Does petrolatum go before or after moisturizer?

Why does petrolatum go last?

Petrolatum is an occlusive, meaning it forms a protective layer that reduces water loss from the skin's surface. Moisturizers can combine ingredients that attract water, soften skin and seal moisture in. Petrolatum supplies the seal, so get moisture into your skin first through water or a moisturizer. An ointment is already occlusive, so adding petrolatum over another ointment is not the same useful extra step as adding it over a lighter lotion or cream.23

How to layer moisturizer and petrolatum

1. 1Start with clean skin. After washing or bathing, gently pat dry and leave your skin slightly damp rather than scrubbing it dry.
2. 2Apply a mild, fragrance free lotion or cream promptly to help seal in the water. For very dry skin, a thick cream or ointment is generally more effective than a lotion.
3. 3Smooth a small amount of petrolatum over the moisturizer. Apply gently in the direction your hair grows rather than rubbing vigorously. You can cover only dry areas instead of your entire face.
4. 4For overnight facial use, allow about 30 minutes before bed for the products to settle. Wash your face in the morning to remove the remaining petroleum jelly and anything that has stuck to it.

Pure petroleum jelly or an ointment with minimal additional ingredients is enough for this routine.5

Should you use it every night?

Whole face overnight slugging is an occasional option for dry, dehydrated skin, not a required nightly routine. A couple of consecutive nights can help during a dry spell, and the extra layer is more useful in dry winter weather than warm, humid weather. For very dry skin elsewhere, creams or ointments can be reapplied throughout the day as needed. A lighter cream during the day and an ointment at night is another practical combination. Petroleum jelly is greasy enough to reach clothes and bedsheets, so your pillowcase has a stake in this routine.1245

When should you skip the extra layer?

Skip facial slugging if your skin is oily or prone to acne, because petroleum jelly can worsen breakouts in some people. Do not slug over infected skin or open wounds, and do not use ointments on weeping eczema. Avoid trapping retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids or beta hydroxy acids beneath petrolatum during facial slugging, because the extra barrier can make them irritating.456

If you use a prescription skin treatment, do not assume the moisturizer then petrolatum order also settles where the medicine belongs. Keep emollients and other skin treatments 20 to 30 minutes apart, and ask your doctor which goes first. For contact dermatitis specifically, the usual order is emollient first, then the topical corticosteroid about 30 minutes later, unless your doctor directs otherwise.47

What should you expect?

The petrolatum layer helps retain existing moisture and supports the skin barrier. A consistent dry skin routine should bring some improvement within two weeks. If dryness persists despite that care, see a dermatologist. Stop using a product that causes a skin reaction; persistent burning, stinging, a rash or inflamed hair follicles warrants advice from a pharmacist or clinician.1457

Use a clean spoon or spatula to take ointment from a tub. Keep clothing and bedding exposed to emollients away from flames and cigarettes, because residue makes fabrics catch fire more easily.4