Is Aquaphor better than lotion?

Author: Reginald Murazik  |  Last update: Friday, November 7, 2025

The final verdict: Okay, so Aquaphor definitely shouldn't replace your moisturizer (because, you know, it isn't a moisturizer), but it can help your skin better heal itself by locking in water and upping the effects of your usual skincare products, which, says Dr.

Can I use Aquaphor as body lotion?

This medication is used as a moisturizer to treat or prevent dry, rough, scaly, itchy skin and minor skin irritations (such as diaper rash, skin burns from radiation therapy). Emollients are substances that soften and moisturize the skin and decrease itching and flaking.

When should I switch from Aquaphor to lotion?

You can switch to a different kind of moisturizer once your tattoo is healed -- about 2 weeks. Diligent use of an ointment like Aquaphor should've kept any scabbing &/or peeling to a minimum. You want to be free of both of those before switching to something else.

When should you not use Aquaphor?

Eucerin Aquaphor Repairing Ointment should only be used on re-epithelialized skin (i.e. once new tissue has formed) and not on open, wet or bleeding wounds. Ask your Dermatologist for advice on how long you should wait after treatment before using the product.

What are the downsides of Aquaphor?

Stinging, burning, irritation, dryness, or redness at the application site may occur. Acne, unusual hair growth, small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis), skin thinning/discoloration, or stretch marks may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

My Science-Based Skincare Routine (easy & affordable)

Does Aquaphor moisturize or just protect?

While Aquaphor itself is not a typical moisturizer, instead of adding water to the skin it helps retain the water already present on the surface of the face. It can also draw in additional moisture from the air. This product creates a breathable protective barrier over any broken, irritated, or injured skin.

Can I replace moisturizer with Aquaphor?

No, Aquaphor is not the same as moisturizer.

Can you overdo Aquaphor?

Maceration: Applying too much Aquaphor can make skin overly moist, causing tissue damage. Use a thin layer only.

Should I sleep with Aquaphor on?

When used on your skin overnight, “Aquaphor prevents water from evaporating from your face, helping to improve your skin barrier function and keep your skin moisturized and healthy,” says Dr. Nazarian.

What's better than Aquaphor?

11 Best Alternatives to Aquaphor and Petroleum Jelly
  • Vegaline.
  • 365 Whole Foods Multi-purpose Jelly.
  • Erin's Faces Tamanu Balm Barrier Salve.
  • Doctor Rogers' Restore Healing Balm.
  • Pipette Baby Balm.
  • Earth Mama Organics' Nose & Cheek Balm.

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.

Can you use Aquaphor on arms and legs?

Similar to your legs, you can cover your arms in a few quick strokes for complete protection. We even suggest replacing your desk drawer or glove compartment lotion with a can of this when you need an extra boost of moisture before heading into a meeting or after a long day of running errands.

Why do dermatologists love Aquaphor?

Aquaphor, which is "a mix of petroleum jelly, mineral oil, glycerin, and lanolin," acts as an emollient to "help soften and smooth the skin and create an occlusive protective barrier on the surface to seal in moisture," says Shari Marchbein, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical assistant professor of ...

Is Aquaphor better than CeraVe?

Aquaphor has an average rating of 9.4 out of 10 from a total of 6 ratings on Drugs.com. 80% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 0% reported a negative effect. CeraVe has an average rating of 2.2 out of 10 from a total of 59 ratings on Drugs.com.

Will Aquaphor clog my pores?

Aquaphor is non-comedogenic, meaning it will not clog pores on your face. While it's non-clogging and doesn't contain any breakout-inducing ingredients, you should use it in moderation.

What are the negative side effects of Aquaphor?

Serious side effects of Aquaphor

Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Is it OK to use Aquaphor everyday?

“Aquaphor can be used multiple times throughout the day when used as lip balm or healing ointment. It can be used nightly for slugging as long as your skin does not develop any breakouts in response to the treatment,” states Dr.

When should I wash off Aquaphor?

Simply keep your skin moist with Aquaphor Healing Ointment. Re-apply as frequently as needed to maintain a continuous layer on your skin. Do not shower until the day after treatment. When showering, do not allow soaps and hair products to come into contact with the treated area.

How long to switch from Aquaphor to lotion?

Use the Aquaphor for the first 2-3 days then switch to a regular FRAGRANCE-FREE lotion such as Lubriderm, or any other fragrance-free brand. 5. Fresh tattoos sometimes “weep” during the first couple of days, meaning that plasma and ink form a thin moist coating on the skin. This can be DABBED with a clean paper towel.

Is Aquaphor good for under eyes?

Makeup hack alert: Swiping some Aquaphor under your eyes before applying concealer is supposed to keep the area from creasing (and gives a blurring effect).

Should I put lotion or Aquaphor first?

Washing and Moisturizing

For the first 3 days, apply a very thin coat of Aquaphor ointment after washing. After 3 days, switch to a light lotion or moisturizer.

What is slugging your face?

“Slugging” is a well-known moisturizing technique that involves slathering the face with an occlusive product as the last step in your evening skincare routine. This skincare trend gets its name from the “slug-like” sheen it leaves on your skin after applying your slugging product of choice.

Why is Aquaphor so popular?

Why? Because experts agree that there isn't much Aquaphor's Healing Ointment can't do. “Aquaphor Healing Ointment is a cult favorite because it is the ultimate multi-tasker in skin care,” explains New York-based dermatologist Dr Joshua Zeichner.

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