Petroleum jelly serves a multitude of unexpected purposes. It can be used to avoid chafing, treat diaper rash, remedy split ends, enhance the longevity of perfume, soothe the cracked paws of pets, style facial hair, and even silence squeaky doors.

More frequently, petroleum jelly is known for its abilities to strengthen, heal, protect, beautify, and moisturize skin. However, many individuals are curious if Vaseline is the ideal skincare product for them. While it might be effective for some, it may not suit everyone. Continue reading to find out who should consider using petroleum jelly for skincare and who might want to avoid it.

What Exactly Is Vaseline?

Vaseline is a well-known brand of petroleum jelly, which was discovered in the 1850s when oil drillers came across a residue from their drilling machinery, which they called “rod wax.” They realized that this substance could help heal small cuts and burns. Eventually, a chemist from Pennsylvania refined this semi-solid mixture, which consists of liquid (mineral oil) and solid (paraffin wax and microcrystalline wax), patented his formula, and marketed it as Vaseline.

The primary component of petroleum jelly is a refined type of petroleum known as white petroleum. This is advantageous because “United States Pharmacopeia grade petrolatum is pure and processed to eliminate any potentially harmful or irritating substances,” explains Dr. Dustin Portela, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Treasure Valley Dermatology in Boise, Idaho.

Is Vaseline Beneficial for Your Skin?

Thanks to its soothing and healing qualities, petroleum jelly can indeed be beneficial for the skin. “It works wonderfully for dry lips, parched skin, open wounds, minor cuts and scrapes, healing biopsy or surgical sites, diaper rash, and minor burns on the skin,” says Dr. Farah Moustafa, a board-certified dermatologist and head of Laser and Cosmetics at Tufts Medical Center.

Portela points out that one reason for its healing properties is that it creates a protective layer that assists the healing process. This barrier can also help relieve irritation on dry, inflamed skin and chapped lips. Additionally, it helps prevent moisture loss, making petroleum jelly a strong moisturizer. “It can enhance barrier and antimicrobial proteins, even in skin affected by eczema,” adds Moustafa.

Furthermore, petroleum jelly is known for being “non-irritating and has a minimal risk of causing allergic reactions,” according to Dr. Elika Hoss, a board-certified dermatologist and head of the Mayo Clinic Dermatology Cosmetic Clinic in Arizona. “This means it can typically be safely used by most people.”

Another benefit is that petroleum jelly “is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores,” states Dr. Debra Jaliman, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. However, she warns against using it on acne-prone skin, suggesting that there are lighter moisturizers available that would be more suitable.

Hoss also mentions a drawback that some users dislike: “Petroleum jelly can feel oily on the skin, and a bandage or dressing might be necessary to shield clothing or bedding,” she notes. This is partly because, unlike other moisturizers that are absorbed, petroleum jelly “rests on the surface of the skin and may feel heavy or uncomfortable for some,” Portela explains.

Is Vaseline Safe for Your Face?

If you’re not bothered by the texture of petroleum jelly, it’s safe to apply it nearly anywhere, including your face and lips. “If you suffer from very dry skin and do not experience breakouts, you can certainly use it on your face,” advises Jaliman.

Portela concurs, noting that many people apply it to their faces to protect against dryness and harsh weather, in addition to retaining moisture. However, he advises using it sparingly: “Apply just a thin layer to avoid excessive greasiness,” he suggests.

Moustafa recommends that the best time to use it is “after showering and patting your skin dry, as this aids in optimal absorption and minimizes residue.”