The Philippines is no stranger to natural calamities. According to the World Economic Forum, from 1995 to 2015, there were a recorded 130 million Filipinos affected by natural disasters. In 2015 alone, the Philippines was the fourth highest ranking disaster-hit country in the world.

While most efforts are focused on immediate disaster relief, a common concern that is often overlooked is skin health.

Based on data from the World Health Organization, skin disease was the third top cause of morbidity in Philippine evacuation centers. Exposure to the elements and overcrowded living conditions can aggravate simple skin concerns, like extremely dry skin, cuts and burns, and turn them into serious skin health issues if left untreated.

Simply providing the right personal care products can go a long way, instilling dignity and confidence in those living in the wake of crisis and disaster, so that they can go back to work or school.

The Vaseline Healing Project

In 2015, Vaseline, together with the global humanitarian aid organization, Direct Relief, created The Vaseline Healing Project, an aid effort to provide product donations, healing missions and training programs to critical areas and help people in emergency situations.

To date, the Vaseline Healing Project has reached 2.4 million people across 41 countries, including USA, Ecuador, South Africa and India.

The Vaseline Healing Project was first established in the Philippines in 2015, in response to aid efforts required by thousands who lost their homes during Typhoon Haiyan. Together with Direct Relief and local partner IPIF, The Vaseline Healing Project extended medical assistance in the form of a medical mission and distribution of Vaseline products to hundreds of residents living in the resettlement area. There, medical assistance was provided for patients who had developed skin problems, such as dermatitis, impetigo, and fungal infections.

While most people associate Vaseline Petroleum Jelly to a quick remedy for simple issues like chapped lips, dry skin or cracked heels, it can also help address and prevent more pressing skin concerns. Vaseline Petroleum Jelly can be used to prevent bacteria from entering small cuts, soothe minor burns, neutralize itchiness, and prevent blisters, among others.

The Vaseline Healing Project works to promote the importance of skin health, as it continues to deploy aid efforts in areas of the Philippines that need it the most. All those interested in contributing to this project may contact Direct Relief at www.directrelief.org.

If Vaseline can help heal the skin of people in critical areas, imagine what it can do for all of us.