8 unusual uses people commonly try
Toenail fungus
Vicks is often applied to discolored or thickened toenails because ingredients such as camphor, menthol and eucalyptus oil have antimicrobial/antifungal properties in laboratory studies.
Some small studies and anecdotal reports suggest improvement, but Vicks is not an FDA-approved treatment for toenail fungus, and evidence is much weaker than for proven antifungal medicines.
If trying it, people generally apply a small amount to the affected nail and surrounding skin consistently. Don’t use it on broken skin.
Dry, cracked heels
The petroleum-based ointment can act as an occlusive moisturizer, helping reduce water loss from dry skin.
Applying a thin layer to clean, dry heels at night and wearing cotton socks can make the skin feel softer.
This is more of a moisturizing use than a medicinal treatment. Avoid putting it on open cracks, bleeding areas, or infected skin because the label says not to use it on wounds or damaged skin.
Minor muscle soreness after exercise
This one is actually close to an official use: VapoRub is labeled for temporary relief of minor muscle and joint aches.
Menthol produces a cooling sensation that can temporarily alter how pain feels on the skin, while rubbing the area can itself provide some soothing effect.
Apply to the affected area rather than using it as a deep-muscle treatment. The label says not to apply it more than 3–4 times daily.
A temporary “cooling” sensation for tired feet
People sometimes massage a small amount onto their feet after standing or walking all day.
The menthol can create a cooling sensation, while the massage and petrolatum base can make dry feet feel more comfortable.
This doesn’t mean Vicks treats the underlying cause of foot pain or poor circulation.
Reducing the feeling of nasal stuffiness
Menthol and eucalyptus produce a strong vapor sensation that can make breathing feel clearer.
Importantly, that sensation isn’t necessarily the same as actually opening congested nasal passages.
Do not put VapoRub inside or directly under the nostrils. The official label specifically says not to use it in the nostrils.
Aromatic steam/shower experience
Some people use VapoRub to make a shower feel more “medicated” because its menthol/eucalyptus aroma becomes noticeable in warm, humid air.
However, don’t put VapoRub into boiling water, hot water, a humidifier, or a device that heats it. The official warning says heating it can cause splattering and burns.
If you want a Vicks-scented shower product, Vicks makes separate products designed for that purpose.
Dry skin around the nails/cuticles
Because VapoRub contains petrolatum, it can function as a heavy occlusive moisturizer.
A tiny amount massaged around dry cuticles can help soften rough skin.
Keep it away from cuts, irritated skin and the eyes, and wash your hands afterward if you’re going to touch your face.
A bedtime massage for sore hands, knees or feet
Rather than using it specifically for respiratory symptoms, some people incorporate a small amount into a nighttime massage for achy joints.
The product’s menthol can provide a cooling sensation, while massage itself may temporarily make an area feel more comfortable.
Again, this is for temporary symptomatic relief, not treatment of arthritis, tendon injury, neuropathy or another underlying condition. VapoRub is officially labeled for temporary relief of minor muscle and joint aches.
⚠️ Important: popular “Vicks hacks” I wouldn’t recommend
Don’t put VapoRub inside your nose, in your mouth, on open wounds, or under a tight bandage. Don’t heat or microwave it, and don’t add it to hot water. It contains camphor (4.8%), eucalyptus oil (1.2%) and menthol (2.6%), so accidental ingestion can be dangerous.
It’s also not for children under 2 years old according to the U.S. labeling.
If you tell me whether you’re interested in beauty/skin uses, household uses, cold & congestion hacks, or pain-relief uses, I can give you 8 more unusual ones and separate the actually evidence-backed ones from the myths.