Eyelashes have a three-phase cycle. The first cycle, anagen, is the growth phase. During this phase, the hair follicle is in the papilla (bulb), where tiny cells are nourished by capillaries and blood vessels to promote growth. Anagen can last anywhere between 30 and 45 days. The eyelash then enters catagen, the transition phase, where the eyelash stops growing and the hair follicle shrinks away from the papilla. The final phase, telogen, is the resting phase and occurs before the eyelash falls out and a new eyelash pushes through. This process generally lasts three months.

To date, there is no evidence that Vaseline can penetrate to the hair papilla and promote hair growth or add volume. Contrary to popular belief, applying Vaseline to eyelashes at night does not cause them to grow any faster, nor does it make eyelashes fuller or thicker. It can however, be used to give the illusion of thicker eyelashes due to the coating the eyelashes. The eyelashes will also have a shine that makes them appear healthier, but that does not actually make them healthier.

Fortunately, professionals have an array of great products at their fingertips to recommend to their clients. Primers, fiber mascaras, mascara, strip eyelashes, or eyelash extensions will aid in instant gratification. If clients are looking to improve the growth and health of their natural eyelash, a growth serum is their best choice. Vaseline, however, just might suit that non-makeup, natural client.