Can you use Vaseline on your face?

What does Vaseline do?

Petroleum jelly is an occlusive, meaning it forms a protective surface layer that slows water loss. Keeping moisture in helps dry skin stay softer and supports the skin barrier, the outer layer that protects your skin. Apply petroleum jelly while skin is damp rather than waiting until it has dried completely.13

Ointments have a longer lasting protective effect than lighter creams because of their higher oil content. Ointments feel greasier than creams, so the shiny finish is part of the format rather than an added beauty feature. A cream is the lighter option if you dislike a greasy coating on visible areas.3

How should you apply Vaseline to your face?

Slugging is an overnight petroleum jelly layer, despite having a name that makes skincare sound like garden maintenance. You can cover only dry patches instead of your whole face. Plain petroleum jelly is the straightforward choice; other products carrying the Vaseline name need their own ingredient and direction checks.24

1. 1Wash your hands, then cleanse your face. Petroleum jelly should go on clean skin.
2. 2Apply your moisturizer. Leave out alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids and retinoids beneath the petroleum jelly layer because trapping them can increase irritation.
3. 3Apply a tiny amount of petroleum jelly last, concentrating on the areas that need it. For dry eyelids, use only a small amount.
4. 4Allow about 30 minutes before bed so the products can settle. A towel over your pillowcase can protect it.
5. 5Wash your face in the morning to remove the coating and anything that has stuck to it.

Do you need it every night?

No. Use overnight slugging when skin feels dry or dehydrated, rather than making it an automatic nightly step. A couple of nights in a row can be useful, particularly in dry winter weather; it is less necessary in humid months. Expect help retaining moisture and supporting barrier recovery, not a fixed timetable for clearing dryness.2

When should you skip it or stop?

Do not slug over infected skin or an open wound. Caring for a small, clean cut is different: petroleum jelly can keep minor cuts and scratches moist while they heal, with daily cleaning. Sensitive skin can still react to moisturizers. Stop using the product if you develop a rash, redness, burning or another unexpected reaction, and contact a healthcare professional for advice.1234

How does Aquaphor compare with Vaseline?

Choose plain Vaseline if you want petroleum jelly alone. Choose Aquaphor Healing Ointment if you want an ointment that also includes water attracting ingredients such as glycerin. Aquaphor's US formula is fragrance and preservative free. Read the packaging before buying: Aquaphor updates ingredients, and the pack can differ from the website.256

Does Vaseline expire?

Follow any expiry date and storage directions on your jar rather than assuming petroleum jelly lasts forever. Shelf life depends on the product, storage and handling; an undated container is not a promise of unlimited use. Keep the container clean and tightly closed, protect it from extreme temperatures, and discard it if its color or smell changes. Writing the opening date on the container helps you track its age.47