The origin story of Bag Balm is exactly as straightforward as the name implies. In 1899, the Norris family in Lyndonville, Vermont began producing a balm to treat "cake bag", udder edema, the dryness and cracking that occurs in dairy cows after milking. The product was simple, effective, and eventually found its way into barns, then farmhouses, then medicine cabinets across the country.
Today, Bag Balm is sold at drug stores, feed stores, and major retailers. It is distinctly not marketed to dairy cows anymore. It is a skin care product with a century of history and a straightforward four ingredient formulation. Here is what a pharmacist thinks about it.
What Is Bag Balm Made Of?
Bag Balm has one of the most transparent ingredient lists of any heritage product:
Active ingredient: 8 hydroxyquinoline sulfate 0.3%, an antiseptic compound
Inactive ingredients: Petrolatum (petroleum jelly USP) and lanolin
That is it. Four components total.
The petrolatum provides the occlusive base, it forms a barrier that prevents moisture loss from the skin. This is the same mechanism used by high end dermatologist recommended moisturizers, and petrolatum is widely considered one of the most effective and well tolerated skin barrier ingredients available.
Lanolin is a waxy substance derived from sheep wool. It is a rich emollient that mimics the skin's natural lipids, penetrating the skin barrier and reducing dryness. Lanolin has been used in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics for over a century.
The 8 hydroxyquinoline sulfate provides mild antiseptic activity, which is part of why it was used on udders (preventing mastitis) and why it is useful for minor skin abrasions and irritations.
The WoundSource blog notes that because of the trace coal tar derivative properties associated with the antiseptic component, "Bag Balm does wonders for eczema and psoriasis."
What It Actually Does Well
Dry, cracked skin: This is where Bag Balm performs best. The petrolatum lanolin combination is an excellent moisturizer and barrier agent. Cracked heels, dry elbows, chapped hands, cracked knuckles, all are reasonable applications.
Lips: Bag Balm is used as a lip balm by many. The same moisture retention mechanism applies.
Winter skin and occupational dry skin: For outdoor workers, healthcare workers who wash their hands constantly, and anyone dealing with wind and cold exposure, the heavy occlusive layer of Bag Balm prevents moisture loss effectively.
Minor cuts and scrapes: The antiseptic component provides mild wound protection for minor injuries. It is not a substitute for proper wound care on serious injuries.
Saddle sores and friction irritation: Cyclists and athletes use Bag Balm on areas prone to friction chafing, inner thighs, seat contact points. The thick consistency reduces friction and protects the skin.
Post tattoo care: Some tattoo artists recommend petroleum based barriers during the healing phase; Bag Balm is used by some as an alternative.
Pet paws: The original product (containing the antiseptic) is also used to protect and heal cracked paw pads in dogs, notably, it was reported to have been used on search and rescue dogs at the World Trade Center site after 9/11.
What to Know Before Using It
- Lanolin allergy is a real, if uncommon, concern. Wool allergy and lanolin allergy are related. If you have known wool sensitivity, patch test before using Bag Balm on a large area.
- It is thick and greasy, apply at night or to areas where greasiness is not an issue. It will transfer to clothing and bedsheets.
- The iconic green tin (8 oz) is the traditional form; Bag Balm also comes in tubes for more practical application.
- It has no sunscreen, do not use on areas exposed to the sun without separate UV protection.
The Bottom Line
Bag Balm is exactly what it appears to be: a simple, effective, heavily occlusive moisturizer and mild antiseptic. The ingredients are well understood, the mechanism is clear, and over a century of use provides a reasonable safety track record. It is particularly good for serious dry skin, cracked skin, and chafing, and while it came from the dairy barn, the pharmacology of petrolatum and lanolin works the same for human skin.
You can shop Bag Balm and skin care remedies at Fairview Pharmacy.
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Before starting or changing any medication, including over the counter products and supplements, talk with your pharmacist or physician about your specific situation.