Types of Vaseline lotion: how to choose

Lotion, cream and ointment are different types

Lotions are thin and easy to spread, so the application need not become a second occupation. A lighter texture is useful for mild dryness, but it is not the best reason to keep using a lotion when your skin needs a more protective moisturizer.4

Which type should you choose?

• For slightly dry skin, a light moisturizer used at night can be enough.
• For extremely dry skin, choose a cream or ointment and apply it throughout the day rather than relying on lotion alone.
• For different needs at different times, use a cream during the day and an ointment at night.
• For persistent dryness or a diagnosed skin condition, ask a pharmacist or doctor which moisturizer type fits your treatment.

Daytime creams are less greasy than ointments, which gives sleeves less involvement in the routine.4

What should you look for on the bottle?

"Fragrance free" and "unscented" are not interchangeable. An unscented product can contain ingredients that hide other odors and irritate dry, sensitive skin. For dry skin, favor fragrance free products rather than choosing by scent.2

Moisturizers can combine ingredients with different jobs. Humectants, such as glycerin, attract and hold water in the outer skin layer. Occlusives, such as petroleum jelly, mineral oil and dimethicone, form a barrier that reduces water loss. Emollients soften and smooth the skin. These are general ingredient functions, not an ingredient list for a particular Vaseline lotion.1

How to apply your moisturizer

1. 1Wash your hands before applying the moisturizer. Dispense a pump onto clean hands, or use a clean spoon or spatula for a tub.
2. 2After a bath or shower, gently pat your skin dry and apply moisturizer immediately while the skin is still damp.
3. 3Smooth the moisturizer gently in the direction of hair growth rather than rubbing vigorously.
4. 4Reapply when your skin feels dry and after washing your hands. Dry skin often needs moisturizer several times a day.

For dry skin, keep baths and showers to 5 to 10 minutes in warm water. Use a gentle cleanser only where needed, and avoid scrubbing your skin dry. Moisturizing immediately afterward helps retain the water your skin has absorbed.12

How long should improvement take?

Effective care for ordinary dry skin tends to produce improvement within 2 weeks. That is a general expectation for dry skin care, not a timeline for a particular Vaseline lotion. If dryness continues or worsens, see a dermatologist rather than repeatedly switching bottles. Medication, an underlying skin condition or something your skin touches can contribute to persistent dryness.23

When should you stop or get advice?

Stop using a moisturizer if a contact allergy develops. Tell a dermatologist about burning, stinging or irritation from products you apply to your skin. Moisturizers can also cause blocked or inflamed hair follicles, and more occlusive products can aggravate acne. A richer texture is not automatically a better choice for every area.12

If you use a steroid cream or another skin treatment, leave 20 to 30 minutes between it and your moisturizer, and ask your doctor which to apply first. If you receive ultraviolet light treatment or radiotherapy, check with your treatment team about moisturizer use before treatment.45

Keep clothing, bedding and dressings that have contacted moisturizers away from flames and cigarettes. Washing does not completely remove the residue. Moisturizers can also make baths and floors slippery. For sun protection, use a broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, along with shade and protective clothing.24