Back to Dry & Flaky Skin
topical · for dry & flaky skin
Petroleum Jelly (Occlusive Barrier)
Strong evidence$3-10
How to use
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to dry or cracked areas over your regular moisturizer - especially hands, elbows, heels, and lips. Use overnight with cotton gloves or socks for best results.
How it works
Creates a near-impermeable layer that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Among the most effective occlusive agents studied, reducing TEWL by up to 98%.
Where to buy
Any pharmacy or grocery store. Vaseline Original, Aquaphor (adds ceramides), or generic petroleum jelly.
Typical cost: $3-10
Safety notes
Avoid on acne-prone facial skin - highly comedogenic for some people. Do not apply to infected or open wounds.