Vaseline, a brand-name version of petroleum jelly, can be used to moisturize dry skin anywhere on the body, including the eyelids.
Petroleum jelly is a thick jelly that forms a moisture barrier on the skin, allowing moisture to be trapped and the skin to be protected from the elements. It is okay to put Vaseline on the eyelids unless you have an allergy to petroleum jelly or find it uncomfortable.
Is Vaseline Effective for Dry Eyelids?
Vaseline can be used to treat a variety of dry eyelid problems. It can be used to prevent moisture loss from the eyelids by people who discover their skin is dry or irritated during the dry, cold winter months. Some people use it as a moisturizer or as a complement to regular eye treatments to prevent wrinkles.
Some doctors also recommend Vaseline for specific dry eye disorders. It may help with blepharitis, which causes dry, itchy eyelids, as well as dysfunction in the lubricating meibomian glands.
Vaseline’s petroleum jelly can also help keep wounds moist. This may aid in the prevention of scarring. The skin on the eyelids is very thin, and exposure to the sun increases the risk of scarring.
Petroleum jelly, unlike some lotions and serums, is not a moisturizer. Instead, it acts as a moisture barrier. This means that it stops moisture from exiting the eyelids and makes moisture passage more difficult. As a result, it works best when used in conjunction with other moisturizing products.
Is It Safe?
When used appropriately, petroleum jelly is harmless, although it does come with some hazards, as any skin treatments do.
Petroleum jelly is made from unrefined petroleum jelly. Carcinogens and other harmful substances may be present in the unprocessed form. A person who buys generic products should make sure they originate from a reputable producer.
Inhaling petroleum jelly, especially Vaseline, is dangerous. After applying petroleum jelly, a person should avoid putting it in their nose or rubbing their nose. While inhaling tiny amounts of Vaseline is probably safe, continuous inhalation or exposure might cause exogenous lipoid pneumonia, a rare type of pneumonia.
How To Use Safely
Before using Vaseline, people with excessively dry eyelids or broken skin should consult a doctor. On the other hand, Vaseline is generally harmless for those without allergies or severe dry skin issues.
Try the following with Vaseline:
● Vaseline should be applied on the eyelids. Avoid rubbing Vaseline near the tear ducts or along the lash line, since this might cause it to get into your eyes.
● To avoid getting Vaseline in your mouth or nose, wash your hands after applying it.
● Patch-testing should be done first if you have extremely sensitive skin. Wait 24–48 hours after applying Vaseline to a corner of the eyelid to observe if there is a reaction. It is safe to use if there is no skin reaction.
● Applying it before bed allows it to absorb more quickly and avoids the possibility of it interfering with the absorption of other eye products.
Treatment options for dry eyelids
Medical therapy may be required for some dry eyelid diseases. For blepharitis, a doctor may prescribe medicine, anti-dandruff shampoo, or warm compresses.
The following are some options for dry eyelids:
● Use sunglasses and sunscreen to protect the eyes from the sun.
● Use serums or moisturizers on the eyelids
● If your eyes are dry, you can use artificial tears.
● If Vaseline or other home therapies do not improve the skin within a few weeks or are excessively flushed or painful, a person should see a doctor.
People who feel their eyelids are dry or sore after using Vaseline or another moisturizer may have an allergy or intolerance to the product. They should discontinue the use of the product and seek medical advice.
