If you’ve ever had a jar of Vaseline sitting in your cabinet and wondered if it was only good for chapped lips, you’re in for a surprise. This simple, affordable product hides an almost unbelievable number of everyday uses. Some of them may already be familiar to you, but others are the kind of clever tricks that can make you say, “Why didn’t I think of that before?”
Dry skin, cracked heels, frizzy hair, or even sticky zippers—these small but irritating problems can sneak up on anyone. While none of them are life-threatening, they often chip away at your comfort and confidence. For older adults, skin tends to become thinner and drier over time, making it even more important to find safe and gentle solutions. Store shelves are packed with specialized products for every tiny issue, but that also means spending more money and filling up your bathroom with bottles and tubes you rarely use.
This is where Vaseline comes in. Often-overlooked and under-recognized, it may serve as a single product that helps with many of these small, frustrating problems. The best part is that you may already have it at home. But here’s the fun part—we’re going to count down from eighteen to one, saving the most surprising and effective use for last. Ready to discover what that humble jar can do? Let’s dive in.
18… Lip balm. This one is obvious, but Vaseline can help lock in moisture and soothe dry, chapped lips. Mini-hook: add a tiny bit of sugar to create a quick lip scrub.
17… Dry elbows and knees. These spots are often the driest areas of your body. A thin layer of Vaseline can help soften rough patches overnight.
16… Brow tamer. Flyaway eyebrows? Just dab a little Vaseline with a clean spoolie brush to keep them in place.
15… Flyaway hair smoother. Rub a tiny amount between your fingers and gently smooth frizz or split ends. Be careful not to overdo it, since Vaseline is thick.
14… Cuticle care. Apply to nails and cuticles before bed to help reduce dryness and keep your hands looking neat.
13… Heel softener. Before you slip into socks at night, rub Vaseline on cracked heels. Some people find it helps soften them by morning. Mini-hook: pairing this trick with a gentle foot soak can feel like a spa treatment at home.
12… Perfume extender. Dab a little Vaseline on your wrists or neck before spraying perfume—it may help the scent last longer.
11… Earring helper. Struggling with earrings that won’t slide in easily? A small dab of Vaseline may help.
10… Makeup remover. A pea-sized amount can help dissolve stubborn mascara or lipstick. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly afterward.
9… Shaving aid. If you’re out of shaving cream, Vaseline may help the razor glide more smoothly over small areas like ankles or underarms.
8… Zipper smoother. Got a stuck zipper? Rubbing a tiny bit of Vaseline on the teeth can help it move freely again.
7… Ring remover. If a ring feels stuck on your finger, Vaseline may make it easier to slide off without panic.
6… Shoe shine. Buff a little onto dull shoes for a quick shine before heading out the door.
5… Minor scrapes or scratches. Some studies suggest Vaseline can help keep small cuts from drying out, which may support natural healing. Remember, always consult a healthcare professional before using it on wounds.
4… Chafing prevention. A light layer on areas prone to rubbing, such as thighs or underarms, may reduce friction.
3… Eyelash shine. Brushing a small amount on lashes at night may help them look glossy and conditioned. Mini-hook: some people also use this as a base to make mascara go on more smoothly.
2… Winter skin relief. During colder months, applying Vaseline to your cheeks or nose can help protect against harsh winds.
1… The most surprising use? Mixing Vaseline with turmeric powder or a touch of lemon may create a homemade mask that some people find soothing for uneven skin tone. Always patch-test first and consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure. This is where creativity meets practicality—one jar, endless ideas.
Now, you might not need all eighteen of these tricks at once, but just knowing them can make your daily life easier. Vaseline is not a miracle cure, but it can help you save money, reduce clutter, and bring comfort in small but meaningful ways.
So why not try one of these ideas this week? Pick the one that solves your most pressing little problem, whether it’s dry heels or frizz, and see how it works for you. You may be pleasantly surprised at how this simple product can fit into your daily routine.
This article is informational only and does not replace professional medical advice — recommend readers consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
