Vapor Rub Uses by Kimberly Mata Vapor Rub Uses Paper Cuts and Splinters To prevent infection and speed up healing time, dab a small amount of Vicks on any small cut or splinter. Headaches Be Gone Rub a small amount of Vicks VapoRub on your temples and forehead to help relieve headaches. The mentholated scent will release pressure in your head and instantly relieve pain. Get Rid of Nasty Nail Fungus Rub VapoRub on your toenails if you suspect you have a fungus. Within days, the nail will turn dark—this means the Vicks is killing the fungus.