Is Vaseline Vegan?
Although Vaseline cannot be considered 100% vegan, since there’s a chance their suppliers conduct animal testing, there is no problem with the ingredients themselves. Petroleum jelly is generally considered a vegan product. So, when faced with a lack of accessible alternatives, there is no concrete reason for vegans to avoid it entirely. However, if your concerns extend to our planet as well, there are a few more factors to consider.
Petroleum jelly is a by-product of the oil industry, making it a less-than-ideal choice for the environment. It’s not biodegradable, and can only be broken down by dissolving it with harsh, toxic chemicals like paint thinner. These chemicals are not only toxic for the soil and water, but also release volatile compounds into the atmosphere. It is also non-recyclable.
For these reasons, we cannot recommend Vaseline or petroleum jelly. We would instead suggest the following alternatives, if you’re looking for a vegan-friendly moisturizer or lip balm!