Petroleum jelly for dry skin

You do not always need expensive beauty products to care for dry facial skin. Simple products such as petroleum jelly can help protect the skin from moisture loss and dryness.

Petroleum jelly forms a thin protective layer on the skin. This layer helps keep existing moisture from escaping making it useful for dry and rough areas especially during cold or dry weather.

Helps keep skin Moisturised

If your skin feels tight or dry after washing your face petroleum jelly may help. After cleansing apply a very small amount to slightly damp skin especially on dry areas.

A thin layer is usually enough

•For dry and chapped lips

Cold weather dry air and sun exposure can leave the lips rough and cracked.  Petroleum jelly can create a protective barrier that helps reduce moisture loss and keeps the lips feeling soft.

Helps shape eyebrows

A tiny amount of petroleum jelly can also be used to hold eyebrow hairs in place. Gently apply a small amount and brush the hairs into your preferred shape.

What can you mix with petroleum jelly?

Some people combine petroleum jelly with ingredients such as vitamin E or glycerin. However adding more ingredients does not necessarily make petroleum jelly more effective.

Avoid mixing lemon juice into facial products. Lemon juice can irritate the skin and may make it more sensitive to sunlight.

Use caution with acne prone skin

If you have acne prone skin avoid applying a thick layer of petroleum jelly over your entire face.

Although petroleum

jelly itself is generally considered non-comedogenic, heavy products can feel uncomfortable or trap other products on the skin.

If you regularly develop acne or severe skin irritation a gentle moisturiser may be a better option.

How to use it safely

•Clean your face with a gentle cleanser.

•Leave the skin slightly damp rather than completely dry.

•Take a very small amount of petroleum jelly.

Apply a thin layer to dry areas.

Avoid the immediate eye area open wounds and irritated or infected skin.

If you are using it for the first time test a small amount on a limited area of skin first. Stop using it if you notice burning redness or irritation.