Why you shouldn’t put Vaseline on your face
17.12.2019
Translation: Jessica Johnson-Ferguson
It’s thick, sticky and used as a beauty all-rounder. But there's one place Vaseline shouldn’t go: your face
I discovered it the first time I went to London. All it took was a few days until I declared the little blue pot, which was sold on every corner, my all-purpose weapon. I was caked in Vaseline from head to toe. An attempt at keeping the traces winter had left on my skin at bay. In hindsight that wasn’t very clever of me. At least as far as the Vaseline on my face is concerned.
«Vaseline is a common brand name of the ingredient petroleum jelly,», explains dermatologist Dr Liv Kraemer. It’s an inexpensive mixture of paraffins and olefins which. In its pure form, it’s low in allergens and meets European drug quality standards. «Because it’s made up of hydrocarbon compounds, many people associate it with crude oil. As a result, they have reservations about using the product. However, these are unfounded.» But that doesn’t mean you should smear all over your face.
«Petroleum jelly is like a plaster that seals your skin and prevents water from seeping out. If you’re prone to pimples or rosacea, the jelly acts like a greenhouse. You’re throwing a party for bacteria and increasing redness.» In other words, Vaseline’s a no-no for your face. However, it’s fine to apply to cracked heels, dry elbows, brittle nails, rough hands, chapped lips, tattoos or red baby bottoms. «Alternatively, you can also use oils. But avoid natural cosmetics (in German). They contain essential oils, which can lead to more irritation. Particularly to damaged skin.»
Next time I’ll be telling you whether face brushes should be an integral part of your skin care routine. One click on the black «Follow author» button next to my profile means you’ll never miss another article. It’s not just me you can follow but also Dr Liv on her Instagram account.
Natalie Hemengül
Senior Editor
Natalie.Hemenguel@digitecgalaxus.chAs a massive Disney fan, I see the world through rose-tinted glasses. I worship series from the 90s and consider mermaids a religion. When I’m not dancing in glitter rain, I’m either hanging out at pyjama parties or sitting at my make-up table. P.S. I love you, bacon, garlic and onions.
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