Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly, has been used for over 140 years to help moisturize and protect skin. It’s an affordable, accessible product that many people turn to for dry, cracked skin and lips. However, some dermatologists warn that Vaseline may do more harm than good for certain skin types and conditions. Here’s an in-depth look at the pros and cons of using Vaseline and whether it should have a place in your skincare routine.
What is Vaseline?
Vaseline is a brand name for petroleum jelly, a byproduct of the oil refining process. It’s a mixture of hydrocarbons, with a semisolid consistency at room temperature. Vaseline forms an occlusive barrier on the skin, which means it prevents moisture loss by sealing in the skin’s natural oils. It also creates a protective barrier against environmental irritants. Unlike lotions and creams, Vaseline does not contain any additional water or ingredients. It relies solely on the occlusive properties of petroleum jelly to hydrate and protect skin.
Pros of Using Vaseline
There are some benefits associated with using Vaseline on the skin:
Moisturizing Properties
Vaseline can help moisturize and hydrate dry, flaky skin by trapping water in the skin. The occlusive barrier it forms helps prevent transepidermal water loss. This makes it effective for very dry skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and ichthyosis. It may provide relief from the irritation and itchiness associated with severely dry skin.
Protective Properties
The petroleum jelly in Vaseline also acts as a protective barrier against environmental irritants. It can shield skin against cold, wind, dust and other particles. This may help prevent dryness and damage to the skin’s protective barrier.
Affordability and Accessibility
Vaseline is relatively affordable compared to many lotions and creams. It’s widely available at pharmacies and supermarkets. The product comes in small, portable tin containers, making it convenient to keep in your purse or bag for on-the-go use.
Use on Minor Scrapes and Burns
Applying a thin layer of Vaseline can create a protective barrier over minor cuts, scrapes or burns. This helps keep moisture in and germs out to promote healing. It also reduces friction against the wound. Doctors sometimes recommend Vaseline for post-procedural wound care.
Lip Care
Vaseline is a popular lip balm and sealant for chapped, cracked lips. The occlusive properties help trap moisture in dry lips while forming a protective barrier against environmental irritants.
Cons of Using Vaseline
Despite the benefits of Vaseline for some dry skin conditions, there are also some disadvantages to consider:
Can Clog Pores
One of the biggest concerns with Vaseline is that it can clog pores for acne-prone skin. The thick, greasy consistency makes it comedogenic, meaning it can lead to blackheads and breakouts. Dermatologists warn against applying Vaseline to the face if you’re acne-prone.
No Moisturizing Ingredients
While Vaseline traps moisture, the petrolatum itself does not contain any humectants to draw moisture into the skin. For severely dry skin conditions like eczema, a moisturizing cream may be more effective than Vaseline alone.
No Sunscreen Properties
Petrolatum does not contain SPF or sun-blocking properties. If you apply Vaseline before sun exposure, you risk getting burned. It’s important to always apply sunscreen underneath Vaseline if you’ll be outside.
Can Worsen Fungal Acne
The occlusive, greasy nature of Vaseline may exacerbate fungal acne, a type of folliculitis caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin. The moist, airtight environment under Vaseline can promote additional yeast growth.
Not Suitable for Oily Skin
People with oily skin often find Vaseline too heavy. It can lead to more oil production and breakouts. Lighter moisturizers are usually better options for oily skin types.
Difficult to Spread Thinly
Vaseline has a thick, glue-like consistency at room temperature. Some people find it tricky to spread thinly over the skin. Applying too much can feel greasy and promote breakouts.
Can Stain Fabrics
Due to its staining properties, Vaseline can ruin clothing, sheets and other fabrics. It’s important to allow it to fully absorb into the skin before dressing.
Is Vaseline Good for Your Face?
Generally, dermatologists warn against using Vaseline on the face. The risks tend to outweigh the benefits for facial skin. Vaseline is highly comedogenic, meaning it can clog pores and cause acne breakouts. It can also exacerbate fungal acne. People with oily or acne-prone skin are better off using an oil-free, non-comedogenic facial moisturizer. However, Vaseline may be helpful on dry patches around the eyes, lips or nostrils if applied sparingly. It’s also commonly used on the face after procedures like microneedling or laser resurfacing to enhance healing. Overall, proceed with caution if you have acne-prone or oily skin but want to try Vaseline on your face.
