Vaseline was the first brand name for petroleum jelly. Now, it’s a brand so established in our minds that we just call all petroleum jelly “Vaseline.” Since it’s been around since the late 1800s, people have had time to come up with a lot of uses for it.
Here are 50 ways that you can get more use from petroleum jelly (no matter what brand you use). Some of these uses may surprise you!
Help your pet’s paws



If your pet gets cracked or painful paws, Vaseline can help. Clean their paws gently and then apply a protective layer of the petroleum jelly.
Prevent rust
If you own hardware or tools susceptible to rust, consider using Vaseline as a protective measure. Applying a coat of Vaseline can shield them from rust and significantly extend their lifespan.


Soothe mask chafing
If wearing a face mask for long periods has led to skin chafing, applying Vaseline can help soothe and heal the affected area.


Get more life out of old nail polish
If you notice that the polish on your nails is beginning to look dull and is losing its initial luster, a simple and effective solution is to use Vaseline. By gently wiping a small amount of Vaseline over each nail, you can instantly rejuvenate the appearance of your nail polish.


Get a tight ring off
If you find yourself with a ring stuck on your finger, there’s no need to worry. By applying a small amount of Vaseline both on the ring and around the skin where it’s stuck, you can easily facilitate its removal. The Vaseline acts as a lubricant, allowing the ring to glide smoothly off your finger without any discomfort or struggle.


Protect new tattoos
Freshly healed tattoos require significant care to maintain their appearance and condition. Applying a layer of Vaseline can be highly beneficial in this regard. It not only protects the tattoo but also helps in keeping it looking vibrant and in pristine condition.


Painless earrings
Before inserting earrings, it’s a good idea to apply a bit of Vaseline to them. This can prevent the earrings from tugging at your ears and causing any discomfort or damage during the day. This simple step ensures a smoother, more comfortable experience when wearing earrings for extended periods.


Create a full body scrub
Combine Vaseline with either sugar or salt to create a homemade exfoliating mixture. When applied to the skin and gently massaged in, this blend offers optimal exfoliation, effectively removing dead skin cells and leaving your skin smooth and rejuvenated.


Prevent scarring
To minimize the risk of scarring on damaged skin, it’s beneficial to apply Vaseline. Maintaining moisture and providing protection to the affected area during its healing phase is crucial. This approach supports the formation of new, healthy skin, helping to prevent scars from developing.


Use after threading
Threading is an effective method for removing unwanted hairs, but it often results in sore skin. To alleviate this discomfort and promote quicker healing, applying Vaseline is a helpful solution. It soothes the skin, easing any irritation caused by the threading process.


Use on cuticles
Cuticles, though frequently overlooked, play a vital role in nail health. Applying Vaseline around your nails can greatly benefit these areas, keeping the skin surrounding your nails healthy and soft. This simple care routine helps in maintaining well-nourished and moisturized cuticles.


Use with nail polish
To prevent nail polish from getting on your skin, apply a layer of Vaseline to the skin surrounding your nails before you start painting them. This creates a protective barrier. If any nail polish accidentally gets on your skin, the Vaseline will ensure it can be wiped off effortlessly, keeping your manicure neat and clean.


Seal in lip color
Adding a layer of Vaseline over your lipstick can enhance its longevity and accentuate the color. This simple step not only seals in the lipstick but also gives it a more vibrant and pronounced appearance, ensuring your lip color stays fresh and vivid for a longer duration.


Fire starter
To effectively start a grill, try this method: coat a cotton ball in Vaseline and then ignite it. The Vaseline-infused cotton ball will burn steadily for a sufficient duration, providing ample time to ignite the rest of the grill. This technique is a reliable and simple way to get your grill going.


Soothe razor bumps
For those whose skin is sensitive to shaving, applying Vaseline can be a helpful remedy. It assists in soothing and calming the skin, particularly in areas affected by shaving stubble. This approach provides relief and reduces irritation, making it a useful solution for post-shaving skin care.


Fix a zipper
If you’re dealing with a stuck zipper, a small amount of Vaseline can be the solution. Apply it gently to both sides of the zipper. This will act as a lubricant, helping the zipper to move smoothly and become unstuck with ease.


Shape eyebrows
Vaseline is an effective tool for taming unruly eyebrows. Simply apply a small amount to your eyebrows, then use a spoolie brush to comb them into your desired shape. This method not only helps in styling the brows but also keeps them neatly in place throughout the day.


Smile longer
If you need to smile frequently or perform, applying Vaseline to your teeth can be beneficial. It prevents your lips from sticking to your teeth, especially in situations where your mouth might be dry. This simple trick ensures a more comfortable and confident smile, making it ideal for performances or extended smiling.


Stop letting glue seal caps shut
To prevent glue bottles from sealing shut, apply a small amount of Vaseline around the rim and under the cap. This creates a barrier that keeps the glue from adhering to these areas, ensuring the bottle remains easy to open for future use.


Exfoliate your lips
To achieve smooth, crack-free lips, first apply Vaseline to them and wait for a few minutes. Then, gently exfoliate your lips using a toothbrush. This method effectively removes dead skin and softens your lips, leaving you with a result you’re sure to love. It’s a simple yet effective way to maintain healthy, well-moisturized lips.


Remove paint from skin
After a day of painting, if you find paint on your skin, there’s no need to painstakingly scrape it off. Instead, apply Vaseline to the affected area, wait for a few minutes, and then gently rub the area. The paint will come off easily, saving you time and effort in cleaning your skin. This method is effective and gentle, avoiding the need for harsh scrubbing.


