We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Cosmetic

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Putting Vaseline® on Eyelashes?

By Kelly Ferguson
Updated: May 21, 2024
Views: 203,426
References
Share

The benefits of putting Vaseline®, a brand of petroleum jelly, on eyelashes are somewhat controversial, but in most cases pros concern beauty benefits while cons include clogged pores and allergic reactions. Many people believe that petroleum jelly can condition eyelashes and can help them grow longer, thicker, and stronger; it’s also claimed that the jelly’s moisturizing properties can help the sensitive skin around the eyelid stay smooth and supple. The product is somewhat greasy, however, and is thick enough to block airflow to the skin’s pores. This can cause greasiness and smudging, and can make it hard to evenly apply makeup; in some cases it can also lead to acne and skin reactions.

Moisturizing and Conditioning

Vaseline® contains several moisturizing emollients and humectants that have the ability to moisten the skin and condition human hair follicles. The jelly is popular as a lip balm for this reason, and many believe that it can also make individual lashes grow stronger and healthier by sealing in moisture and improving the strength of the cellular bonds that make up each strand. It should be noted that none of the jelly’s listed ingredients has ever been proved to cause hair to grow any longer, faster, or thicker, but softening and conditioning the eyelashes may prevent breakage. In turn, this allows the eyelashes to grow to a longer than usual length. For people with dry, brittle eyelashes, the extra conditioning may make a noticeable difference.

Cosmetic Appeal

Some people lightly dab Vaseline® on eyelashes in place of mascara for a less dramatic “day look.” The jelly can help the lashes appear longer and thicker which can make the eyes look wider, but without the use of actual makeup. Others apply a very thin layer to both the eyelashes and eyelid, providing a sticky base for eye makeup. Mixing a bit of powered shadow or rouge with the jelly can create something of an “eye gloss” that can help makeup stick to the lashes and lids more effectively. This is intended to allow the makeup to last longer, but some women who have tried it complain that it causes the makeup to smear. Putting mascara on over Vaseline® is often particularly problematic.

Vaseline® is sometimes used as a low cost makeup remover because of how well makeup sticks to it. Stubborn mascara or eyeliner can often be taken off relatively easily by dabbing a bit of jelly onto the problem areas, then finishing with a mild soap and warm water.

Greasiness and Pore Problems

Greasiness is one of the biggest cons of Vaseline® on eyelashes. The substance is thick and goopy, which can sometimes cause the lashes to clump together. This can make it difficult to see clearly and also may prevent the eyes from blinking regularly if worn too thickly.

The jelly can also clog pores on the eyelid. Pores naturally open and close in response to moisture levels and environmental triggers, and when they can’t do this because of blockage the oils that the skin naturally secretes can become trapped below the surface, causing acne or itchy rashes. Additionally, it is possible that Vaseline® could clog tear ducts and other glands, causing eye irritation, styes, or a number of other problems.

Adverse Reactions

Allergic reactions to Vaseline® are rare but possible. People with really sensitive skin tend to be most at risk, and in these cases it’s often a good idea to apply a bit of the jelly to the back of the hand or other area of skin away from the eye to test for reactions. As with any foreign substance, there is always a risk of eye irritation. Before applying any new substance near the eyes, one should always check the list of ingredients for anything to which he or she might be allergic.

Tips and Tricks

The best way to apply Vaseline® to eyelashes is usually to use a cotton swab, a lash brush, or a cleaned mascara wand. Using the fingertips can work, but usually only if the hands are freshly cleaned; transferring oils from the hands to the eyes can cause problems where Vaseline® is concerned, since the jelly can seal those oils onto the skin, which makes irritation and reaction more likely.

People often find it best to apply the jelly at night, too, letting moisturizing and conditioning happen during sleep when the eyes are still. This way even if the jelly causes the eye area to look greasy and shiny it won’t be a problem. Some people also claim that allowing it to work overnight helps them wake up looking more refreshed and rested.

Does Putting Vaseline On Your Eyelashes Work?

Vaseline is a household ingredient many people have, and it can help with many beauty issues as well. One of the best things about vaseline is that it is inexpensive, so you can always have some on hand.

Vaseline is an occlusive product, which means it holds moisture. There are many uses for vaseline in the beauty industry, like lip balms and skin moisturizers. If you have chapped skin or lips, use vaseline to help these areas become more moisturized and healthy. It also soothes irritation. If you are dealing with this, you can try vaseline.

Putting vaseline on your eyelashes helps keep them moisturized and appear fuller. Your skin has a low chance of reacting poorly to it, though you should consult with your doctor if you have existing eye issues.

