And it’s not just hype: According to a 2025 survey by the American Dermatology Association, over 60% of adults are now actively seeking low-cost, at-home remedies for skincare issues like acne and dry patches. This trending combo fits perfectly into that demand.
So—does it really work? Let's break down the science, benefits, risks, DIY recipes, and how to safely try it yourself.
This unlikely duo is gaining traction thanks to its mix of antibacterial power and moisturizing protection. Here’s why it’s working for so many people:
Contains antibacterial agents (like triclosan, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, or fluoride)
Dries out active pimples
Cleanses pores and reduces oiliness
Often includes menthol, which soothes and cools irritated skin
A powerful occlusive that forms a protective barrier on the skin
Locks in moisture and enhances skin repair
Helps prevent scarring and flaking
Gentle on the skin and safe for most skin types
Together, they form a low-budget skincare remedy that many users say leaves their skin clearer, softer, and more even-toned—when used correctly.
⚠️ Warning: Not all toothpaste is skin-friendly. Avoid whitening varieties and those with strong irritants like peroxide or alcohol.
Dries out pimples and blackheads
Cleans pores to prevent new breakouts
Soothes red, inflamed skin
🔬 2023 Journal of Clinical Dermatology reported a 15% reduction in acne-causing bacteria when exposed to common toothpaste ingredients in lab tests.
Vaseline acts as a moisture barrier, especially helpful for dry or cracked skin
Prevents dehydration caused by acne medications or harsh weather
🔬 2024 Skin Research & Technology study: One application of petroleum jelly increased skin hydration by 20% after a single use.
Baking soda in toothpaste acts as a gentle exfoliant
Helps remove dead skin cells and smooth out texture
Can unclog pores and enhance your skin’s glow
Keeps skin hydrated to avoid thick or dark scar tissue
Light astringent effects from toothpaste may gradually fade post-acne marks
Menthol in toothpaste provides a cooling sensation that calms itchy or inflamed skin
Vaseline acts as a barrier to reduce friction and redness
Toothpaste can temporarily tighten pores, creating a smoother base for makeup
Vaseline seals the effect and adds softness
Always mix freshly before use, and store each product in its original container to maintain hygiene.
¼ tsp non-gel, non-whitening toothpaste
½ tsp Vaseline
➡️ Mix and dab onto blemishes. Leave for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. Use 1–2x per week for best results.
½ tsp mild toothpaste (preferably with baking soda)
1 tbsp Vaseline
1 tsp aloe vera gel (optional for added soothing)
➡️ Apply a thin layer over dry areas. Leave on overnight and rinse in the morning. Use 1–2x weekly for soft, plump skin.
¼ tsp toothpaste
1 tsp Vaseline
½ tsp raw honey
➡️ Massage gently onto damp skin for 30–60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly. Use once a week to reveal brighter skin.
Before you dive in, here are some important precautions:
Always do a patch test: Apply a small amount behind your ear or on your wrist and wait 24 hours to check for reactions.
Limit usage: 2–3 times per week max. Overuse may cause dryness or sensitivity.
Avoid on open wounds, broken skin, or cystic acne.
Don’t use whitening or gel toothpaste—these can cause chemical burns or irritation.
Consult your dermatologist if you have sensitive skin, rosacea, or a chronic skin condition.
Jasmine, 28, from New York, discovered the toothpaste + Vaseline trick after watching a viral TikTok. She applied it twice a week as a spot treatment for acne. After two weeks, her skin felt smoother, and breakouts were noticeably smaller.
Her dermatologist confirmed reduced inflammation and no signs of damage—thanks to her moderate and careful approach. Jasmine’s story, shared on Healthline's 2025 forum, shows how DIY can be effective if you listen to your skin.
To get the most out of this routine, combine it with these simple lifestyle changes:
Double-cleanse: Use a gentle cleanser before and after treatments to remove dirt and residue.
Moisturize daily: Choose a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer.
Use SPF 30+: Always apply sunscreen during the day—even if you're indoors.
Eat skin-friendly foods: Include omega-3s (like flaxseed), fruits, leafy greens, and zinc-rich foods.
Drink 6–8 cups of water daily: Hydration supports healing from the inside out.
The toothpaste and Vaseline hack may sound strange, but it’s an affordable, accessible option for many dealing with mild breakouts, dry patches, or uneven texture. While it’s not a miracle cure, careful use—backed by science and real experiences—can offer surprising benefits.
💡 Just remember: What works for one person might not work for another. Always start slow, patch test, and listen to your skin.
With just two simple household ingredients, you can try a gentle, budget-friendly, and surprisingly effective solution at home.
Packed with anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, and soothing properties, cabbage is more than just a kitchen staple — it’s a hidden healing ally.
Electric kettles are found in nearly every modern home, making it quick and easy to boil water for tea, coffee, or instant meals. But shocking warnings from health experts reveal that some kettles may release dangerous substances into the water you drink
Struggling with premature gray hair in your 20s or already noticing streaks of silver in your 30s and 40s? Don’t panic. While gray strands can feel like a dreaded sign of aging, nature offers surprising, inexpensive solutions that can help you regain yo
This variation transforms a simple bridge into a powerhouse move, strengthening not only your glutes but also your deep core muscles, lower back, and hip stabilizers.
It’s about making gradual, sustainable swaps—cutting back on processed foods, replacing saturated fats with healthier ones, and prioritizing fiber-rich, nutrient-dense ingredients.
With flaxseed gel, you’re not just applying moisture—you’re giving your skin the building blocks it needs to repair, renew, and glow from within.
With just two simple household ingredients, you can try a gentle, budget-friendly, and surprisingly effective solution at home.
Packed with anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, and soothing properties, cabbage is more than just a kitchen staple — it’s a hidden healing ally.
A single bowl of salt might seem insignificant, but its impact on your fridge — and your household — is anything but small.
he peel is not harmful; in fact, it carries unique benefits. By using ginger correctly and storing it properly, you can unlock its full potential for boosting immunity, improving circulation, and keeping your
Plastic wrap is undeniably convenient, but it must be used correctly. Missteps like reusing, heating, or buying low-quality products can gradually harm your body.
He thought he was strong and healthy, but one morning at work, his body gave in without warning. By the time he reached the hospital, it was too late. His story serves as a chilling reminder that what you eat for breakfast could quietly determine your ris
Your eyes do more than reflect emotions; they can also reveal critical clues about your overall health. Subtle changes in appearance, color, or vision may sometimes be early warning signs of dangerous cancers developing elsewhere in the body — long befo
The influence of a husband’s habits on his wife’s well-being is far greater than many couples realize. Small daily choices — whether neglecting exercise or lighting a cigarette — can quietly accumulate into significant health risks over time.
