Make Room for the Un-Petroleum Jelly

I can honestly say that I’ve never been a fan of petroleum jelly. Not Vaseline, not Aquaphor, or anything similar. The texture and smell have never been comforting or satisfying on my skin (and that was even before it sunk in that petroleum jelly is made from petroleum byproducts…)

But I was really intrigued by Waxelene, marketed as “The Petroleum Jelly Alternative.” It’s alternative as in, it’s made with natural ingredients that are actually good for your skin: organic soy oil, beeswax, natural vitamin E oil and organic rosemary oil. Refreshing, right?

What’s even more refreshing is how quickly I was able to find a million uses for this product in my life. It’s a perfect lip balm, a great makeup remover and a fast-acting skin softener. I applied a little to my feet and slept in socks last night, and my soles and cuticles couldn’t have looked healthier this morning. (And I love its creaminess and subtle beeswax scent.) A little dab goes so far that I feel as if I may never use up an entire jar!

But I’m not the first one to discover the greatness of Waxelene- Lucky mag’s Beauty Director Jean Godfrey June and green makeup artist Christy Coleman were early adopters. Coleman uses a little on eyelids for “a subtle shine/dewy effect” that works especially well at night. I’ve heard of models and actresses using a dab of Vaseline on lashes for shine (in place of mascara), so I can only imagine that Waxelene would work just as well (AND provide natural lash-strengthening benefits).

So there you have it. If you have a passion for petroleum jelly, Waxelene will defy your expectations. A 2 oz jar is $7, which is more expensive than plain old petroleum jelly, but still cheap for an amazingly versatile natural product. Look for a jar in your local Whole Foods or order online. Tell me- how will you use it?