Dye safely
Before you start dyeing your hair, use Vaseline as a precautionary measure. Apply it along your hairline to create a protective barrier. This prevents any stray hair dye from staining your skin, ensuring a clean and professional dyeing process without the worry of skin discoloration.


Get a healthy glow
For skin that appears dull, try massaging a small amount of Vaseline into it. This simple action can enhance your skin’s appearance, giving it a healthier and more radiant look. Vaseline’s moisturizing properties can revive the skin, making it look more vibrant and nourished.


Have shower curtains that open effortlessly
If opening and closing your shower curtains requires a lot of effort, applying Vaseline to the curtain rod can provide an easy solution. Once Vaseline is applied, the curtains will glide smoothly along the rod, eliminating the need for excessive pulling or tugging. This simple trick ensures a more effortless and convenient operation of your shower curtains.


Apply before swimming
For protection against water when you have cuts or scrapes, applying Vaseline over them can be very effective. It acts as a barrier, safeguarding your skin from water exposure.


Protect scrapes
If you have a healed wound with a scab, you can apply a thin layer of Vaseline to safeguard the skin. Simply apply a gentle coating of Vaseline on top of it.


Calm eczema
If you suffer from eczema, you’re familiar with how irritated it can become. Apply Vaseline right after your shower to allow it to absorb into the skin and help soothe the condition.


Prevent a dry or red nose
If you catch a cold, there’s always a chance your nose might become chapped. To prevent this, apply a bit of Vaseline in advance.


Lock in hair’s moisture
It might seem unconventional to consider massaging Vaseline into your hair, but this product forms a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss. So, if you’re dealing with dry hair, you might want to try applying a small amount to damp hair to see if it provides relief.


Prevent diaper rashes
Applying a preventive layer of Vaseline can assist in keeping your baby’s skin dry and safeguarding it against the development of certain rashes.


Easy lighting
Instead of struggling with stubborn lightbulbs that are difficult to remove, take a proactive approach. Apply a small amount of Vaseline to the base of each bulb, and they will easily come out the next time you need to replace them.


Avoid skin damage from wind
If you plan to spend time outdoors on a chilly and windy day, take precautions to safeguard your hands and face. Apply a protective coating of Vaseline before heading out.


Repair damaged hands
After working with your hands, be sure to massage some Vaseline onto your palms. This will minimize damage and aid in the healing of your skin.


Avoid chafing from clothes
If a beloved outfit consistently causes chafing in a particular area, consider applying Vaseline to that spot before putting on the garment. You can also use it afterward to alleviate any discomfort or soreness on your skin.


Repair your scalp
To alleviate an irritated scalp, gently massage Vaseline into your roots and onto your scalp before shampooing. This will provide protection and nourishment to your skin.


Smooth your feet
For incredibly soft and thoroughly moisturized skin, apply a layer of Vaseline to your feet. Then, simply put on socks to lock in the Vaseline and enjoy a restful night’s sleep.


Protect your baby’s eyes
If you’re concerned about shampoo getting into your baby’s eyes, this tip might be helpful. Apply Vaseline to their eyebrows before washing their hair.


Moisturize!
Remember that Vaseline can serve as an excellent all-over moisturizer. Apply it to your arms, legs, hands, and feet for soft and hydrated skin.


Painless removal
Don’t worry about the painful removal of false eyelashes. Simply apply a small amount of Vaseline along the base, and they will come off easily.


Sooth sunburn
If you have a mild sunburn and don’t have any aloe available, Vaseline might provide some relief. Apply a thick layer to the affected area for soothing relief.


Make flavored lip balm
To create a simple, flavored lip balm, blend Vaseline with flavored drink powder. It will have a pleasant scent and taste, but be mindful that the color will be vivid!


Get sparkly
If you’re heading to a festival, ensure you have some glitter and Vaseline with you. Apply a thin layer of Vaseline to your skin, and the glitter will adhere perfectly afterward.


Soften rough elbows and knees
Don’t overlook the skin on your elbows and knees. Vaseline can penetrate even the thickest layers of skin.


Remove scuffs
Remove scuffs from leather shoes, jackets, and bags by applying a small amount of Vaseline to a cloth and buffing them away.


A fix for nail polish jars
Are you frustrated with nail polish jars getting stuck closed? Apply a bit of Vaseline inside the cap where it screws on. The jar will open effortlessly every time thereafter.


Simple makeup remover
If you’ve run out of makeup remover, don’t worry. Apply a small amount of Vaseline to a cotton pad and use it in the same way. Your makeup will easily come off.


Repair leather
If your leather furniture is beginning to appear worn, reach for the Vaseline. Apply it to the worn areas and gently rub the spot with a cloth.


Preserve razors
Prevent your razors from rusting between uses. Wait for them to dry, and then apply a thin layer of Vaseline to keep them protected.


Makeup miracle
Instead of using a highlighter, apply a line of Vaseline to the tops of your cheeks. It will capture the light and enhance your appearance.


Soften facial hair
If you have some uncomfortable scruff, massage some Vaseline into it. It will become softer and easier to style.


Make perfume last longer
If your favorite fragrance tends to fade quickly, Vaseline could be the solution. Apply Vaseline to your skin first and then spray on your favorite scent. This will make the fragrance last twice as long.


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