Aquaphor and Vaseline are popular over-the-counter (OTC) moisturizers with various uses.

They are often used to help heal and protectdry, itchy skinand to keep wounds moist while they heal.

Both products are petroleum jelly-based and have similar uses.

Several containers of Vaseline are visible on a countertop, Lafayette, California, October 28, 2021. (Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images)

Getty Images |Smith Collection/Gado/ Contributor

However, they have some key differences.

This article will focus on the commonly used form of Aquaphor Healing Ointment.

The petroleum jelly, lanolin, and mineral oil in Aquaphor act as occlusive moisturizers and skin protectants.

Ceresin is typically used to help thicken skin products.

Panthenol is derived from vitamin B5, a key component of healthy skin.

Panthenol can help with skin healing and relieve itchy skin.

It also acts as a moisturizer, skin protectant, and anti-inflammatory ingredient.

Glycerin is a humectant moisturizer.

Bisabolol comes from the essential oils found in chamomile plants.

When used in skin products, bisabolol has been shown to act as an anti-inflammatory agent.

This can be helpful when treating atopic dermatitis and other types of eczema.

Benefits

Aquaphor is a commonly used ointment that offers several benefits.

These can include:

Some ingredients in Aquaphor may cause an allergic reaction in some people.

However, one difference is that Vaseline contains 100% petroleum jelly.

It has no other ingredients.

Vaseline is also available OTC and comes in various forms.

This article will focus on the commonly used and original form of Vaseline Healing Jelly.

Vaseline has uses similar to Aquaphor.

For example:

Although it’s rare, some people may have side effects with Vaseline.

These can include:

Aquaphor vs Vaseline: Who Should Be Careful?

Aquaphor and Vaseline are similar in many ways but have some key differences.

They have similar uses, including protecting the skin and lips from wind and cold weather.

Other ingredients in Aquaphor may cause an allergic reaction in some people.

This is especially true if you’re allergic to wool or other sheep products.

Avoid using either product in your nostrils or on open wounds.

Doing so can increase your risk of pneumonia or infection of your wound.

Beiersdorf Inc.Aquaphor healing - petrolatum ointment.

National Cancer Institute.Petrolatum-mineral oil-lanolin-ceresin ointment.

Fluhr JW, Bornkessel A, Berardesca E. Scientific Spectator.Glycerol just a moisturizer?

Biological and biophysical effects.

2011;25(6):688-694. doi:10.1111/j.1468-3083.2010.03950.x

Mount Sinai.Petroleum jelly overdose.

Conopco Inc. d/b/a Unilever.Vaseline healing jelly - petrolatum jelly.

2016;137(4):1091-1102.e7.

doi:10.1016/j.jaci.2015.08.013

American Academy of Dermatology Association.5 ways to use petroleum jelly for skin care.

Merck Manual Professional Version.Aspiration pneumonitis and pneumonia.

National Capital Poison Control Center.What is petroleum jelly?

Cleveland Clinic.Tattoo aftercare tips from a dermatologist.