Aquaphor Vs Vaseline: Which Is Better?

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Whether you’re team #sluglife or just looking a product to heal cracked skin or chapped lips, you’ve probably come across Aquaphor and Vaseline. Although you might typically think of these occlusive products as something you use to heal a cut or scrap and not something you would ever slather on your face, these ointments are incredibly nourishing and can fix dry skin in a flash. Many people think Vaseline and Aquaphor are the same, but they’re actually very different in terms of ingredients. So when it comes to Aquaphor Vs Vaseline, which is better?

Aquaphor and Vaseline have a number of different uses, but is one better than the other? From healing a cut, conditioning eye lashes, moisturizing dry skin and soothing eczema, these ointments have a place on everyones skincare shelf.

Many people think that Vaseline and Aquaphor are the same thing. But is Aquaphor petroleum jelly? Let’s dig in!

What’s An Occlusive?

It’s simple, really! An occlusive agent is a thick substance that coats the skin to seal in moisture. Think of them as a protective barrier that keeps water trapped into your skin, which helps to keep skin hydrated, moisturized and plump.

Occlusives are especially beneficial for dehydrated and dry skin types because they keep water from leaving the skin. Both Aquaphor and Vaseline are occlusives that can prevent water loss and hydration locked into the skin so skin stays plump and healthy.

What Can An Occlusive Do For Your Skin?

While anyone can use occlusives, they really shine when it comes to dehydrated and dry skin types. When skin is dehydrated or dry, it cannot shed dead skin cells properly, leading to dull skin, rough skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles, large pores and even acne.

Occlusives, like Vaseline and Aquahpor, can help with all of these things. Occlusives are even great for those using strong chemical exfoliants or acne medications, as these tend to dry out the skin.

In general, occlusives can help with:

• acne
• large pores
• dehydration
• dry skin
• flaky skin
• fine lines and wrinkles
• oily skin
• rough skin texture
• dull skin

I know the thought of slathering your face in Aquaphor may make you cringe, it can actually help with so many different skin issues. Many people with acne prone skin tend to stay away from Vaseline and Aquaphor, but these occlusives can actually help.

Now let’s get into comparing Aquaphor Vs Vaseline!

What Is Vaseline?

Vaseline is the staple. The OG. The classic. Vaseline has just one ingredient: petroleum jelly. Sometimes simple is better, especially when it comes to sensitive and reactive skin types. Vaseline has been healing diaper rash and other skin ailments for over 150 years, but more recently has become a skincare shelfie staple thanks to the popular slugging method (I’ll get into that later).

Vaseline Benefits

So what does petroleum jelly do for the skin? Well lots, actually. Petroleum jelly is excellent for dry skin, as it helps to lock moisture into the skin and prevent water loss. Petroleum jelly has also been used to treat diaper rash, minor burns and psoriasis. The options are endless, really. Here are a few things petroleum jelly, or Vaseline can do besides keep skin hydrated and smooth:

• Would Healing – Did you know that dry skin takes longer to heal than skin that’s kept moist? Vaseline is great at wound healing because it can help speed up the healing time by keeping skin moist.
• Psoriasis and Eczema – With certain skin conditions, like eczema and psoriasis, the skin is susceptible to water loss, as well as irritants and bacteria. With Vaseline the good stuff is kept it (water) and the bad stuff is kept out (bacteria)
• Dermatitis – Petroleum jelly helps to reduce inflammation and itchiness caused by dermatitis
• Diaper Rash – The key to healing up diaper rash is to keep skin protected from bacteria and other irritants

Vaseline Healing Jelly Ingredients

Literally 100% Petroleum Jelly. That’s it. All the occlusive goodness without the potential of irritation because of its simple ingredients list. While Vaseline has expanded their lines, the classic Vaseline Healing Jelly only has one ingredient. While the others may have other ingredients like fragrance or butters, so beware!

Does Vaseline Clog Pores?

No, Vaseline does not clog pores. It’s 100% petroleum jelly which is non-comedogenic.

