Today's product exploration is: Vaseline Problem Skin Therapy Cream (unscented)
I've personally used this product on and off for a few years now and I find myself coming back to it every winter. The label markets this as hypoallergenic, non-greasy, fast-absorbing, provides 18-hour protection from dryness, immediate 250% moisturization boost, 30% petroleum jelly, contains vitamin E, and it's dermatologist tested.
Although the product is presented in a simple white 220mL tub/jar, there is a much more portable version in a squeeze tube. Of course, at $5.49 a tub, it's much more cost-effective than the tube, which retails at $3.49 for 100mL. There are some drawbacks with the tub format since it's not as sanitary to dig into it with your hands everyday and it's not as quick and accessible to use compared to the tube.
Upon opening the jar, you will find a thick white paste-like cream, much like icing for a cake! Of course once you smell it, you would not mistaken it for icing...although it's "unscented", taking a whiff from the jar would make you feel like you just walked into a plastic factory. So yes, it smells plastic-ky.
Due to the heaviness of the cream, you'd benefit most by applying it to dryer areas of the body such as your hands, feet, elbows, knees. I find it very effective when applied to the skin area below my fingernails to prevent cracks and dry bits. I don't recommend using this on skin such as the face because the consistency of this cream may clog pores for those who are prone. Use a small pea size amount and add more if needed (especially on areas such as the trunk, arms, and legs) because in contrast to the "non-greasy" claim by the manufacturer, the cream was very greasy. Fortunately, it does absorb very fast! So after about 10 minutes of greasy hands, I wash it off with soap and lukewarm water and pat dry. You will notice much more hydrated, softer, smoother hands. For added absorption on your feet, wear socks after application at bedtime and you will wake up with baby-soft tootsies!
Final verdict: 4/5
PROS: inexpensive, non-sticky, no added fragrances or colors, instant hydration even on thicker dry skin
CONS: plastic smell, greasy, limited convenience (tub format)
Price: $3.49 (100mL) or $5.49 (220mL)
Where: London Drugs, Save-on-Foods, Pricesmart Foods, Shoppers Drug Mart
So what product do you keep coming back to during dry winter months? Try this handy product and let me know what you think or if you have any suggestions for alternatives!
