG-75 Lanolin offers similar benefits to lanolin but with some modifications due to its PEG structure. It is typically used as a non-greasy emollient and humectant, meaning it helps to retain moisture in the skin. It can provide a soft and smooth feel to cosmetic formulations and is often used to improve the texture and spreadability of creams and lotions.

Isopropyl lanolate, also known as isopropyl myristate, is a synthetic ester derived from lanolin, a natural wax-like substance obtained from sheep’s wool. It is commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products as an emollient, lubricant, and solvent.

Isopropyl lanolate has a light, non-greasy texture, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products, hair care products, and pharmaceutical preparations. It helps to soften and smooth the skin, acting as a moisturizer and improving the spreadability of creams and lotions. It can also be found in various makeup products, such as foundations and lipsticks, as it imparts a smooth, silky feel and helps with the even application of the product.

Additionally, isopropyl lanolate has solvent properties, allowing it to dissolve other substances. This property makes it useful as a carrier for active ingredients in topical medications and pharmaceutical creams. It helps enhance the absorption and delivery of these ingredients into the skin.

Cholesterol NF (National Formulary) and lanolin alcohol are both substances used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries, but they have different chemical compositions and functions.

Cholesterol NF is a sterol that is naturally present in animal tissues, including humans. It is an essential component of cell membranes and plays a vital role in various biological processes. In cosmetic formulations, cholesterol NF is often derived from animal sources, such as wool grease or lanolin. It is used as an emollient and skin conditioning agent, helping to improve the texture and appearance of the skin. Cholesterol NF has moisturizing properties and can help restore the skin’s barrier function.

Lanolin alcohol, on the other hand, is a mixture of sterols and fatty alcohols that is derived from the wax-like substance called lanolin. Lanolin is obtained from the sebaceous glands of sheep and is commonly used in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products due to its emollient and moisturizing properties. Lanolin alcohol is a component of lanolin, and it acts as a skin conditioning agent and emulsifier. It helps to improve the texture and feel of the product, as well as provide moisturization to the skin.

While both cholesterol NF and lanolin alcohol have similar functions in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations, they are chemically distinct substances. Cholesterol NF is a specific sterol molecule, whereas lanolin alcohol is a mixture of various sterols and fatty alcohols derived from lanolin. However, it’s worth noting that cholesterol NF can be derived from lanolin as a source.

Anhydrous lanolin and lanolin are both derived from sheep’s wool and have similar properties, but there is a slight difference between the two.

Lanolin is a waxy substance that is extracted from sheep’s wool. It is a natural emollient and moisturizer that has been used for centuries in skincare and cosmetic products. Lanolin is known for its ability to lock in moisture and protect the skin from drying out. It is commonly used in lip balms, creams, lotions, and other skincare formulations.

Anhydrous lanolin, on the other hand, refers to lanolin that has been processed to remove the water content. The term “anhydrous” means “without water.” This removal of water from lanolin makes it more concentrated and provides certain benefits. Anhydrous lanolin is often used in industrial applications, such as lubricants, rust-preventive coatings, and leather treatments. It is also used in some cosmetic formulations where a more concentrated form of lanolin is desired.

In summary, the main difference between anhydrous lanolin and lanolin is the water content. Anhydrous lanolin is lanolin that has had the water removed, making it more concentrated and suitable for different applications, including industrial uses. Lanolin, on the other hand, retains its natural water content and is commonly used in skincare and cosmetic products for its moisturizing and protective properties.