Is Vaseline Good for Dry Skin?
Vaseline can provide relief for severely dry skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and ichthyosis. The occlusive petrolatum helps prevent water loss while providing a protective barrier against irritants. It’s affordable and accessible for full-body dry skin care. However, Vaseline may not be enough on its own for extremely dry skin. Combining it with a hydrating cream containing ceramides or hyaluronic acid can boost its effectiveness. Apply the moisturizer first to draw moisture into the skin, then apply a layer of Vaseline to seal it in.
Tips for using Vaseline for dry skin:
- Apply to damp skin after bathing to seal in moisture
- Use sparingly and avoid rubbing it in completely so it stays on the skin surface
- Apply after heavier moisturizers to lock in hydration
- Use overnight for intense moisture therapy
- Focus on the driest areas like knees, elbows, hands and feet
Is Vaseline Good for Your Body?
Vaseline can be an affordable option for moisturizing the body, especially very dry areas like hands, elbows and feet. The petrolatum provides a protective barrier against environmental dryness. However, some key drawbacks are that it doesn’t absorb fully and can stain fabrics. It’s best to save Vaseline for nighttime moisture therapy on the body when you don’t need to worry about greasy residue. Combining it with a lighter body lotion containing skin-nourishing ingredients can boost its effectiveness. Limit Vaseline use to very dry spots instead of all over the body.
Is Vaseline Good for Your Lips?
Vaseline is one of the most ubiquitous lip balms available. It provides a quick-fix for dry, chapped lips thanks to its occlusive properties. The thick petrolatum coats the lips to seal in moisture and prevent further dryness. However, some dermatologists argue Vaseline is only a temporary solution. Your lips can become dependent on it, leading to more dryness when you stop applying it. It’s better to use Vaseline along with a deeply hydrating lip balm containing moisturizing oils, butters, ceramides and humectants. Apply the moisturizing lip balm first, then top with a thin layer of Vaseline to seal it in.
Is Vaseline Good for Eczema?
Vaseline can help minimize the dryness, flaking, cracking and itching associated with eczema flares. It forms an occlusive layer to prevent water loss through the damaged skin barrier. This reduces irritation and accelerates healing of flare-ups. However, Vaseline is not enough on its own to treat eczema. Always start by gently cleansing and applying heavier eczema creams containing colloidal oatmeal or ceramides. Let the moisturizer absorb, then apply a thin layer of Vaseline on top to lock in hydration and provide an extra moisture barrier.
Tips for using Vaseline for eczema:
- Only apply to affected areas during flares
- Avoid rubbing in completely so it stays on the skin surface
- Apply after moisturizer to seal it in
- Use at night for long-lasting relief
- Always patch test first in case of reactions
Is Vaseline Good for Your Hair?
Some people use Vaseline to tame frizzy hair, add shine, and prevent moisture loss. It can temporarily smooth the outer cuticle layer of the hair strands. However, Vaseline can also build up on hair over time leading to a greasy, limp look. It’s difficult to fully shampoo out of the hair as well. Stick to traditional oils, serums and creams formulated for hair instead of petroleum jelly. If you do want to try Vaseline for an extra moisture boost, focus only on the ends avoiding the roots and scalp.
Is Vaseline Good for Tattoos?
Dermatologists typically recommend applying a thin layer of Vaseline over a new tattoo to help with the healing process. The petrolatum creates a protective barrier to keep the tattoo moist and prevent scabbing. This helps the ink settle properly into the skin. However, only use Vaseline sparingly for the first few days of healing. Too much can block oxygen from reaching the tattoo. Let the tattoo breathe by allowing some open air time after the initial healing period.
Is Vaseline Good for Cuts and Scrapes?
Vaseline can promote faster healing of minor cuts, scrapes and burns by trapping moisture and protecting the wound from germs and friction. Simply apply a thin layer after cleaning the area to keep it hydrated while sealing out contaminants. The occlusive barrier helps prevent scab formation as well. However, Vaseline doesn’t contain any antibacterial properties. Make sure to thoroughly cleanse any cuts before applying it.
Tips for using Vaseline for cuts and scrapes:
- Only use Vaseline on minor cuts, not deep wounds
- Clean the area thoroughly with soap and water first
- Apply a very thin layer, reapplying 2-3 times per day
- Watch for signs of infection like redness or pus
- Consider using an antibiotic ointment for higher-risk wounds
Is Vaseline Good for Your Nails?
