Vegas Vaseline: Desert Air Cracking Summer Youth?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert sun beats down relentlessly, and the air crackles with dryness. It’s a daily battle against the elements here in Las Vegas, and our skin often pays the price. We’re constantly searching for that miracle cure, that secret weapon to combat the harsh realities of our climate.
Vaseline. Yes, that simple, unassuming jar of petroleum jelly sitting on your drugstore shelf. It’s not glamorous, it’s not trendy, but it might just be the most effective weapon in your Vegas skincare arsenal.
Let’s dive into how to use Vaseline to protect your skin from the brutal Las Vegas climate.
First, understand the enemy: Trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). This is the process where water evaporates from your skin, leaving it dry, flaky, and prone to cracking. The desert air accelerates TEWL, leading to premature aging and discomfort.
Vaseline acts as an occlusive. It creates a physical barrier on the skin, preventing water from escaping. Think of it as a shield against the desert’s dehydrating powers.
Now, let’s get specific. How do we apply this knowledge in our daily lives here in the Valley?
The Face: Nighttime Rescue
The biggest mistake people make is applying Vaseline to a dirty face. Always cleanse thoroughly before applying.
Apply a thin layer of Vaseline as the last step in your nighttime skincare routine. This “slugging” technique seals in all the hydrating products you’ve already applied, maximizing their effectiveness.
Avoid applying Vaseline too thickly, especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin. A pea-sized amount is usually sufficient for the entire face.
Challenge: Some people find Vaseline too greasy for daytime use. Solution: Stick to nighttime application or use it sparingly on extremely dry patches.
Pitfall: Applying Vaseline over active acne can trap bacteria and worsen breakouts. Solution: Avoid applying Vaseline directly to pimples.
Hands: The Constant Battle
Our hands are constantly exposed to the elements and frequent washing, making them particularly vulnerable to dryness.
Keep a small jar of Vaseline by your sink and apply it after each hand wash. This is especially crucial during the summer when the air conditioning further dries out your skin.
For severely dry hands, try the “Vaseline glove treatment.” Before bed, apply a generous layer of Vaseline to your hands, then cover them with cotton gloves. This allows the Vaseline to deeply penetrate the skin overnight.
Common Mistake: Forgetting to apply Vaseline to the cuticles. Solution: Massage Vaseline into your cuticles daily to prevent them from cracking and peeling.
Vegas Local Testimonial: “I work as a bartender on the Strip, and my hands are constantly in water. The Vaseline glove treatment has been a lifesaver! My hands used to be cracked and bleeding, but now they’re soft and smooth.” - Maria, Las Vegas.
Feet: Sandal Season Savior
Cracked heels are a common problem in Las Vegas, especially during sandal season.
Before bed, soak your feet in warm water for 10-15 minutes. This helps to soften the skin and allows the Vaseline to penetrate more effectively.
After soaking, apply a thick layer of Vaseline to your feet, focusing on the heels and any other dry areas. Cover your feet with cotton socks overnight.
Challenge: The feeling of Vaseline on your feet can be uncomfortable. Solution: Wear loose-fitting cotton socks to minimize the sensation.
Pitfall: Walking around barefoot after applying Vaseline can be slippery and dangerous. Solution: Always wear socks or slippers after applying Vaseline to your feet.
Sun Sensitivity: A Crucial Consideration
Vaseline itself does not provide sun protection. In fact, some argue that it can amplify the sun’s rays.
Always apply sunscreen before applying Vaseline during the day. This ensures that your skin is protected from harmful UV rays.
Look for sunscreens that are non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and broad-spectrum (protect against both UVA and UVB rays).
Actionable Insight: Consider using a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are generally considered safer and more effective than chemical sunscreens.
Product Buildup: The Exfoliation Solution
Over time, Vaseline can trap dead skin cells and other impurities on the skin’s surface, leading to buildup.
Exfoliate your skin regularly to remove dead skin cells and prevent buildup. Use a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant (like glycolic acid or salicylic acid) 1-2 times per week.
Vegas Specific Tip: The dry air can make exfoliation even more important. Don’t over-exfoliate, as this can further irritate the skin.
Beyond the Basics: Niche Applications
- Chapped Lips: Vaseline is a classic remedy for chapped lips. Apply a thin layer throughout the day, especially before going outside.
- Nasal Dryness: A small dab of Vaseline inside the nostrils can help to relieve nasal dryness caused by the dry air.
- Eczema Relief: Vaseline can help to soothe and protect eczema-prone skin. Apply it liberally to affected areas after bathing.
- Minor Cuts and Scrapes: Vaseline can help to keep minor cuts and scrapes moist and protected, promoting faster healing.
Addressing Common Concerns
- "Vaseline clogs my pores": While Vaseline is occlusive, it’s also non-comedogenic, meaning it doesn’t contain ingredients known to clog pores. However, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, use it sparingly and cleanse your skin thoroughly.
- "Vaseline makes my skin feel greasy": Apply a thin layer and allow it to absorb into the skin. If it still feels too greasy, try using it only at night.
- "Vaseline doesn’t hydrate my skin": Vaseline doesn’t add moisture to the skin; it prevents moisture from escaping. Always apply it over a hydrating moisturizer.
The Verdict: A Vegas Staple
Vaseline is not a miracle cure, but it’s a powerful tool in the fight against dry desert air. By understanding how it works and using it correctly, you can protect your skin from cracking, premature aging, and discomfort.
So, grab that jar of Vaseline and make it a part of your daily routine. Your skin will thank you. And remember, a little goes a long way in the dry heat of Las Vegas.