The story of Vaseline began in 1859 when American chemist Robert Augustus Chesebrough travelled to the oil fields of Titusville, Pennsylvania. There, he observed workers using a waxy residue that accumulated on oil drilling equipment to soothe cuts and burns.1

Interested in its potential, Chesebrough brought samples back to his laboratory in Brooklyn and spent several years refining the material into a purified petroleum jelly. In 1865, he patented his purification process, which became the foundation for the modern Vaseline product.1

In 1870, the product was officially introduced under the brand name Vaseline, becoming one of North America’s earliest branded consumer products. Chesebrough personally travelled around the United States demonstrating its healing properties, helping the brand gain widespread popularity.1

By 1874, Vaseline was reportedly selling approximately one jar every minute across the United States.1

The name “Vaseline” is believed to have been created by combining:

• “Wasser” (German for water)
• “Elaion” (Greek for olive oil)

The resulting name reflected the product’s smooth, protective qualities. Over time, “Vaseline” became so well known that in some countries it is commonly used as a generic term for petroleum jelly, although it remains a registered trademark in many regions.2

Originally known only for Vaseline Petroleum Jelly, the brand gradually expanded into a complete skincare portfolio. Today, Vaseline offers:1

• Petroleum Jelly
• Intensive Care Body Lotions
• Lip Therapy
• Hand Creams
• Body Creams
• Moisturising Serums
• Clinical Care products
• Men’s skincare products (in selected markets)

The brand focuses on repairing dry skin, restoring the skin barrier and providing long-lasting moisture.1

The brand’s most iconic product is Vaseline Original Healing Jelly, made primarily from 100% purified petroleum jelly. Its purification process is designed to remove impurities, resulting in a highly refined product used to:1

• Lock in moisture
• Protect minor cuts and scrapes
• Help prevent chapped skin
• Reduce friction
• Soothe dry lips
• Protect sensitive skin
• Support healing of dry, cracked skin

The product forms a protective barrier on the skin rather than adding water itself, helping prevent moisture loss.1

The Vaseline brand was originally developed by the Chesebrough Manufacturing Company. Over time, Chesebrough Manufacturing merged with Pond’s to form Chesebrough-Pond’s. In 1987, Unilever acquired Chesebrough-Pond’s, making Vaseline part of its global personal care portfolio.2

Today, Vaseline is one of Unilever’s flagship skincare brands.

Vaseline products are available across North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, South America and Australia. The brand tailors some product lines to regional preferences while maintaining its core petroleum jelly formula worldwide.

Modern Vaseline products are developed with a focus on skin health and hydration. The brand has expanded beyond petroleum jelly into formulations containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin B3 (niacinamide), vitamin C, cocoa butter, aloe vera, oat extract and ceramides (in selected products). These ingredients are incorporated into lotions and creams to address concerns such as dryness, uneven skin tone and skin barrier support.

According to the brand, Vaseline’s mission is to help people achieve healthier skin by providing effective, accessible skincare products and supporting skin health education and care in underserved communities.

• Healing Jelly: Original petroleum jelly and specialty variants
• Intensive Care Lotions: Daily moisturisers for different skin needs
• Lip Therapy: Lip balms and treatments
• Clinical Care: Advanced moisturisers for very dry skin
• Body Creams
• Hand Creams
• Men’s Skincare: Available in selected markets

Vaseline is widely regarded as one of the most recognisable skincare brands globally. Its petroleum jelly has been a household staple for generations, and the brand has expanded its reputation through continuous product innovation while maintaining its association with skin protection and moisturisation.

1. 150 years of Vaseline® History | Vaseline®
2. Vaseline