Why shouldn't I put petroleum jelly on my lips?

Dr. Michael Roizen, MD

Internal Medicine

Don't put Vaseline on your lips. Vaseline is made from the goop that comes from oil drills (petroleum jelly, remember?), so it's something you don't want too close to your mouth because you'll ingest little bits each day. Instead, use cocoa butter or Burt's Bees Balm to moisten up dry lips (they use beeswax -- good for bees, ok for you).

More About this Book

YOU: Being Beautiful: The Owner's Manual to Inner and Outer Beauty

Most people think that beauty revolves around such things as lipstick, sweet eyes, or skinny jeans -- all those things that we can see (and obsess over) in the mirror. But the fact is that beauty...

Continue Learning about Skin Care

Patient perspectives: living life with atopic dermatitis

From navigating cooler seasons to treating flare-ups in the workplace, atopic dermatitis patients are finding creative ways to manage their condition....

9-minute meditation for atopic dermatitis

Regular meditation can improve the quality of life for people with atopic dermatitis.

When surgery is not the best option for BCC

Anyone who begins researching basal cell carcinoma (BCC) will quickly come across a wealth of information about the various surgical techniques and ot...

7 skin care mistakes you don't have to make

Think your complexion is the product of your genes? Your daily health and skin care habits can make or break your appearance. "Only about 10 percent ...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Features:

Condition Headquarters:

Why shouldn't I put petroleum jelly on my lips?

Continue Learning about Skin Care