8 Uses Of Petroleum Jelly

There are certain that we barely understand how they work, while others are ones we’ve pretty much known about our whole lives. Chances are your mom has raved to you about the likes of aloe vera, baking soda, and petroleum jelly for years. At this point, you likely keep a jar of petroleum jelly in your medicine cabinet and one in your makeup bag at all times as you are well aware of its multitasking powers. But do you really know all the benefits that this skin care wonder can provide? Luckily for you, we’re raving about eight different petroleum jelly uses below.

1. Use Petroleum Jelly To Moisturize Dry Skin 

One of the most common uses for petroleum jelly is moisturizing dry skin. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), explains that ointments like petroleum jelly are more effective and less irritating than lotions when it comes to hydrating dry skin—including the thin, sensitive skin on your eyelids. To really seal in the hydration, always apply petroleum jelly when your skin is damp, per the AAD. Not only is petroleum jelly an effective way to moisturize dry skin, but the Mayo Clinic also states that it may be the cheapest and easiest.

2. Use Petroleum Jelly To Soothe Chapped Lips 

Yes, petroleum jelly can be used to moisturize not only your complexion and eyelids but also your lips. The AAD states that petroleum jelly can temporarily protect and help relieve chapped or cracked skin and lips. See you never, chapped lips!

3. Use Petroleum Jelly To Protect Injured Skin 

The hydration this popular skin care ingredient provides can also help to temporarily protect minor skin injuries such as cuts, scrapes, and scratches.

4. Use Petroleum Jelly To Treat Peeling Skin

As summer winds down you might be better acquainted with peeling skin—in the worst way. Whatever the cause, peeling skin is certainly not ideal. This is especially the case if you have dry, peeling, or flaking skin on your face, which can take a toll on your makeup application and overall complexion. Try using petroleum jelly to care for your peeling skin. 

5. Use Petroleum Jelly To Rehydrate Nails

You may be up-to-date with the latest nail trends and nail maintenance like how to take care of your cuticles, but did you know petroleum jelly can serve a role in your nail regimen? The AAD suggests applying petroleum jelly to your nails and cuticles in between polishes if you frequently get manicures and pedicures, as this will help prevent your nails from chipping and minimize brittleness. As with moisturizing the rest of your skin, you’ll get the best results when applying it to damp nails.

6. Use Petroleum Jelly To Create Nail Art

Petroleum jelly can also come in handy for nail art. If you're trying a trendy water marbling or nail stamping manicure—or simply can't manage to color inside the lines when you paint your nails—try applying petroleum jelly around your nails. Polish your nails as planned, then wipe off the petroleum jelly, and any polish that didn't make it onto your nails will come off with it.

7. Use Petroleum Jelly To Prevent Chafing 

If you’ve ever experienced chafing then you understand how uncomfortable it can be. Luckily, petroleum jelly can come in handy for preventing this common skin care concern. The AAD notes that petroleum jelly can be applied to problem areas, such as the feet or thighs, to prevent chafing that can lead to blisters.

8. Use Petroleum Jelly To Protect Minor Burns

Lastly, petroleum jelly can be used to temporarily protect minor burns, according to the Cleveland Clinic. After immersing the burned area in cool water for up to 10 minutes, they recommend applying petroleum jelly to the burn two to three times a day to care for first-degree burns at home.

Next: Can You Prevent Your Sunburn From Peeling?

Photo Credit: Chaunte Vaughn