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Petrolatum ointment
Petrolatum ointment forms an occlusive barrier on the skin surface to prevent water loss and protect against irritants.
Petrolatum ointment forms an occlusive barrier on the skin surface to prevent water loss and protect against irritants. Used for Dry skin and xerosis, Minor skin irritation and chafing, Wound care and skin protection.
At a glance
| Generic name | Petrolatum ointment |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Placebo, Vaseline album, Vaseline |
| Sponsor | LEO Pharma |
| Drug class | Emollient/Skin protectant |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Dermatology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Petrolatum is a semi-solid hydrocarbon mixture that creates a hydrophobic occlusive layer on the skin. This barrier reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), maintains skin hydration, and protects the underlying skin from external irritants and pathogens. It is a non-medicated emollient used primarily for skin protection and moisturization.
Approved indications
- Dry skin and xerosis
- Minor skin irritation and chafing
- Wound care and skin protection
- General skin moisturization
Common side effects
- Local skin irritation or sensitization
- Folliculitis (rare, with occlusion)
Key clinical trials
- Comparing Supplemental Topical Agents for the Treatment of Acute Radiation Dermatitis in Patients With Breast Cancer (PHASE1)
- A Study to Assess the Efficacy of GX-03 in Moderate to Severe Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) (PHASE2)
- To Compare Inflammatory Biomarkers Before and After Treatment With Clobetasol or Fractional CO2 Laser, in Women With Histologically Confirmed Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus, Without Prior Corticosteroid Treatment. (NA)
- The Use of iNPWT for Management of ALT Flap Donor Site Wound (NA)
- Using a Contact Dermatitis Model With Biologic Medications to Study Skin Inflammation (PHASE2, PHASE3)
- Healing Effect of Tea Tree Oil on Burn (EARLY_PHASE1)
- A Community-based Assessment of Skin Care, Allergies, and Eczema (NA)
- Zinc Oxide Versus Petrolatum Following Skin Surgery (EARLY_PHASE1)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Petrolatum ointment CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Petrolatum ointment updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- LEO Pharma portfolio CI