15 Non-Toxic Petroleum Jelly Alternatives
Have you ever used petroleum jelly in your skincare routine? Commonly known by the brand name Vaseline, it is a staple in many households. Indeed, it seems to be handy for a wide variety of purposes. They range from moisturizing dry skin and lips to healing minor cuts and burns as well as preventing diaper rash and removing makeup. However, despite its versatility, petroleum jelly is a product of crude oil, aka mineral oil, which raises concerns about its safety. Therefore, today, I am sharing a roundup of safer natural alternatives to petroleum jelly that you can trust to care for your skin without any health risks.
15 Non-Toxic Petroleum Jelly Alternatives
First off, in addition to Vaseline, there are other brands that make petroleum jelly products. However, they all contain “white petrolatum USP” as their active ingredient.
To clarify, white petrolatum is a decolorized purified mixture of semi-solid hydrocarbons. It may be referred to as “white soft paraffin wax,” “white petroleum jelly,” “Vaseline,” “white ointment USP” (source). The “USP” stands for “United States Pharmacopeia” to indicate that the product was made in accordance with the quality standards of the United States Pharmacopeia, a private, nonprofit organization that sets standards for healthcare products in the United States.
Did you know that the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) classifies petrolatum as carcinogenic? Hence, the European Union bans petrolatum from use in cosmetic products unless the manufacturer provides its full refining history. If not properly refined, petrolatum can contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) contaminants, some of which are considered carcinogenic (source). Confirmation of proper refinement is possible if the manufacturer provides a complete refining history. In my experience, I haven’t met that manufacturer yet. Therefore, especially when it comes to babies, I would advise a different product. Check out my Diaper Cream Guide for safe diaper rash cream options.
Some alternatives to white petrolatum in petroleum-free moisturizing skincare products include:
- shea butter
- coconut oil
- cocoa butter
- mango butter
- apricot oil
- olive oil
- beeswax
- soy oil
- jojoba oil
- sunflower oil, and
- avocado oil.
Read on to see products I found with these ingredients and how they benefit your skin!
“Not-A-Fan” Petroleum Jelly Products
As I mentioned above, petroleum jelly products are made with white petrolatum as an active ingredient. While the Environmental Working Group (EWG) rates it at 1-2 with a fair amount of safety data, given petrolatum is considered a carcinogen in Europe, I would not risk it. In addition, although the Environmental Working Group Skin Deep database can be a great starting point for you in evaluating the safety of ingredients, I strongly advise you to read my post Use Skin Deep Database The Right Way first.
Some petroleum jelly products I would avoid include:
- Baby Love Petroleum Jelly
- Care All Creamy Petroleum Jelly
- Care All Petroleum Jelly
- CVS Petroleum Jelly
- Equate Petroleum Jelly
- Hill Country Essential Petroleum Jelly
- Lucky Super Soft Petroleum Jelly
- Swan Petroleum Jelly
- Up & Up Petroleum Jelly, and
- Vaseline Healing Jelly Original.
“Better” Vaseline Alternatives
The great news is that the following petroleum-based product alternatives do not use petrolatum among their ingredients. Instead, they use natural oils, butters, and extracts. They are not in the “best” category primarily because either they do not use organic botanical ingredients or have some ingredients of concern.
Product | Concern |
Doctor Rogers Restore Healing Balm | no organic ingredients |
Healthy Jelly – Natural Plant Based Non-Petroleum Jelly | no organic ingredients |
Himalaya Botanique Warming Body Balm | no organic ingredients |
Oak Essentials Moisture Rich Balm | – phenoxyethanol: can have toxic contaminants due to its manufacturing process. – citronellol, geraniol, linalool: recognized allergens. That is why I stay away from products even with natural fragrance as well as hypoallergenic perfumes and plug-in air fresheners. |
Vegaline By Beesaluxe – 100% Natural & Vegan Alternative To Petroleum Jelly | no organic ingredients |
“Best” Petroleum Jelly Alternatives
The products in the “best” category have no ingredients that I consider concerning. Additionally, they use certified organic botanical ingredients, such as butters, oils, and extracts. And some of them are even USDA certified organic as an entire product. They come as balms or butters that are thick and rich in texture. If you prefer lightweight skincare, check out my post about best non-toxic body lotions.
