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Range and prices may vary by store. Prices are correct at time of uploading and subject to change. Papaw ointment has long been an Australian staple and even more so is the ubiquitous red tube belonging to Lucas' Papaw Remedies. For years, everyone from models to celebrities has sworn by the sticky substance as a miracle cure for (predominantly) dry lips, but also cuts, rashes, bites, and torn cuticles. But in 2015, a few viral social media posts turned into a as everyone turned their attention to the ingredients listing. In particular, the internet was quick to point out the seemingly minuscule ratio of fermented paw paw (or papaya) to petroleum jelly, a controversial cosmetic ingredient that's a byproduct of the petroleum manufacturing process. There's been a lot of debate since, so we did some research and called in a professional to set the record straight. Key Ingredients Petroleum jelly is composed of natural mineral oils and waxes. It helps seal in moisture, soothe cuts, and accelerate the skin healing process. Keep scrolling for all the information. What is Lucas' Papaw Ointment?Lucas' Papaw Ointment is a thick, emollient product that's designed to relieve dry, flaky lips and skin. It's important to flesh out the ingredients in question found in the Lucas' Papaw Ointment. The brand website states the formula contains 39mg/g of fresh fermented papaya, plus pharmaceutical-grade petroleum jelly and wax as the base (along with a "minute" amount of naturally derived fragrance). The fermented papaya is meant to be the hero ingredient, as it is said to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory healing properties. Also according to the brand website, petroleum acts as a "carrier" so that the fermented fruit can be applied topically in a manner that is safe and effective. Is Lucas' Papaw Ointment Safe?The controversy lies in the fact according to numbers alone, it appears there is only a minimal amount of actual papaya extract suspended in the petroleum base, indicating the ointment might be nothing more than a tube of glorified Vaseline. Additionally, petroleum is a cosmetic ingredient that has been met with a lot of negativity over the years and has been condemned by some for being an ineffective moisturizer. According to Lanolips founder and skin expert Kirsten Carriol, petroleum is a "mixture of hydrocarbons and other chemicals coming from crude oil, which is a byproduct of the oil industry (usually made in various grades and is cheap to use in cosmetics). It works by creating a protective barrier over the skin to seal in moisture, but since petroleum jelly is a water-repellent and not water-soluble, it makes it hard for the skin to breathe." To put it simply, it's a barrier, but cannot hydrate. Also, the process of sourcing petroleum is, according to Carriol, "questionable and unsustainable." But, as with all things controversial, there is a multitude of opinions that weigh in on the matter. According to Paula Begoun of Paula's Choice (as specified in the online cosmetic ingredients dictionary), "topical application of petrolatum can help replenish, soothe and beautifully moisturize skin's outer layer." Furthering this, it is apparently "considered safe and highly effective." This is said to be especially true when it comes to pharmaceutical-grade petroleum (which is used by Lucas' Papaw Remedies) as it has been purified so thoroughly that no toxic chemicals remain. As for the question of the quantity of papaya, according to the brand, the small amount is actually quite potent due to the fruit's fermentation, so anything higher than this would deem the product too strong or unsafe for topical use. So it might be more a case of not throwing out all of your little red tubs and tubes, but being careful with exactly how you use it. Because of the nature of petroleum, by no means is Lucas' Papaw Ointment a moisturizer outside of the superficial layers of our skin. So yes, it prevents moisture from escaping, and yes, it may assist with the wound-healing process, however, it is not a cure-all for dryness. If you still use petroleum-based products, apply it to the skin after you put on other moisturizing items. The petroleum will act as a seal and lock in all of the hydration. The Final TakeawayIf you're looking for a lip balm (like so many Lucas' Papaw Ointment devotees often are), it may be best to go with a semi-permeable ingredient such as lanolin, allowing the skin to self hydrate from within. Or there are also fabulous plant-based formulas, such as Tarte's Quench Lip Rescue ($19), available for vegan beauty junkies. Keep scrolling to shop our favorite petroleum-free lip balms. :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__posts__239665__lucas-paw-paw-ointment-239665-1508730060234-product.700x0c-4a9b0e74d4314b67aa1495e0e9683446.jpg) Lanolips 101 Multipurpose Balm $17.00 Shop Lanolips can be used the same way as Lucas' Papaw treatment — slather it on dry lips, elbows, cuticles to help relieve dry, cracked skin. The main difference is that Lanolips is made with 100% lanolin and lanolin oil, so it's not a vegan option if that's your jam, :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__posts__239665__lucas-paw-paw-ointment-239665-1508730061055-product.700x0c-30b17316c51f4ada817f84bba14cba29.jpg) Tata Harper Be Adored Lip Treament $34.00 Shop If you're looking to relieve dry lips but you also want a touch of color, this is the option for you. It gives you a gorgeous raspberry-tinted color and is formulated with good-for-your-skin ingredients like olive oil, beeswax, avocado oil, and green tea seed oil. What is essential health paw paw ointment used for?++ May be used as a local topical application for cuts, minor burns, minor open wounds, splinters & thorns, nappy rash & sunburns. WARNINGS: If symptoms persist consult your healthcare practitioner. DIRECTIONS FOR USE: Apply on & around the affected areas. Why is Paw Paw ointment being recalled?Lucas' Papaw Remedies is recalling several batches of Lucas' Papaw Ointment (AUST L 13397) due to microbial contamination. The affected products come in 15g, 75g and 200g sizes. Lucas' Papaw Ointment is a topical ointment used to assist in the treatment of minor skin wounds, as well as skin dryness and chafing. Does pawpaw cream actually work?The enzymes in Paw Paw are known for soothing topical skin inflammation and minor burns. If you have any minor cuts, scratches or wind burns, then applying Paw Paw ointment to these areas can provide soothing relief. Can you use essential health paw paw ointment on lips?Paw Paw ointment is truly versatile and can help with treating many minor skin ailments. Most natural Paw Paw ointments contain additional skin nurturing and hydrating ingredients, making them excellent for treating: Lips – soothing chapped, dry lips and offering protection from wind. |