What Is Aquaphor?

Think of Aquaphor as Vaseline on steroids. The more robust occlusive. It’s made by the brand Eucerin, which focuses on skincare for eczema, psoriasis, dry and sensitive skin, so Aquaphor fits perfectly in their round up. Aquaphor is a water-based emollient, which means it helps restore the skin’s protective barrier and locks in moisture. It can be used on dry skin, chapped lips and cuticles and cracked feet. The options are endless. Aquaphor is less greasy than Vaseline and has a thinner consistency, which is why some people like it better than Vaseline.

Related Post: CeraVe Healing Ointment Vs Aquaphor: Which Is Better?

Aquaphor Healing Ointment Ingredients

Aquaphor has just a few more ingredients than Vaseline, making it a little more powerful and able to treat more skin issues. Here are the ingredients in Aquaphor Healing Ointment and what they do:

Active ingredient: Petrolatum (41%) – Skin protectant

Inactive ingredients: Mineral Oil, Ceresin, Lanolin Alcohol, Panthenol, Glycerin, Bisabolol

Petrolatum: The OG occlusive. The best in its class. Petrolum jelly is more occlusive than plant oils so it helps reduce Trans-Epidermal Water Loss better than anything else

Mineral Oil: Another occlusive ingredient, but this one gives Aquaphor a thinner and a more spreadable texture

Lanolin Alcohol: an incredible emollient that helps to moisturize and nourish skin

Panthenol: a humectant that draws water into the skin to keep skin hydrated and plump. It’s also incredibly soothing and can help diminish redness

Glycerin: another type of humectant that locks in water so skin stays hydrated

Bisabolol: although it sounds made up, bisabolol is a great anti-inflammatory ingredient that also helps to soothe irritations

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline Ingredients

So as you can see, Vaseline and Aquaphor are vastly different in terms of ingredients. Although Aquaphor contains quite a bit of petroleum jelly (41%), it has lots of other added ingredients that can help to hydrate, moisturize and soothe skin.

So for dry, irritated or cracked skin, Aquaphor is the winner. But keep in mind, if your skin is very sensitive or reactive, a simple occlusive like Vaseline may be better. Since it has less ingredients, there’s less of a risk of any reaction.

Does Aquaphor Clog Pores?

No, Aquaphor does not clog pores and it’s non-comedogenic. However, keep in mind that any skincare product or ingredient may cause a reaction, which can lead to breakouts or acne. But this does not mean that Aquaphor is clogging your pores, but it may be that your skin just does not agree with a particular ingredient.

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline: Packaging

Packaging can be very important when it comes to skincare. The right packaging can help reduce contamination, which keeps the product fresh and germ free. It can also help with ease of use – no one wants to fight with the tube trying to get moisturizer out.

Unfortunately, since Vaseline Healing Jelly is so thick, a tube probably wouldn’t work well for this product. Vaseline only comes in jars, which are great for thicker products. The only downside is that the product can become contaminated when you stick your fingers in, especially if you don’t wash them beforehand. Getting bacteria into your products is not good, espeically for those with acne prone skin. It’s best to always make sure you’re washing your hands before, or you can even use a tool to scoop the product out.

Aquaphor comes in both jars and tubes, so you can pick which one you would prefer. I personally like the tube and since it’s a thinner consistency, it comes out very easily and you don’t have to worry about contaminating the product. Aquaphor also carries their healing ointment in spray bottles, tubes with touch-free applicators and they even make a lip balm version of their best-selling ointment.

Packing of Aquaphor Vs Vaseline: Aquapor is the clear winner in this category.

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline: Price

While both Vaseline and Aquaphor are drugstore staples and are affordable, Vaseline takes the cake when it comes to pricing.

Vaseline – a 13oz tub retails for about $4.29

Aquaphor – a 14oz tub retails for about 13.79

That’s a huge difference.

The winner here is clearly Vaseline.