Consider the following list of 15 “best” petroleum jelly alternatives:
- Crunchi I AM The Balm Makeup Cleansing Balm (ADVOCATE10 for 10% off on the 1st purchase)
- Dr. Bronner’s Unscented – Organic Magic Balm
- Earthley Wellness Soothing Skin Balm
- Earthley Wellness Whipped Body Butter
- Earth Mama Organic Balm
- Honest Organic All-Purpose Balm ($10 or 10% off)
- Meow Meow Tweet Repair Balm
- Mother Love Balm ($10 or 10% off)
- Primally Pure Everything Balm (READLABELS10 for 10% off)
- Primally Pure Whipped Body Butter (READLABELS10 for 10% off)
- Pure Haven Baby Balm (15% off on the 1st purchase)
- Pure Haven Body Butter with Pre+Probiotics (15% off on the 1st purchase)
- Sierra Bees, Madre Magic, Royal Jelly & Propolis Multipurpose Balm ($10 or 10% off)
- Sky Organics Organic Petroleum-free Jelly Multi-purpose Balm
- Waxelene Original Aerated Balm.
Note that out of all the listed products my favorite ones are those by Crunchi and Pure Haven. Indeed, I know that both companies test for contaminants, source high-quality and high-purity ingredients, and value my advice on the ingredient selection. After looking into all of their product formulations, I can attest to the fact that all their products are safe.
Conversely, some of the other products are added to the “best” category based solely on the ingredients of the products as listed on the companies’ websites. I cannot speak confidently about their other products or their overall manufacturing practices.
Let’s look at the ingredients of these Vaseline alternatives as of June 2024.
Crunchi Makeup Cleansing Balm
The ingredients for Crunchi I AM The Balm Makeup Cleansing Balm (ADVOCATE10 for 10% off on the 1st purchase): Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Olive Oil Polyglyceryl-6 Esters, Candelilla Cera, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprylate, Squalane, Organic Opuntia Ficus-Indica (Prickly Pear) Seed Oil, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Tocopherol, Organic Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil.
I included this product in this list because people also use petroleum jelly to remove makeup. If you are looking for a safer makeup remover, this non-toxic product may be your answer.
Thus, organic turmeric root extract is known for its skin-soothing antioxidant properties. It adds to the glowing and radiant effect of your skin. Next, sweet almond oil is rich in vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and antioxidants that help keep your skin healthy. Plus, the plant-derived squalane mimics the skin’s lipid barrier to help with healthy skin barrier function.
As I mentioned above, I vetted every Crunchi product for safety and can assure you that they are all safe. In fact, I use Crunchi products in my non-toxic anti-aging beauty routine.
Dr. Bronner’s Organic Magic Balm
The ingredients for Dr. Bronner’s Unscented – Organic Magic Balm: Organic Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Organic Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Organic Cera Alba (Beeswax), Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Organic Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Organic Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Tocopherol.
This product is USDA certified organic. As you can see, it contains many of the ingredients we discussed above as effective alternatives to petroleum jelly.
The first ingredient is organic avocado oil that is rich in vitamins A, D, and E, as well as essential fatty acids. It is deeply moisturizing and helps to nourish and protect the skin. Avocado oil is particularly beneficial for dry and mature skin, providing intense hydration and promoting skin health.
Earthley Wellness Soothing Skin Balm
The ingredients for Earthley Wellness Soothing Skin Balm: Organic Mango Butter, Organic Vegetable Glycerin, Organic Calendula Flowers, Apricot Oil, Candelilla Wax.
Organic mango butter is a luxurious and highly moisturizing alternative to petroleum jelly. It is rich in vitamins A and C which help to repair and rejuvenate the skin. Mango butter is similar in texture to shea and cocoa butter, making it an excellent option for those looking for a non-toxic petroleum jelly alternative.
Earthley Wellness Whipped Body Butter
The ingredients for Earthley Wellness Whipped Body Butter: Organic Mango Butter, Apricot Oil, and Essential Oils for various scents.
The butter consists of only two core ingredients – mango butter and apricot oil. Apricot oil acts as an emollient, softening the skin and sealing in moisture. It can be especially soothing for dry or chapped skin. It contains antioxidants such as vitamins A and E that also help rejuvenate your skin. I like the fact that this butter is thick, rich, and creamy to provide your skin with ultimate hydration.
Be mindful of essential oils, though, especially if you are trying to get pregnant, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Check out my helpful list of chemicals to avoid during pregnancy.
Earth Mama Organic Balm
The ingredients for Earth Mama Organic Balm: Organic Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Organic Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Organic Beeswax, Organic Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Organic Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Oil, Organic Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract, Organic Hypericum Perforatum (St. John’s Wort) Extract, Organic Stellaria Media (Chickweed) Extract, Organic Plantago Major (Plantain) Extract, Organic Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil.
