A mixture of hydrocarbons, obtained by distilling off the lighter and more volatile portions from petroleum, and purifying the residue.

Properties : Petrolatum occurs as an unctuous mass, of about the consistence of an ointment, varying in color from white to dark amber.

Action and Uses: Petrolatum is used chiefly as a base for ointments. It is sometimes employed as a lubricant, for which purpose only a sterile product should be used.