This Is the Reason You Need to Stop Using Vaseline!

The chances that you have a jar of Vaseline in your medicine cabinet are quite big. Namely, millions of people use it as a remedy for dry skin, diaper rash, congestion and chapped lips. Sadly, this popular product causes way more harm than you ever thought.

What is Actually Petroleum Jelly?

Vaseline is the brand name of Petroleum jelly, and this is a byproduct of oil refining process. Namely, it was discovered coating the bottom of oil rigs in the mid-1800s. Vaseline is a byproduct of the oil industry, it is not eco-friendly and it is an unsustainable resource.

In What Way Does Vaseline Work?

It is used in everything from baby products to lotions, and it works by making a barrier on your skin so that it can hold in moisture. It creates a waterproof barrier which blocks the pores of the skin and can lock bacteria and residue. If used on a sunburn or burn, it locks the heat in, so it can prevent the body from healing. However, there are more reasons not to use Vaseline ever again. Continue reading and find out the main reasons.

1. It Contains Dangerous Hydrocarbons

The human skin cannot metabolize Vaseline, so it is there on the skin acting as a barriers till it wears off. Because of this, the body is not able to benefit from it in any way. According to a study from 2011, the biggest contaminants of the human body are present in Vaseline.

2. It Stimulates Collagen Breakdown

Because of the barrier that is created on the skin, the skin is not able to breathe and to absorb nutrients. Because of this, the skin needs to pull the nutrients and moisture from within, thus causing collagen breakdown.

3. It Can Cause Estrogen Dominance

In case of estrogen dominance, the levels of estrogen in the body are high, and the levels of progesterone are low. This has been associated with autoimmune problems, allergies, menstrual problems and infertility. There is a chemical known as xenoestrogens in petroleum jelly, and it is believed that this compound is what causes the estrogen issues.

4. It Can Lead to Pneumonia

Lipid pneumonia is a rare condition and it can happen if small amounts of Vaseline are inhaled and accumulated in the lungs. Since the body is not able to break down this substance, it could cause a grave inflammation in the lungs.

Some Natural Alternatives

There are a number of natural alternatives which can be used instead of Vaseline. In case you are looking for a safer alternative, you need to try some of the following options.

• Shea Butter is rich in A, E and F vitamins, and it is excellent for nourishing the skin because of its content of beneficial acids. Moreover, it can increase collagen production and can reduce inflammation.
• Beeswax is an excellent alternative. You can add it to your homemade beauty products and protect your skin. Make a homemade body cream or lip balm and add beeswax.
• Coconut oil offers a number of health benefits. Because of its content of lauric acid, fatty acids and anti-inflammatory properties, it is excellent for nourishing the skin.
• Cocoa butter contains beneficial fatty acids and antioxidants. It can all the more reduce the signs of aging.

Via Healthy Food House

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