Petroleum jelly (Vaseline) is one of the most commonly searched home remedies for hemorrhoids — but does it actually help? The answer is nuanced: Vaseline can provide some temporary comfort, but it's not a hemorrhoid treatment. Here's exactly what it can and can't do, how to use it safely, and what works better.

Medically reviewed by the HemRid Medical Team | Last updated: April 2026

Does Vaseline Help Hemorrhoids?

Yes, but only in a limited way. Vaseline (100% petroleum jelly) can help with hemorrhoid-related discomfort by:

• Creating a protective barrier — Locks in moisture and prevents skin from drying, cracking, and becoming more irritated
• Reducing friction — The slippery coating minimizes irritation from clothing, movement, and sitting
• Easing bowel movements — A thin layer around the anus can reduce the friction and tearing that occurs during bowel movements
• Preventing further irritation — Protects raw, sensitive hemorrhoid tissue from contact with stool and moisture

What Vaseline does NOT do:

• ❌ Does not reduce hemorrhoid swelling
• ❌ Does not shrink hemorrhoids
• ❌ Does not relieve itching
• ❌ Does not numb pain
• ❌ Does not stop bleeding
• ❌ Does not treat the root cause (weakened vein walls)

Think of Vaseline like putting a bandage on a wound — it protects the area, but it doesn't heal it. For actual hemorrhoid treatment, you need products designed for that purpose.

How to Use Vaseline for Hemorrhoids Safely

If you want to use Vaseline as a supportive measure alongside proper treatment:

1. Clean the area first — Gently wash with warm water (no soap on irritated areas) and pat completely dry
2. Apply a thin layer — Use a clean finger to apply a small amount of Vaseline to the external hemorrhoid area only
3. Before bowel movements — Apply a thin layer before you go to reduce friction and tearing
4. After bowel movements — Clean gently, pat dry, then reapply
5. At bedtime — Apply a thin layer before bed for overnight protection
6. Use plain Vaseline — Avoid scented or flavored varieties; 100% petroleum jelly only

Can Vaseline Make Hemorrhoids Worse?

Vaseline itself is unlikely to worsen hemorrhoids. It's inert, hypoallergenic, and non-irritating. However, there are scenarios where it could cause problems:

• Trapping bacteria — If you apply Vaseline to unclean skin, it can seal bacteria against the tissue, potentially leading to infection
• False sense of security — Relying solely on Vaseline while ignoring proper treatment may allow hemorrhoids to progress
• Interfering with other treatments — Vaseline can create a barrier that prevents medicated creams from absorbing properly
• Latex degradation — Petroleum jelly weakens latex condoms (relevant for some users)

The biggest risk isn't that Vaseline harms hemorrhoids directly — it's that people delay proper treatment because they think Vaseline is enough.

Vaseline vs Dedicated Hemorrhoid Treatments

Treatment	Swelling	Pain	Itching	Protection	Root Cause
Vaseline	❌	❌	❌	✅	❌
Preparation H	✅	✅	✅	✅	❌
Hydrocortisone cream	✅	⚠️	✅	❌	❌
Witch hazel pads	⚠️	⚠️	✅	❌	❌
HemRid Max	✅	✅	✅	—	✅

As the table shows, Vaseline only addresses one out of five hemorrhoid needs. It's a supportive measure, not a standalone treatment.

When Vaseline Makes Sense for Hemorrhoids

There are specific situations where Vaseline is a reasonable choice:

• As a bowel movement aid — A thin layer before BMs reduces friction and prevents further tearing of irritated tissue
• Overnight protection — Keeps hemorrhoid tissue moist while you sleep
• Alongside medicated treatments — Apply medicated cream first, let it absorb for 10-15 minutes, then add a thin Vaseline layer for protection (not on top of the medication immediately)
• Emergency use — If you have nothing else, Vaseline provides basic comfort while you get a proper treatment
• Post-sitz bath — Apply after a sitz bath to lock in the soothing effects

Better Alternatives to Vaseline

For comprehensive hemorrhoid relief, use treatments that address multiple symptoms:

1. Topical symptom relief: Preparation H, hydrocortisone cream, or lidocaine cream
2. Soothing: Warm sitz baths (15-20 minutes, multiple times daily)
3. Root cause treatment: HemRid Max to strengthen vein walls from the inside
4. Lifestyle: High-fiber diet, adequate hydration, regular exercise, avoid straining

Learn more in our complete hemorrhoid treatment guide and 9 proven methods to get rid of hemorrhoids fast.

When to See a Doctor

Vaseline is fine for temporary comfort, but see a doctor if:

• Hemorrhoid symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks
• You experience heavy or persistent rectal bleeding
• Pain becomes severe
• You notice a hard, blue-purple lump (thrombosed hemorrhoid)
• OTC treatments don't provide adequate relief

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Vaseline help hemorrhoids?

Vaseline provides temporary comfort by creating a protective moisture barrier, but it doesn't treat hemorrhoids. It won't reduce swelling, stop bleeding, or address the root cause. Use it as a supportive measure alongside proper treatment.

Is Vaseline safe to put on hemorrhoids?

Yes, for external use. Apply only to the outer skin around the anus. Don't insert it rectally. Always clean the area first to avoid trapping bacteria.

Can Vaseline make hemorrhoids worse?

Not directly, but it can trap bacteria on unclean skin and may delay proper treatment if you rely on it exclusively.

Is petroleum jelly the same as Vaseline?

Yes. Vaseline is a brand name for petroleum jelly. Generic petroleum jelly works identically and is usually cheaper.

Can you put Vaseline inside your anus for hemorrhoids?

No. Vaseline is for external use only. For internal relief, use products designed for rectal application like glycerin suppositories or Preparation H suppositories.

What is better than Vaseline for hemorrhoids?

Dedicated hemorrhoid creams (Preparation H, hydrocortisone), sitz baths, witch hazel pads, and oral supplements like HemRid Max that address the root cause.