All the ingredients in this balm are organic; hence, the entire product is USDA certified organic. Among the ingredients is jojoba oil which is unique because its composition is very similar to that of the natural oils produced by the skin. It is easily absorbed and helps to balance the skin’s oil production. Jojoba oil is excellent for moisturizing and protecting the skin, and it is particularly beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Honest Organic All-Purpose Balm
The ingredients for Honest Organic All-Purpose Balm ($10 or 10% off on iHerb): Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Organic Beeswax (Cera Alba), Organic Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Organic Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Organic Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Organic Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Organic Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Oil, Tocopherol, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, Squalane, Citric Acid.
Sunflower oil is a potent antioxidant due to its high content of vitamin E. And the fact that it is organic means it should not contain potentially harmful solvents such as hexane.
Meow Meow Tweet Repair Balm
The ingredients for Meow Meow Tweet Repair Balm: Organic Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Organic Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Fruit Butter, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Organic Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Organic Commiphora Myrrha (Myrrh) Oil, Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower Oil, Organic Vetiveria Zizanioides (Vetiver) Oil.
Coconut oil has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it perfect for healing and protecting the skin. When used on its own, coconut oil is solid at room temperature, like petroleum jelly, but melts on contact with the skin, providing deep hydration. It’s a great option for those with dry skin or conditions like eczema.
Mother Love Balm
The ingredients for Mother Love Balm ($10 or 10% off on iHerb): Organic Olea Europaea (Extra Virgin Olive) Fruit Oil, Organic Cera Alba (Beeswax), Organic Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm Leaf) Extract, Organic Verbascum Thapsus (Mullein Leaf) Extract, Organic Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow Leaf & Flower) Extract.
Every ingredient in this balm is certified organic. Plus, the entire product is USDA certified organic, too. Beeswax is a natural emulsifier with occlusive properties that create a protective barrier shielding the skin from infection. It is often used in combination with other oils and butters to create a protective barrier on the skin. It helps to lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated. Beeswax is particularly useful in lip balms and other protective care products.
Primally Pure Everything Balm
The ingredients for Primally Pure Everything Balm (READLABELS10 for 10% off): Organic Tallow from Grass-Fed Cows, Organic Olive Oil, Emu Oil, Unrefined Beeswax, Essential Oils of Lavender and Tea Tree, Organic Marshmallow Root, Organic Calendula Flower, Organic Rosemary Extract, Non-GMO Vitamin E.
The main ingredient is tallow, which makes it unsuitable for vegans. Tallow is a great moisturizer rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are beneficial for skin health. To reduce the risk of environmental contamination, Primally Pure uses the cleanest version of tallow – organic and grass-fed. Another animal product is emu oil, which some people love for its healing and nourishing properties. In addition, marshmallow root is used for medicinal purposes to relieve and repair inflammation, redness, and free-radical damage. The mucilage compound found within the root of this plant is used to protect the skin and prevent the skin from becoming irritated.
Primally Pure Whipped Body Butter
The ingredients for Primally Pure Whipped Body Butter (READLABELS10 for 10% off): Organic Tallow from Grass-Fed Cows, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Mango Butter, Organic Shea Butter, Organic Olive Oil, Organic Sweet Almond Oil, Organic Arrowroot Powder, Unrefined Beeswax, Organic Rosemary Extract, Non-GMO Vitamin E. Plus, depending on scent, Essential Oils of Organic Bergamot, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Citrus, Mint, Almond, and Vanilla.
Just like in the previous product, organic tallow from grass-fed cows is the main ingredient. Also, shea butter is a fantastic natural alternative to petroleum jelly. Derived from the nuts of the shea tree, it is rich in vitamins A and E which are essential for skin health. Shea butter is deeply moisturizing, making it ideal for dry skin. Plus, it has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin. It’s a versatile product that can be used for everything from treating dry skin to acting as a lip balm.
Pure Haven Baby Balm
The ingredients for Pure Haven Baby Balm (embedded in the link 15% off on the 1st purchase): Organic Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, 14% Non-Nanoparticle Zinc Oxide, Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Organic Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Tocopherol (Non-GMO), Organic Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil.
This baby balm contains lots of ingredients from our list of petrolatum alternatives, including shea butter, sunflower oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil. Above all, they are certified organic ingredients. Plus, the balm is vegan because it uses candelilla wax instead of beeswax. Also, it uses castor oil that is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids. It helps seal in moisture and nourish the skin, which can make it ideal for people with dry, chapped, or flaky skin. Additionally, the balm contains 14% of non-nano zinc oxide that helps tackle skin irritation or baby diaper rash. Compare this excellent product to others in my Guide to Diaper Creams.
Importantly, because I researched every ingredient in every product formulation by this company, and because I know how scrupulous they are about their manufacturing practices, I trust them and consider all their products safe. Learn more about their personal care, skincare, and cleaning products in my Pure Haven Review.
