Does Vaseline help your eyelashes grow?

Key Points

• Vaseline can help moisturize eyelashes and the skin around the eye. It won’t help eyelashes grow.
• Vaseline is generally safe when used in small amounts. But risks of using Vaseline on eyelashes include infection and blurry vision.
• Prescription products are more effective than Vaseline at encouraging eyelash growth.

Have you seen the viral Tiktok videos where people add Vaseline to an eyelash curler before curling their lashes or brush Vaseline directly on them? They claim that thicker, uplifted lashes will stand out as a result.

But is Vaseline actually good for your eyelashes? Does this hack even work?

In reality, this trick can make eyelashes look temporarily thicker or fuller. But it might not be the best—or safest—way to plump up those lashes. Other better + more long-lasting treatment options can promote eyelash growth.

Read on to learn how you can get prescription eyelash treatments through a convenient $15 online consultation with Dr. B.

Myth vs. fact—is Vaseline good for eyelashes?

Vaseline is a brand-name version of petroleum jelly—an inexpensive moisturizer you can buy in drug or grocery stores. An occlusive substance, it blocks moisture loss. So it can help seal in moisture and treat dry skin.

Vaseline can also help seal moisture in your eyelashes and treat dry skin around the eye. Some eye doctors even recommend using a small amount of Vaseline around the eye to help treat dry eyes.

Some people may notice that their eyelashes are brittle or prone to breaking—medications or harsh cosmetics can dry out eyelashes, which makes them more fragile. In this case, petroleum jelly can help moisturize and protect eyelashes. And because of its consistency, Vaseline can make eyelashes appear glossier and slightly thicker—like a clear mascara.

Is it safe to use Vaseline on your eyelashes?

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, it’s safe to use a small amount of Vaseline on your eyelashes. But doing so comes with some risks.

If you apply too much, it can block oil-producing glands at the base of eyelashes. These glands help your eyes stay moist.

There’s also a risk of infection since Vaseline isn’t sterile. Be sure to wash your hands before touching your eyes. Also, use a clean cotton swab to put the product on your lashes (not your fingers).

Vaseline can also make your eyesight blurry if it gets in your eyes. So be careful if you try this hack—don’t use too much or apply it too often.

How to use Vaseline on your eyelashes safely!

Talk to your medical provider before trying a new product—especially if you are prone to eye infections or you have any eye condition.

Otherwise, here’s how to use Vaseline to moisturize your eyelashes and eyelids. (This routine works best right before bed.)

1. Remove all make-up using a gentle, soap-free cleanser or eye make-up remover.
2. Wash your hands with soap and water.
3. Put a clean cotton swab in the Vaseline container. Don’t touch the product with your hands to avoid infection.
4. Dab Vaseline around your lower lid and along the upper lid, up to the lash line. Just use a small amount. This works best if the skin is still slightly damp.
5. Flip the swab over and apply a tiny amount to the lashes. Blink to help spread the product over your eyelashes.

Wanna use Vaseline to thicken and uplift your lashes? Follow the same steps using a clean, disposable eyelash brush. Gently brush a small amount of Vaseline through the eyelashes. (Don’t reuse the eyelash brush to reduce the risk of infection.) Then, use an eyelash curler to gently curl your lashes.

Remember, Vaseline is an occlusive substance. If you try to apply mascara after Vaseline, it will likely rub right off.

How to remove Vaseline from eyelashes

Vaseline can feel thick or uncomfortable. If you try this trick and decide you don’t like the feel, just remove it with a warm washcloth or gentle eye makeup remover.

If it causes blurry vision, rinse out your eyes. Eye drops like artificial tears can help your eyes feel more comfortable.

Does Vaseline help eyelashes grow?

Hair—including eyelashes—grows from follicles. Follicles go through different phases, including growth, transition and resting phases.

For most people, eyelashes last for 3-6 months. But genetics determine how quickly eyelashes grow and how thickly they grow. Some medical conditions or medications can affect eyelash growth, too.

Vaseline won’t help your eyelashes grow—nothing in it affects cells that regulate hair growth.

It also won’t treat wrinkles or other skin care concerns. In fact, if you have acne-prone skin, it could cause more breakouts.

Proven ways to boost eyelash growth

While petroleum jelly products like Vaseline might help moisturize dry skin, they won’t help your eyelashes grow. If you are looking for proven ways to encourage lusher lashes, you’re better off with prescription medications like Bimatoprost or Latisse.

These medications increase the total number of eyelashes. They also help eyelashes grow thicker and darker. It takes about two months to see the full effects. And it’s important to know that they only work as long as you use the mediation. If you stop taking it, your lashes will go back to normal.

If you’re interested in trying a prescription eyelash medication, Dr. B can help. Start a $15 online consultation to connect with a medical provider—no video chat required. If appropriate, they’ll send a prescription treatment to your chosen pharmacy within hours.

This means you could soon be on the path to thicker, lusher lashes!

Sources

American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2023). Is it safe to use Vaseline on eyelashes?

American Academy of Opthalmology. (ND). 5 ways to use petroleum jelly for skin care.

Geisse L. (2019). Letters—the Vaseline routine. EyeNet Magazine.

Law, S. K. (2010). Bimatoprost in the treatment of eyelash hypotrichosis. Clinical Ophthalmology.