Vaseline vs. Mentholatum: Healing Tips for Urethral Skin Tears

Q: Vaseline vs. Mentholatum: Healing Tips for Urethral Skin Tears

A-Wen： Hello! 1. As long as there are no irritating substances, it is generally acceptable. However, some ingredients in topical ointments may cause local irritation. 2. The effectiveness of petroleum jelly varies from person to person. Typically, if local hyg

Nurse and Vaseline

Hello, doctor: I have the following questions: 1.
Is applying Vaseline or Mentholatum (小護士) better for healing skin tears on the foreskin? 2.
How long does it take for skin tears on the foreskin to heal with Vaseline? 3.
How long does it take for skin tears on the foreskin to heal with Mentholatum (小護士)? 4.
Will applying Vaseline or Mentholatum (小護士) affect erections? (Or will one affect it while the other does not?) 5.
During the period of applying medication, since it is applied at night, is it okay to masturbate during the day? (Following a principle of twice a week!)

A-Wen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/12/11

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

A-Wen: Hello! 1.
As long as there are no irritating substances, it is generally acceptable.
However, some ingredients in topical ointments may cause local irritation.
2.
The effectiveness of petroleum jelly varies from person to person.
Typically, if local hygiene is properly maintained, improvement can be seen in about 3-5 days, while complete wound healing may take approximately 2-6 weeks.
3.
I’m not sure.
4.
It will not affect erection.
5.
If there is a wound and masturbation continues to cause the wound to reopen, it may lead to poor healing.
In severe cases, this could result in significant scarring, potentially causing phimosis, which can affect erection.
If a wound does not heal after 2 weeks, it is advisable to seek medical treatment.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; it is essential to seek care at a medical facility when necessary.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2012/12/11

More Info

When it comes to treating urethral skin tears, both Vaseline (petroleum jelly) and Mentholatum (a topical ointment containing menthol and other ingredients) can provide some relief, but they serve different purposes and have distinct properties.

1. Vaseline vs. Mentholatum for Healing: Vaseline is an occlusive agent, meaning it creates a barrier on the skin that helps to lock in moisture and protect the area from external irritants. This can be particularly beneficial for skin tears as it promotes a moist healing environment, which is essential for tissue repair. On the other hand, Mentholatum contains menthol, which provides a cooling sensation and may help relieve discomfort, but it may not be as effective in promoting healing as Vaseline. For skin tears, Vaseline is generally recommended for faster healing due to its protective and moisturizing properties.

2. Healing Time with Vaseline: The healing time for skin tears can vary based on the severity of the tear and individual healing rates. Generally, with proper care and application of Vaseline, minor skin tears may begin to show improvement within a few days to a week. It is crucial to keep the area clean and apply Vaseline regularly to facilitate healing.

3. Healing Time with Mentholatum: Similar to Vaseline, the healing time with Mentholatum can also vary. However, since it may not provide the same level of moisture retention and protection as Vaseline, it might take longer for the skin to heal. If the menthol in the ointment causes irritation, it could potentially prolong the healing process.

4. Impact on Erections: Applying either Vaseline or Mentholatum should not directly affect erectile function. However, if the application of these products causes discomfort or irritation, it could indirectly affect sexual arousal or performance. It's essential to monitor how your body reacts to these products and consult a healthcare professional if you experience any adverse effects.

5. Self-Stimulation During Treatment: Engaging in self-stimulation while using these topical treatments is generally a personal choice. However, if the area is sensitive or healing, it might be advisable to avoid any activities that could cause further irritation or trauma to the skin. If you choose to self-stimulate, ensure that the area is clean and that you are not applying excessive pressure that could disrupt the healing process.

In summary, for urethral skin tears, Vaseline is likely the better option for promoting healing due to its occlusive properties. It is important to maintain good hygiene and monitor the healing process. If you notice any signs of infection or if the condition does not improve, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

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