How To Get More From Your Mascara
Get Right Down To The Root
“A lot of us forget that mascara should be applied directly at the root of your lashes. It doesn’t matter if some pigment comes off on the inner rim – if anything, this can be a good thing as it adds extra enhancement, almost like tight lining. Once you’ve got the brush in place, use the wiggle technique, sweeping your wand through your lashes side to side right through to the ends. Repeat at least twice to ensure your lashes are appearing thick and full. Two mascaras worth recommending are Kevyn Aucoin’s (for the roots and the base of your lash) and Benefit’s Roller Lash. The latter is the best for separation and curl.”
Don’t Forget The Outer Corners
“We often neglect the outer and inner corners of the eye, but this is where your lashes are longer, so they need attention. Once you’ve applied a few coats to the bulk of your lashes, turn the mascara wand vertically. Use the tip to flick out the outer lashes and to reach the shorter, inner lashes. Doing this gives you more precision, while allowing you to create more of an elongated, eye-opening effect. You can use this hack to give the impression of a feline flick, too, just be sure to wipe off any excess first so you don’t have any clumps.”
Keep Layering Up
“When applying mascara, many of us think two coats will suffice. For daytime, sure, but if you’re wanting maximum volume at night, you’re going to have to take a layered approach. The key is to apply your first two sweeps, then when the formula is semi-dry, use a different, thicker mascara on top. BareMinerals Lashtopia adheres well to other formulas. Apply it over your original coat, working it through the ends and tips to build a faux lash effect. The beauty of mascara is you can keep doing this until you yield the results you desire. It’s also easy to pare it back if you wish.”
Invest In A Lash Comb
“If you hate clumps or your desired effect is separation with volume, a lash comb is essential. Your mascara can only do so much when it comes to a flawless finish. Real Technique’s Lash-Brow Groomer is a go-to. Run it through once for a fanned-out finish, and watch it evenly distribute your mascara, too.”
Never Pump Your Mascara
“This may sound obvious, but pumping your mascara wand in the tube is a no-go. Doing this will just let air seep in, causing the formula to become dry and clumpy. If you’re struggling to pick up your formula, simply roll your wand inside its tube to coat your bristles evenly. Likewise, if it’s been six months or more, it’s probably time to chuck it and replace it.”
Do Use A Primer
“Lash primers are really under-rated. Not only do they add definition and increase fullness, they make sure anything that’s applied on top (like your black mascara) stays put with a clump-free finish. You often only need one coat of a primer, but you’ll really notice the difference when you use one. Another easy trick is to always apply your mascara with a magnifying mirror. It allows you to see up close for better results, showing you where any mistakes occur so you can quickly rectify them with a Q-tip.”
Be Careful On Your Lower Lashes
“If you want to apply mascara to your lower lashes, turn the wand vertically and use just the tip to coat them. You want the bare minimum here to limit fallout underneath your eyes which can make you to look tired. Older women should avoid mascara on the lower lash line entirely. It can drag the eyes down and often, going without is much fresher. Do use lash curlers first, however – they are the oldest trick in the book but they work like nothing else to lift and hold.”
The four mascara's SJ Froom swears by...
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