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline: Texture

There’s a clear winner when it comes to the texture of these healing ointments: Aquaphor. It’s thinner, more spreadable and sinks in better so you don’t feel like a total greaseball.

Vaseline is, well… Vaseline. It’s incredibly thick and harder to spread out.

Aquaphor wins in the texture category!

What Is The Difference Between Aquaphor And Vaseline?

The main difference between aquaphor and vaseline comes down to ingredients! Vaseline has only one ingredient, petroleum jelly. Aquaphor also has petroleum jelly, but it also has other additives like glycerin, lanolin alcohol and more. This not only makes a big difference in efficacy, but it also changes the texture.

What Is Better Aquaphor or Vaseline?

So, are Aquaphor and Vaseline the same thing? Well, they are similar, but there are some key differences. Vaseline is only one ingredient, whereas Aquaphor has a few more ingredients that can be beneficial for moisturizing and soothing the skin. So it’s a little more powerful at keeping the moisture in and keeping irritants out.

When comparing Aquaphor Vs Vaseline, it can be hard to pick a clear winner. They are both great products and many times it comes down to personal preference and what you are using them for. For example, if you’re wanting to moisturize the skin, Aquaphor would be the better choice because of the added ingredients.

Although Aquaphor is more expensive, with its more pleasant texture and added nourishing ingredients, Aquaphor is the best healing ointment in my book.

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline For Face

So is Aquaphor or vaseline better for face? Aquaphor wins hands down in this category because of its thinner texture. It feels much lighter on the skin and therefore feels more comfortable.

Vaseline tends to feel a little thick and gloopy on the face, which is a big downside.

Aquaphor, however, sinks in better, spreads easier and feels nicer on the skin than Vaseline.

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline For Acne

Slugging can certainly help clear up the skin by keeping skin moisturized and healthy. But is aquaphor or Vaseline better for acne?

Vaseline is probably the better choice because it has a single ingredient, as opposed to Aquaphor’s longer list.

This means that Aquaphor may be more likely to clog pores because there are more ingredients that could potentially cause issues for your skin.

Because Vaseline only has one ingredient, it’s less likely to cause issues.

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline For Tattoos

Occlusive ointments are typically recommended to help the skin heal after tattoos. Although it may seem like you could easily use Aquaphor or Vaseline, it’s very important to only use Aquaphor on healing tattoos.

Vaseline creates a film on the skin and oxygen cannot get through. This keeps the skin from healing and can lead to other issues.

Aquaphor is more breathable, so it’s recommended for healing the skin after getting a tattoo.

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline For Slugging

Is Vaseline or Aquaphor better for slugging? Both aquaphor and vaseline are great for slugging and it really just comes down to personal preference. I personally like using Aquaphor better because it’s thinner and less goopy so it just feels nicer on the skin. However if you’re prone to breakouts or sensitive skin, you may feel more comfortable using Vaseline since it only has one ingredient.

Related post: Can You Slug With Tretinoin?

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline For Baby

Both Vaseline and aquaphor have long been recommended for diaper rashes, baby eczema and so much more. How do they compare for babies?

Aquaphor is usually the better option when it comes to taking care of a baby’s delicate skin. It has more nourishing and healing properties that can help with minor cuts and diaper rash.

Although Vaseline is a great option as well, it’s not as nourishing as Aquaphor.

Additionally, Aquaphor actually has a line of baby products that are specifically formulated for their delicate skin. They have diaper rash cream, paste, wash and shampoo.

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline For Eczema

Is Vaseline or Aquaphor better for eczema?

Both Aquaphor and Vaseline can help eczema by keeping the skin protected from irritants, moisturizing the skin and soothing inflammation.

Aquaphor is the better choice for eczema because of its added ingredients like lanolin, glycerin and panthenol. These ingredients can help soothe and hydrate the skin more than Vaseline can.

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline For Lips

Is Vaseline or Aquaphor better for lips? Let’s be honest, chapped lips are the worst! But occlusives like vaseline or aquaphor can help to heal and prevent chapped, irritated lips.

