Dr.pharmacist
Aquaphor Healing Ointment

Aquaphor Healing Ointment

petrolatum

OTC DrugAquaphor Healing Ointment
Reviewed by Younghun Cho

Pharmacist's Verdict

Aquaphor Healing Ointment is a highly effective and versatile skin protectant that excels at locking in moisture to heal very dry, cracked skin and protect minor cuts and burns.

Ingredient Analysis

Petrolatum (41%)

Mineral Oil & Ceresin

Lanolin Alcohol

Panthenol & Glycerin

Bisabolol

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Creates a powerful barrier to protect skin and prevent moisture loss.
  • Very versatile; can be used for chapped lips, cracked heels, minor cuts, and diaper rash.
  • Contains minimal ingredients and is generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin.
  • Affordable, widely available, and frequently recommended by dermatologists.

Cons

  • Has a very thick, greasy, and sticky texture that some people find unpleasant.
  • Not ideal for use on the face for those prone to acne, as it can be pore-clogging (comedogenic).
  • Contains Lanolin Alcohol, which can cause an allergic reaction in a small number of people.

References

  1. 1.
    FDA Drug Label — VERADEX-E

    FDA DailyMed: VERADEX-E · FDA

  2. 2.
    Petroleum jelly: A comprehensive review of its history, uses, and safety.

    Kamrani P, Hedrick J, Marks JG, et al., Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2024 · PubMed

  3. 3.
    Evidence-based skin care in preterm infants.

    Kusari A, Han AM, Virgen CA, et al., Pediatric dermatology, 2019 · PubMed

  4. 4.
    Mineral Oil.

    , 2006 · PubMed

  5. 5.
    The science behind skin care: Moisturizers.

    Draelos ZD, Journal of cosmetic dermatology, 2018 · PubMed

  6. 6.
    Role of topical emollients and moisturizers in the treatment of dry skin barrier disorders.

    Lodén M, American journal of clinical dermatology, 2003 · PubMed