Aquaphor vs. Vaseline: How Do They Stack Up?

When searching for a reliable moisturizer to tackle dry skin on your hands, lips, or other areas, both Aquaphor and Vaseline are likely at the top of your list. These two occlusive moisturizers work by locking in hydration to combat rough, flaky skin. While they may seem similar, there are key distinctions between Aquaphor and Vaseline.

Discover the details on these dermatologist-approved moisturizers, when to choose each one, and some potential concerns to consider when using them.

What's the Difference Between Vaseline and Aquaphor?

Both Aquaphor and Vaseline share a similar thick, clear, and slightly greasy texture, but their formulations differ. According to Mona Mislankar, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist in Cincinnati, Ohio, "Both are primarily petrolatum-based, but Vaseline’s formula is 100 percent pure petrolatum, while Aquaphor contains 41 percent petrolatum along with other ingredients like mineral oil, ceresin, lanolin alcohol, panthenol, glycerin, and bisabolol."

While the petrolatum in both products helps lock in moisture, Aquaphor’s additional ingredients offer added benefits. As Divya Shokeen, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist at Ocean Skin and Vein Institute, explains, "These extra ingredients provide Aquaphor with not only occlusive properties, but also humectant (glycerin) and emollient (lanolin) qualities, along with soothing effects (bisabolol), making it a more well-rounded skincare product."

How to Apply Aquaphor and Vaseline

Aquaphor and Vaseline are both budget-friendly and highly effective options for your skincare routine. According to Mislankar, "What makes these products so great is their incredible versatility." Here are a few ways to use them, as shared by Mislankar and Shokeen.

Hydrating Dry Skin

Chances are, you purchased Vaseline or Aquaphor to target dry skin. Applying these balms to dry, cracked areas helps seal in moisture and calm irritation. They are particularly effective on thicker skin like the heels, or areas that often become chapped, such as your lips and hands. They can also be used to soften and protect your cuticles pre-manicure.

If your skin is extremely dry, Aquaphor might be the better option. "Aquaphor’s added ingredients provide extra skin benefits such as moisture retention, faster healing, and irritation relief, which Vaseline lacks," says Shokeen.

Healing Wounds

A light layer of Aquaphor or Vaseline can be applied to soothe and protect minor cuts or scrapes. "Many dermatologists, including myself, often suggest both for wound care both inside and outside the clinic," says Mislankar.

Skin Slugging

Skin slugging, a popular beauty trend on TikTok, involves applying a layer of Aquaphor or Vaseline over your skincare products to lock them in overnight along with the moisture. The technique gets its name from the glossy, almost slimy appearance it gives your skin—reminiscent of a slug’s trail.

Makeup Remover

Both Vaseline and Aquaphor are great for effortlessly removing makeup, even waterproof formulas! Simply apply a small amount to your skin and gently massage in a circular motion to lift off your makeup.

Diaper Cream

As an occlusive moisturizer, petrolatum-based products like Aquaphor and Vaseline not only help seal in moisture, but also create a protective barrier to shield a baby's skin from irritation caused by urine or feces.

Chafing Prevention

The ointment forms a protective layer that prevents skin from rubbing, reducing the risk of redness or irritation.

Taming Flyaways

A small amount of either Vaseline or Aquaphor can be used to smooth down flyaway hairs or tame unruly eyebrows.

Caring for Eczema or Atopic Dermatitis

Occlusive ointments like Aquaphor and Vaseline can help restore the moisture barrier in dry, damaged skin, which is especially beneficial for those dealing with eczema. With their minimal ingredients, they are typically well-tolerated by people with sensitive skin.

Aquaphor, in particular, can be especially helpful, according to Shokeen. "Aquaphor, thanks to its added ingredients, may be more effective in speeding up healing, making it ideal for treating extremely dry skin and eczema flare-ups. The extra benefits may justify Aquaphor's higher price as it could lead to quicker and better results."

Skin Protection

Both Vaseline and Aquaphor are multipurpose products that provide protection for your skin against a range of irritants like hair dye, chlorine, and cold weather. Their occlusive properties form a barrier that locks in moisture while shielding your skin from the damage caused by weather, chemicals, or friction.

How to Choose Between Vaseline or Aquaphor

"If you just need a simple protective barrier, Vaseline is a solid option. But for healing, moisture retention, and skin repair, Aquaphor is the superior choice. Both are excellent additions to any skincare regimen, with the best option depending on your skin's specific needs," says Nikki Bruce, a medical esthetician at Seaside Skin Care.

Best Uses for Vaseline

"Vaseline is 100% petrolatum, which creates a strong barrier on the skin to lock in moisture," Bruce explains. "It's excellent for preventing water loss and protecting dry, cracked skin. However, since it’s purely occlusive and lacks additional healing ingredients, it doesn’t nourish or repair skin beyond maintaining hydration."

• Locking in moisture on extremely dry areas such as elbows, knees, and heels
• Protecting chapped lips from harsh weather conditions
• Creating a barrier to prevent windburn or irritation
• Applying to minor cuts or scrapes to keep them safe from further harm

Best Uses for Aquaphor

"Aquaphor, in contrast, contains 41% petrolatum, plus lanolin, glycerin, and panthenol, which help hydrate, calm, and repair the skin," Bruce explains. "While it still forms a protective barrier, the added humectants and emollients enhance moisture absorption and promote healing."

• Promoting healing after procedures like laser treatments, chemical peels, or micro-needling
• Soothing irritated or damaged skin, such as from eczema flare-ups or chafing
• Moisturizing dry, cracked hands from frequent washing
• Helping to heal tattoos or minor burns
• Serving as a nighttime slugging treatment for extra hydration

Who Shouldn't Use Aquaphor or Vaseline?

Although both Aquaphor and Vaseline are highly effective moisturizers, some individuals may want to reconsider using them for certain purposes or if they are prone to specific allergies.

Avoid Aquaphor if you have a wool allergy

"Aquaphor contains lanolin, which is derived from wool," explains Mislankar. "If someone has an allergic contact dermatitis to lanolin, this could trigger an allergic reaction to Aquaphor."

Skip the slugging if you're acne-prone

Slugging for a glowing complexion has become a trendy beauty treatment, but Mislankar advises against it if you're prone to acne. Even though both Aquaphor and Vaseline are non-comedogenic and won’t clog pores, "The slugging technique is great for deep hydration, especially for dry skin," she says. "However, if you're acne-prone, occlusive products trap oil and residue, which could potentially lead to acneiform lesions."