Realising you’ve developed fine lines under the eyes is one of the low points of ageing. It changes the way we perceive ourselves and how we think the world sees us. It’s why eye cream and serums have a moment in most skincare routines. But are eye products a necessary outlay or can you find an everyday product that will do just as good a job? Plenty of people, including skincare experts, believe Vaseline is an effective alternative.
Found in virtually every medicine cupboard, this is a product revered for its healing properties. Commonly used to treat cracked heels and a variety of common skin conditions, Vaseline has been around since the 1800s. Cruelty-free and made from ingredients that include aloe vera, cocoa butter and vitamins, it has a distinctive balmy feel and unique fragrance. Compared to popular caffeine eye serums, for example, this multi-use jelly is cheap too. A 50ml jar will set you back under £2.
Tired of having to find the cash to replenish my expensive go-to under-eye product, I decided to use Vaseline instead - to find out if it is as effective. During a week-long trial period, I used both the skin protectant moisturiser and lip balm - whichever was closest to hand. Before we delve into how I got on, here is some information about Vaseline and how it works.
What is Vaseline and why might it be good for the under-eye area?
Vaseline is a trademarked brand and its main active ingredient is petroleum jelly. While considered a universal skincare product, it is recognised for its ability to moisturise the skin deeply. What many people don’t know is that it actively supports the skin barrier by repairing and protecting it.
Vaseline has a distinctive structure that allows it to penetrate multiple layers of skin. The real magic is what it does once it has delivered moisturisation. It ‘re-crystalises’, replenishing lost lipids and encouraging the skin to repair itself. Lipids are fatty acids that include natural oils which the skin needs to stay healthy. The makers of Vaseline say that the formula has the ability to melt into the spaces between cells, providing advanced benefits.
It’s worth noting that this skincare product won’t clog your pores and is hypoallergenic. It’s also a non-irritant. Many skincare experts recommend it as a barrier product - to lock moisture into the skin. It can be used over a serum during the evening for this very reason.
Using Vaseline as an eye cream
My approach to incorporating Vaseline into my morning and evening skincare routines was pretty simple - I used it in the place of an eye cream in the mornings and a serum in the evenings. I applied a small amount to cleansed and toned skin, gently patting the product into the under-eye area.
In the mornings, I applied Vaseline under the eyes before I used a makeup primer.
My under-eye skin concerns include fine lines and they are what I was hoping to target with Vaseline.
The results?
I found Vaseline as effective as any dedicated eye product I’ve used. It smoothes and plumps the under-eye area, diminishing fine lines. It can help makeup sit better on the skin and stop foundation and finishing powder from settling in fine lines. So, if you are aiming for flawless, give Vaseline a try the next time you prep your face. You only need to use a tiny amount.
While Vaseline will not erase deep wrinkles or dark circles - it doesn’t have brightening properties - it does deliver effective plumping. The skin feels soft, moisturised and super comfortable.
Considering how cheap this product is and how long a jar lasts, it works out as an inexpensive alternative to bespoke eye formulas. Trust me, you can quickly get used to its unique smell!
I’m writing this feature at a time when trending skincare influencers are saying out loud that eye creams are not a necessity. Many say a simple moisturiser will do. And, with Vaseline providing so many benefits, why not reach that instead? It will deliver results while protecting the skin, and you will save yourself tons of money.
Learn about the fascinating history of Vaseline here.
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