Applying Vaseline around the nail beds can help prevent painful hangnails and encourage nail growth. The thick petrolatum prevents moisture loss and protects the delicate nail beds from damage. However, take care not to get Vaseline directly under your nails as this can accumulate debris. Use a nail brush to fully remove any traces from underneath your nails after moisturizing the cuticles and skin surrounding them.
Tips for using Vaseline for nails:
- Apply after washing hands to hydrate the nail beds
- Massage a tiny amount into cuticles and skin around nails
- Wipe away any excess
- Use once or twice per day
- Avoid getting directly underneath nails
Is Vaseline Good for Acne?
Dermatologists warn against using Vaseline for acne-prone skin. The thick petrolatum can exacerbate breakouts by clogging pores. Bacteria become trapped underneath the greasy layer, leading to more pimples. While Vaseline may temporarily hydrate and protect acneic skin, it can worsen acne overall. It’s better to use a specialized non-comedogenic moisturizer formulated for acne-prone skin.
Is Vaseline Good for Rosacea?
Vaseline is generally not recommended for people with rosacea. The heavy petrolatum can over-hydrate and irritate sensitive facial skin prone to rosacea flares. It also has a thick texture that can feel uncomfortable on the face. Specialized creams and gels for rosacea are gentler, lighter options. However, a tiny amount of Vaseline can help seal in moisture from rosacea creams on badly cracked skin around the eyes, mouth or nostrils if applied carefully.
Is Vaseline Good for Fungal Acne?
People with fungal acne should avoid using Vaseline. The moist, occlusive environment Vaseline creates promotes the growth of malassezia – the yeast that causes fungal acne. Other occlusive ingredients like mineral oil should be avoided too. Seek out fungal acne-safe moisturizers containing glycerin, hyaluronic acid or aloe vera instead.
Is Vaseline Good for Eczema on Your Face?
In general, it’s best to avoid using Vaseline on facial eczema. The occlusive petrolatum can lead to clogged pores, breakouts and fungal acne flares. Opt for a lighter, specially formulated facial eczema cream instead. However, a tiny amount can seal in moisture from facial eczema creams around severely cracked areas near the eyes, mouth and nostrils if applied carefully and sparingly.
Tips for using Vaseline for facial eczema:
- Use the smallest amount possible
- Only apply to badly cracked areas when needed
- Avoid rubbing in completely
- Use nightly instead of daytime if possible
- Rinse off in the morning and apply SPF moisturizer
Alternatives to Vaseline for Skin
If you’re looking for alternatives to Vaseline with fewer drawbacks, here are some options to consider:
1. Petrolatum-Free Occlusives
For a plant-based alternative to petroleum jelly, try occlusive balms containing beeswax, shea butter, cocoa butter or lanolin. Brands like Aquaphor and Eucerin make petrolatum-free healing ointments.
2. Natural Oils
Plant oils like coconut, olive, avocado, almond and jojoba oil provide light moisture for face and body without clogging pores. Oils also contain fatty acids and vitamins for nourishing skin.
3. Moisturizing Lotions and Creams
Hydrating lotions and creams provide moisture through humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid instead of just sealing it in. Ceramide creams repair the skin barrier as well.
4. Facial Oils and Serums
Non-comedogenic facial oils and serums contain skin-nourishing ingredients without heavy petrolatum. They absorb well without feeling greasy.
5. Balms and Salves
Natural lip and skin balms made with plant oils, butters and waxes hydrate without petroleum. Look for nourishing ingredients like shea butter, mango butter and aloe vera juice.
Conclusion
Vaseline can provide relief for severely dry, cracked skin thanks to its powerful occlusive properties. It creates a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss. However, there are some downsides like its comedogenic nature, greasy residue and lack of beneficial ingredients. Petrolatum-based products should be avoided around the facial area if you are acne-prone. For dry skin conditions like eczema, combine Vaseline with heavier moisturizers for the best hydration. Look to lighter, oil-based products for healthier long-term facial moisturizing. With smart usage, Vaseline can have a helpful place in a skincare routine focused on very dry areas like the body, lips, cuticles and dry patches.