Aquaphor vs. Vaseline: Which One Is Actually Better for Dry Skin?

A quick fix for chapped lips or a patch of dry skin often involves a dab of Aquaphor here or Vaseline there. Both topical ointments have a long list of advantages, but when it comes to a flaking, irritated complexion, which one is best? According to dermatologists, there is a clear winner when it comes to addressing dry skin.

What Is Vaseline?

As perhaps the most widely-recognized brand of 100% petroleum jelly, which is also known as petrolatum, Vaseline contains properties that prevent water loss in the skin.

According to Ava Shamban, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of AVA MD, SKIN FIVE medical spas, and The Box by Dr Ava, Vaseline is an occlusive; this product category prevents water loss but doesn't impart true moisture to the skin (think of occlusives as seals).

"It's a misstatement to call Vaseline a hydrator or moisturizer," affirms Dr. Shamban. "It keeps skin soft and supple and boosts moisture levels, but it does not hydrate. Vaseline does not function as a humectant, which attracts moisture to the dermis."

What Is Aquaphor?

Aquaphor is an occlusive, thanks to its petrolatum content, but it also contains a host of other ingredients that make it a partial moisturizer—which is why most dermatologists say that it is the best option for dry skin.

Aquaphor Is Best for Combatting Dry Skin

According to Miami-based dermatologist Loretta Ciraldo, MD, FAAD, Aquaphor is typically the product dermatologists recommend to patients with dry dermis. This is in part because the ointment contains humectants—namely glycerin and panthenol, a vitamin B5 derivative—which draw water into the skin and activity hydrate it.

In addition to humectants and occlusives, Aquaphor also contains emollients, making it a true triple threat. The main emollients in Aquaphor are lanolin and mineral oil, which are lighter-weight sealants.

"I've continued to recommend this for my post-op surgery and post-procedure patients, as well as for anyone with dry seasonal changes on their extremities and even on their faces when either climate conditions or overworking skin with aggressive actives has made skin dry, red, and sensitive," says Dr. Ciraldo.

According to Dr. Shamban, the properties in Aquaphor's formula raise moisture levels by attracting water from the air and introducing it into the dermis, which stops dehydration. She adds that the product's mineral oil and cesarin content keep skin soft and supple while minimizing water evaporation.

Uses for Aquaphor and Vaseline

Both Aquaphor and Vaseline can be used in so many ways. Explore this list of ideas on how to use both products:

• Moisturizing dry skin: Both products can help lock in moisture, but you may want to reach for Aquaphor to actively hydrate dry skin.
• Protecting skin: Susceptible to cracking dry skin in cold weather? Slather on some Aquaphor or Vaseline on prone areas like knuckles or cuticles to create a barrier between you and the elements and keep moisture in.
• Healing: Both Vaseline and Aquaphor can help aid in the healing process of minor cuts and scrapes by protecting the wound while soothing it.
• Removing makeup: Use a tiny bit of either product to remove makeup.
• Slugging: Try this skincare trend by slathering on some Vaseline or Aquaphor to your face after using your other skincare products to lock them in at night.
• Preventing chafing: Easily prevent uncomfortable chafing by applying either product to areas that typically chafe.
• Preserving perfume: If you want your perfume scent to last longer, apply a small amount of Aquaphor or Vaseline in preferred places, then spray perfume on those areas.