In the ever-evolving world of skincare, sometimes the most effective solutions are the ones that have been in our medicine cabinets for over 150 years. Vaseline (petroleum jelly) has seen a massive resurgence in 2025, largely thanks to the viral "slugging" trend.
But is putting a petroleum-based product on your face actually safe? To give you the truth, we’ve broken down the dermatological facts on its benefits, potential risks, and the "right" way to use it for glowing skin.
The Verdict: Is It Safe for Your Face?
Yes. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), pure white petrolatum is safe for facial use and is actually one of the most effective ways to treat skin issues like extreme dryness and minor wounds.
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The reason it works is that Vaseline is a top-tier occlusive. While it doesn’t add new moisture to the skin, it creates a physical seal that prevents more than 99% of water loss from your skin's surface.
4 Major Benefits of Using Vaseline on Your Face
1. Barrier Repair & "Slugging"
If your skin feels tight, red, or irritated, your moisture barrier might be damaged. "Slugging"—applying a thin layer of Vaseline as the final step of your nighttime routine—locks in your serums and allows your skin to heal overnight.
2. Healing Minor Wounds
Dermatologists often recommend Vaseline for post-procedure care or minor scrapes. By keeping the wound moist, it prevents scabs from forming, which actually helps the skin heal faster and reduces the risk of deep scarring.
3. Eyelid Protection
The skin on your eyelids is the thinnest on your body and prone to eczema and dryness. Vaseline is one of the few products safe enough to use around the eyes to prevent flaking and irritation.
4. Makeup Removal
Believe it or not, Vaseline is an excellent, non-irritating way to dissolve waterproof mascara and heavy foundation without the need for harsh rubbing.
Potential Side Effects: Who Should Avoid It?
While Vaseline is generally safe, it isn't for everyone. Here are the risks to keep in mind:
Breakouts for Acne-Prone Skin: While Vaseline itself is non-comedogenic (it won't clog pores because the molecules are too large to enter them), its seal is so strong that it can trap sebum, sweat, and bacteria already on your skin. This can lead to new pimples if your skin isn't perfectly clean.
Milia: Some users may develop tiny white bumps (milia) around the eyes if the product is applied too heavily in that area.
Trapping "Actives": If you apply Vaseline over strong ingredients like Retinol or AHAs, it can increase their potency and cause unexpected irritation or chemical burns.
How to Use Vaseline on Your Face (The Right Way)
To get the "Glass Skin" look without the breakouts, follow this 2025 expert-approved routine:
Double Cleanse: Ensure every trace of dirt and oil is gone.
Dampen & Hydrate: Apply a hydrating toner or serum containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
The "Pea-Sized" Rule: You don't need a thick mask. Take a pea-sized amount of Vaseline, warm it between your palms, and gently pat it onto your face.
Morning Cleanse: Always wash your face thoroughly the next morning to remove the occlusive layer.
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Summary: Is It Worth It?
If you have dry, sensitive, or aging skin, Vaseline is a budget-friendly miracle. If you have oily or active acne-prone skin, it’s best to stick to lighter, oil-free moisturizers.
Are you curious about how Vaseline compares to other popular ointments? Would you like me to write a "Vaseline vs. Aquaphor" comparison for your next blog post?