An essential component of practically every beauty routine for makeup enthusiasts is mascara. When applied correctly, mascara can transform sparse lashes into gorgeously fluttery lashes that accentuate the eyes and add extra glitter to the face.
However, more than a coat or two of lashes is needed to achieve professional-looking lashes. This tutorial will show you how to apply mascara like an expert and give you pointers on perfectly curling, thickening, and lengthening your lashes.
1. Start with Clean, Curled Lashes
Ensure your lashes are clean and curly before opening the mascara tube. Remove any residue from previous skincare or makeup products to give your mascara a clean surface to cling to and help it stay on longer and look its best.
For more lift, apply an eyelash curler after that. After positioning the curler at the base of your lashes, gently squeeze for around five seconds before letting go.
Move the curler halfway up your lashes, squeeze again, and then repeat at the tips to achieve a curl that looks natural. This method will open up the eyes and give the appearance of additional lift.
2. Choose the Right Mascara Formula
Selecting the ideal mascara formula requires knowing what you hope to accomplish with your lashes. For instance:
- Fibers or polymers used in lengthening mascaras aid in extending the length of the lashes.
- The thicker formula of volumizing mascaras makes larger, denser lashes appear.
- Curling mascaras are made with a lightweight composition that keeps lashes lifted and holds a curl all day.
- A pro tip: even in humid weather, you can keep your lashes looking amazing and avoid smudging using a waterproof product for special events.
3. Remove Extra Product
You might see extra product clumping around the brush when you remove the wand from the tube. Use a tissue or the tube’s edge to carefully wipe off any extra mascara to prevent applying too much at once. This minor action keeps the mascara from clumping and facilitates layering for a buildable, natural-looking effect.
4. Apply a Lash Primer for Extra Lift and Volume
A lash primer gives your lashes more curl, length, and volume by serving as a foundation for your mascara. It can stop mascara from flaking during the day and improve its adhesion. Before applying your mascara, let the primer dry for around 30 seconds after sweeping it from the roots to the tips of your lashes.
5. Wiggle the Wand at the Base
Applying mascara requires wriggling the wand slightly from side to side and starting at the roots of your lashes. This method guarantees that mascara is applied to the base of your lashes, giving them a thicker, darker appearance.
Additionally, the wiggle keeps the lashes apart and prevents clumping. To achieve a natural, elevated effect, coat the base of your lashes and draw the wand through the tips.
6. Use a Zigzag Motion for Full Coverage
Pull the wand through your lashes in a zigzag or back-and-forth motion to apply the initial coat of mascara. By using this method, lashes are separated, mascara is applied more evenly, and clumps are avoided. Each lash seems more enormous thanks to the zigzag action, which applies more product from root to tip.
7. Layer for Volume, but Don’t Overdo It
If you desire extra volume once your initial layer dries, apply a second application. Wait 30 seconds between layers and use a soft hand to prevent clumping. An excessive number of layers can make lashes appear heavy and clumpy. Two to three coats should be sufficient for most people to get dramatic, thick lashes.
8. Cover Your Lashes from All Angles
Try coating your lashes’ top and bottom sides for a whole, thick appearance from every angle. This is accomplished by gently closing your eye and applying mascara to the upper portion of your lashes with the wand, then opening your eye and applying mascara from the underside as normal. This method gives lashes more dimension and gives the appearance of thicker, darker lashes.
9. Focus on the Outer Lashes for a Winged Effect
Apply more mascara to the outer lashes for a glitzy, eye-opening appearance. Lightly apply mascara to the outer lashes from the middle to the tips while holding the wand at an angle. This produces a subtle winged effect that lengthens and enlarges your eyes.
10. Use the Tip of the Wand for Hard-to-Reach Areas
Use the wand’s tip instead of the entire brush to apply mascara to the inner corners and bottom lashes without creating a mess. To apply product to the lashes without smudging, lightly tap the tip. This method works well for defining and lengthening individual lashes for a more precise appearance.
11. Use a Comb to Remove Lashes
A fresh spoolie brush or lash comb can help if you notice clumps after applying mascara. Run the comb through your lashes from root to tip while the mascara is still wet. This will separate each lash and create a more natural, fanned-out effect.
12. Avoid Pumping the Wand
A common mistake is pumping the wand in and out of the tube to pick up more product. This introduces air into the mascara tube, which dries out the product faster and can lead to clumps. Instead, twirl the wand in the tube to gather more product evenly.
13. Don’t Forget the Lower Lashes
While not everyone coats their lower lashes, doing so can create a balanced and finished look. Use a soft touch, holding the wand vertically and lightly tapping the tips of your lower lashes. This approach prevents too much product from smearing and gives the lower lashes a delicate, defined appearance.
14. Clean Up Any Mistakes Using a Cotton Swab
Mascara application can be untidy, especially to the top and lower lashes. Keep cotton swabs on hand to wipe up any smudges or mistakes. Please wait for the mascara to dry before touching up, as this will prevent it from smearing further. For a precise cleansing, put the cotton swab in a bit of makeup remover and gently wipe away any smudges.
15. Finish with a Setting Spray for Long-Lasting Hold
Finish your makeup with a setting spray to guarantee your mascara stays in place all day. This helps keep everything in place and prevents mascara from flaking or smearing over time. A setting spray is especially effective in warm or humid weather, where mascara may be prone to spreading.
16. Keep Your Mascara Fresh and Replace It Regularly
Mascara usually lasts three months and has a limited shelf life. Bacteria found in old mascara can lead to infections or discomfort. Replace your mascara every few months to maintain the health of your lashes. Additionally, this approach guarantees you’re always working with a new, fluid mixture.
17. Remove Mascara Properly to Prevent Lash Damage
To preserve your lashes, remove all mascara at the end of the day. Apply a mild eye makeup remover or cleansing oil to your lashes using a cotton pad, then hold it there for a short while. This will make it easier to remove the mascara without pulling at your lashes by allowing the product to break it down.
To read more blog: Eyeliner Application 101: Tricks to Get The Look You Want
Final Thoughts
- Avoid Using Waterproof Mascaras Every Day: Waterproof formulations can cause lash breakage if applied too frequently since they are drying and challenging to remove. Waterproof mascara should be saved for exceptional events where extended wear is required.
- Try Out Various Brush Types: Each size and style of mascara wand is intended to produce a distinct impression. While a small, straight brush enables precision on the bottom lashes, a curved brush can aid in curling lashes. You can select the ideal brush for your desired look by experimenting with several.
- Use a Heated Eyelash Curler for Extra Lift: After using mascara, consider a heated eyelash curler for a polished look. Your lashes will have a longer-lasting, lifted, eye-opening look thanks to the heat helping to set the curl.
