DIY Healing Ointment: A Cost-Effective Alternative to CeraVe
- Marda Zechiel
- Mar 2
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 6
Skin barrier dysfunction can lead to dryness, irritation, and even eczema flares. It can also delay skin recovery. One effective solution is using occlusive ointments. These ointments help reduce trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and support barrier repair.
CeraVe Healing Ointment is a popular choice, but a 12-ounce jar can cost around $23 or more. In this article, I will share a clinically comparable, petrolatum-based DIY formulation that you can make at home for about $5–7 per 12-ounce container. This recipe uses the same occlusive principles found in dermatology and clinical skincare.
Why Petrolatum Is the Gold Standard
Petrolatum (USP petroleum jelly) is the most effective topical occlusive available. It forms a semi-occlusive barrier on the skin that reduces TEWL and supports barrier recovery.
Cosmetic-grade petrolatum is:
Highly refined and purified
Non-comedogenic
Suitable 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 mimics the functional architecture of commercial healing ointments. It includes:
Occlusive base to reduce TEWL and protect the barrier.
Emollient phase to improve spreadability and reduce tack.
Optional barrier-supporting additives for extra comfort (not required for occlusion).
The result is a semi-solid ointment that is suitable for hands, lips, cuticles, heels, elbows, and areas with a 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 can be used. For those who prefer a USP-labeled option, links are provided below.
You will be using 9 oz in this recipe.
This fragrance-free, cosmetic-grade mineral oil improves texture and glide without affecting barrier performance. You will be using 2 oz in the recipe.
Yellow beeswax is minimally processed and has a natural color and faint honey scent. You will be using 1 oz in the recipe.
Batch math (clear + explicit):
9 oz petrolatum + 2 oz mineral oil + 1 oz beeswax = 12 oz total
Optional Barrier-Supporting Additives (Optional):
These ingredients are not required for occlusion but may improve comfort and barrier support.
Important: If you add any optional ingredients and 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 Recipe: 1/4 teaspoon
Ceramides support barrier repair but are not required for occlusion.
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 for 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, ensure the product is completely cooled to prevent leaching. Allow to cool at room temperature until fully set (about 1–2 hours, longer 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 suitable for sensitive skin.
Ingredient Shopping (Optional Tools & Container)
Before investing in glass jars, consider using an old cleaned CeraVe container to save money. I use 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 requires 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. However, these ingredients are used in very small amounts (except for the petroleum jelly) and will last for multiple 12-oz batches. After the first purchase, the cost to make each additional jar drops, making this DIY version 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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