Can Applying Vaseline on Eyelashes Be Beneficial? Insights from Dermatologists
Exploring the Vaseline Eyelash Trend: Is It Safe and Effective?
A new beauty trend has taken over social media, focusing on achieving flawless lashes without mascara. TikTok users are raving about using a household staple—Vaseline—as a substitute for traditional lash products. Many claim that Vaseline gives lashes a lifted appearance, helps hold curls, and even mimics the effects of a lash lift.
Vaseline, made from a blend of mineral oils and waxes with a jelly-like texture, is well-known for its moisturizing properties and ability to lock in hydration. While it’s commonly used to treat dry skin, chapped lips, minor wounds, and even cuticles, using it on eyelashes remains a relatively new concept.
For those dreaming of perfectly curled, voluminous lashes, it’s tempting to try this trending hack. However, given the sensitivity of the eye area—and the added risks for contact lens wearers—it’s crucial to proceed with caution. To separate fact from fiction, we consulted two board-certified dermatologists for expert advice. Below, they share insights on the safety, potential side effects, and best practices for using Vaseline on lashes.
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Shari Lipner: Board-certified dermatologist at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York.
- Dr. Jack Levy: Board-certified dermatologist at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York.
What Is Vaseline?
Vaseline is a well-known brand name for petroleum jelly, an oil-based compound highly recommended by dermatologists for its ability to lock in moisture, promote healing, and support the skin barrier.
“Petroleum jelly is an inert substance often used as a carrier for delivering medication to the skin,” explains Dr. Jack Levy. He also highlights its widespread use for skin protection and hydration.
Dr. Shari Lipner adds that petroleum jelly has been around since 1859, when it was discovered by Robert Augustus Chesebrough, who observed oil workers using a similar substance to treat cuts and burns.
By understanding its properties and potential, we can better evaluate whether Vaseline truly delivers on its promise for enhancing lashes—or if it’s just another fleeting beauty trend.
Advantages
One of the standout advantages of petrolatum is its ability to create a protective barrier, effectively locking in moisture, explains Dr. Levy. He elaborates, “Soap binds to the skin’s natural oils, washing them away and compromising the skin’s protective barrier. This disruption increases water loss from the skin’s surface.”
This phenomenon, termed Trans-Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL), can result in heightened skin sensitivity, unexpected rashes, and the exacerbation of conditions like eczema or psoriasis. By restoring the skin’s natural barrier, hydration is preserved, keeping skin supple and youthful while also fostering a healthy environment for hair growth.
Petrolatum’s benefits extend to hair care, Dr. Levy notes, as it helps lock moisture into the hair shaft, including eyelashes. “It minimizes lash shedding and fortifies lashes, reducing the risk of breakage caused by mechanical or chemical damage,” he says. “It can also protect lashes from becoming brittle and snapping due to minor trauma, such as from mascara brushes or lash curlers.”
Possible Drawbacks
One of petrolatum’s key strengths is its low allergenic potential, making it a favorite among dermatologists. However, Dr. Levy mentions that rare cases of allergic reactions, such as hives, may occur.
Special care is needed around the eyes. “Overuse of petroleum jelly near the eyes can sometimes block oil glands, leading to painful bumps like chalazia or hordeola,” Dr. Levy warns. “If it gets into the eye, it may cause prolonged blurriness or, in rare cases, trigger a foreign body reaction known as a conjunctival granuloma.”
Dr. Lipner adds that blocked oil glands could lead to sties. “Those with a history of eye infections should steer clear,” she advises.
For acne-prone individuals, using petroleum jelly on the face may provoke breakouts. “When applied to the face, it should only be for short durations—ideally under a week,” Dr. Lipner recommends.
Does Vaseline Lift Lashes?
The TikTok buzz around using Vaseline for lash lifting has some merit. Dr. Levy explains, “Petroleum jelly acts as a moisturizer and lubricant, conditioning lashes to make them more flexible, less prone to snapping under a curler, and appear fuller. This is the foundation of the lash lift trend.”
However, he cautions that while petroleum jelly supports lash health and hydration, it does not directly promote increased lash length or thickness. “Consistent conditioning may reduce lash loss and prolong the growth phase, but it won’t actively cause lashes to grow longer or denser.”
How to Use Petroleum Jelly on Your Lashes
To safely apply petroleum jelly to your eyelashes, always use a clean and uncontaminated tube along with sterile tools like a spoolie brush, clean hands, or a fresh applicator. Avoid reusing applicators that have come into contact with someone’s lips, mouth, skin, or hair. According to Dr. Levy, “Bacteria from these areas can be harmful near the eyes and may lead to serious infections.”
When applying, moderation is key—less is more, particularly on the eyelids. Dr. Levy suggests that the optimal time for application is when lashes are slightly damp, such as after a bath or shower. Follow these steps for best results:
- Use a tear-free baby shampoo to gently cleanse your lashes and eyelids.
- While the lashes remain damp, apply a small amount of petroleum jelly slightly above the lash line, avoiding direct contact with the roots. Spread it evenly through the lashes.
- Optionally, use a clean lash curler to lightly curl the lashes after they’ve been hydrated and coated.
- For a glossy effect, lightly sweep the lashes with a lubricated finger or sterile spoolie.
When it’s time to remove the petroleum jelly, use a gentle tear-free shampoo and handle the area carefully to prevent irritation.
Key Takeaway
Vaseline (Petroleum jelly) doesn’t physically enhance lash length or promote growth, but it can give the appearance of thicker, fuller lashes. Dr. Lipner advises occasional use to minimize potential side effects. To apply it properly, ensure clean hands, use sparingly, and gently remove it when needed.
For more noticeable changes, consider FDA-approved options. Dr. Levy recommends bimatoprost, a prescription treatment known for safely lengthening and darkening lashes. “Though ongoing use is necessary to maintain results, it provides significant improvements,” he adds.
