What it does
Very effective at limiting water loss; useful in barrier formulas and on dry areas.
Occlusives
Petrolatum.
A highly purified ingredient used to reduce transepidermal water loss and protect the skin's surface.
- INCI name
- Petrolatum
- Function
- An occlusive and emollient.
- Information level
- Established evidence for occlusion
- Last reviewed
- 22 September 2026
Who may benefit
Dry, sensitised skin or a fragile barrier; consider texture and application area.
Compatibility
Humectants, ceramides and panthenol.
Precautions
It does not hydrate on its own: it retains water already present. It may feel heavy on very oily skin.
How to use it
Often in the evening or on targeted areas.
Concentrations
The percentage cannot be inferred from INCI order. WAI LAB shows it only when stated by a verifiable source.
HOW TO READ IT
What it means in the INCI list?
In the European Union, ingredients above 1% are listed in descending order by weight; below 1%, they may appear in any order. Their position therefore cannot be used to calculate an exact percentage.
Its position helps you understand the formula, but does not on its own establish effectiveness or an exact percentage.
SOURCES
Where the information comes from.
WAI LAB distinguishes cosmetic function, regulatory context and scientific literature. This information is not a substitute for medical advice.
FROM UNDERSTANDING TO CHOOSING
Products with Petrolatum.
34 catalogue products list a recognised form of this ingredient in their INCI.
34 resultsVerified profiles with declared concentrations appear first.
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VerifiedWAI 94/100 · partialCetaphil
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VerifiedWAI 94/100 · partialCliniqueSuperdefense™ Broad Spectrum SPF 25 Fatigue + 1st Signs Of Age Multi-Correcting Cream For Dry Skin
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VerifiedWAI 81/100 · partialElizabeth ArdenCeramide Premiere Crema Hidratante Intensiva SPF30
Retinyl Linoleate
VerifiedWAI 81/100 · partialElizabeth ArdenCeramide Premiere Crema Regenerante Intensiva de Noche
Retinyl Linoleate
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Verified24 of 34 shown