Does vaseline hydrate skin?

Author: Helen Jones  |  Last update: Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Moisturizing. Petroleum jelly is an oil-based product that forms an oily film over the surface of the skin. This oily film seals in moisture, helping keep skin hydrated and soft. According to a 2016 review article, Vaseline prevents more than 98% of water loss from the outer layer of the skin.

Can you use Vaseline to hydrate skin?

Vaseline can be used as a moisturizer to help hydrate and protect the skin. It creates a barrier on the skin's surface, preventing moisture loss and locking in hydration. However, it's important to note that Vaseline is an occlusive moisturizer, meaning it forms a seal over the skin rather than deeply penetrating it.

Is Vaseline better than moisturizer?

But there are definitely reasons why vaseline is probably not the ideal everyday moisturizer: it's sticky and shiny (which looks and feels gross), and long-term use can cause your skin to be over-hydrated and that can cause your skin to be less good at moisturizing itself.

Is it better to put Vaseline on damp or dry skin?

Hi! Petroleum jelly is an occlusive moisturizer, meaning that it locks moisture into the skin but the product itself is not hydrating. So the best option would be to apply a humectant (HA for example) on damp skin first and then proceed with petroleum jelly to seal that moisture.

What are the disadvantages of petroleum jelly on skin?

Additionally, as detailed below, petrolatum or mineral oil jelly and mineral oils can cause skin damage. Petrolatum may interfere with the body's moisturizing mechanism, leading to dry skin and chapping despite its cosmetic use as lip and skin protection.

10 REASONS TO USE VASELINE ON THE FACE | Dermatologist

Do dermatologists recommend Vaseline?

Dawn Davis, M.D.: Petroleum jelly is great, and it's one of a dermatologist's main tips and tricks. Mr. Olsen: Dermatologist Dr. Dawn Davis says that's because this odorless nearly colorless jelly is so versatile.

When should you not use Vaseline?

While Vaseline helps seal moisture into the skin, some experts have suggested that it may also trap in oil and dirt. As such, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) warn that people who are prone to acne may experience breakouts after applying Vaseline to the face.

What is the best thing for extremely dry skin?

If nonfacial skin is very dry, you might want to use a thicker moisturizer (Eucerin, Cetaphil, others) or an oil, such as baby oil. Oil has more staying power than do lotions and prevents the evaporation of water from the skin's surface. Another possibility is a petrolatum-based product (Vaseline, Aquaphor, others).

Is Vaseline good for dry skin overnight?

Some of the best types of moisturizer for dry skin are occlusives like petroleum jelly – they form a protective barrier on the face, locking in your skin's natural moisture. Apply Vaseline® Jelly before bed to lock in moisture and keep dry skin soft and hydrated.

What is slugging?

Slugging is basically the process of slathering your face (or, in some cases, your nails) with petroleum jelly overnight. Social media skin care gurus claim it has given them a gorgeous glow. So, how does it work? “Petroleum jelly is a simple and very occlusive ointment,” Dr. Kassouf says.

Which is better, white or yellow petroleum jelly?

What is the Difference Between White and Yellow Vaseline? White petroleum jelly or white Vaseline is more refined and purer, making it suitable for cosmetic and medical uses, while yellow Vaseline, being less refined, is typically used for industrial purposes.

Does Vaseline help wrinkles?

Although there is no scientific evidence to indicate that petroleum jelly can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, its moisturizing properties may help keep skin looking and feeling soft and supple. It can also provide a protective barrier against environmental damage, which may slow down the natural aging process.

Is there anything better than Vaseline?

I've tried 4 of the brands below- Honest, Alba Botanica, Waxelene and Doctor Rogers. They are all great alternatives to Vaseline and Aquaphor. I personally find that Doctor Rogers Healing Balm was the most impressive at soothing very dry lips.

Is Vaseline good for aging hands?

This Vaseline hand moisturiser is an effective hand cream for ageing skin. Vaseline Mature skin hand cream is effective for soothing dry and ageing skin.

What is the best night moisturizer?

Our top pick for the best night cream is Kiehl's Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream, as it's great for all skin types and provides long-lasting hydration. Another fantastic option is La Roche-Posay's Double Repair Moisturizer, which leaves the skin feeling nourished, soft, and supple—all for under $25.

What happens if I put Vaseline all over my face before bed?

', the answer is yes, thanks to the protective layer the petroleum jelly forms over your skin, to protect and hydrate it as you sleep. So slugging helps to make the skin of your dreams a reality, as a beauty treatment that literally promotes beauty sleep!

Will Vaseline clog pores?

So, does Vaseline® Jelly clog pores? Absolutely not. In fact, it's a great addition to your skincare regime.

Is Vaseline good for under eyes?

Applying Vaseline® Jelly under eyes is a tried-and-tested way to lock in moisture, keeping skin in the eye area soft and elastic, and rejuvenating skin that looks dry and tired.

What is the fastest way to hydrate dry skin?

Use 5- to 10-minute baths and showers to hydrate your dry skin.
  1. Close the bathroom door.
  2. Use warm rather than hot water.
  3. Limit your time in the shower or bath to 5 or 10 minutes.
  4. Wash with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.
  5. Apply enough cleanser to remove dirt and oil but avoid using so much that you see a thick lather.

What is your body lacking when you have dry skin?

When skin loses water too quickly, it becomes dry. This can happen for many reasons. Everyday things, such as using deodorant soaps and harsh cleaning products, can strip oils and fats from our skin. Taking long, hot showers can also dry your skin.

Is rubbing dead skin off bad?

“The best practice is to avoid over-scrubbing because you want to maintain a healthy and intact skin barrier,” Dr. Khalifian notes. Going too hard can leave your skin red and irritated. Use it after cleansing, and always follow with moisturizer to lock in hydration.

What are the disadvantages of Vaseline?

Petroleum Jelly Disadvantages
  • Infection. If petroleum jelly is used on unclean skin, it traps contaminants there. ...
  • Clog Pores. Clogging pores is the most common side effect of petroleum jelly. ...
  • Sunburn. Petroleum jelly is a petroleum-based product, and it absorbs heat. ...
  • Low Melting Point Lubricant.

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