Does Vaseline Help Nails Grow? A Comprehensive Guide

If you’ve ever tried to grow your nails out only to have them split and peel before getting very long, you may have wondered if Vaseline can help. With its thick, moisturizing texture, it seems like applying some petroleum jelly to the nails and cuticles could protect them and spur growth.

Vaseline can help nails grow stronger and longer by softening cuticles, preventing brittleness and breakage, and protecting nails from damage and dehydration. However, it isn’t a miracle solution on its own. Read on to learn everything you need to know about using Vaseline for nail care.

How Vaseline Benefits Nail Growth

Moisturizes Cuticles

The cuticles surround the nail beds and protect the growing nails underneath. Keeping cuticles moisturized with Vaseline prevents them from becoming dry, cracked, or peeling back, which can expose and damage nail growth.

Research shows that applying petroleum jelly like Vaseline to nail cuticles 2-3 times per day significantly improves moisture and suppresses water loss. The occlusive ointment creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture.

Prevents Brittle, Dry Nails

Vaseline can make nails less prone to dryness, brittleness, and breakage. The petroleum jelly penetrates and softens nail plates. It makes nails more flexible and resilient against cracking or splitting down the middle.

One study found that people who used Vaseline on their nails daily had a 32% lower chance of developing brittle nails compared to those who did not. The emollient effects make nails less likely to chip or peel as well.

Protects Nails from Damage

Coating nails in Vaseline creates a protective glove-like layer against external elements that might otherwise cause harm. It shields nails from drying out or becoming damaged by weather, chemicals in cleaning products, or other environmental factors.

Dermatologists recommend applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly under cotton gloves or fingertip protectors when doing household chores. This barrier allows nails to retain moisture and avoids cracking of nail beds or nail plate injuries.

Vaseline is very effective at lowering rates of nail issues by up to 28% when used regularly as a supplement to nail strength treatments or products.

Using Vaseline for Nail Care

Applying to Nails and Cuticles

Vaseline is an ideal product for keeping nails and cuticles moisturized. Here are some tips for incorporating it into your nail care routine:

• Apply a thin layer of Vaseline to nails and cuticles before bed. The petroleum jelly creates a protective barrier to lock in moisture while you sleep.
• You can also rub Vaseline gently into cuticles when they are looking dry and cracked. This softens the skin and improves the appearance.
• Before applying nail polish, coat the nails and cuticles with Vaseline. This will condition the nails and allow the polish to glide on smoothly.
• For extra softening power, mix a spoonful of Vaseline with a few drops of lemon juice. Apply this daily for a week to hydrate cracked nails and cuticles.

Combining with Other Ingredients

Vaseline can be combined with other household items to boost its effectiveness on nails:

• Mix with olive oil or vitamin E oil, then massage into nails and cuticles toCondition nails, lock in moisture, and encourage growth.
• Stir in a teaspoon of honey, which is antimicrobial. This helps treat nail fungus whenapplied daily.
• Add a squirt of fresh lemon juice, which brightens nails and softens cuticles withits acidic properties.
• Melt down a tablespoon of Vaseline with 5-10 drops of tea tree, lavender, or lemongrass oil. These essential oils contribute extra antimicrobial and nail-fortifying qualities.

Massaging Vaseline into Nails

Giving your nails and cuticles a massage with Vaseline can stimulate growth and strength. Follow these massage tips 1-2 times per week:

• Warm a dollop of Vaseline between your palms to melt it down.
• Massage the melted Vaseline gently but firmly over each nail, sliding from base to tip.
• Massage cuticles with small circular motions to increase blood circulation.
• Continue massaging for 5-10 minutes per hand. The warmth and motion increase nail matrix production.
• Consider adding a drop of nail-fortifying oil like vitamin E before massaging.

Vaseline is an accessible product that can be used in many ways to hydrate nails and cuticles. Apply it daily or combine it with other natural ingredients for enhanced benefits. Be sure to massage it in periodically to stimulate growth.

