Vasenol is the brand name used for Vaseline products in specific markets, such as Portugal and Brazil. It is a leading skincare brand owned by the British multinational company Unilever. The brand specializes in petroleum jelly-based products and moisture-rich lotions designed to protect, heal, and hydrate various skin types.

Brand Overview and Ownership

Parent Company:
Unilever, which acquired the brand (previously under Chesebrough-Pond’s) in 1987.

Regional Branding:
While known globally as Vaseline, it is marketed as Vasenol in countries like Portugal and Brazil.

Mission:
To provide healthy skin for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity, with a focus on rescuing dry skin.

History and Origins

Discovery:
In 1859, chemist Robert Augustus Chesebrough discovered a residue on oil rig pumps called “rod wax,” which oil workers used to heal cuts and burns.

Establishment:
Chesebrough refined this substance into petroleum jelly and launched it commercially in 1870.

Expansion:
By 1875, it was sold at a rate of one jar per minute in the U.S. and eventually expanded to over 70 countries.

Product Portfolio

Vasenol/Vaseline products are formulated with triple-purified petroleum jelly to ensure they are hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic (do not clog pores).

Petroleum Jelly:
The original “Healing Jelly” used as an occlusive agent to seal in moisture and protect skin from external stressors.

Body Lotions:
Formulated with microparticles of original jelly for rapid absorption without a greasy feel. Specialized lines include:

Intensive Care:
For daily moisturizing and healing dry skin.

Clinical Care:
Targeted treatments for extremely dry or sensitive skin.

Specialized Care:
Includes products for hands and nails, baby care, and lip therapy.

Key Skin Care Functions
Vasenol products primarily work through occlusivity, meaning they sit on top of the skin to hinder trans-epidermal water loss (evaporation).

Protection:
Shields minor cuts, scrapes, and burns while they heal.

Moisturization:
Acts as an emollient to make skin feel smooth and soft.

Repair:
Accelerates the skin’s natural barrier recovery process.