What are examples of hydrophilic petrolatum?

• A. aquabase, aquaphor
• B. aquabase, aquaphor
• C. petrolatum, white petrolatum
• D. yellow ointment, white ointment

Answer: (A)

Hydrophilic petrolatum bases are petrolatum-based ointment systems that can incorporate water, making them water-washable. They combine the occlusive feel of petrolatum with emulsifiers or humectants that allow some water to mix in, so cleansing with water is easier.

Aquabase and Aquaphor are classic examples of this type: Aquabase is a true hydrophilic petrolatum base used for compounding, and Aquaphor is a petrolatum-based healing ointment that relies on emollients and humectants to be more water-washable.

The other options are not hydrophilic petrolatum bases. Plain petrolatum and white petrolatum are oil-based and do not mix with water. Yellow ointment and white ointment are traditional oleaginous bases without the water-washable characteristic.