How to Get Stronger Nails Using Petroleum Jelly

Co-authored by Marta Nagorska

Last Updated: February 7, 2025

We've all wanted stronger nails, right? Considering all the things they go through during the day. Petroleum jelly is cheap- and you can get it at pretty much every drugstore.^{[1]
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American Academy of Dermatology
Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists

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Not just rinse, actually wash them. This is the first step to the road of stronger nails.^{[2]
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Marta Nagorska
Nail Artist

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Put a big ol' glob on all your nails!

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Use your index finger to rub all that petroleum jelly around. Pay special attention to these areas: Cuticles, and where you find those pesky hangnails!^{[3]
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Marta Nagorska
Nail Artist

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This leaves time to let the petroleum jelly soak in and gets its full strengthening power!
Make sure you get ALL of the petroleum jelly off.

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Tips

Petroleum jelly is a byproduct of the petroleum (oil) industry. If you don’t want to support this industry, use alternatives such as coconut oil, Shea Butter or beeswax.^{[4]
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You could also press your cuticles back with a cotton swab.

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Do this right before bed, because that also gives it time to strengthen your nails.

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The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.

Generally, you don’t need to cut your cuticles, and if you’re not a professional you run the risk of damaging your nails.
Petroleum jelly does not actually "soak" into nails. It is an occlusive moisturizer that seals in moisture.
Don’t touch your face after. The greasiness can cause acne.

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