Why You Shouldn’t Put Petroleum Jelly or Aquaphor Anywhere Near Your Eyes

When it comes to eye area and lash care, many people turn to popular convention skincare products like petroleum-based Vaseline or Aquaphor for moisture and protection. However, what seems like an affordable quick fix can actually do more harm than good! We're going to lay out why you might want to reconsider using these products on your eye area and lashes.

Petroleum-Based Ingredients Aren’t as Safe as You Think

So, you probably already know that we're not fans of petroleum based skin and body care products. But for good reason! Both Vaseline and Aquaphor contain petrolatum which is a byproduct of crude oil refining... Yes, the same fossil fuel used to make gasoline, diesel, and kerosene! It’s basically the leftover sludge from the oil refining process that’s been bleached and processed until it looks like a smooth balm. Yyyyyyyyuck! Sounds gross? Well, it gets worse. Even after processing, petrolatum can still contain toxic contaminants called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) which have been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and reproductive harm. PAHs are dangerous because they can accumulate in the body over time, meaning that repeated use (like slathering Vaseline on your eye area every night or often) adds up.

They Can Trap Dirt and Bacteria

Petroleum jelly is NOT a natural occlusive. It creates a thick barrier on the skin, which can suffocate the skin and trap bacteria. While these prodcuts are used to help prevent moisture loss, they also seal in everything underneath it... including dirt, bacteria, and dead skin cells. When applied to your eye area and lashes, this can lead to:

• Blocked hair follicles (which can interfere with lash growth)
• Increased risk of styes or infections
• Buildup that makes your lashes brittle and prone to falling out
• Acne caused by trapped bacteria

They’re Not Actually Moisturizing

Contrary to popular belief, petroleum-based products don’t hydrate the skin. They don’t contain any nutrients or beneficial oils to nourish or strengthen the skin or eye area. Instead, they just coat the skin, giving the illusion of moisture without actually providing any real benefits.

A Better Alternative for Eye Area & Lashes

If you’re looking for a natural, non-suffocating, & nourishing alternative for your eye area, opt for our top-selling product, The Eye Balm™! It's designed specifically for nourishment of delicate eye area skin, and lash and brow growth! The Eye Balm™ uses 100% natural occlusives that nourish the skin and hair follicles while supporting healthy, fuller lashes. It's plant based, low-comedogenic and packed with skin nutrients. It also comes in two different consistencies: original and softer formula.

If you haven't already, try SBA’s The Eye Balm™  today! Better yet, read the nearly 900 reviews about it's nourishing abilities! 

Here's to healthy skin & lashes,

Brier C.