How does petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, affect post-laser treatment hyperpigmentation?

Doctor's Answers 1

Vaseline does not by itself make post-laser treatment hyperpigmentation better or worse.

However, their use as a post-laser healing ointment may be indirectly associated with lower PIH risk indirectly. This is because they help in wound healing as petroleum jelly can prevent wounds from drying out. In the case of post-laser treatment, your skin may be more sensitive and easily irritated. For this, petroleum jelly can help keep your skin moist, thus preventing irritations and scab formation.

For post-laser treatment skin, one of the most important thing is to keep your skin moisturized. Petroleum jelly is commonly used because some commercial moisturizers have fragrances and other chemicals that might irritate the skin.

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