Does Vaseline Help Your Lashes Grow? Myth or Fact

Countless people try to find natural, inexpensive methods to improve the appearance of their eyelashes, making them look longer, thicker, and fuller. One beauty tip that has been around for ages is putting Vaseline or petroleum jelly on the eyelashes with the expectation that it will stimulate lash growth. But the question remains: does Vaseline help your lashes grow, or is it mere folklore? This article will look at the benefits of Vaseline for eyelashes, how to apply it properly, and other effective techniques for eyelash growth.

Understanding Eyelash Growth

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of whether or not Vaseline helps eyelashes grow, we need to first understand how eyelashes grow naturally. Eyelashes follow a growth cycle that consists of three main phases:

1. Anagen (Growth Phase): This is the period where lashes are actively growing. It lasts 30 to 45 days, and not all lashes are in this phase at once.
2. Catagen (Transition Phase): The follicle starts to shrink, and the lash ceases to grow. If a lash drops during this stage, it won’t regrow until this stage is finished.
3. Telogen (Resting Phase): The lash is in place but has stopped growing. It will, eventually, shed and make way for a new one.

Because lashes are all continuously cycling, those that are longer or thicker are not new ones (that is, a product or serum stimulating new growth), but rather a product that either elongates the anagen phase or reinforces existing lashes to prevent them from shedding.

Does Vaseline Promote Eyelash Growth?

Vaseline, a brand of petroleum jelly, is well-known for its moisturizing properties. However, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that Vaseline directly stimulates lash growth. Unlike FDA-approved lash serums such as Latisse (bimatoprost), Vaseline does not contain any active ingredients that can influence the lash growth cycle.

What Vaseline Can Do for Your Eyelashes

Although Vaseline does not directly make eyelashes grow, it offers several benefits that can improve the appearance and health of your lashes:

1. Moisturization:
   Vaseline helps to lock in moisture, preventing dry and brittle lashes. Well-hydrated lashes are less likely to break, which may give the illusion of longer and fuller eyelashes over time.
2. Protection from Environmental Damage:
   Lashes are exposed to pollutants, harsh weather, and makeup products daily. Vaseline forms a protective barrier that shields lashes from these damaging elements.
3. Enhancing Lash Shine:
   Applying a thin layer of Vaseline to your eyelashes can give them a natural glossy and healthy appearance, making them look more defined and voluminous.
4. Soothing Irritated Skin Around the Eyes:
   If you suffer from dry or sensitive skin around your eyes, Vaseline can act as a soothing agent, reducing irritation and preventing flakiness.

How to Apply Vaseline to Eyelashes Safely

If you want to try Vaseline as part of your eyelash care routine, follow these safe application steps:

1. Choose the Right Vaseline Product:
   Always use 100% pure petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline Original) to avoid additives that could irritate your eyes.
2. Clean Your Face and Lashes:
   Remove all makeup and cleanse your face to ensure no debris, mascara, or eyeliner is left on your lashes.
3. Use a Clean Applicator:
   Dip a clean mascara wand, cotton swab, or your fingertip into a small amount of Vaseline.
4. Apply Gently:
   Lightly coat your upper and lower lashes, being careful not to get Vaseline into your eyes.
5. Leave Overnight or Wipe Off After a Few Hours:
   If using overnight, make sure you do not apply too much, as it can transfer onto your pillow and potentially irritate your eyes.
6. Rinse in the Morning:
   Use a gentle cleanser or micellar water to remove any residue.

Potential Risks and Drawbacks

While Vaseline is generally considered safe, there are a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind:

• Clogged Hair Follicles: Excess Vaseline can trap dirt and bacteria, possibly leading to clogged follicles or infections like styes.
• Blurry Vision: If too much Vaseline gets into your eyes, it may cause temporary blurred vision.
• Allergic Reactions: Though rare, some individuals may develop irritation or allergic reactions to petroleum jelly.
• Not a Growth-Stimulating Product: Vaseline does not contain ingredients like biotin, peptides, or prostaglandins, which are known to promote lash growth.

Alternative Methods to Promote Eyelash Growth

If your goal is to grow longer and thicker eyelashes, consider these alternative solutions that are backed by science:

1. Latisse (Bimatoprost):
   The only FDA-approved eyelash growth serum, Latisse, extends the anagen phase, helping lashes grow longer, darker, and fuller.
2. Castor Oil:
   Many people use castor oil to condition their lashes. While not scientifically proven to promote growth, it does help strengthen lashes and prevent breakage.
3. Biotin Supplements:
   Biotin (Vitamin B7) is essential for healthy hair growth, including eyelashes.
4. Eyelash Growth Serums:
   Many over-the-counter lash serums contain peptides and botanical extracts that help nourish and strengthen lashes.
5. Healthy Diet:
   Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids supports healthy hair and lash growth.
6. Gentle Lash Care:
   • Avoid rubbing your eyes excessively.
   • Remove eye makeup properly to prevent lash fallout.
   • Use a gentle, oil-free makeup remover.

Final Verdict: Does Vaseline Help your lashes Grow?

Vaseline does not aid in the actual growth of lashes, but it assists in conditioning and protecting the lashes, which enables them to be healthier and more robust. If your focus is real lash growth, then Latisse and other scientific means might be what you seek. But if you want a simple, inexpensive way to help with moisturizing and shininess, then Vaseline is the answer.