If you’ve spent any time on beauty TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ve likely seen the viral "hack" for fluttery, doll-like lashes: Vaseline. Influencers claim that swapping expensive serums for a tiny dab of petroleum jelly resulted in longer, thicker, and darker eyelashes in just weeks.
But before you start coating your eyes in jelly, it’s important to separate the marketing myths from biological facts. Does Vaseline actually trigger growth, or is it just a clever optical illusion?
The Short Answer: Does it Stimulate Growth?
The honest truth is no. Vaseline (petroleum jelly) does not contain any active ingredients—like prostaglandins or peptides—that can change the biological growth cycle of your hair follicles.
Unlike medical-grade serums, Vaseline won't make your lashes grow longer than their genetically determined length. However, that doesn't mean it’s useless for your lashes.
Why Everyone Thinks Their Lashes are Growing
If Vaseline doesn't cause growth, why do so many people swear by it? The answer lies in conditioning and protection.
1. The "Hydration" Illusion
Dry eyelashes are brittle and prone to snapping. Vaseline acts as an occlusive barrier, locking in moisture and coating each hair. This makes the lashes appear darker, shinier, and thicker—giving the appearance of growth without the actual length increase.
2. Preventing Breakage
Most "lash loss" isn't due to the hair falling out; it’s due to breakage from rubbing eyes or using harsh waterproof mascaras. By coating the lashes in a protective layer, Vaseline makes them more flexible, meaning they stay on your lids longer instead of snapping off.
3. The "Lash Lift" Effect
Vaseline has a heavy consistency. When applied, it can hold lashes in an upward, slightly curled position, making them look more prominent and "longer" to the naked eye.
Is It Safe to Put Vaseline Near Your Eyes?
While Vaseline is "non-comedogenic" (doesn't clog pores), the eye area is incredibly sensitive. Here are three things dermatologists warn about:
Milia: Putting heavy ointments near the eyes can trap dead skin cells, leading to tiny, hard white bumps called milia.
Contamination: If you use your fingers to dip into a jar and then touch your eyes, you risk introducing bacteria that can cause sties or conjunctivitis (pink eye).
Blurry Vision: If even a tiny bit of Vaseline gets into your eye, it won't cause permanent damage, but it will cause annoying, greasy blurred vision for several hours.
How to Properly Use Vaseline for Lashes (The Safe Way)
If you want to try it for the conditioning benefits, follow these steps to avoid irritation:
Start with a Clean Slate: Ensure all eye makeup is completely removed.
Use a Spoolie: Instead of your fingers, use a clean, disposable mascara wand (spoolie).
Less is More: Dip the wand into the Vaseline and wipe off the excess. You only need a microscopic amount.
Avoid the Roots: Apply only to the mid-lengths and tips of your lashes. Avoid the lash line to prevent clogging the oil glands (Meibomian glands) in your eyelids.
Wash it Off: Thoroughly cleanse your eyes in the morning to remove the residue.
The 2026 Verdict
Vaseline is a fantastic conditioner, not a grower. If you want to save money and protect the lashes you already have, it’s a brilliant addition to your nightly routine. But if you’re looking for a dramatic increase in length, you’ll likely need a dedicated lash serum or a good old-fashioned bottle of castor oil.
Are your lashes feeling brittle lately? I can help you compare "Vaseline vs. Castor Oil" to see which natural remedy is best for your specific lash goals—would you like me to do that?