One of the most common household healing remedies is Vaseline, which has been around for over 150 years. It’s a go-to product for many people, whether it’s to soothe dry skin or to help heal wounds.

But does applying Vaseline really speed up the healing process? In this article, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of using Vaseline as a healing aid.

What is Vaseline?

Vaseline, or petroleum jelly, is a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons that comes from crude oil.

It was first discovered in 1859 by a young chemist named Robert Augustus Chesebrough, who noticed that the oil rig workers he visited in Titusville, Pennsylvania would use a sticky substance to help heal their wounds.

Chesebrough decided to investigate this substance and eventually patented the product under the name Vaseline.

Since then, Vaseline has become a household name and is used for a wide variety of purposes such as skin moisturizing, diaper rash prevention, and wound healing.

How Does Vaseline Work?

Vaseline works by forming a protective barrier over the skin, which helps to lock in moisture and prevent further damage. It also provides a physical barrier against environmental irritants that may delay the healing process.

Additionally, Vaseline can help to reduce water loss from the skin, which can contribute to faster healing.

When used on minor cuts and scrapes, Vaseline can help to keep the wound moist and prevent scab formation. This can help to reduce the risk of infection and promote faster healing.

Vaseline can also be used for burn relief, as it helps to soothe the affected area and prevent infection.

Does Vaseline Really Speed Up the Healing Process?

While Vaseline can help to improve the healing process by keeping the wound moist and preventing infection, it may not necessarily speed up the healing process itself.

In fact, some studies have suggested that using Vaseline on wounds may actually slow down the healing process. This is because the petroleum jelly can saturate the wound bed, preventing oxygen and nutrients from reaching the cells that are needed for healing.

One study published in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery found that wounds treated with Vaseline took longer to heal than those treated with gauze.

This may be due to the fact that the petroleum jelly in Vaseline can create an occlusive barrier, preventing the wound from getting the oxygen and nutrients it needs to heal.

Another study published in the journal Wound Repair and Regeneration found that wounds treated with a hydrogel dressing healed faster than those treated with Vaseline.

This study also found that wounds treated with Vaseline had a greater risk of infection compared to those treated with a hydrogel dressing.

When Should You Use Vaseline?

Vaseline can be a useful tool in your healing arsenal, but it’s important to know when to use it. In general, Vaseline is best used for minor cuts and scrapes that are not deep enough to require stitches.

It can also be used for burns, as it can help to soothe the affected area and prevent infection.

However, if you have a deep or severe wound, it’s best to seek medical attention and follow the instructions of your healthcare provider. In some cases, Vaseline may not be the best choice for wound healing.

Are There Any Side Effects of Using Vaseline?

While Vaseline is generally safe to use, there are some side effects to be aware of. These include:.

Allergic reactions, particularly in those with a sensitivity to petroleum products
Clogging of pores, which can cause acne and other skin problems
Delayed wound healing in some cases

While these side effects are rare, it’s important to be aware of them when using Vaseline as a healing aid. If you experience any unusual symptoms after using Vaseline on a wound, stop use immediately and seek medical attention.

Conclusion

Vaseline can be a useful tool in your healing arsenal, but it’s important to use it properly and understand its limitations. While it can help to prevent infection and keep minor wounds moist, it may not necessarily speed up the healing process.

In some cases, using Vaseline on wounds may even slow down the healing process by preventing oxygen and nutrients from reaching the cells that are needed for healing.

If you have a deep or severe wound, it’s best to seek medical attention and follow the instructions of your healthcare provider. In general, Vaseline is best used for minor cuts and scrapes that are not deep enough to require stitches.

It can also be used for burns, as it can help to soothe the affected area and prevent infection.