Versus

Curology Barrier Balm Versus Vermont's Original Bag Balm Original Skin Moisturizer

General Moisturizer
General Moisturizer
American Brand United States
American Brand United States

Updated on July 26, 2024

Overview

What they are

These products are both cruelty-free general moisturizers. They have a total of 3 ingredients in common

Cool Features

They both contain exfoliants

Free From

They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances or parabens

What's Inside

They both contain oils

We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.

Ingredient Info

Click any item below to learn more and see relevant ingredients

About this product

About this product

At a glance

Click on any of the items below to learn more

Key Ingredients

Benefits

Concerns

Key Ingredients

Concerns

Ingredients Explained

These ingredients are found in both products.

Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.

Emollient

Petrolatum is more commonly known as petroleum jelly. It is created by mixing waxes and mineral oils.

This ingredient is effective at reducing water loss by 99%. This is because it is an occlusive. Occlusives create a hydrophobic barrier on the skin to prevent evaporation. This property makes it great for hydrating dry skin.

Pro tip: Use occlusives, such as this ingredient, on damp skin for the best results.

The quality or origin of petrolatum is only known when disclosed by the brand. Most cosmetic petrolatum has gone through several purification stages.

Another benefit of occlusives is it protects your skin against infection or allergies.

Petrolatum may not be safe for fungal-acne. Studies show mineral oil / petroleum leads to the growth of M. Furfur, a type of yeast.

Learn more about Petrolatum
Abrasive, Emulsion Stabilising, Masking

Synthetic Wax is created from fossil fuels such as natural gas. It is used to enhance texture, adjust pH, and as an occlusive.

It may also be used as an abrasive ingredient to exfoliate the skin.

Synthetic Wax may not be fungal acne safe.

Learn more about Synthetic Wax
Skin Conditioning, Solvent

Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.

So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.

You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!

Learn more about Water

When to use

4 Routines
50% use in am
50% use in pm
75% use every day
4 Routines
25% use in am
75% use in pm
50% use every day

Reviews

Here's what our community thinks

Curology Barrier Balm 12 ingredients

Barrier Balm hasn't been rated yet.
Rate it now

Vermont's Original Bag Balm Original Skin Moisturizer 5 ingredients

4.0 /5
from 1 rating
LilyEvans's avatar

Lily Evans

6 months ago
Review

Solid. I like keeping this on me in winter… I find it safe to use on very cracked lips. Not a miracle worker but safe (which for my chapped prone lips is enough)