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Effects of petrolatum on stratum corneum structure and function
R Ghadially1, L Halkier-Sorensen, P M Elias
1Dermatology Service, Veterans Administration Medical Center, San Francisco, CA 94121.
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|March 1, 1992
Summary
Petrolatum ointments like Vaseline Petroleum Jelly (VPJ) accelerate skin barrier recovery by penetrating the stratum corneum, not by forming an occlusive film. This challenges the long-held belief that VPJ impedes barrier function.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Skin barrier function
- Cutaneous physiology
Background:
- Ointments, such as petrolatum, are traditionally considered occlusive, impeding transepidermal water loss.
- This occlusive property was thought to delay skin barrier recovery after disruption.
- Previous studies in murine skin suggested petrolatum hinders barrier repair.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the occlusive nature of Vaseline Petroleum Jelly (VPJ).
- To determine the site and mechanism of VPJ's action on skin barrier function.
Main Methods:
- Assessed barrier recovery in human volunteers with and without VPJ treatment after acetone-induced disruption.
- Localized VPJ within the stratum corneum (SC) using tracers and ruthenium tetroxide staining.
- Visualized VPJ penetration depth and its interaction with intercellular membrane structures.
Main Results:
- VPJ significantly accelerated skin barrier recovery compared to untreated sites.
- VPJ was found within the SC interstices at all depths.
- VPJ appeared to replace intercellular lipid bilayers within the SC.
Conclusions:
- VPJ does not function as a simple epicutaneous occlusive membrane.
- VPJ penetrates the stratum corneum, integrating with intercellular spaces.
- This penetration facilitates normal barrier recovery, contrary to previous assumptions.