I don't know about you, but it's really rare that I leave the house without any mascara on. It's one of the easiest ways to draw attention to your eyes. It not only opens them up and makes them look more awake, but it also creates depth. Ever tried doing a smoky eye without coating your lashes? I didn't think so! No matter how glamorous your eye makeup, the look is just not complete without a few coats of mascara. This season is all about long, big and thick fringes, so maximize your look with a few of my mascara tips and tricks!
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Pick your formula
Before purchasing a mascara, you should consider the formula you want, whether it’s lengthening, thickening or both. If you’re going for big luxe lashes, I suggest you choose a mascara that includes both volumizing and lengthening benefits, like CoverGirl LashBlast Fusion ($8)
Opt for black
What I love about black mascara is how it successfully works to enhance the shape of your eyes and define lashes. Black is not only more visible than other shades, but it works well on all skin colors, eye colors and eye shapes. Try Lancôme Définicils Mascara in Deep Black ($26) for dark, dramatically long lashes.
Use a fresh tube
Your mascara should be replaced at least every two to three months, if not sooner depending on if the consistency starts to change or if a strange odor beings to develop. Old mascara not only can infect your eye area, but with time become clumpy and chalky. For the best results, use a fresh formula.
Avoid waterproof
Waterproof mascaras can be tough on your lashes and even cause them to break, because you have to rub hard to get the formula off. Try to save them just for those special occasion moments. And choose a conditioning water-proof mascara that will be more gentle on your lashes. I like bareMinerals Flawless Definition Waterproof Mascara ($18).
Curl
For a wider, sexier look use an eyelash curler, like Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler ($20), before applying mascara. Don’t be intimidated! Simply squeeze the curler at the base of your upper lashes and hold for a few seconds. I normally like to pulse three or four times for 5 seconds per pulse
Try the wiggle movement
When applying mascara wiggle the wand left to right from the base to the tips. The wiggle part is key because it not only helps to separate lashes but gives the illusion of length.
Don't forget your lower lashes
I never apply mascara without coating my lower lashes too. This is how I normally achieve a dramatic lash look. Don’t apply too much because it will not only clump, but leave you with some pretty pesky dark circles. Just apply one coat by running the tip of the wand lightly along your bottom lashes.
Remove clumps
What’ up with the spidery lash trend? To remove any clumps or build up, sweep a lash comb through your lashes while the mascara is still wet. If you wait until the formula dries you can risk breaking off lashes. Try Tweezerman Folding Eyelash Comb ($10).
Add extra drama
For some extra oomph, apply more coats of mascara to the outer third of lashes and press them against an old credit card to help fan them up and out.
