How to Use Vaseline as a Moisturizer for an Extremely Dry Face

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Effective, inexpensive and readily available, petroleum jelly -- also known as petrolatum -- is a skin-care product that has been used for generations. Although petroleum jelly isn't actually a moisturizer and contains no water, it works by creating a protective barrier that prevents evaporation and seals moisture in the skin. Petroleum jelly doesn't prevent wrinkles or delay aging, but it can help you present a more youthful appearance by smoothing and softening fine lines.

Step 1

Take a warm shower or bath. Limit bathing to 10 minutes or less because longer showers and baths strip the natural moisture from the skin.

Step 2

Pat your face gently with a fluffy towel, but don't pat the skin until it is completely dry. Avoid rubbing, which may irritate and dry your face.

Step 3

Apply petroleum jelly to your face while your skin is still warm and slightly moist from the shower. Dab a small amount of petroleum jelly on your fingers, then massage the jelly into your cheeks, chin, forehead and nose, using gentle, circular motions. If your neck is dry, apply petroleum jelly using long, upward strokes from the lower part of your neck to your chin. Massage your skin lightly until the jelly is absorbed and your face and fingers are dry.

Step 4

Reapply petroleum jelly after every shower or bath and every time you cleanse your face so that it can seal the moisture in your skin cells.

Step 5

Smooth petroleum jelly into dry, chapped areas as needed throughout the day.