Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly, has been a household staple for generations. It’s commonly used for moisturizing skin, but did you know it has a plethora of other uses?
This humble product can work wonders in ways you never imagined. Here, we present 25 Vaseline hacks we wish we knew sooner.
What is Vaseline?
Vaseline is a brand of petroleum jelly-based products owned by the British-Dutch company Unilever. Originally, it was discovered in 1859 by Robert Chesebrough.
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It’s a mixture of mineral oils and waxes that form a semisolid jelly-like substance. Its primary use is to lock moisture into the skin, but its versatility extends far beyond that.
25 Vaseline Hacks
1. Lip Balm and Lip Gloss Alternative
Suffering from chapped lips? Apply a thin layer of Vaseline to keep them moisturized. You can also mix it with a bit of your favorite lipstick to create a custom lip gloss.
2. Makeup Remover
Stubborn mascara and eyeliner can be difficult to remove. Dab a small amount of Vaseline on a cotton pad and gently wipe away your makeup without irritating your skin.
3. Moisturizing Hand and Foot Treatment
Dry hands and cracked heels are common issues. Apply Vaseline generously to your hands and feet before bed and cover them with gloves and socks. Wake up to soft, smooth skin.
4. Eyebrow Tamer
Unruly eyebrows can be tamed with a bit of Vaseline. Use a spoolie brush to apply a small amount and shape your brows as desired.
5. Highlighter
For a dewy, fresh-faced look, dab a tiny amount of Vaseline on your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your brow bones. It gives a subtle, natural highlight.
6. Eyelash Conditioner
Before bed, apply a thin layer of Vaseline to your eyelashes. It conditions them and may even promote growth over time.
7. Prevent Chafing
Whether you’re running a marathon or just dealing with everyday friction, Vaseline can prevent chafing. Apply it to areas prone to rubbing, such as thighs, underarms, and heels.
8. Protective Barrier for Hair Dyeing
When dyeing your hair at home, apply Vaseline along your hairline and ears to prevent the dye from staining your skin.
9. Jewelry Aid
If you have trouble putting on rings or bracelets, a bit of Vaseline can help them slide on more easily. It also works to prevent earring irritation.
10. Shine Shoes
Bring your leather shoes back to life with a coat of Vaseline. It not only adds shine but also helps condition the leather.
11. Fix Sticking Zippers
A stubborn zipper can be a real annoyance. Rub a small amount of Vaseline on the teeth of the zipper to help it glide smoothly.
12. Extend Perfume Life
To make your perfume last longer, apply a small amount of Vaseline to your pulse points before spritzing. The Vaseline helps hold the fragrance.
13. Soothe Sunburn
Got too much sun? Vaseline can help soothe sunburned skin by providing moisture and a protective barrier.
14. Diaper Rash Relief
Vaseline creates a barrier on your baby’s skin, helping to protect against diaper rash and soothe any existing irritation.
15. Nail Polish Cleanup
Painting your nails can get messy. Apply Vaseline around your nails before painting to make cleaning up excess polish easier.
16. Pet Paw Protection
Protect your pet’s paws from harsh weather conditions by applying a thin layer of Vaseline. It helps prevent cracking and irritation.
17. Lubricate Hinges
If you have squeaky door hinges, a little Vaseline can do the trick. Apply it to the hinges to stop the noise.
18. Split End Treatment
Tame split ends by applying a small amount of Vaseline to the tips of your hair. It helps seal and protect them from further damage.
19. Remove Stuck Rings
If a ring is stuck on your finger, apply Vaseline around the area. It will help the ring slide off more easily without causing pain.
20. Prevent Tanning Streaks
Apply Vaseline to areas prone to streaking, such as elbows, knees, and ankles, before applying self-tanner to ensure an even application.
21. Protecting Cuts and Scrapes
Vaseline forms a protective barrier over minor cuts and scrapes, keeping dirt and germs out while the skin heals.
22. Removing Gum from Hair
If you (or your child) get gum stuck in your hair, don’t panic. Rub Vaseline into the gum and surrounding hair until the gum loosens and can be removed easily.
23. Prevent Dandruff
Massage a small amount of Vaseline into your scalp before washing your hair to help prevent dandruff and keep your scalp moisturized.
24. Smooth Flyaways
Tame those pesky flyaway hairs with a small amount of Vaseline. It helps smooth them down without weighing your hair down.
25. Crafting Aid
When working with glue or paint, apply Vaseline to areas you want to keep clean. It acts as a barrier and makes cleanup easier.
Vaseline is truly a versatile product that offers solutions to a myriad of everyday problems. From beauty and skincare to household fixes and pet care, its uses are almost endless.
Next time you reach for this humble jar, remember all the amazing hacks it can help you with.
FAQs
1. Is Vaseline safe for all skin types?
Yes, Vaseline is generally safe for all skin types. However, if you have sensitive skin, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test first.
2. Can Vaseline help with acne?
Vaseline is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. However, it’s best used as a protective barrier and moisturizer rather than a treatment for acne.
3. How often can I use Vaseline on my skin?
You can use Vaseline daily as part of your skincare routine. It’s especially effective at night to lock in moisture.
4. Can Vaseline expire?
While Vaseline itself doesn’t have an expiration date, it’s best to use it within five years of opening for optimal effectiveness.
5. Is Vaseline eco-friendly?
Vaseline is derived from petroleum, a non-renewable resource. While it’s effective and versatile, consider using it responsibly and exploring other sustainable options as well.
