No, Vaseline petroleum jelly cannot be used as a form of sun protection. While it may create a barrier on the skin to prevent water loss and lock in moisture, it does not offer any sun protection from UV radiation or other environmental assaults.
Many sources, including the American Academy of Dermatology, explicitly state that Vaseline does not provide any protection against harmful UV rays. In fact, it can even trap heat, potentially worsening a sunburn.
It's crucial to rely on actual sunscreen products with an SPF rating for proper sun protection. Sunscreen should be applied liberally and reapplied every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
