Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly, is a time-tested product that has been around for decades. It’s simple, affordable, and incredibly versatile, making it a must-have in any beauty enthusiast’s arsenal. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, minor skin irritations, or need a quick beauty hack, Vaseline offers solutions for nearly every skincare and beauty challenge. Here’s a detailed look at how to incorporate Vaseline into your daily beauty routine, complete with actionable tips and benefits.
1. The Ultimate Lip Balm for Supple Lips
Chapped lips are not only uncomfortable but can also make your makeup look uneven. Vaseline is an excellent remedy to restore moisture and smoothness. Unlike many lip balms, it doesn’t just sit on the surface—it creates a protective barrier to lock in hydration.
How to use:
- Before bed, apply a generous layer of Vaseline to your lips.
- For extra benefits, exfoliate your lips with a sugar scrub or a soft toothbrush to remove dead skin before applying.
- Use it as a base before applying matte lipsticks to prevent drying.
Pro tip: Mix a small amount of Vaseline with beetroot powder or lipstick to create your custom tinted lip balm.
2. Tame Flyaways and Define Brows
Struggling with frizzy flyaways or eyebrows that won’t behave? Vaseline can serve as a budget-friendly styling gel. Unlike traditional hair gels, it won’t harden or flake, leaving your hair looking polished and natural.
How to use:
- Warm a tiny bit of Vaseline between your fingers and run it over your flyaways for a sleek look.
- For brows, use a clean spoolie or your fingers to gently brush Vaseline through your brows to keep them in place all day.
Pro tip: You can also use Vaseline as a clear brow gel to achieve the trendy “laminated brow” effect.
3. Repair Dry Hands and Cracked Heels Overnight
Dry hands and cracked heels can be stubborn problems, especially during colder months. Vaseline is known for its deep moisturizing properties, making it a powerful overnight treatment for these areas.
How to use:
- Massage a generous amount of Vaseline into your hands and feet before bed.
- Cover your hands with cotton gloves and your feet with socks to trap the moisture.
- Repeat nightly for softer, smoother skin.
Pro tip: Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, like lavender, to enhance the experience and relax before sleep.
4. Condition and Strengthen Lashes
While Vaseline won’t replace mascara, it can help condition your lashes, making them look healthier and shinier over time. It’s also a gentle alternative to lash serums for those with sensitive eyes.
How to use:
- Dip a clean mascara wand or cotton swab into a small amount of Vaseline.
- Gently coat your lashes before bed, avoiding your waterline.
- Wash off in the morning with your regular cleanser.
Pro tip: Pair this routine with proper eye makeup removal habits to prevent lash breakage.
5. Dewy Skin with DIY Highlighting
Glowy skin is all the rage, and Vaseline can help you achieve that fresh, dewy look without splurging on expensive highlighters. Its subtle sheen mimics the effect of natural light reflecting on your skin.
How to use:
- Dab a tiny amount on the high points of your face, such as your cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose.
- Blend it out gently for a seamless finish.
Pro tip: Layer Vaseline over your favorite cream blush for a radiant, flushed look.
6. Protect Skin During Hair Dyeing or Self-Tanning
Hair dye and self-tanners can stain your skin, leaving behind unsightly marks. Vaseline acts as a protective barrier, ensuring the product stays where it’s meant to.
How to use:
- Apply a thin layer along your hairline, ears, and neck before dyeing your hair.
- When self-tanning, use Vaseline on areas prone to streaking, like knees, elbows, and ankles, for a smoother application.
Pro tip: Always remove Vaseline after the process to prevent product buildup on your skin.
7. Smooth Rough Patches on Elbows and Knees
Rough, dry skin on elbows and knees can make you feel self-conscious, especially during warmer months. Vaseline provides instant hydration, helping these areas look and feel softer.
How to use:
- Massage Vaseline onto your elbows and knees after your shower while your skin is still damp.
- Use it daily for best results.
Pro tip: Exfoliate the area with a gentle scrub once a week before applying Vaseline for deeper penetration.
8. Gentle and Effective Makeup Remover
Running out of makeup remover? Vaseline can easily remove even waterproof products without irritating your skin. Its oil-based formula breaks down makeup effortlessly.
How to use:
- Apply a small amount to your fingertips or a cotton pad.
- Massage it over your face and eyelids in circular motions.
- Wipe away with a damp, warm cloth or rinse thoroughly.
Pro tip: Follow up with your regular cleanser to remove any residue for a double-cleansing effect.
9. DIY Lip Gloss or Balm
Want to create a quick lip gloss or balm? Vaseline can help you whip up a custom product that’s both moisturizing and pretty.
How to use:
- Mix Vaseline with your favorite lipstick shade for a tinted gloss.
- Add edible shimmer or a drop of vanilla extract for a glossy finish with a delicious scent.
Pro tip: Store your DIY gloss in a small jar to use on the go.
10. Prolong Your Perfume’s Staying Power
Perfume tends to fade quickly on dry skin. Vaseline helps your scent last longer by providing a base that holds the fragrance molecules.
How to use:
- Dab a small amount of Vaseline onto your pulse points—wrists, neck, behind your ears—before spraying perfume.
- The Vaseline acts as a primer, extending the life of your favorite scent.
Pro tip: Use unscented Vaseline to avoid altering the fragrance notes of your perfume.
11. Prevent Chafing and Blisters
If you’re prone to chafing or blisters, especially during workouts or when wearing new shoes, Vaseline can save the day.
How to use:
- Apply Vaseline to areas where friction occurs, such as inner thighs, underarms, or the backs of your heels.
- Reapply as needed throughout the day.
Pro tip: Keep a travel-sized Vaseline in your bag for emergencies.
12. Revive Dull Jewelry
Surprisingly, Vaseline can also be used to restore shine to dull jewelry.
How to use:
- Rub a small amount onto the jewelry and buff with a soft cloth.
- It helps remove grime and leaves your pieces looking polished.
Pro tip: Avoid using Vaseline on delicate or antique jewelry that requires special care.
Why Vaseline Is a Beauty Essential
Vaseline’s versatility is unmatched. From hydrating dry skin to solving last-minute beauty emergencies, this little jar of petroleum jelly truly does it all. Its affordability and simplicity make it a go-to solution for countless beauty needs.
Next time you’re looking for a multi-tasking product, reach for Vaseline. You’ll be amazed at how many problems it can solve with just a small dab. Keep it on your vanity, in your bag, or even in your car—you’ll find yourself turning to it time and time again.