A Petrolatum-Based Skin Barrier Protectant (CeraVe-Inspired)
- Marda Zechiel
- Mar 2
- 4 min read
Skin barrier dysfunction contributes to dryness, irritation, eczema flares, and delayed skin recovery. Occlusive ointments are among the most effective topical interventions for reducing trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) and supporting barrier repair.
CeraVe Healing Ointment is widely recommended for this purpose; however, a 12-oz jar often costs close to $23 (and may be higher depending on location). This article outlines a clinically comparable, petrolatum-based DIY formulation that can be made at home for approximately
$ 5-7 per 12 oz container using the same occlusive principles relied upon in dermatology and clinical skincare.
Why Petrolatum Is the Gold Standard
Petrolatum (USP petroleum jelly) is considered the most effective topical occlusive available. It forms a semi-occlusive barrier on the skin surface that reduces TEWL and supports barrier recovery.
Cosmetic/USP-grade petrolatum is:
Highly refined and purified
Non-comedogenic
Appropriate for sensitive or compromised skin
Commonly used in clinical and hospital barrier ointments
This is why petrolatum remains the primary ingredient in many “healing ointment” products.
Formulation Overview
This DIY ointment mirrors the functional architecture of commercial healing ointments:
Occlusive base to reduce TEWL and protect the barrier
Emollient phase to improve spread ability and reduce tack
Optional barrier-supporting additives for additional comfort/support (not required for occlusion)
The result is a semi-solid ointment suitable for hands, lips, cuticles, heels, elbows, and areas of compromised skin barrier.
DIY Healing Barrier Ointment Formula
Yield: 12 oz total (340 g): Semi-solid petrolatum ointment (CeraVe-like)
Core Ingredients (Exact Amounts Added):
Any cosmetic-grade white petrolatum may be used.
OR-
For readers who prefer USP-labeled option, links are provided below.
*You will be using 9 oz. this recipe
A fragrance-free, cosmetic-grade mineral oil that improves texture and glide without affecting barrier performance, improves slip, reduces tackiness, enhances spread ability.
*You will be using 2 oz. in recipe
Yellow beeswax: minimally processed, natural color and faint honey scent. This is a large bag. I use this for other recipes (Magnesium lotion and can)
*You will be using 1 oz. in recipe
Batch math (clear + explicit): 9 oz petrolatum + 2 oz mineral oil + 1 oz beeswax = 12 oz total
Optional Barrier-Supporting Additives (Optional):
These are not required for occlusion, but may improve comfort and barrier support.
Important: If you add any optional ingredients and you want to keep the final jar at 12 oz, remove an equal amount of petroleum jelly before melting.
In Recipe: 2 teaspoons
Supports epidermal repair and hydration
In Recipe: 1 1/2 teaspoons
Supports barrier function and may reduce irritation. Niacinamide is effective at low concentrations. In a 12-oz petrolatum-based ointment, too much can increase irritation risk for sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
In Recipe: 1/4 teaspoon
Ceramides support barrier repair but are not required for occlusion; they are included as a supportive additive and closer to CeraVe)
In Recipe: 1/4 teaspoon
Antioxidant; may modestly extend shelf life.
Manufacturing Method (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Melt Phase
Add petroleum jelly (9 oz), mineral oil (2 oz), and beeswax (1 oz) to a double boiler. Heat gently on low until fully melted. Stir occasionally. Avoid overheating.
Step 2: Cooling Phase
Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool 2–3 minutes. The mixture should remain fluid but not hot.
Step 3: Add Optional Ingredients (If Using)
Whisk in glycerin, panthenol, niacinamide, ceramides, and vitamin E (if using).Mix thoroughly to ensure uniform distribution.
Step 4: Fill and Set
Pour into a clean 12-oz container (Glass is preferable. If using plastic. Make sure product is completely cooled to prevent leaching from the plastic container). Allow to cool at room temperature until fully set (about 1–2 hours and more if using a plastic container).
Clinical Use Guidance
Apply a thin, occlusive layer to dry or compromised skin.
Most effective when applied to slightly damp skin (after washing or bathing).
Suitable for overnight use, including under occlusion (e.g., cotton gloves).
Appropriate for frequent use on hands, lips, heels, elbows, and cuticles.
This formulation is fragrance-free and can be appropriate for sensitive skin.
Ingredient Shopping (Optional Tools & Container)
**Before you invest in the glass jars. Use an old cleaned CeraVe container to save money. I am using a cleaned and sanitized empty CeraVe container (make sure your mixture is completely cooled if using plastic.)
A 12-oz jar of CeraVe Healing Ointment costs $20–25
Initial Investment (One-Time Cost)
Making this ointment does require an upfront investment to purchase the base ingredients and optional barrier-support additives. Depending on the brands chosen, the initial cost is approximately $70–90, but these ingredients are used in very small amounts (Except the petroleum jelly) and will last for multiple 12-oz batches. After the first purchase, the cost to make each additional jar drops and this DIY version costs approximately $5–7 per 12-oz batch — a savings of 65–80% per jar, with full ingredient control.
In Barrier Repair,
FTC Disclosure
This post contains Amazon links. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I only post recipes that I have made and use myself.
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