Pure Haven Body Butter with Pre+Probiotics
The ingredients for Pure Haven Body Butter with Pre+Probiotics (embedded in the link 15% off on the 1st purchase): Water, Astrocaryum Murumuru Seed Butter, Theobroma Grandiflorum (Cupuacu) Seed Butter, Organic Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Olivate, Glycerin (Vegetable, Non-GMO), Sorbitan Olivate, Organic Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Cetyl Palmitate, Sorbitan Palmitate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Inulin, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate Filtrate, Populus Tremuloides Bark Extract, Levulinic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Glyceryl Caprylate, P-Anisic Acid, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Phytate, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Tocopherol (Non-GMO).
One of its ingredients is cocoa butter that is extracted from cocoa beans and is known for its rich, emollient properties. It helps to moisturize and nourish the skin, making it smooth and soft. Cocoa butter is particularly effective in preventing dry skin and treating conditions like dermatitis.
This is the product I use and like a lot! It is thick and buttery, yet non-greasy and very absorbing – it feels truly luxurious as it absorbs into my skin. I like its rich, white, and fluffy texture, as well as the extraordinary hydration it provides, leaving my skin feeling super soft. Additionally, the pre+probiotic ingredients feed and help protect my skin from head to toe. I love using it on my body, especially on my dry feet. For baby feet, I apply the body butter after a shower and then put on socks.
Again, I have vetted every ingredient in every Pure Haven product for safety and trust this company on every level. You can learn more about them in my Pure Haven Review.
Sierra Bees Madre Magic Multipurpose Balm
The ingredients for Sierra Bees, Madre Magic, Royal Jelly & Propolis Multipurpose Balm ($10 or 10% off on iHerb): Organic Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Organic Cera Alba (Beeswax), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Organic Honey Extract, Pollen Extract, Royal Jelly Extract, Propolis Extract, Organic Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E).
The first ingredient is organic olive oil that has been used for centuries for its moisturizing and healing properties. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids which help to protect and nourish your skin.
Sky Organics Multipurpose Balm
The ingredients for Sky Organics Organic Petroleum-free Jelly Multi-purpose Balm: Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Organic Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Organic Cera Alba (Beeswax), Organic Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Organic Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Tocopherol, Organic Calendula Officinalis Flower Oil.
Most of the ingredients in this balm are certified organic. So, the entire product is USDA certified organic, too. The sunflower, olive, and calendula oils as well as beeswax and shea butter are beneficial skin ingredients, making this balm a great alternative to petroleum jelly products.
Waxelene Aerated Balm
The ingredients for Waxelene Original Aerated Balm: Organic Beeswax, Organic Soy Oil, Organic Rosemary Oil, Natural Vitamin E Oil.
This product is USDA certified organic. The second ingredient is soy oil which is derived from soybeans. It is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids that help to nourish and protect your skin. Besides, soy oil contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids as well as minerals and vitamins. Its hero ingredient, isoflavone genistein, stimulates production of collagen that helps skin cells renew and repair themselves while keeping the skin moist.
Conclusion: What Are Safer Natural Alternatives To Petroleum Jelly?
The Best Alternatives To Petroleum-Based Products Are Made With Natural Waxes And Organic Butters And Oils, Such As Cocoa, Mango, And Shea Butters And Avocado, Coconut, And Jojoba Oils.
In conclusion, switching to non-toxic petroleum jelly alternatives is a great way to protect your skin and the environment. These natural alternatives are just as effective, if not more so, than traditional petroleum jelly products, and they offer a range of benefits without the risk of toxic side effects. Whether you’re dealing with dry skin, looking for a better lip balm or makeup remover, or seeking to prevent the skin from getting damaged by the environment, there’s a non-toxic alternative out there for you.
My personal preferences as to safer natural alternatives to petroleum jelly include:
- Crunchi I AM The Balm Makeup Cleansing Balm (ADVOCATE10 for 10% off on the 1st purchase)
- Pure Haven Baby Balm (15% off on the 1st purchase), and
- Pure Haven Body Butter with Pre+Probiotics (15% off on the 1st purchase).
You can also consider some of the following products:
- Earthley Wellness Soothing Skin Balm
- Earthley Wellness Whipped Body Butter
- Earth Mama Organic Balm
- Meow Meow Tweet Repair Balm
- Primally Pure Everything Balm (READLABELS10 for 10% off)
- Primally Pure Whipped Body Butter (READLABELS10 for 10% off).
As usual, I invite you to visit the I Read Labels For You blog for lots of fun and educational information. Also, browse my non-toxic home, personal care, skincare, and makeup shop, download my e-books, and book a consultation with me if you need help with your steps to non-toxic living.
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