**Vegas Vaseline: Desert Air Stealing Summer Smoothness?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 3, 2025

Forget those generic skincare routines you read online. They’re useless here. Las Vegas demands a different approach, a battle plan against the relentless sun and soul-crushing dryness.

Here’s how Las Vegas residents can weaponize Vaseline and other occlusive moisturizers to survive and thrive in this desert climate.

First, understand your enemy: the Mojave Desert. It’s not just hot; it’s dehydrating. The low humidity sucks moisture from your skin faster than you can say “blackjack.” UV radiation is also significantly higher than in many other parts of the country, leading to premature aging and increased risk of skin cancer.

Vaseline, or petrolatum, is an occlusive. This means it forms a physical barrier on the skin, preventing water loss. Think of it as a shield against the desert’s moisture-thieving ways. It doesn’t add moisture; it traps what’s already there.

Step 1: The Hydration Foundation

Don’t just slap Vaseline on dry skin. That’s like putting a lid on an empty pot. You need to hydrate first.

• Shower Smart: Keep showers short and lukewarm. Hot water strips away natural oils. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.
• Hyaluronic Acid Hero: Apply a hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin immediately after showering. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into your skin. In Vegas, you might need to mist your face with water after applying the serum to give it something to grab onto.
• Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize: Follow the serum with a rich, emollient moisturizer. Look for ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, or squalane. These help to repair the skin barrier and lock in moisture.

Step 2: The Vaseline Veil

Now, the Vaseline comes in. Apply a thin layer of Vaseline over your moisturizer. This creates that occlusive barrier, preventing the precious hydration from escaping.

• Face: Use a pea-sized amount for your entire face. Focus on areas prone to dryness, like around the eyes and mouth.
• Lips: Las Vegas lips are notoriously chapped. Apply Vaseline liberally throughout the day, especially before going outside. Consider a lip balm with SPF during the day.
• Body: After showering and moisturizing, apply Vaseline to areas like elbows, knees, and heels. For extremely dry skin, try “slugging” – applying a thicker layer of Vaseline to your entire body before bed. Wear loose clothing to avoid feeling sticky.

Step 3: Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable

Vaseline doesn’t protect against the sun. It’s crucial to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every single day, even on cloudy days.

• Application Order: Apply sunscreen after your moisturizer and Vaseline. Sunscreen needs to form a protective layer on the skin.
• Reapplication is Key: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming. Set a timer on your phone to remind you.
• Don’t Forget the Details: Apply sunscreen to your ears, neck, and the backs of your hands. These areas are often overlooked.

Challenges and Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)

• Clogged Pores (Acne): Vaseline is non-comedogenic, meaning it shouldn’t clog pores. However, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, it can trap oil and debris, leading to breakouts.
  • Solution: Use Vaseline sparingly, and only on areas that are truly dry. Double cleanse at night to remove all traces of makeup, sunscreen, and Vaseline. Consider using a lighter occlusive, like mineral oil, which may be less likely to cause breakouts.
• Heat Rash: In the summer, Vaseline can trap heat and sweat, leading to heat rash.
  • Solution: Avoid using Vaseline on areas that sweat heavily, like your back or chest. Opt for breathable clothing and stay in air-conditioned environments as much as possible.
• Active Individuals: If you’re hitting the trails at Red Rock Canyon, Vaseline can feel greasy and uncomfortable.
  • Solution: Use a lighter occlusive, like a balm with beeswax or shea butter. These provide some protection without feeling as heavy. Reapply frequently, especially after sweating.
• Seniors: As we age, our skin becomes thinner and drier. Vaseline can be a lifesaver, but it can also make skin feel slippery, increasing the risk of falls.
  • Solution: Apply Vaseline sparingly, and only to areas that are truly dry. Use non-slip mats in the bathroom and wear shoes with good traction.

Real-World Scenarios

• The Casino Worker: Long hours under harsh fluorescent lights can dry out the skin. Keep a small jar of Vaseline at your workstation and apply it to your lips and hands throughout the day.
• The Golfer: Hours on the golf course mean intense sun exposure. Apply sunscreen religiously, and use Vaseline to protect your lips and any exposed skin.
• The Hiker: The dry desert air can quickly dehydrate your skin. Drink plenty of water, and use a balm with beeswax or shea butter to protect your skin from the elements.

Beyond Vaseline: Other Occlusive Options

While Vaseline is a classic, there are other occlusive moisturizers to consider:

• Aquaphor: Similar to Vaseline, but contains additional ingredients like lanolin and panthenol, which can help to soothe and heal irritated skin.
• CeraVe Healing Ointment: Contains ceramides, which help to repair the skin barrier.
• Mineral Oil: A lightweight occlusive that is less likely to clog pores than Vaseline.

The Las Vegas Skincare Secret

The key to surviving and thriving in the Las Vegas climate is to understand the unique challenges it presents. By combining hydration, occlusive moisturizers, and sun protection, you can keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and protected from the harsh desert elements. Don’t just exist; flourish.