Why Vaseline Is The New Mascara – Here’s How to Use It

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Can you use Vaseline as mascara? Yes, you can! In this article, we’ll explain exactly why Vaseline is a great substitute for mascara and just how to use it.

Photo Credit: puhhha/Shutterstock.

Main Takeaways

  • Vaseline is the best substitute for mascara as it moisturizes and makes lashes appear fuller
  • Vaseline is inexpensive and easy to apply
  • Vaseline mascara will last around 8 hours
  • If you wear glasses, have oily skin or allergies, alternatives to Vaseline include lash lifts, extensions, or natural oils

Can You Use Vaseline As Mascara?

Vaseline can make an effective, natural mascara substitute, though there are some caveats to using Vaseline on your eyelashes.

Overall, Vaseline is great for your lashes. On one hand, it darkens your lashes and makes them look glossier while providing instant lift to your lashes. It also moisturizes and cares for your lashes.

On the other hand, it may not be the best choice for those who wear glasses, have oily skin, has allergies, or wear a lot of eye makeup.

Pros Of Using Vaseline As Mascara

  • It moisturizes and conditions dry lashes.
  • It will help to strengthen your eyelashes and reduce lash loss, so your eyelashes may potentially look longer over time.
  • It gives your eyelashes an instant uplift, in the same way, mascara does.
  • It darkens the color of your lashes upon application.
  • Give lashes a glossy finish.
  • Vaseline is inexpensive and easy to buy.
  • It creates a more subtle look than mascara so is ideal for more natural makeup looks.
  • It can be used as a primer for the mascara application.
  • Vaseline can be used as an overnight moisturizer for stronger, healthier lashes.
  • It is odorless and extremely unlikely to cause irritation.

Cons Of Using Vaseline As Mascara

  • Applying Vaseline to your lashes might cause the rest of your eye makeup to smear.
  • If you wear glasses, the Vaseline may rub off from your eyelashes onto the glasses.
  • Vaseline will trap dust particles, which can cause irritation, especially if you’re going outside.
  • If you have oily skin, using Vaseline around the eye area might cause acne, clogged pores, or an eye infection.
  • Because Vaseline is a moisture barrier, regular use may lead to inflammation and styes.
  • If you get Vaseline in your eyes, it will cause blurry vision.
  • It does not significantly darken the lashes, so if you have pale lashes, it won’t really darken them in the same way mascara does.

How To Use Vaseline As Mascara

woman smiling and applying vaseline to her eyelashes

Allergic reactions to Vaseline are extremely rare. That being said, it’s always wise to do a patch test before using any new product on your eyelashes.

You’ll need:

  • Vaseline
  • Clean mascara wand or Q-tip

Instructions:

  1. First, make sure your lashes are clean and free of makeup.
  2. Open the pot of Vaseline and warm up the top layer with a clean finger. This will make Vaseline easier to apply.
  3. Coat your mascara wand with an even layer of Vaseline.
  4. Apply to your lashes in the same way you would with mascara. Use just enough so that your lashes are evenly and thinly coated with Vaseline.

Make sure to wash off the Vaseline at the end of the day, or in the morning if you’re doing this as an overnight treatment.

What Else Can Be Substituted For Mascara?

If you don’t fancy using Vaseline on your eyelashes, there are some alternative options if you’re looking to take a break from mascara:

  • False eyelashes – These will give you darker and fuller lashes, and can create a more dramatic effect than mascara.
  • Eyelash extensions – Like false eyelashes but on a more permanent basis. These will give you longer, darker lashes without having to apply mascara every day. They last about six weeks.
  • Liquid or gel eyeliner – A dark liquid or gel eyeliner can serve as a substitute for mascara if you’ve run out. Apply to your lashes with a mascara wand to create the illusion you’re wearing mascara.
  • Lash tint – a lash tint will darken your eyelashes on a semi-permanent basis, so you won’t need to apply mascara every day.
  • Natural oils – pure natural oils such as castor or coconut oil will slightly darken and thicken the appearance of your lashes when applied. They also condition your lashes and help prevent breakage.

Should I Take A Break From Using Mascara?

Some mascaras are full of colorants, preservatives, and fragrances that can irritate the eyes and cause allergies.

Using mascara regularly can cause eyelashes to become thinner, more brittle, and more fragile over time, especially if you don’t wash it off properly. It can also cause eye infections and inflammation of the eyelids if it is not removed properly.

Waterproof formulas, especially, are difficult to wash off at the end of the day, resulting in an increased lash loss due to the removal process.

Using mascara in moderation is best for your eyelashes. Even better if you use a brand that is hypoallergenic and contains lash conditioners.

These will care for your eyelashes and reduce irritation to the eyes.

Meanwhile, waterproof mascara is best reserved for special occasions, as it is difficult to remove.

If you love mascara and like to wear it regularly, you might want to consider a more natural alternative from time to time to give your eyelashes a break.

How Long Does Vaseline Mascara Last?

Vaseline lasts well on eyelashes. It is clear so it won’t smudge and give you panda eyes. It also provides a lift that should at the very least get you through the work day: about 8 hours.

You may find that your lashes have drooped slightly by the end of the day when you wash your face.

What Helps Your Eyelashes Grow?

woman looking into the mirror and applying mascara to her lashes

Natural oils such as castor oil or coconut oil, or applying Vaseline to your lashes at night, will help to condition them and prevent breakage.

This may create the appearance of longer lashes over time.

Latisse is the only FDA-approved eyelash serum that is proven to grow your eyelashes. It does come with some potential side effects and you need to get it on prescription, so you’d have to speak to your doctor first.

Is Vaseline Good For Eye Bags?

Vaseline won’t erase deep wrinkles or dark circles. However, it can provide similar moisturizing effects as your favorite eye cream.

It’s especially effective if layered over a moisturizing cream, since Vaseline is occlusive, meaning it locks in moisture.

It’s best to avoid it if you have oily skin, however, as Vaseline may block your pores and cause breakouts.

So, Can You Use Vaseline As Mascara?

Yes, you can use Vaseline as mascara but be careful if you wear glasses, are prone to acne, or have allergies.

Vaseline will help moisturize and lift your lashes and can make them appear fuller and darker.

It is however worth noting that your lashes will not be as dark as if you did wear mascara, and Vaseline can cause your makeup to smear or interfere with your vision if not used correctly.

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