Both Vaseline and Aquaphor have lip care products that can help heal chapped lips and dry/cracked lips. They’re great for year round or during the winter months to help keep lips supple and hydrated.

Related post: Can You Apply Lotion On Your Lips?

Vaseline has some great lip products that can help moisturize the lips while adding a tint of color.

Aquaphor also has some great lip care products that can moisturize, hydrate and heal more than Vaseline.

When it comes to lip care, Aquaphor is more powerful and feels nicer on the lips because of its thinner texture.

Related post: Is Carmex Actually Good For The Lips?

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline For Wound Healing

While both occlusives can help aid in wound healing, is one better than the other? Studies have shown that Vaseline is better for wound healing. It’s been found that using Aquaphor can lead to irritation and redness on healing wounds. So when it comes to aquaphor vs vaseline, just to be on the safe side, you might want to use Vaseline after surgeries or other types of wounds.

Aquaphor vs Vaseline For Eyelashes

Both products can help to moisturize and condition lashes, but aquaphor may be the better choice if you’re looking for something that will help to keep lashes hydrated, strong and healthy.

Since Aquaphor has additional ingredients like glycerin and panthenol, it’s the better choice for lashes because it can help to condition them better than Vaseline.

Aquaphor vs Vaseline For Cracked Heels

Aquaphor and vaseline are two popular choices for treating cracked heels. But which one is better? Aquaphor is a petroleum-based ointment that effectively moisturizes and protects the skin. It’s often used to treat dry, cracked skin on the feet. Vaseline is also a petroleum-based product, but it’s not as moisturizing or healing as Aquaphor.

While it can also be effective at moisturizing and protecting the skin, it may not provide as much relief for very dry, cracked skin. So, if you’re looking for a thicker, more intensive treatment for your cracked heels, aquaphor is the better option.

What Is The Difference Between Vaseline and Aquaphor?

Many people think that vaseline and aquaphor are the same, but there are quite a few differences that sets them apart from each other. So what’s the difference between aquaphor and vaseline?

Vaseline, or petroleum jelly, makes a great occlusive moisturizer which creates a barrier on the skin to lock in hydration and keep out any impurities like bacteria, dirt, etc. But with its simple ingredients list, that’s about all it can do.

Aquaphor, on the other hand, is a more powerful occlusive that can actually help hydrate, moisturize and soothe the skin, all while keeping hydration in and impurities out.

This is one of the biggest differences between aquaphor and vaseline. And this will help determine which is best, depending on your needs and what you’re using it for.

So let’s take a look at aquaphor vs vaseline and see which one is best.

Occlusive

Both Aquaphor and Vaseline make great occlusive moisturizers to create a barrier that locks in hydration and keeps out any impurities.
✔ Aquaphor 
✔ Vaseline 

Wound Healing

Studies have shown Vaseline is better for wound healing than Aquaphor because there is less chance of irritation or redness. Since Aquaphor has a few additional ingredients, this can increase the risk of irritating the skin or wound and causing delayed healing.

✗ Aquaphor 
✔ Vaseline 

Moisturizer

Since Vaseline is just 100% petroleum jelly, it cannot act as a moisturizer. Aquaphor, on the other hand, can act as a moisturizer thanks to glycerin, lanolin, mineral oil and panthenol.

✔ Aquaphor 
✗ Vaseline 

Lips

Both Aquaphor and Vaseline are great for the lips. Vaseline will simply protect the lips from moisture loss and reduce irritations from wind or extremely cold weather. Aquaphor can help to moisturize and soothe the lips so it’s a better choice for those wanting to treat chapped lips.

✔ Aquaphor 
✔ Vaseline 

Tattoos

Vaseline is not recommended for tattoos because it creates a barrier over the skin and oxygen cannot get through, which is essential for wound healing.

Since Aquaphor has some added ingredients, it creates a barrier but oxygen can still get through to help heal the wound.

