For many of us, Vaseline is a household staple, often used for diaper rash or as a lip balm. However, over the past few years, a surprising new use for this multipurpose product has emerged—under-eye hydration! Many TikTokers and beauty enthusiasts are swearing by the magic of Vaseline when it comes to helping plump up the under-eye area and combat dryness. But can it really work? Is it safe? And is there a downside to this simple remedy? We’ll break it down for you with expert insight.

Dr. Muneeb Shah's Expert Take on Using Vaseline for Under-Eye Hydration

In a viral TikTok video, Dr. Muneeb Shah, a well-known dermatologist, offered his expert take on using Vaseline under the eyes. In his video, which garnered over 8 million views, Dr. Shah explains that Vaseline—also known as petroleum jelly—could be a game-changer for skin care, especially for people with dry under-eye areas.

According to Dr. Muneeb, "Pure Vaseline is actually the most effective occlusive moisturizer, and it prevents 99% of water loss while you sleep." He goes on to mention that Vaseline is an excellent tool for boosting skin hydration. When used under the eyes, it traps moisture in the skin, keeping the area hydrated throughout the night.

What Does ‘Occlusive’ Mean, and Why is it Important for Under-Eye Skin?

An occlusive moisturizer refers to a product that creates a barrier over the skin to prevent moisture loss. In the case of Vaseline, it works by sealing in hydration from other skincare products, like your regular moisturizer. This allows the skin beneath your eyes to retain moisture, preventing dryness and keeping the skin plump.

Dr. Muneeb recommends applying Vaseline on top of a hydrating moisturizer (like one containing ceramides) for maximum benefits. The combo helps ensure the moisture stays locked in, giving your under-eye skin that sought-after plump, hydrated look.

Why Vaseline Works for Under-Eye Skin

The skin under the eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of the face. It’s often one of the first places to show signs of aging, dryness, and fatigue. The under-eye area can easily become dehydrated because it lacks sebaceous (oil) glands, making it more vulnerable to dryness.

Vaseline helps because it acts as a thick layer of protection that prevents the skin from losing precious moisture. When you sleep, your skin goes into repair mode, and Vaseline helps to enhance this process by keeping the moisture in place, allowing the under-eye area to recover.

Dr. Muneeb’s Step-by-Step Method for Using Vaseline Under Your Eyes:

1. Start with a gentle moisturizer: Apply your regular moisturizer that includes hydrating ingredients, such as ceramides, which are known for their skin barrier repair properties.

2. Apply a small amount of Vaseline: Use a small, pea-sized amount of Vaseline and gently dab it over the under-eye area. You don’t need to slather it on thickly; just a thin layer will suffice.

3. Let it sink in: Allow the Vaseline to sink in for a few minutes. You can apply it before bed and let it work overnight. If you’re applying it during the day, you can layer it under your makeup to lock in the moisture.

Dr. Shah notes that this method can work wonders for those who have dry skin or fine lines around their eyes. However, he does caution that if you’re prone to milia—those tiny white bumps that can form under the eyes—you might want to steer clear of using Vaseline.

Potential Side Effects: Could Vaseline Cause Milia?

One of the main concerns with using Vaseline on the delicate under-eye skin is the risk of developing milia—small white bumps that appear on the skin due to clogged pores. Although there’s limited research on this specific issue, Dr. Muneeb shares that many of his patients have reported developing milia after using thick, occlusive products like Vaseline.

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However, this is not a universal issue. Most people will not experience milia when using Vaseline, but if you notice any white bumps or irritation around your eyes, it’s best to stop using the product and consult a dermatologist.

Should You Use Vaseline or Opt for an Eye Cream?

While Vaseline is an affordable, accessible option for some, it’s not a cure-all. If you’re looking to target specific under-eye concerns such as dark circles or puffiness, you might want to consider eye creams designed for those issues. Eye creams contain specific active ingredients that can address these problems, such as:

• Vitamin C: Brightens the skin and helps reduce dark circles.

• Caffeine: Reduces puffiness and tightens the skin around the eyes.

• Retinol: Speeds up cell turnover and can help reduce fine lines.

Many eye creams also contain peptides and hyaluronic acid, both of which help hydrate the delicate under-eye skin and plump it up over time.

Recommended Eye Creams for Various Concerns

While Vaseline is great for providing hydration, it may not be suitable for addressing all under-eye issues. Here are some recommendations for eye creams that cater to different needs:

• CeraVe Eye Repair Cream: Best for dry, tired eyes, as it contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and restore the skin’s natural barrier.

• The Inkey List Caffeine Eye Serum: A good choice for people with puffiness and dark circles. Caffeine helps constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling.

• L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Brightening Eye Cream: This product includes glycolic acid, which helps brighten dark circles while improving the skin’s texture.

• Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream: A luxury option for people looking to hydrate and reduce fine lines, this eye cream combines marine algae with squalane for ultimate moisture retention.

If you’re unsure about what works best for your skin type, a dermatologist can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs.

When Should You Start Using an Eye Cream?

According to Dr. Muneeb, starting eye care early can help prevent premature aging around the eyes. In fact, it’s never too early to begin! Here’s when different ingredients may be most beneficial for your under-eye concerns:

• Teens: If you’re noticing puffiness or tired eyes, an eye cream with caffeine may be useful.

• Late 20s: Fine lines and early signs of aging can benefit from an eye cream with retinol.

• 30s and Beyond: If dark circles due to pigmentation are a concern, an eye cream with brightening ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide will help.

Conclusion: Vaseline for Hydration, Eye Creams for Specific Concerns

In conclusion, while Vaseline is a great and affordable option for hydrating the under-eye area, it’s not the cure-all for every eye issue. It’s especially useful for those with dry skin and fine lines, as it provides a powerful occlusive barrier that locks in moisture overnight. However, if you're dealing with specific issues like dark circles, puffiness, or wrinkles, you may want to consider using a specialized eye cream.

Ultimately, whether you choose Vaseline or opt for a more targeted eye cream, consistency is key. By incorporating these products into your skincare routine, you can help keep the delicate skin around your eyes looking fresh, hydrated, and youthful.

Remember, every skin type is different, so it’s always a good idea to consult a dermatologist to figure out what works best for you.