Vaseline, or petroleum jelly, is one of those few household products that has stood the test of time. From the 1800s down to the present time, this multi-purpose balm is normally used to soothe dry skin to providing a fast-acting first-aid fix. But aside from normal, basic skincare purposes that most people know, there’s a load of more unusual and actually rather imaginative ways this little jar of goopy stuff could come in handy. Whether it’s beauty hacks, household tips, or life fixes you need, Vaseline pretty much can do it all.
Here are the 10 best uses of Vaseline you probably never thought of:
1. For Dry Skin
Perhaps the most common use of Vaseline, it’s especially good for really dry, cracked skin. Apply it to problem areas like elbows, knees, hands, and feet to keep moisture in. If your feet are particularly dry, try slathering on a ton before bed, covering up with socks, and letting the product soften them while you sleep.
2. Prevent Chafing
Whether you’re running a marathon or just enjoying a day in the sun, chafing can quickly turn a good time into a painful one. A small amount of Vaseline applied to areas prone to friction—like your thighs, underarms, or the tops of your feet—can reduce irritation and prevent painful chafing.
3. Heal Minor Burns
9. Lock in Fragrance
Want to make your favorite perfume last longer? A bit of Vaseline will do the trick! Apply it to areas where you spritz perfume, such as your wrists or neck, before applying your fragrance. The petroleum jelly keeps the fragrance longer by coating your skin with a film that helps it stay adhered.
10. Keep Hair Static and Flyaways Away
One teeny dab of Vaseline can be applied to instantly tame a frizzy or flyaway-ridden section. Warm the stuff up on your fingertips, then give the surface layer of hair a quick once-over, smoothing over those stray strands in the process. But not too much, or things will be greasy rather than serene.
Bonus: Apply in an Emergency as a First-Aid Ointment
Sometimes, if one cannot find more specific ointments in an emergency, Vaseline can help. The application of Vaseline would also protect minor cuts and scraps or blistering by covering them. Let the wound be clean first, then just a thin layer of Vaseline on to keep it from getting infected until you get professional medical care.