✔Aquaphor 
✗ Vaseline 

Sunburns

Neither Vaseline or Aquaphor should be used to treat sunburns because they trap the heat. You should use aloe or other after sun lotions instead.

✗ Aquaphor 
✗ Vaseline 

Slugging

Both Aquaphor and Vaseline are great options for face or slugging. Personally I prefer the thinner texture of Aquaphor and the additional moisturizing and soothing ingredients. But Vaseline for slugging is great for those with sensitive or reactive skin.

✔ Aquaphor 
✔ Vaseline 

Eyelashes

When it comes to Vaseline vs Aquaphor for eyelashes, neither one is really a great option. Although Aquaphor could be used to help hydrate and nourish lashes, neither occlusives really have any benefit here. Something like Argan oil for eyelashes will be much better to nourish and promote growth.

✗ Aquaphor 
✗ Vaseline 

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline Differences

Here are the main differences between aquaphor and vaseline to help you decide which best for you

Other Ways To Use Aquaphor or Vaseline

With these multi-purpose healing ointments, the uses are truly endless, but here are some great ways to use these products in your routine. And some of them may surprise you!

Lip Balm

Once I started using healing ointments as lip balms, I never looked back. I love to use them at night esepcially and wake up with soft, smooth lips each morning. Let me tell you, they are a lifesaver when it comes to chapped lips in the winter!

Cuticle Cream

There’s nothing worse than hangnails and dry cuticles, but these healing ointments save the day. Just apply some to your cuticles at night and you’ll wake up nails that look like you just had a manicure.

Slugging/Moisturizing

Honestly it’s a terrible name but can do wonders for the skin. Slugging has become insanely popular thanks to Reddit and other skincare influencers. The slugging method is simply using an ointment like Aquaphor or Vaseline on top of your moisturizer to lock in hydration and moisture.

Slugging is mostly used at night, but you can also do it during the day. It helps keep your products from rubbing off onto your pillows and sheets so they stay on your skin and work their magic.

When you wake up, your skin will be softer, smoother, insanely hydrated and have a serious glow. The slug method changed my life.

Slugging with aquaphor vs vaseline really comes down to personal preference. I prefer the thinner texture of the aquaphor.

Healing Cuts Or Scrapes

Vaseline and Aquaphor are both great for helping to heal scrapes and cuts. Vaseline is a petroleum based product so it’s a little thicker and can protect wounds from outside contamination. Aquaphor is more beneficial because it contains other ingredients that help minimize the appearance of scars. Both products have benefits so it’s up to you which one you would prefer.

Lash Conditioner

Everyone wants those bat-worthy lashes without the price and upkeep of extensions. Vaseline and Aquaphor have entered the chat…

Just apply to your lashes at night (or during the day if you don’t wear makeup!) to help condition lashes and prevent breakage

Soften Feet

It’s not an at-home pedicure without slathering on some ointment and putting socks on top. Not only can Aquaphor and Vaseline help soften, smooth and moisturize calloused feet, but they can also help heal cracked heels.

Healing Tattoos

Aquaphor is often recommended by tattoo artists to help heal tattoos. However, Vaseline is not usually recommended, so when it comes to fresh ink, stick with Aquaphor Healing Ointment.

Extend Your Fragrance

There’s nothing worse than finding your perfect scent then realizing it just doesn’t last. Add some ointment and then spray your favorite fragrance to help it last longer.

Makeup Remover

Vaseline and Aquaphor are incredibly effective makeup removers while being gentle on the skin (especially the delicate eye area). Massage into dry skin and follow up with your favorite cleanser.

Prevent Self-Tan Mishaps

A thick ointment is the perfect barrier to keep self-tan from causing dark knees, heels and elbows. Just add a little before you apply self tan and it will come out perfect everytime!

Aquaphor Vs Vaseline: FAQ’s

Will Aquaphor Or Vaseline Clog Pores?

