Buzz
In this image, model Tyra Banks joins a dance flash mob, radiating the same energy she has for petroleum jelly. Explore more stunning skin visuals.
Astrid Stawiarz/Getty ImagesTyra Banks swears by this beauty essential, and British women consider it indispensable for lip care: petroleum jelly (often referred to by its brand name, Vaseline).
Petroleum jelly is a fatty substance, a refined blend of semi-solid hydrocarbons sourced from petroleum—the same petroleum used in fuels, deodorants, and even chewing gum. A common item in medicine cabinets, it serves as a topical ointment and has versatile uses, from polishing shoes to fixing squeaky hinges. As an oil-based emollient, it repels water, making it an enduring lubricant that soothes and shields dry, rough skin. Emollients work by filling gaps between skin cells, replenishing lost lipids, and leaving skin soft and hydrated. Discover five ways petroleum jelly can transform your skin, starting with your feet.
5: Fancy Feet
Struggling with dry, cracked feet? While a pedicure might come to mind, all you truly need is petroleum jelly, a pair of socks, and a restful night. Apply a light layer of the ointment to the tops and soles of your feet before bed (the socks prevent it from rubbing off onto your sheets), and by morning, you'll notice softer skin and healed cracks. This remedy not only repairs dry, calloused skin but also makes your feet less prone to blisters and irritation.
Petroleum jelly can also work wonders for your hands, as we'll explore next.
Create a DIY spa experience by mixing petroleum jelly with sea salts for a rejuvenating body scrub.
4: Help Your Hands
Our skin naturally contains a blend of oils (epidermal lipids) and water to maintain its softness. However, excessive hand washing, conditions like eczema, or the natural aging process can deplete this protective layer, leading to dry and irritated skin, particularly on the hands. Petroleum jelly works by locking in moisture, and its thick consistency ensures it remains on the skin longer than water-based lotions, enhancing healing. Concerned about a greasy feel? Massage a small amount into your hands and cuticles until absorbed, and reserve heavier applications for overnight use with cotton gloves.
Emollients aren’t just beneficial for hands and feet. Discover how to keep your entire body smooth and hydrated, next.
3: Smooth and Supple Skin
When the outer layer of our skin—the stratum corneum, part of the epidermis—becomes dry, chapped, and itchy, it loses its ability to act as a protective shield. This makes the skin vulnerable to cracks, sensitivity, and even infections. Pure petroleum-based ointments are hypoallergenic, noncomedogenic, nonirritating, and free from added colors or fragrances, making them safe for babies (for diaper rash), adults, and everyone in between. Regular use not only heals dry skin by locking in moisture but also shields the skin from environmental damage by creating a protective barrier.
To maximize the benefits of petroleum jelly, incorporate it into your daily skincare routine. It works best as a moisturizer applied to damp skin right after a shower.
Follow a styling tip from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Shield your scalp from harsh chemicals by applying petroleum jelly before using hair relaxers or dyes.
2: About Face
Aging often leads to thinner and drier skin, two terms no one wants associated with their face. Certain anti-aging products, especially those with retinoids or alpha-hydroxy acid, can exacerbate dryness and irritation. Incorporating petroleum jelly into a skincare routine for mature skin can alleviate dryness and flakiness while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles (it won’t erase them but can make them less visible). Use it as a daily moisturizer, makeup remover, or even to protect against windburn.
Reserve heavy oil-based moisturizers for very dry skin—if your face is normal or oily, avoid using petroleum jelly here.
Maintain soft, smooth lips with a simple routine while brushing your teeth. Apply petroleum jelly to your lips before brushing, then gently exfoliate them with a wet toothbrush using small circular motions to reveal a smooth, healthy pout.
1: Heal Wounds
Petroleum jelly is a key player in treating both minor and major wounds.
Minor cuts and scrapes typically heal on their own if kept clean, but applying petroleum jelly or an antibacterial ointment can accelerate healing and reduce the risk of scarring.
For larger wounds, maintaining a moisture level akin to healthy skin promotes optimal healing. Research shows that moist wounds heal faster than those exposed to air, which can dry them out. Moisture also reduces inflammation and lowers infection rates. This approach, known as moist wound healing, involves keeping the wound clean, applying petroleum jelly, and covering it with a bandage.
Avoid using petroleum jelly on burns. While it can help with mild sunburns or minor burns by retaining moisture and preventing infection, it may trap heat or bacteria in more severe cases.
