Aquaphor is a popular over-the-counter ointment made by Eucerin that is commonly used to help heal dry, cracked, and irritated skin. It contains petroleum jelly as its main ingredient and is designed to provide long-lasting moisture to protect and soothe skin. While Aquaphor is generally considered safe for most people when used as directed, some individuals may experience adverse reactions from using it.
How Aquaphor Works
Aquaphor works by providing a protective barrier on the skin that locks in moisture and prevents water loss. The main active ingredient in Aquaphor is petroleum jelly, which has occlusive properties that help trap water in the skin. When applied to dry, cracked, or irritated skin, Aquaphor provides immediate soothing relief while also slowing water evaporation from the deeper layers of the skin. This helps hydrate the skin and enhance healing.
In addition to petroleum jelly, Aquaphor also contains mineral oil and ceresin which also have occlusive properties. The ointment has a semi-solid texture that sticks effectively to the skin, allowing the protective barrier to remain in place for hours. Overall, Aquaphor provides long-lasting hydration and protection to help restore smooth, healthy skin.
Who May Experience Irritation
While most people can use Aquaphor without problems, some individuals may experience skin irritation with its use. Those most at risk include:
- People with sensitive skin
- People with skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis
- People with allergies to any of the ingredients
- People using topical acne medications like benzoyl peroxide
For these individuals, the occlusive effects of Aquaphor may cause worsened symptoms or reactions. The ointment can trap irritants next to the skin and clog pores, potentially leading to redness, stinging, acne breakouts, rashes, or itching.
People with Sensitive Skin
Those with sensitive skin are most prone to irritation from Aquaphor. Sensitive skin can become easily inflamed with products due to its delicate nature. For some, the thick, greasy texture of Aquaphor may trigger redness, flushing, bumps, or heat. If stinging or burning occurs after application, this indicates the skin is hypersensitive to one or more ingredients.
People with Eczema or Psoriasis
Individuals with eczema or psoriasis also have an increased risk of reacting to Aquaphor. The ointment can potentially worsen inflammatory skin conditions by further irritating the skin and block pores. This can lead to heightened itching, inflammation, and even infection in open lesions or cracks.
People with Allergies
Having an allergy to any of the ingredients in Aquaphor, such as petroleum jelly, mineral oil, or lanolin alcohol, can also cause adverse effects after use. Contact allergy symptoms like rash, redness, swelling, and itching may occur on the area of skin where Aquaphor is applied.
People Using Acne Medications
Applying a thick emollient like Aquaphor over topical acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide can reduce effectiveness. Its occlusive barrier may prevent the acne medication from penetrating into the pores. And it may also trap irritants against the skin and clog pores, causing more acne eruptions.
Ingredients That Can Cause Reactions
Certain ingredients in Aquaphor’s formula pose a risk for irritation and allergic response in those with sensitive skin. These include:
Petrolatum
Petrolatum, also known as petroleum jelly, is the primary ingredient in Aquaphor. For some, the thick greasiness of petrolatum can clog pores, exacerbate acne, or worsen rashes. It may also trigger contact dermatitis.
Mineral Oil
Mineral oil is also occlusive and may clog pores or trap bacteria against the skin, leading to breakouts or increased irritation. Mineral oil is derived from petroleum, so those with petrolatum allergies may react to mineral oil too.
Lanolin Alcohol
Lanolin alcohol comes from wool wax. This ingredient is known to cause contact allergies in some users, producing redness, scaling, and itching where applied.
Risk Factors for Irritation
Certain factors can increase the risk of developing irritation from Aquaphor. These include:
- Damaged skin – Cracked, broken, or abraded skin is more prone to stinging and sensitivity.
- Using too frequently – Overuse can cause buildup leading to clogged pores and acne.
- Using too thickly – Applying too thickly prevents proper breathing and function of the skin.
- Using after procedures – Peels, laser treatments, dermabrasion etc. make skin more reactive.
- Using on the face – The face is more sensitive than body skin.
- Using on infants – Babies’ skin is still developing and delicate.
Signs of Irritation
How can you tell if Aquaphor is irritating your skin and making it worse? Look for these signs of irritation:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bumps or pimples
- Itching or stinging
- Flaking or peeling
- Dryness or tightness
- Burning or heating sensation
- Rash
The irritation may occur immediately after application or could show up after several hours or days of continued use. Discontinue use if any uncomfortable or concerning reaction develops.
What to Do if Aquaphor Irritates Your Skin
If you notice signs of irritation or an allergic reaction to Aquaphor, stop using it immediately. Wash the area with mild soap and water to remove any remaining ointment. Avoid applying any other creams, ointments, or lotions until the skin has recovered.
You may try applying a cold compress to soothe irritation and inflammation. Oral antihistamines may also help alleviate allergy symptoms like itching or swelling.
See your dermatologist if the reaction is severe or does not subside within a few days. They can properly diagnose the allergy and provide prescription topical treatments to help heal the irritated skin.
In the future, avoid using petroleum-based products like Aquaphor. Opt for gentler, less occlusive moisturizers and ointments instead. Carefully read product labels to ensure they don’t contain ingredients you are allergic or sensitive to.
Alternative Products to Aquaphor
Some alternatives to Aquaphor that are less likely to clog pores or cause irritation include:
CeraVe Healing Ointment
- Petrolatum-free
- Contains ceramides to strengthen skin barrier
- Also has hyaluronic acid for added hydration
Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
- Non-greasy, non-irritating formula
- Contains emollients like sweet almond oil
- Soothes dry, sensitive skin
Vaniply Ointment
- Uses dimethicone instead of petrolatum
- Seals in moisture without heaviness
- Good for extremely dry skin
Coconut Oil
- Light, natural oil that absorbs well
- Antibacterial and antimicrobial properties
- Safe for most skin types
Vaseline
- 100% petroleum jelly, less additives
- Thick occlusive barrier seals in moisture
- Minimal ingredients for less irritation
Tips for Using Aquaphor Safely
If you want to continue using Aquaphor, there are some tips to follow that may help prevent adverse reactions:
- Do a patch test first – Apply a small amount to inner arm for 24-48 hours to check for irritation before broader use.
- Use sparingly – Only apply a thin layer, not slathers which can trap irritants.
- Avoid broken or irritated skin – Use cautiously over cuts, burns, or rashes which are more sensitive.
- Stop if issues arise – Discontinue use if any discomfort, stinging, or unusual symptoms occur.
- Avoid pairing with other products – Don’t layer over toners, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids etc. which can interact.
- Consider petrolatum-free options – Try lighter ointments without petrolatum like CeraVe Healing Ointment.
- Speak with your dermatologist – They can provide guidance on safe, effective products for your unique skin needs.
Conclusion
Aquaphor is designed to hydrate, soothe, and protect damaged skin. However, for some individuals it can cause adverse effects like redness, irritation, stinging, and allergy symptoms. Those most at risk include people with sensitive skin, eczema, psoriasis, or contact allergies. Ingredients like petrolatum, mineral oil, and lanolin may provoke irritation in sensitive users. Using Aquaphor too frequently, too thickly, on broken skin, or on the face increases irritation risk as well.
If Aquaphor is making your skin worse, stop using it immediately. See a dermatologist to help properly treat and identify the reaction. They can also provide guidance on better-tolerated moisturizers and ointments to use instead of Aquaphor. With caution and care, the right products can provide hydration without unwanted side effects.