Putting vaseline on your eyelashes will help them look healthier and lusher, making them look fuller. It will also make your eyelashes less likely to fall out due to dryness or brittleness. For the best effect, use vaseline after taking off your makeup. Vaseline also pairs well with other skincare products, so you don't have to alter your skincare routine to use this. You can also use vaseline in place of mascara since it provides a fresh, dewy look to them. If you want to use mascara, you can also use vaseline as a basecoat to help it last longer.

How To Use Vaseline On Eyelashes

Before applying, cleanse your hands to ensure they are clean and you aren't spreading bacteria around your face and eye area. Trapping bacteria near the eye area is a concern when using vaseline on eyelashes. To avoid this, make sure your face and hands are clean.

Next, you'll want to clean your eyelids and make sure your eyelashes don't have mascara or soap on them. The best way to apply vaseline is to use a cotton swab since you work with a small area. Apply the vaseline to the swab and apply the product to your upper and lower lash lines. You don't need much, so there is no need to put more product on them.

Next, you want to use the other side of the cotton swab and apply a little vaseline to your lashes. Try applying while blinking to get the best result. If you put the product on at night, gently remove it in the morning by using makeup remover or warm water.

Keep in mind that vaseline is thick and can feel heavy. If you think it feels dense, try applying less. If you happen to get it in your eyes, use a natural tears eye drop to help rinse it away.

Does Putting Vaseline On Eyelashes Help Them Grow?

Putting vaseline on your eyelashes does not help them grow faster or longer, but it does help them stay moisturized. It can also give the appearance of thicker, shinier lashes, which helps if you have sparse lashes. Vaseline also allows your eyelashes to grow to their natural length before falling out. Regular use of mascara can dry out your lashes and make them fall out prematurely.

However, if you want your eyelashes to grow much longer than usual, you will have to use more specialized products. To help lashes grow, try:

  • Regular cleansing: While it may sound simple, ensuring you have a cleansing routine can work wonders for your eyelashes. Keeping them clean and healthy is the first step to helping them grow. If you decide to use vaseline, you need to ensure you are cleansing everything because it is a thick substance. It can get into your tear ducts and irritate them if not cleaned properly.
  • Lash serums: Lash serums are another popular choice when growing lashes. There are over-the-counter and prescription options for lash serums. Both products help extend the lifespan of your eyelashes. Eyelashes have a natural shed cycle, which means they will fall out naturally after reaching a certain length. When using a serum, the shed cycle extends. It makes your lashes much longer before falling out.

If you don't want to wait for your lashes to grow, you can also get lash extensions. These are becoming more popular, and there are many places you can have this service done. You can have the extensions customized to your needs and style. You can choose to have thick, long lashes or more subtle lashes that give your eyes more fullness. If you want longer lashes, determine your budget and needs to see if using a serum or extensions is best for your lifestyle.

Share
BeautyAnswered is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Link to Sources
Discussion Comments
By anon979281 — On Nov 24, 2014

Vaseline on eyelashes is prescribed by many ophthalmologists as a means of cleaning off dandruff and alleviating irritants to the eyelids. Apply to lashes and clean off with warm water.

By anon966615 — On Aug 20, 2014

I've always used a really light layer of Vaseline on my lashes regardless of my mascara. I actually prefer using Vaseline as a base for my mascara because it allows me to take off the mascara completely. Without using Vaseline beforehand, I have to vigorously rub my eyes with makeup remover to take off the mascara. I end up with residual mascara for a few days, and brittle lashes that get stiff with the residual mascara.

By anon956053 — On Jun 11, 2014

I have been using Vaseline on my eyelashes every night since I was a teenager, and I am now 43! I have extremely sensitive skin and have eczema and have never had a reaction to Vaseline.

I use a tiny amount on my finger and glide gently across the lashes and sometimes across the eyelids, never caused me any problems and have great lashes that have been commented on over the years.

By anon934455 — On Feb 20, 2014

Don't use vaseline as eye primer/mosituriser!! Vaseline is a lot less porous than other moisturisers (it doesn't let your skin breathe as much). This is why it is such a fast acting solution for dry lips - it provides such a concentrated amount of moisture but when used on your skin vaseline can cause problems like bad acne breakouts (from too much oily moisture getting under the skin) and enlarged pores (the pores have to expand to absorb all the moisture). Also, you can get stys! I recommend keeping the vaseline on the eyelashes!

By anon341752 — On Jul 14, 2013

I've been doing this for two years straight, and I've had long, thick lashes ever since. Try it. Just don't go overboard. Putting a thick blob on every lash does more harm than good.

I might want to add that I never wear mascara. All those chemicals and gunk smothering your eyelashes, and then the process you go through to take it off.