One of the most asked questions about using occlusives is “does Aquaphor clog pores?” And for good reason – it’s a common misconception that anything thick and heavy clogs pores. But is aquaphor comedogenic? Because of the thick texture, many people think these ointments will clog pores and cause acne. However, they are actually noncomedogenic, meaning they do not clog pores. Rest assured, Aquaphor and Vaseline won’t cause acne or clog your pores!

Can Aquaphor Cause Acne?

Does aquaphor cause acne? The short answer is: it depends. Aquaphor is a petroleum-based ointment that is commonly used to treat dry skin, chapped lips, and minor cuts and scrapes. Aquaphor is non-comedogenic, meaning that it won’t clog pores. However, aquaphor can still cause acne breakouts in some people. This is because Aquaphor has added ingredients like lanolin alcohol which some people may have a reaction to and cause breakouts.

Is Aquaphor Less Greasy Than Vaseline?

Both products are incredibly nourishing and moisturizing, but Aquaphor doesn’t feel as greasy on the skin because of the added ingredients like mineral oil and lanolin.

Is Aquaphor and Vaseline the same thing?

Many people wonder is aquaphor the same as vaseline?

Although Aquaphor and Vaseline are both occlusives and great options for healing, they’re not the same. Aquaphor has a ton of additional ingredients like mineral oil, panthenol and glycerin which can help to hydrate and soothe skin. Whereas vaseline is just 100% petroleum jelly.

Is Vaseline As Good As Aquaphor?

Well, it depends. While Aquaphor has more benefits thanks to its hydrating and moisturizing ingredients, Vaseline is the better choice for those with sensitive or reactive skin and even acne-prone skin because petroleum jelly is non-comedogenic which means it won’t clog pores or cause any breakouts. Since Aquaphor has added ingredients, there’s an increased risk for breakouts or other irritations.

Vaseline should also not be used on tattoos to allow for proper healing.

Is Aquaphor or Vaseline better for dry skin?

Aquaphor and Vaseline are both petrolatum-based ointments that are popular for treating dry skin. However, there are a few key differences between the two products. Aquaphor contains additional ingredients to help hydrate and moisturize, while Vaseline is pure petrolatum.

So, Aquaphor is better for treating dry, cracked, or irritated skin.

Shop Aquaphor Healing Ointment

Sold on the powers of Aquaphor Healing Ointment? From body spray, lip balm to the classic jar of Aquaphor, get it now!

Shop Vaseline Healing Jelly

Wanting to start the slugging method with some Vaseline? Or maybe you want to try it out as a lip balm. Shop the best picks below!

Which Is Better Vaseline or Aquaphor?

There’s a lot of debate about which is better for your skin: aquaphor vs vaseline. Both products have their pros and cons, so it really depends on your individual skin type and needs. Aquaphor is often considered to be more hydrating than vaseline, making it a good choice for people with dry skin. It also doesn’t clog pores, so it’s suitable for people with acne-prone skin. On the other hand, vaseline is cheaper and easier to find than aquaphor.

Personally, I prefer Aquaphor over Vaseline just because of the texture – it’s thinner and lighter which means it feels less sticky and goopy when using for slugging. I also find that it helps to heal and hydrate my skin more than Vaseline.

Vaseline Vs Aquaphor: Wrap Up

While both Vaseline and Aquaphor are dermatologist recommended, multi-tasking healing ointments, they do have quite a few differences. But really, it comes down to personal preference. Some prefer the thinner consistency of Aquaphor, while other prefer the cheapness of Vaseline.

When it comes to Aquaphor Vs Petroleum Jelly, which do you prefer? Aquaphor always wins in my book for its extra nourishing ingredients and thinner consistency that just feels better on the skin.

Whatever ointment you choose, they have incredible benefits for the skin. And next time you burn yourself with your curling iron, you’ll be glad you have some on hand. From diaper rash on your baby all the way to stronger lashes, Aquaphor or Vaseline can help with a variety of beauty and skin problems.

Related To Vaseline Or Aquaphor:

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Aquaphor Vs Vaseline