The answer depends on the exact ointment and country, not just the Aquaphor name. Aquaphor is a brand name rather than one universal formula, so the front of the pack cannot do all the paperwork.13
What else is in Aquaphor?
| Product | Active ingredient | Inactive ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| US Aquaphor Healing Ointment | Petrolatum 41% | Mineral oil, ceresin, lanolin alcohol, panthenol, glycerin, bisabolol |
| US Aquaphor Original Ointment | Petrolatum 41% | Mineral oil, ceresin, lanolin alcohol |
| Canadian Aquaphor Healing Ointment | Mineral oil 52.74% by weight |
For the US ointments, 41% means 41 grams of petrolatum in every 100 grams of product. Neither is petrolatum alone. Healing Ointment has six listed inactive ingredients, while Original has three. Both contain lanolin alcohol, which is useful to know if you are checking a pack for that ingredient. The word 'Original' identifies a particular ointment, not a permission slip to ignore the rest of the label.12
What are the US ointments used for?
Both US ointments are skin protectants. They temporarily protect minor cuts, scrapes and burns, help relieve chapped or cracked skin and lips, and help protect against the drying effects of wind and cold weather. These are uses for temporary protection and relief, rather than a reason to treat every wound with ointment.12
How do you apply Aquaphor?
For general use, both US ointments direct you to apply as needed, rather than follow a fixed morning or evening schedule. US Healing Ointment also has directions for treating and preventing diaper rash: change wet or soiled diapers promptly, cleanse the area, and let it dry. Then apply the ointment liberally with each diaper change, especially at bedtime or before prolonged exposure to a wet diaper. Those diaper rash directions belong to Healing Ointment, not Original Ointment.12
When should you stop using it?
Keep the US ointments out of your eyes. Do not use them on deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns. Stop using the ointment and ask a doctor if the condition worsens, symptoms last longer than seven days, or symptoms clear up and return within a few days. Keep the product out of children's reach; if swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.12
Where this answer comes from
- 1DailyMed - AQUAPHOR HEALING- petrolatum ointmentdailymed.nlm.nih.gov
- 2DailyMed - AQUAPHOR ORIGINAL- petrolatum ointmentdailymed.nlm.nih.gov
- 3Product informationhealth-products.canada.ca
