Why does Vaseline work for eczema?

Why eczema skin needs help holding water

Eczema creates tiny cracks in the skin, allowing water to escape quickly. The skin barrier normally keeps water in and irritants out. In atopic dermatitis, the most common type of eczema, changes in the outer skin layer weaken that protection. The problem affects skin between visible patches as well as the patches themselves.45

Petrolatum, another name for petroleum jelly, is an occlusive: it forms a surface layer that reduces evaporation. It also acts as an emollient, helping soften skin. Its main job is to hold onto moisture already there, so applying it to damp skin or over a moisturizing cream makes more sense than expecting it to supply water by itself.56

Can you use Vaseline for eczema?

Yes. Plain petroleum jelly is a useful option for sealing moisture into eczema prone skin, especially dry, thick or scaly areas. Here, Vaseline means petroleum jelly, not every lotion or cream carrying the brand name. Vaseline can feel greasy, which is the least mysterious part of the product. If that texture makes regular use difficult, a fragrance free cream is another option.137

How to apply Vaseline

1. 1Take a short bath or shower in warm water, lasting 5 to 10 minutes. If you are not bathing, dampen the area with a warm washcloth.
2. 2Apply petroleum jelly while the skin is still clean and damp. If you use a moisturizing cream, apply that first, then lightly spread petroleum jelly over it.
3. 3Reapply moisturizer at least twice daily and whenever your skin feels dry. Morning and evening are practical times; moisturizing is not restricted to bedtime.
4. 4Use a spoon rather than putting your fingers into the jar, and do not share it with anyone else.

What should you expect?

Regular moisturizing helps reduce dryness and itch and supports the skin barrier. Moisturizers can be enough to control mild eczema, while more troublesome eczema needs additional treatment. Their benefits are greatest during the first six hours after application, which helps explain why one application does not cover the whole day. Keep moisturizing when eczema improves, rather than reserving the jar for flares.247

Can you use Vaseline for eczema on the face?

The same moisture sealing approach applies to dry facial eczema. Apply lightly to damp affected areas, rather than assuming the whole face needs a coating. A lighter cream is easier to wear on visible areas, where an ointment tends to announce its presence. Be careful if you also have acne or perioral dermatitis, a rash around the mouth: occlusive moisturizers can aggravate these conditions.67

Before using a new skincare product widely, test a quarter sized amount on the inside of your arm daily for 7 to 10 days. Choose fragrance free products, because fragrance can trigger eczema flares. Stop using a product that causes a new rash, and seek medical advice if you suspect a contact allergy.37

When Vaseline is not enough

See a doctor if treatments are not helping or eczema is more severe. Get urgent medical help for blistering, crusting, leaking fluid, pus, pain, swelling, warmth, sudden worsening, fever or feeling unwell. These can signal infection. Keep emollient contaminated clothing and bedding away from cigarettes and naked flames, because those fabrics catch fire more easily.2