10 Amazing Uses for Vicks VapoRub

Vicks VapoRub is a great way to take the tension out of a headache. Just apply it to your forehead and you’ll feel the results in minutes.
10 Amazing Uses for Vicks VapoRub

Last update: 12 May, 2022

Vicks VapoRub is an ointment that’s been used for decades to relieve coughs and other symptoms of the common cold. We probably all remember a time when our mom or grandmother used this product to provide relief when we were congested or had a cold. But how many of you know that you can use it for more than just cold relief? There are a lot of uses for Vicks VapoRub that might surprise you.

Would you like to get more out of your Vicks VapoRub tub? Check out these 10 alternative uses.

Uses for Vicks VapoRub: foot pain

The first of our uses for Vicks VapoRub is for your feet. Your feet are your daily support system and, because of all the work they do, they can get tired and swollen. This is where Vicks can help your aching feet after a hard day. All you need to do is rub a good amount of it on both feet before you go to bed. Do this using a gentle massaging motion and then put on a pair of socks. The next day you’ll wake up to find soft and refreshed feet.

Relieves headaches

Some of the headaches you might experience throughout the day can result from stress or tension. To get some relief from the pain, apply a bit of Vicks VapoRub on your forehead. In a few minutes you’ll notice you’re feeling better.

Fights blackheads and pimples

Another of our uses for Vicks VapoRub is to help treat blackheads and pimples on the skin. All you need to do is apply a little bit of this ointment on the affected area.

Muscle fatigue

Vicks VapoRub for backache
After a hard workout you’ll probably feel muscle fatigue and pain in several areas. To bring relief, all you need to do is apply Vicks VapoRub to the affected area in a gentle massaging motion. This should stimulate the blood flow and bring you fast relief.

Treats burns

It doesn’t matter whether the burns are from exposure to the sun, contact with hot liquids, or any other cause. Vicks VapoRub can bring you relief and favor the healing process.

Repels mosquitoes

Vicks VapoRub for mosquitos
Here’s one of our favorite uses of Vicks VapoRub! Most types of mosquitoes seem to dislike its strong smell. It helps keep insects away, and also treats the bites you already have. Just apply VapoRub when you’re in areas with lots of mosquitoes. Alternatively, you can simply rub it onto any existing bites to help soothe the pain.

See also: 10 Aromas that Fight off Mosquitoes

Relieves red and irritated skin

Vicks VapoRub has also been used to treat rosacea, or red, blotchy skin. Apply a liberal amount of this ointment to the affected area before you go to bed and again when you wake up.

Chapped lips

Uses of Vicks VapoRub - dry lips
From an aesthetic point of view, chapped lips are not at all attractive. They can also be a sign that something is wrong. To exfoliate dry skin and hydrate your lips, all you need to do is rub on a little Vicks VapoRub whenever you notice they’re feeling dry.

Lubricates door hinges

Do any of your doors make an annoying creaking sound when you open and close them? If you want to put a stop to it, just grease the hinges with a good amount of Vicks VapoRub. You’ll soon get rid of that annoying noise.

Homemade slimming cream

And the last of our uses of Vicks VapoRub is for getting rid of stored fat in certain areas. Obviously it’s not going to be a miracle worker. However, it can stimulate fat burning in those regions that are hard to target with exercises, like the thighs and abdomen.

This homemade slimming cream can help fight fatty buildup, eliminate cellulite, and firm up the texture of the skin. It’s recommended for reduction of jowls, getting a flatter stomach, and taking inches off your thighs. All you need to do is mix up a cream using Vicks VapoRub, camphor, baking soda, and a little rubbing alcohol.

Once you’ve prepared your cream, rub it onto the areas you want to target and cover them with plastic wrap. You can do this at home, at work, or even before you exercise.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.