The Vaseline Lash Craze: Too Good To Be True?
It seems like you can’t scroll through TikTok these days without stumbling across videos promising longer, fuller, curlier lashes—all thanks to a swipe of good old Vaseline. People claim the effect rivals a professional lash lift, and some are even tossing aside their mascara wands in favor of this cult favorite. After all, Vaseline (or petrolatum, if you want to sound technical) is already beloved for slugging, soothing chapped lips, and softening cuticles. It was only a matter of time before it made its way to our lashes, promising extra shine and hold.
But dermatologists from Weill Cornell Medicine, alongside other experts quoted in beauty media, insist there’s more nuance to this trend than meets the eye—literally.
What Vaseline Actually Does for Your Lashes
Vaseline is an occlusive, meaning it locks in moisture and coats the hair fibers. When used on lashes, this conditioning effect can leave them softer, shinier, and less prone to breakage. As dermatologist Jack Levy told Byrdie,
« It can prevent lash loss and breakage by strengthening and lubricating them, so they’re less fragile when facing eyelash curlers or mascara. »
However, don’t expect magic growth. The illusion of extra length is mostly thanks to the increased curl and shine, not because Vaseline is making your lashes sprout. As Jack Levy clarifies,
« It doesn’t directly impact the length or thickness of lashes. »
By reducing fallout and breakage, you might notice a fuller fringe over time, but that’s about as far as the benefits go—Vaseline doesn’t boost growth.
The Risks: Something to Bat Your Lashes At
Before you slather anything near your eyes, it’s worth remembering: the skin around the eyes is delicate. Using Vaseline too close to your eyes can blur your vision if it gets inside and may cause irritation. According to Jack Levy,
« If Vaseline gets into the eye, it can cause prolonged blurred vision or, in rare cases, a reaction called conjunctival granuloma. »
Another word of caution: Vaseline may block the glands in your eyelids, leading to painful issues like styes or chalazia.
« Frequent application of large amounts around the eye can block pores and result in painful swelling, »
adds Jack Levy. Ophthalmologists are raising the alarm about a surge in patients turning up with styes—clogged gland-related bumps along the lash line—which can be tricky to get rid of, especially since Vaseline is notoriously stubborn to remove. If this trend keeps up, expect more of these problems popping up.
How to (Carefully) Try the Trend—and Who Should Avoid It
If you’re still tempted, at least go for minimal amounts and keep hygiene levels squeaky clean. Remember, the bacteria naturally living on your eye area should really stay there—they don’t belong inside your eyes and can cause nasty infections, as Jack Levy warns.
Here are the main dermatologists’ reminders:
- Apply only a tiny amount—less is definitely more here.
- Keep everything as clean as possible to avoid bringing bacteria near your eyes.
In some cases, you really should steer clear:
« Avoid using it if you have a history of eye infections, »
advises Shari Lipner, also speaking to Byrdie. She adds,
« If used on the face, it should only be applied for short periods, generally less than a week. »
For that glossy, defined finish, go for clear mascaras infused with biotin or keratin, or reach for lash serums that are ophthalmologist-tested and formulated specifically for use around the eyes.
The bottom line: while Vaseline might make your lashes look sleeker for a selfie or two, the potential risks could outweigh the rewards—especially if you get a little overzealous with your application. Sometimes, the best beauty hack is the one that puts your eye health first!
Jack Mercer is a writer with a passion for American culture and everyday style. After spending years exploring the country’s hidden gems and fashion scenes, he found his voice sharing stories that celebrate the authentic spirit of modern America. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him hunting for vintage denim or enjoying a good bourbon on his front porch.
