One of the best-selling cosmetic products available, mascara makes wimpy lashes look thicker, longer, and more voluminous. When used correctly, mascara can dramatically improve the appearance of eyes, making them look larger, brighter, and more noticeable. Here are ten easy tips for flawless, clump-free mascara each and every time.
Tip #1: Find the right mascara
Mascaras come in two formulas: water-soluble and waterproof. Water-soluble mascaras are lighter and easier to remove, but won’t hold up to extreme humidity. If you are an athlete, live in a humid climate, or are prone to watery eyes, opt for the waterproof alternative.
Tip #2: Choose a color to compliment your complexion.
Black mascara isn’t for everyone. If your skin is fair or has yellow undertones, or if you have light hair-such as blonde or red-you may want to try brown mascara for a more natural look.
Tip #3: Apply powder under the eye
Heavy creams and oils, such as those found in moisturizers and concealers, will attract the pigment in mascaras, causing them to smear. To avoid unsightly under-eye circles, dust a thin layer of loose or pressed powder under the eye to absorb any excess moisture.
Tip #4: Line your eyes
Using a coordinating shade of eyeliner, line the eyelid at the lash base. This will open the eye and define its shape, as well as give the appearance of fuller lashes.
Tip #5: Curl your lashes
To give straight lashes more volume, curl them using an eyelash curler. How to do it: clamp the lashes near the root, and hold for 20-30 seconds. If you’re curling your lashes after applying mascara, wait until they are dry. Wet lashes will stick to the trough pads, leading to follicle damage or loss.
Tip #6: Clean the brush
Using a clean tissue, wipe any excess mascara from the wand. This will rid the brush of any dried-on clumps, resulting in a smooth, even coat.
Tip #7: Coat the full lash
Applying mascara only to the bottom of your eyelashes will make them heavy, causing them to droop. Instead, apply an even coat to both the tops and bottoms of your lashes, starting at the base and wiggling the brush from side to side as you move to the tip, coating the full lash.
Tip #8: Mix and Match
For a dramatic look, apply a coat of volumizing mascara followed by a coat of lengthening mascara on the tips. For best results, apply the second coat while lashes are still wet. Applying wet mascara to dry mascara will coat the lashes unevenly, causing clumps.
Tip #9: Choose the right brush
Mascara brushes come in an array of shapes and sizes, and are often as unique as their respective product formulas. Thick brushes with several narrowly-spaced bristles are best for full-coverage or thickening mascaras, while longer brushes with bristles set farther apart are best to lengthen and separate. Brushes with tapered ends are best to paint the lashes at the corner of the eye.
Tip #10: Removing mascara
Whatever your choice of mascara, removing it shouldn’t be difficult. Apply a small amount of eye-makeup remover to each eye, and gently wipe away using a warm, damp cloth until the product is dissolved. Avoid rubbing the eye, which can cause the sensitive skin around it to stretch and sag. If you’re in a pinch, baby oil will also break down the wax in mascaras, but because it doesn’t contain cosmeceutical ingredients (like natural plant extracts or Antioxidants), won’t provide any additional benefits.
Once you’ve found a mascara that is right for you, be sure to make note of the brand and color. (Hint: There’s a sticker on the bottom of the tube.) To keep mascara free of bacteria and contaminants, it is recommended you replace your tube every three months.
credit:articlet