Petroleum Jelly — Texture Application Note

Spreadability is the ease at which a sample spreads over a surface in a thin even layer. The measurement of firmness (by penetration) and spreadability are highly correlated. Consequently, the spreadability values of a lipid rich sample will decrease with increasing viscosity of the oil (increasing hardness), resulting in an increased surface tension, giving a feeling of greasiness and tackiness upon application to the skin.

Petroleum jelly is used as an ingredient in skin lotions and cosmetics. It is a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons. It falls into the moisturising category as an occlusive, trapping water in the skin by preventing it from evaporating.