It is generally safe to use on any area of the skin. There are two main benefits of Aquaphor on the face of body areas: Easing dry skin. Healing injured skin.
If you have dry skin, slugging might be a good way to keep your skin moisturized, especially during the winter. But if you have acne-prone or oily skin, using an occlusive ointment on your face overnight can trap facial oil and cause breakouts.
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.
Check the label for directions about any areas or types of skin where you should not apply the product (such as on the face, any areas of broken/chapped/cut/irritated/scraped skin, or on a recently shaved area of the skin).
“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.
"Tapping a little Aquaphor over your eye cream at night plumps up lines by sealing in moisture, and it's nonirritating," says Joshua Zeichner, a dermatologist in New York City.
Aquaphor may be a better option to use on your face if you have oily skin or are prone to acne. Vaseline is less likely to cause redness and swelling when used for healing a wound after surgery. Vaseline is a safer option if you're allergic to wool, lanolin, or other sheep products.
Irritation: Though rare, petrolatum can cause skin irritation in some individuals. Discontinue use if irritation occurs. Clogged pores: The thick ointment can lead to clogged pores and acne in acne-prone skin. Maceration: Applying too much Aquaphor can make skin overly moist, causing tissue damage.
In terms of feel, Vaseline is a bit heavier and greasier, whereas Aquaphor is a bit lighter and easier to spread. Dermatologists say deciding which one to use often comes down to personal preference. One thing to keep in mind is that you'll want to use caution with these products if your skin is prone to breakouts.
Wash face GENTLY with Cetaphil in lukewarm, (NOT HOT water), and pat dry in the morning and evening. Be aware that you won't be able to get all the aquaphor off your skin. You may remove the excess Aquaphor with a tongue blade. Do not attempt to scrub it off!
If you plan on using it all over the face it is best to use Aquaphor at night. This is a process called slugging, it helps lock in the products and promotes their benefits. Other ways to use Aquaphor include on the eyelashes and eyebrows, it can strengthen both and help them look shinier and healthier.
Ditch your usual makeup primer and use Aquaphor instead. The formula works just as well, if not better, to hydrate and prep your face for lipstick or eye shadow.
Smear a very thin coat of nasal ointment inside each nostril 2 to 3 times a day, especially at bedtime, for 2 weeks during the dry season. Petroleum jelly ointments, such as Vaseline® or Aquaphor® work best. This will keep the lining of the nose moist.
However, Dr. Camp says that while Aquaphor is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores, you should use it in moderation. “If too thick a layer is used, if it is left on for too long, or if you already have oily skin, sebum and sweat can accumulate in pores and cause an acne-like rash,” Dr.
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.
“Applying a thin layer of Aquaphor on the face during drier times of the year can help keep the skin well moisturized,” says Dr. Kagha. “This can be especially helpful for those with drier skin or who live in drier climates.”
Generally speaking, Aquaphor will not clog pores on your face. It's considered non-comedogenic and doesn't contain any true breakout-inducing ingredients.
Is it OK to do slugging every night? Dr. Kassouf says there's no hard and fast rule to how often you should slug. It's all based on your individual skin care needs — if your skin is feeling dry and dehydrated, it may benefit from slugging.
“Slugging itself is not comedogenic (acne-causing), but if you have clogged pores or retained makeup, you could create an infection or outbreak by trapping these particles under the occlusive. Make sure your skin is SUPER clean before sealing it.