5 Surprising Ways to Use Aquaphor Healing Ointment

Multi-Use

This drugstore staple is a beauty editor’s secret weapon for way more than just dry lips.

Expert Analysis · Honest Reviews · Real Results

1.💋Beyond the Tube

I keep a tub of Aquaphor on my nightstand. Not for my lips.

The real hack? It’s a barrier, not a moisturizer. It locks in whatever treatment you put underneath — that’s the magic.

2.✨The Swiss Army Balm

It’s a $6 petrolatum-based ointment. I bought it for cracked heels. The “protects minor cuts” claim made me experiment.

Smooths ragged edges overnight — no more hangnails.

A dab on cheekbones over makeup gives a glass-skin sheen.

A thin layer on wrists neutralizes stubborn perfume before a re-spray.

Photo: Christian Agbede / Unsplash

3.👁️What’s Actually In It

It’s simple. Petrolatum is the occlusive star, sealing everything in. Glycerin pulls water to the skin.

The rest are skin-soothers. Nothing fancy, which is the point.

Photo: Fleur Kaan / Unsplash

4.💅The Feel Test

It’s a clear, glossy jelly. Thick and sticky on the finger — you think it’ll never sink in.

Surprise: it doesn’t “sink in.” It forms an invisible, flexible seal. My skin felt protected, not suffocated.

💡

One Thing: Warm a pea-sized amount between your fingers first. It applies as a thin, even film instead of a glob.

5.👃The Real Deal

My tretinoin peeling vanished. A paper cut healed in a day. But it did nothing for my deep-set under-eye lines — as expected.

✅

Buy if

You use actives (retinol, acids) and need a buffer, or have any compromised skin barrier.

⏭️

Skip if

You hate any tactile residue or are looking for a standalone moisturizer.

💰

Worth it?

Absolutely. The $6 tube lasts a year. It’s first aid and beauty in one.

6.🦶Final Call

It’s not sexy. It’s functional. And that’s why every beauty cabinet needs it.

9.0/10

A utilitarian multitasker that delivers.

🛍️

Where to Buy: Any drugstore. Get the tiny tube first to test the texture.