The Benefits of Using Vaseline for Nails, From a Manicurist| Well+Good (2024)

With the Well+Good SHOP, our editors put their years of know-how to work in order to pick products (from skin care to self care and beyond) they’re betting you’ll love. While our editors independently select these products, making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission. Happy shopping! Explore the SHOP

Looking to give your nails (and hands and feet) a little extra TLC? You don't need to spend a fortune for an expert-approved treatment. In fact, the solution may already be hanging around in your bathroom.

I asked Vivian Nguyen, a manicurist at Nail Lounge of La Jolla in La Jolla, CA, to share her favorite product is—aka what she regularly uses for strong nails, healthy cuticles, and soft skin on her hands and feet. Hint: It's under four bucks, has been around for a hundred and fifty years, and is almost definitely a part of your usual beauty routine. You guessed it—Vaseline.

"People think they need fancy products or serums or tools for their nails, but most of the time, simple is better, and you don't need to spend a lot of money to get good results," says Nguyen. "Vaseline works so well for so many things. I use it literally all the time."

Experts In This Article

This manicurist favorite turns out to also be a derm favorite, too—and the American Academy of Dermatology seconds Nguyen's recommendation for using it on your cuticles. "It helps your cuticles, keeps your hands and nails hydrated, and works better than callus removal if you put it on your feet and wear socks overnight," says Nguyen. "The best part is that it's affordable and probably already in your medicine cabinet!" she adds. It can even help prevent pesky broken nails.

Because of the nature of her work, her hands and nails are exposed to a constant stream of chemicals and products that can be pretty harsh. "Vaseline, or any petroleum jelly really, is what I use to keep my nails and the skin on my hands healthy. It's the best."

While the Vaseline brand has various products on offer, the classic petroleum jelly is what Nguyen recommends. It's versatile, works on nails, hands, and feet, and can be used for wound healing, slugging, and a whole lot more. At only $4 a pop, it's a worthy investment, indeed.

Want to keep your toes in tip-top shape, too? Check out the video below to learn about the best at-home pedicure money can buy.

Want even more beauty intel from our editors? Follow our Fineprint Instagram account) for must-know tips and tricks.

Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission.

The Benefits of Using Vaseline for Nails, From a Manicurist| Well+Good (2024)

FAQs

The Benefits of Using Vaseline for Nails, From a Manicurist| Well+Good? ›

"It helps your cuticles, keeps your hands and nails hydrated, and works better than callus removal if you put it on your feet and wear socks overnight," says Nguyen. "The best part is that it's affordable and probably already in your medicine cabinet!" she adds. It can even help prevent pesky broken nails.

What are the benefits of Vaseline for nails? ›

Is Vaseline good for nails and cuticles? Yes definitely , it provides a good coating over it. Before going to bed you can apply it . it's a thick layer has has vitamin E , it will make your nails and cuticles stronger , giving them strength against breakage.

How long should I leave Vaseline on my nails? ›

Step 1: Wash your hands and apply vaseline over your entire nails. Step 2: Rub it for at least 3-5 minutes and let it absorb completely. For best results, keep it on overnight and wash it off the next morning.

Is Vaseline good for toenail fungus? ›

Soak your foot or hand 2 to 3 times each day. Use a solution of 5 mL (1 tsp) of salt dissolved in 1 L (4 cups) warm water. After soaking, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a bandage. Do not try to remove any part of the affected nail.

How do you use Vaseline for a manicure? ›

Before you start painting, line your cuticles with a Q-tip dipped in Vaseline to prevent polish from sticking, as beauty guru Michelle Phan demonstrates on her blog. The Vaseline creates a barrier between your nail and skin so you can wipe away mistakes when you're finished.

What will soften toenails? ›

Before you trim your toenails, soften them by soaking your feet in warm water for 5 to 10 minutes. Then dry your feet and toenails with a towel. Nail nippers, shown below, work best for trimming thickened toenails. They're lightweight, easy to grip and easy to control.

Does olive oil help nails grow? ›

Nails that are brittle, weak, or discolored can be a sign of vitamin, mineral, or nutrient deficiencies that cause the nails to break off. "While [olive oil] does not promote new growth per se, it does improve brittleness and reduce breakage, allowing the nails to grow to the best of their ability," says Dr. Zeichner.

Is coconut oil good for nails? ›

Coconut oil is very hydrating and can help strengthen your nails and soften your cuticles. Also, it has anti-fungal properties which is great news if you're prone to nail infections. For a nourishing treatment, warm coconut oil for 20 seconds in the microwave and massage into the cuticles before bed.

What does Vicks VapoRub do for toenails? ›

Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment. Although designed for cough suppression, its active ingredients (camphor and eucalyptus oil) may help treat toenail fungus. An older 2011 study found that Vicks VapoRub had a “positive clinical effect” in treating toenail fungus.

What kills fingernail fungus the fastest? ›

Oral antifungal drugs.

These drugs are often the first choice. One option is itraconazole (Sporanox). These drugs help a new nail grow free of infection, slowly replacing the infected part. You typically take this type of drug daily for 6 to 12 weeks.

Does hydrogen peroxide get rid of toenail fungus? ›

Some studies suggest that hydrogen peroxide may have antifungal effects and can help inhibit the growth of fungi. However, there is no significant scientific evidence to support its use as a standalone treatment for toenail fungus.

What does putting Vaseline on your nails do? ›

Vaseline can protect against moisture loss, help prevent dryness plus at the same time heal cracked skin. You can also add further protection for your cuticles by rubbing a small amount straight onto the nail-bed and fingernails before going to sleep.

What does Vaseline do to your eyebrows? ›

Vaseline is extremely moisturizing and can keep eyebrow hairs soft. If you have dry skin, Vaseline can heal the skin underneath your eyebrows and combat redness. Vaseline is both fragrance-free and safe for the eye area, making it a great eyebrow conditioning option for even the most sensitive skin types.

Does Vaseline help your eyelashes grow? ›

Is Vaseline Good for Your Eyelashes? Vaseline does not make your eyelashes grow longer or help them in any way. We do not recommend this product for several reasons: It contains parabens, which are banned by cosmetics departments in most countries.

Is Vaseline Healthy hands stronger nails? ›

Not only does this hand lotion deliver instant moisture to dry and itchy skin, but it also strengthens nails and helps prevent them from chipping or breaking, giving you 10x stronger nails in just 2 weeks*.

Does Vaseline help grow eyelashes? ›

Since Vaseline is made purely of petroleum jelly, and petroleum jelly does not aid in eyelash growth, it is safe to say that Vaseline itself does not help your eyelashes grow. The benefits of vaseline on your eyelashes are limited to: Locking in moisture. Gentle on skin.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Kelle Weber

Last Updated:

Views: 6094

Rating: 4.2 / 5 (73 voted)

Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Kelle Weber

Birthday: 2000-08-05

Address: 6796 Juan Square, Markfort, MN 58988

Phone: +8215934114615

Job: Hospitality Director

Hobby: tabletop games, Foreign language learning, Leather crafting, Horseback riding, Swimming, Knapping, Handball

Introduction: My name is Kelle Weber, I am a magnificent, enchanting, fair, joyous, light, determined, joyous person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.