There’s not a single medicine cabinet that doesn’t contain Vaseline, I’m sure of that. However, this popular product is more harmful than you could ever imagine!

What is Vaseline actually? It is the medical name for what’s actually petroleum jelly. It is actually a byproduct of the oil refining process.

It was discovered in the mid 1800’s, coating at the bottom of oil rings. Having this in mind, is it something that you would want to put directly on your skin? But, it is so widely spread in the cosmetic industry, because it is easily and cheaply found, you would be astonished.

You could read there’s Vaseline in lotions, skin care creams and even baby products. The problem with the heavy petroleum jelly is that it is so heavy, it blocks the breathability of the pores and thus, locks the toxins and bacteria that should go out, inside. But that’s not all.

Here are more reasons to stop using Vaseline.

It can lead to high estrogen levels

This is commonly known as Estrogen dominance and it occurs due to the chemical called xenoestrogen, found in the petroleum jelly. They make the estrogen levels rise and the progesterone levels to increase. This can lead to autoimmune diseases, infertility and other menstrual problems and different kinds of allergies.

Petroleum jelly contains harmful hydrocarbons

These hydrocarbons are proved to be the greatest contaminant of the human body out of all the substances contained in the Vaseline, because they block the body from releasing toxins and gaining benefits from the surrounding environment.

Promotes Collagen breakdown

Again, this is due to the heaviness of the petroleum and the barrier it produces for the skin. This barrier blocks the skin’s natural ability to breath, release toxins and absorb nutrients. It also causes the skin to pull all the nutrients and moisture from within, as a back-up plan, which leads to Collagen breakdown, needed for the elasticity of the skin, and its vital looks. 

Vaseline may cause Pneumonia

This is a rare case, but it has happened, a 2011 study showed. This condition, known as lipid pneumonia, and it can happen due to the smallest amounts of petroleum jelly, who can build up around the lungs when directly inhaled. Because this substance is too heavy for our body to metabolize it or break it down, a severe inflammation occurs.

Now that you’ve read this, and especially thought about the root of Vaseline – wouldn’t you better consider some natural alternatives, such as shea butter, coconut oil or beeswax?