**Vegas Vaseline: Desert Air Trapping Pores?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert air of Las Vegas: it’s a siren song for sun-seekers, but a potential nightmare for your skin. Many chase hydration with heavy occlusives like Vaseline, only to find themselves battling breakouts. Is Vaseline the enemy? Not necessarily, but its misuse in this unique climate can lead to clogged pores and unhappy skin. Let’s dive into how to use (or avoid) Vaseline in Vegas, baby!
Vaseline, or petrolatum, is a powerful occlusive. It creates a barrier on the skin, preventing water loss. This can be a godsend in extremely dry environments. However, in Las Vegas, the dryness is often coupled with intense heat and sun exposure. This combination can turn Vaseline from a protector into a pore-clogging culprit.
The problem isn’t necessarily the Vaseline itself, but what it traps underneath. Dead skin cells, sweat, and sebum can accumulate under the occlusive layer, leading to breakouts. This is especially true for those with oily or acne-prone skin, which is surprisingly common even in a desert climate due to genetics and lifestyle factors.
So, what’s a Vegas resident to do? Ditch Vaseline entirely? Not so fast. The key is understanding your skin type and using Vaseline strategically.
First, identify your skin type. Are you oily, dry, combination, or sensitive? This will dictate how your skin reacts to occlusives. Many people in Las Vegas mistakenly believe they have dry skin due to the climate, when they actually have dehydrated skin. Dehydrated skin lacks water, while dry skin lacks oil. Vaseline addresses the latter, but can exacerbate the former if not used carefully.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, proceed with caution. Vaseline might not be your best friend. Consider lighter occlusives like squalane oil or shea butter. These provide a barrier without being as heavy or comedogenic (pore-clogging) as Vaseline. You can find excellent squalane oil options at Sephora in the Fashion Show Mall or at Ulta Beauty on Rainbow Boulevard.
For those with dry skin, Vaseline can be a valuable tool, but proper cleansing is crucial. Think of it as a “slugging” treatment, but with careful consideration. “Slugging” involves applying a thick layer of occlusive to the face as the last step in your nighttime skincare routine.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to safe Vaseline use in Las Vegas:
Cleanse thoroughly: Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser to remove all traces of makeup, dirt, and oil. Double cleansing is recommended, especially if you wear makeup or sunscreen. The first cleanse should be an oil-based cleanser to dissolve oil-based impurities, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove any residue. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, widely available at Walgreens and CVS pharmacies across Las Vegas, is a solid, affordable option.
Apply hydrating serums: Before Vaseline, layer on hydrating serums containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These will draw moisture into the skin, which the Vaseline will then help to trap. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, available at Sephora, is a popular and effective choice.
Apply a thin layer of Vaseline: A little goes a long way. Focus on areas that are particularly dry, such as around the eyes or mouth. Avoid applying Vaseline to areas prone to breakouts.
Cleanse thoroughly in the morning: This is non-negotiable. Use a gentle cleanser to remove all traces of Vaseline. Skipping this step is a recipe for clogged pores.
A common mistake is applying Vaseline to dirty skin. This traps impurities and leads to breakouts. Another mistake is using too much Vaseline. A thick layer can suffocate the skin and prevent it from breathing.
Consider alternative occlusives. Lanolin, found in nipple creams like Lansinoh (available at Target), is a fantastic occlusive with moisturizing properties. It’s thicker than Vaseline but can be very effective for extremely dry skin. Aquaphor is another popular option, offering a blend of petrolatum, lanolin, and other moisturizing ingredients.
Adapting your skincare routine to the Las Vegas climate is essential. The dry air can strip moisture from the skin, so hydration is key. Use a humidifier in your bedroom, especially during the winter months when the air is even drier. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
For daytime use, focus on lightweight, hydrating products with SPF. A gel-based moisturizer with hyaluronic acid and a broad-spectrum sunscreen are essential. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, available at many dermatologists’ offices in Las Vegas, is a highly recommended sunscreen that won’t clog pores.
Nighttime is the time to focus on repair and hydration. Use a richer moisturizer with ingredients like ceramides or peptides. Consider incorporating a hydrating mask into your routine once or twice a week.
Consult a dermatologist. If you’re struggling with breakouts, a dermatologist can help you identify your skin type and develop a personalized skincare routine. There are many excellent dermatologists in Las Vegas, such as those at the Las Vegas Skin & Cancer Clinics.
Finally, remember that skincare is a journey, not a destination. What works for one person may not work for another. Experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for your skin. Don’t be afraid to adjust your routine as the seasons change or as your skin’s needs evolve. And most importantly, listen to your skin. It will tell you what it needs.