Aquaphor vs. Vaseline: What's the Difference?

Dermatologists explain the key ingredients and uses for these iconic skincare products.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:30pm

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Aquaphor and Vaseline are both popular petroleum-based ointments used to protect and heal the skin, but they have some key differences in their formulas. Vaseline is made of 100% pure petroleum jelly, while Aquaphor contains additional moisturizing ingredients like mineral oil, lanolin, and glycerin. Dermatologists weigh in on when to use each product and which one may be better for sensitive skin types.

Why it matters

As two of the most widely recognized and recommended skincare products, understanding the differences between Aquaphor and Vaseline can help consumers choose the right one for their specific skin needs and concerns. This information is valuable for anyone looking to protect, heal, or deeply moisturize their skin.

The details

Vaseline has a single ingredient - 100% pure, triple-purified petroleum jelly - which provides an occlusive seal to lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier. Aquaphor, on the other hand, has a base of petroleum jelly plus additional moisturizing ingredients like mineral oil, lanolin, and glycerin. The Aquaphor formula is slightly lighter and less greasy than Vaseline. Both products are non-comedogenic and effective for wound care, but Aquaphor may be better for dry, eczema-prone, or compromised skin types due to its extra hydrating components.

  • Aquaphor and Vaseline have been trusted skincare staples for decades.

The players

Mona Gohara, M.D.

A board-certified dermatologist in Connecticut and an associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine.

Joshua Zeichner, M.D.

The director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

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What they’re saying

“I use both Vaseline and Aquaphor all the time, every day in my office post-procedure after a laser treatment or chemical peel. They are both excellent occlusives that reduce water loss, support barrier repair, and create an ideal environment for healing by protecting injured skin from germs or potential irritants.”

— Mona Gohara, M.D., Board-certified dermatologist

“Vaseline has one single ingredient: triple purified petroleum jelly, or white petrolatum. This medical-grade petrolatum effectively forms an occlusive seal over the skin, and is one of the most studied and reliable barrier-protecting ingredients we have.”

— Joshua Zeichner, M.D., Director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital

“Aquaphor creates a semi-permeable barrier over the skin that helps with wound healing and hydration. The texture is a little lighter and less greasy than Vaseline, and it also tends to be more expensive than Vaseline because of the added ingredients and technology required to formulate the product.”

— Joshua Zeichner, M.D., Director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital

The takeaway

For sensitive skin types, Vaseline's single-ingredient formula may be the safer choice, while Aquaphor's added moisturizing components can make it a better option for dry, eczema-prone, or compromised skin. Both products are highly effective for protecting wounds, preventing scarring, and sealing in moisture to support the skin barrier.