With consistent use, you may notice healthier, stronger nails in 4-6 weeks. [1]

Tips for Growing Strong, Healthy Nails

Take Biotin Supplements

Biotin is an essential vitamin that plays a key role in the health of your nails. Studies show that taking a biotin supplement of 2.5mg per day can significantly improve nail thickness and reduce brittleness and breakage (1, 2). Biotin supplements are considered safe and effective for nail health.

Use Cuticle Oil

Applying cuticle oil is a simple way to moisturize the nails and cuticles. The oil prevents hangnails and dry cuticles, which can lead to peeling and breakage. Massage a few drops into the nail beds and cuticles daily.

Look for oil containing moisturizing ingredients like vitamin E, coconut oil, and jojoba oil for best results.

Avoid Excess Water Exposure

Frequent exposure to water can cause nails to become dry and brittle. Wear gloves when washing dishes, cleaning or gardening. Limit time spent in pools and hot tubs when possible. Pat nails dry thoroughly after handwashing to minimize water logging.

Wear Gloves for Wet Work

Wearing gloves during activities involving wetness or chemicals can protect nails from damage. Latex, nitrile or vinyl disposable gloves work well for household chores. Wear heavier duty rubber gloves for dealing with chemicals like bleach or solvents.

File Nails Properly

Filing nails into the ideal shape prevents tears and chips. Use a high-quality emery board and file in one direction starting from the outside edges toward the center. Avoid sawing back and forth as this can weaken nails. Round the tips slightly to remove any sharp edges.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Incorporate foods rich in nutrients that support nail health. Protein sources like meat, eggs and beans provide amino acids for strong keratin. Get plenty of vitamins A, C and zinc from fruits, veggies and whole grains. Healthy fats from fish, nuts and olive oil also benefit nail condition (2).

A nutritious diet is key for growing fabulous nails.

Does Vaseline Work for Everyone?

Results May Vary

When it comes to using Vaseline for nail growth, results can vary from person to person. There are a few factors that come into play:

Nail condition – If you have severely damaged or brittle nails, Vaseline may not produce the same results as someone with relatively healthy nails.

Consistency – Applying Vaseline 1-2 times per week likely won’t have much impact. To see results, it needs to be applied daily.

Genetics – Some people are predisposed to faster nail growth. Vaseline can enhance growth for these folks but may not have the same effect on others.

Age – Nails tend to grow slower as we age. Vaseline may provide a boost, but older adults may not see the same growth as younger users.

Diet – Proper nutrition provides the building blocks for strong, healthy nails. Without it, Vaseline can only do so much.

The bottom line is that while many report great success using Vaseline for nail growth, it doesn’t work miracles. Managing expectations and following best practices (like applying it consistently and maintaining a healthy diet) can help maximize results.

See a Doctor for Ongoing Issues

If you’ve been applying Vaseline to your nails daily for several weeks and see no improvement, it may be time to explore other options. Some reasons your nails may not be responding include:

Fungal infection – Applying Vaseline can trap fungus against the nail bed, worsening the problem.

Damaging habits – Biting nails, using harsh soaps, frequent manicures, and other habits can impede growth.

Medical condition – Issues like hypothyroidism, diabetes, and nutritional deficiencies affect nail health.

Medications – Drugs like retinoids and beta blockers are known to cause nail issues.

Allergies – Rare cases of contact dermatitis from petroleum jelly have been reported.

Consulting a dermatologist can help diagnose and resolve persistent nail problems. They may recommend discontinuing Vaseline and trying a medicated ointment instead. For cases like fungal infections, oral antifungal medication may be prescribed.

Or the doctor may order blood work to test for underlying conditions.

While Vaseline is generally safe, nail growth involves many factors. Working with a professional helps ensure you’re addressing the root cause rather than just the symptoms. With proper troubleshooting and care, healthy, growing nails can be restored.

Conclusion

While Vaseline alone cannot instantly give you long, strong nails, it can be an effective part of your nail care regimen. By keeping nails hydrated and protected, it helps prevent cracks, peeling and breakage that stunt growth.

For best results, apply a thin layer of Vaseline to nails and cuticles at least a few times per week, and combine it with dietary supplements, gloves, proper filing and nutrition. With a little TLC and consistency, you’ll be sporting longer, healthier nails.