What are the negative effects of vaseline on hair?

Question

I have thinning hair (due to androgenic alopecia) and I like using a petrolatum-vaseline-wax pomade to style my hair. I've read that (1) vaseline coats the hair strands, (2) can deposit on the scalp and (3), because it's not soluble in water, it's left on the hair until the next wash. Due to all of these, I've read that it can make hair easier to break and it can even inhibit hair growth, if used daily. Is anyone kind enough to share their knowledge and establish the truth in these statements?

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

Vaseline does not cause hair loss.  Your androgenic alopecia is what is causing hair loss.  If you believe vaseline is making your hair loss condition worse, then stop using it.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Vaseline is as you describe. It is difficult to get off your hair if you put a great deal of it on your hair, but just a dab of it will not harm.  The key to styling and not damaging your hair is not to pull it, be rough with it in brushing or drying with a towel. Hairs that are miniaturized can easily break and be damaged so careful management of styling is important.

What are the negative effects of vaseline on hair?

Answers (2)