Vaseline is one of those items that tends to be in every household. Perhaps it is somewhere in the back of the medicine cabinet or you may be able to find it under the bathroom sink but in any case, it is available when you need it. In fact, many people use it for a wide variety of reasons and it has been shown to be beneficial in some cases.
This product, widely known as Vaseline, is actually petroleum jelly. It is used for everything from nappy rash and congestion to chapped lips and dry skin. What you may not realise is how harmful this product can be. It is a byproduct of the oil refining process and was discovered because it coated the bottom of oil rigs in the mid-19th century. Of course, since it is a byproduct of the oil industry, it certainly is not eco-friendly.
Petroleum jelly creates a barrier on the skin and it holds moisture in the area. That waterproof barrier can lock in not only moisture, but also bacteria and it blocks pores. When you put it on a sunburn or other type of a burn, it can even stop your body from healing by locking in the heat. Those are only scratching the surface of some of the reasons why you would stop using Vaseline. Here are some other reasons.
Hydrocarbons – When you use petroleum jelly, it sits as a barrier on the skin and it must wear off naturally. Your skin cannot absorb or metabolize it. As a result, your body does not gain any benefit from Vaseline. In fact, the hydrocarbons in Vaseline have been said to be the greatest contaminant of the human body according to a 2011 study.
Collagen Breakdown – Since petroleum jelly creates a barrier on the skin, it does not allow the skin to breathe or absorb nutrients. As a result, the skin pulls the moisture it needs from within and can lead to collagen breakdown.
Estrogen Dominance – When the body has high levels of estrogen and low progesterone, issues such as infertility, allergies, autoimmune problems and menstrual problems have occurred. The xenoestrogens found in petroleum jelly may lead to estrogen problems.
Pneumonia – Lipid pneumonia, a rare condition, can occur when petroleum jelly builds up in the lungs after being inhaled. Since your body is not able to break down or metabolize Vaseline, it can lead to severe lung inflammation.
This video will show you more on the subject:
Natural Vaseline Alternatives
There are a number of natural choices to help you get away from petroleum jelly. You can use those natural options without worrying about your health.
Shea Butter – This natural component nourishes the skin and is high in vitamins A, E and F. It can boost collagen production and reduce inflammation.
Beeswax – This is also an excellent alternative to Vaseline. It is often used along with homemade beauty products because it protects the skin.
Coconut Oil – Many health benefits are possible when using this oil. It nourishes the skin through anti-inflammatory compounds, fatty acids and lauric acid.
Cocoa Butter – The beneficial fatty acids and antioxidants contained in cocoa butter may even help to reduce the signs of aging.
Via: David Wolfe
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