A £2 tub of Vaseline is one of those humble bathroom basics many of us only remember when our lips are dry — but that is selling it short. While it is brilliant as a lip balm, petroleum jelly is far more of an all-rounder than people realise, with loads of simple, everyday uses that go well beyond a quick swipe in winter.
Beauty Influencer Highlights Vaseline's Versatility
Beauty megainfluencer Huda Kattan, who has millions of followers, recently drew attention to this no-fuss product. She reposted a reel by @serenalakkiss that revealed that Vaseline is far more than just a lip balm.
She said: "One little jar, four beauty hacks [...] ways to get more out of your Vaseline." While these tips can be game-changing for your beauty regime, Huda also added: "Disclaimer: These are popular beauty hacks and may not work for everyone. Always patch test first, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin."
1. Removing Blackheads
Serena revealed that applying Vaseline to your nose, covering it with cling film and leaving it on can make blackhead removal considerably easier. The Vaseline and cling film method is a viral skincare hack that works by loosening and softening debris within your pores. It creates a moisture barrier that softens hardened sebum in your pores, making extraction much simpler.
Should you try this, be sure to avoid using any tool that is too firm, as this could damage your skin and lead to further issues.
2. Growing Your Eyelashes and Eyebrows
Serena demonstrated applying Vaseline to both her lashes and brows, claiming it can actively encourage growth. However, Healthline notes that, as an occlusive, it traps moisture, making existing hairs softer, shinier, and less prone to breakage, which creates the illusion of thickness.
While it contains no active ingredients to stimulate hair follicles, it can create the illusion of greater thickness. So it is certainly worth giving it a go, just make sure not to get the product directly into your eyes!
3. Making Perfume Last Longer
Serena revealed that dabbing a small amount of Vaseline onto your wrists can help your fragrance go the distance. This creates an occlusive barrier that locks the scent onto your skin, slowing down evaporation and making your perfume last hours longer.
Simply massage a tiny amount of petroleum jelly onto the areas where your body naturally generates heat — your wrists, neck, inner elbows, and the back of your ears. Spritz your perfume directly onto the Vaseline and avoid rubbing your wrists together, as this breaks down the fragrance molecules. Instead, gently tap your skin to help the perfume absorb naturally.
In the comments section, one user noted that her perfume lasts "all day" when she uses this trick, urging others to give it a go when they haven't got 10ml of their favourite scent to hand in their handbag.
