Can I use Vaseline (petroleum jelly) on minor superficial partial thickness burns on the face?

Using Vaseline on Minor Facial Burns

Plain petroleum jelly (Vaseline) alone is NOT the recommended first-line treatment for superficial partial thickness burns on the face—you should use a petrolatum-BASED antibiotic ointment (like bacitracin, Polysporin, or triple-antibiotic ointment) combined with clean non-adherent dressings instead. 1

Why Petrolatum-Based Antibiotic Ointments Are Preferred

The American College of Cardiology specifically recommends petrolatum-based antibiotic ointments rather than plain petrolatum for superficial burns because they provide both the moisture barrier benefits of petroleum jelly AND antimicrobial protection. 1

• Polysporin (polymyxin B and bacitracin in a petrolatum base) is particularly effective in preventing infection in partial thickness burns while maintaining the beneficial properties of petroleum jelly. 1

• Research comparing plain petrolatum gel to silver sulfadiazine found that petrolatum gel alone achieved faster healing (6.2 days vs 7.8 days) with no infections observed, suggesting plain petrolatum may be effective. 2 However, this study was not on facial burns specifically.

Critical Consideration for Facial Burns

Facial burns require medical evaluation regardless of treatment choice. 1 The face is considered a high-risk anatomical location where:

• Burns should be assessed by healthcare professionals to prevent scarring and functional disability 3
• Specialized care may be needed to optimize cosmetic outcomes 3
• There is higher risk of complications that require monitoring 1

Practical Treatment Algorithm

If you cannot access medical care immediately:

1. Cool the burn with clean running water for 5-20 minutes first 1, 3
2. Apply a thin layer of petrolatum-based antibiotic ointment (bacitracin, Polysporin, or triple-antibiotic) 1
3. Cover with non-adherent dressing like Xeroform (petrolatum-impregnated gauze) or Mepitel (silicone-coated) 1
4. Seek medical attention for definitive assessment 1

What NOT to Do

• Do not apply ice directly—this causes further tissue damage 1
• Do not apply butter or oil 1
• Avoid using plain Vaseline as your only treatment when antibiotic ointments are available 1