So if you are swiping on heavy black layers every day, try this Vaseline thing sometimes at night when you remember. Chances are you probably won't succeed as much as the person who does this religiously and lets their eyes breathe.

By anon308995 — On Dec 14, 2012

Vaseline was discovered first as petroleum. It was called rod wax because when the huge cylinders would pump the oil from the earth, black gunk would collect on the rods.

The workers found that when they got this on their hands and arms, day after day, cuts and burns would heal faster.

I would really love it if rod wax made my eyelashes grow. They are as stubby as a pig's. Although pigs are quite smart, they don't have it in the eye department.

By seag47 — On Feb 12, 2012

My skin is very sensitive, so I should have known better than to apply Vaseline to my eye area. I thought it would promote eyelash growth, so I tried it. Instead of healthy lashes, I ended up with unattractive eyelids.

I broke out all around the base of my lashes. I got tiny, raised bumps that itched terribly, and it hurt every time I blinked. I had to go to a dermatologist for treatment, and even then, it took several days for the pain and itchiness to go away.

I was never able to wear mascara because of my sensitivity, so I thought Vaseline might be a nice alternative. I have since learned not to put anything on my lashes.

By cloudel — On Feb 12, 2012

@OeKc05 – Putting mascara on over Vaseline did not turn out well for me. I think it's best to use Vaseline as a nighttime eyelash moisturizer, since I remove my makeup before going to bed.

However, Vaseline can be useful in the makeup department. I like to mix it with loose powder eyeshadow in a container to make a cream eyeshadow. This goes on easily when applied with your fingertip.

Also, Vaseline can be dabbed on your lips on top of your lipstick for an instant gloss. It is very moisturizing, and it lasts for hours before you need to apply more.

By OeKc05 — On Feb 11, 2012

I don't see how you could even apply eye makeup on top of Vaseline. Wouldn't it slide right over the surface?

I use a powder eyeshadow, and I feel like if I tried to swipe that on my lids on top of Vaseline, it would create a muddy mess that would not adhere to anything. Also, it would darken the shadow and make it clump.

I don't generally use mascara, so maybe I'm missing something here. Perhaps mascara could actually cling to Vaseline.

By golf07 — On Feb 11, 2012

@SarahSon - I don't know if others have had a similar experience, but I didn't have good results when using Vaseline as a base for my eye makeup.

I found the Vaseline to be messy and hard to work with. I also found that it didn't seem to make much difference in how long my makeup stayed on. Not enough that it was worth messing with anyway.

You also don't want to use this if you are going to be in the water. Your makeup will really run!

I have had better results using a concealer under my eye makeup to keep it on longer.

As far as conditioning my eyelashes, I have found that if I use a really good eye lash remover at night, this leaves my eyelashes feeling soft.

One of my friends uses some Vaseline to remove her eye makeup at night. She says it works great at removing her makeup, and also leaves her eyelashes and the area around her eyes soft and smooth.

By SarahSon — On Feb 10, 2012

Has anybody used Vaseline as a base for your eyeshadow and mascara?

I am looking for a way for my makeup to stay on longer throughout the day. It seems like after a few hours, most of it has faded away. I was hoping something like this would help my eye makeup stay on all day long without touching up in the middle of the day.

I know that Vaseline has been around for a long time, so think it would be safe to use around my eyes. It just seems like it would be kind of sticky, but maybe that is what would help the eyeshadow and mascara stay on longer?

By sunshined — On Feb 10, 2012

@bagley79 - I have used Vaseline for soft, conditioned eyelashes for a long time. The easiest way I have found to use it is from the tubes. Just make sure it does not have any fragrance in it.

This is not nearly as messy as trying to use it from a jar. I simply take an old mascara brush that has been cleaned and squeeze some of the Vaseline on the brush. Then I just apply this like I would mascara.

If I just want to condition my eyelashes, I will often put this on at night when I don't have any other type of product on my face.

In the morning my eyelashes feel so soft. Whatever Vaseline that is left easily washes off in the shower.

If you want your eyelashes to appear longer and fuller, you can apply it anytime and know they are being conditioned at the same time.

By bagley79 — On Feb 09, 2012

I have heard of Vaseline being used for many beauty treatments, but I have never heard of using it on your eyelashes.

I just heard on TV the other day how our eyelashes become more dry and brittle as we age. If Vaseline helps them stay soft and moisturized it would seem to make a lot of sense to use it.

Since Vaseline doesn't cost very much, it would be an inexpensive thing to try. I have used Vaseline to help with dry, chapped lips before.

As long as it didn't irritate my eyes, I could see it working on something like eyelashes as well.

On this page
Share
https://www.beautyanswered.com/what-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-putting-vaseline-on-eyelashes.htm
Copy this link
BeautyAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

BeautyAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.