Cornstarch is a fine, powdery substance derived from corn kernels. While most commonly used in cooking, it has several properties that make it useful in skincare:
It has excellent absorbent qualities, helping to soak up excess oil and sweat
It creates a smooth, matte finish on the skin
It contains vitamins A, B1, and B2, which can benefit skin health
It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin
It acts as a thickening agent when mixed with other ingredients
How the Vaseline and Cornstarch Mask Works
When combined, these two ingredients create a unique formulation that offers several potential benefits for the skin:
Smoothing Effect: The mixture creates a temporary “filling” effect on fine lines and wrinkles, making them less noticeable for a short period.
Balanced Hydration: Vaseline provides the occlusive protection to lock in moisture, while cornstarch helps absorb excess oil, creating a more balanced solution for various skin types.
Matte Finish: The cornstarch helps offset the shiny appearance that Vaseline alone would create, leaving skin with a more natural, semi-matte finish.
Soothing Properties: Both ingredients have calming effects on irritated skin, potentially reducing redness and inflammation.
Physical Barrier: The mixture creates a physical shield against environmental pollutants and irritants that can damage and age the skin.
How to Make and Apply the Mask
Creating this DIY beauty treatment is remarkably simple and requires just two readily available ingredients.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon Vaseline (petroleum jelly)
1-2 teaspoons cornstarch
Instructions:
In a small, clean bowl, combine the Vaseline and cornstarch
Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, consistent texture without any lumps
Cleanse your face with your regular cleanser and pat dry
Apply a thin, even layer of the mixture to your face, avoiding the eye area
Leave on for 15-20 minutes
Gently wipe off with a soft cloth or rinse with warm water
Follow with your regular skincare routine
For best results, this mask can be used 1-2 times per week, preferably in the evening when your skin is in repair mode.
The Science Behind the Claims
While viral social media posts might lead you to believe this mixture will dramatically reverse aging, the reality is more nuanced. Here’s what science tells us about the potential effects:
Temporary Smoother Appearance
The physical properties of this mixture do create a temporary smoothing effect on the skin. The Vaseline fills in small crevices while the cornstarch helps create a more even surface texture. This can make fine lines appear less noticeable—but the key word is temporary.
Moisture Retention
One legitimate benefit is improved moisture retention. By creating an occlusive barrier, the petroleum jelly component helps prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which can make skin appear plumper and more hydrated.
Inflammation Reduction
Both ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm irritated skin and reduce redness. This might contribute to a more even-toned appearance.
Physical, Not Chemical Action
It’s important to understand that this mixture works through physical, not chemical means. Unlike active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C, this mask doesn’t stimulate collagen production or cell turnover—it simply creates a temporary physical barrier and smoothing effect.
Realistic Expectations
Despite the dramatic claims often associated with this beauty hack, it’s important to set realistic expectations:
The effects are temporary, typically lasting only hours after application
The mask won’t permanently reduce wrinkles or reverse aging
Results vary significantly depending on skin type and condition
It’s not a replacement for a comprehensive skincare routine
Think of this mask as more akin to a makeup primer than a treatment—it creates a temporary improvement in appearance but doesn’t fundamentally change your skin’s structure or health.
Who Might Benefit Most?
This DIY mask may be particularly beneficial for:
Individuals with dry skin who need extra moisture retention
Those with combination skin who want balanced hydration without excess shine
People looking for an occasional skin-smoothing treatment before special events
Budget-conscious beauty enthusiasts seeking affordable skincare alternatives
Those with sensitive skin who react to more active ingredients
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
Before trying this beauty hack, consider these potential drawbacks:
Pore-Clogging Concerns
While Vaseline itself is technically non-comedogenic, the combination with cornstarch might be problematic for acne-prone individuals, potentially leading to clogged pores or breakouts.
Allergic Reactions
Some people may be sensitive to petroleum products or cornstarch. Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying to your entire face.
Not Suitable for All Skin Types
This mask may not be ideal for those with very oily skin, as the occlusive nature of Vaseline could exacerbate oiliness and shine.
Messy Application
The texture can be somewhat challenging to work with and may feel heavy or greasy on the skin, which some users might find uncomfortable.
Short-Lived Results
The smoothing and hydrating effects will wear off as soon as the mask is removed or within hours afterward, making this a temporary solution at best.
Expert Opinions
Dermatologists and skincare professionals generally agree that while this combination is unlikely to cause harm for most people, its benefits are modest and temporary. Many experts recommend focusing on evidence-based skincare ingredients and practices for more substantial and lasting results.
A More Comprehensive Approach to Youthful Skin
Rather than relying solely on this or any single DIY treatment, consider incorporating these evidence-based practices for maintaining youthful skin:
Sun Protection: Daily use of broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is the single most important step in preventing premature aging.
Proper Hydration: Drink plenty of water and use a quality moisturizer appropriate for your skin type.
Active Ingredients: Consider products with proven anti-aging ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C, peptides, and niacinamide.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, get adequate sleep, manage stress, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.
Regular Exfoliation: Gentle exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and promotes cell turnover.
Professional Treatments: Consider professional options like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser treatments for more significant concerns.
The Verdict
The Vaseline and cornstarch beauty mask is neither a miracle cure nor a complete waste of time. It represents a simple, affordable DIY treatment that may provide temporary cosmetic benefits for some users. While it won’t make you look “16 again” as some viral posts claim, it might offer a quick fix for smoother-looking skin on occasions when you want a little extra glow.
As with most skincare trends, moderation and realistic expectations are key. This mask can be a nice addition to your skincare repertoire but should not replace a consistent, comprehensive approach to skin health and protection.
If you decide to try this trending hack, do so with an understanding of its limitations and a healthy dose of skepticism about exaggerated claims. Your skin deserves a thoughtful, science-based approach to care—not just the latest viral trend.
