You don’t need to be a pro makeup artist to create stunning eyes. With just a trusty mascara wand, you can achieve that captivating va-va-voom look all by yourself.
Mascara has earned its reputation as a timeless makeup essential. A few simple swipes can transform your appearance completely. With so many incredible formulas and application techniques available, the possibilities are endless. Explore our tips below to master the art of mascara application!
Mascara is like the final touch to your eye makeup—it comes after applying eyeshadow, eyeliner, or any other eye product, completing your look. But before diving in, choose your product wisely. Are you seeking volume, length, curl, or all of the above? Whatever your goal, our guide has got you covered! This foolproof technique works for all types of mascaras.
Step 1: Curl Your Lashes
Start by curling your lashes with an eyelash curler to lift and elongate them. This creates a base that allows mascara to adhere better. For a close-to-the-lash-line effect without pinching, opt for a curler with a rounded upper pad, like Eyeko’s Magic Express Curler.
Step 2: Use an Eyelash Primer
Just as you would apply primer on your face before foundation, using an eyelash primer—such as Absolute New York’s Lash Primer—can enhance your mascara’s longevity. It also thickens and separates lashes, prepping them perfectly. Apply one to two coats of primer on both your upper and lower lashes, waiting at least 30 seconds before proceeding.
Step 3: Apply Mascara to Your Upper and Lower Lashes
Believe it or not, how you remove the mascara wand from the tube can impact your application. Twist the wand out and gently wipe off excess product on the tube’s edge to avoid clumping. Avoid pumping the wand in and out, as this dries out the formula.
To apply, look up and position the wand at the base of your upper lashes. Wiggle it gently back and forth, coating the base before pulling the wand upwards toward the lash tips. Move slowly to ensure even coverage and avoid clumping. Apply additional coats as needed, but don’t let the mascara dry between applications, as this can make lashes brittle.
For lower lashes, be cautious with the product amount to prevent clumping. Use the wand’s tip to focus on the lash roots, gently wiggling back and forth for an even coat.
Step 4: Cover and Separate Every Lash
Ensure every lash is coated, even the tricky ones in the inner and outer corners. Hold the wand vertically for those hard-to-reach lashes, brushing upward. Then, angle the wand diagonally downward and glide it across your lashes to separate and eliminate clumps.
Step 5: Clean Up Any Smudges
Mascara smudges are common, even for professionals. To clean up, use a gentle eye makeup remover like Estée Lauder’s Take it Away Gentle Eye and Lip LongWear Makeup Remover. Alternatively, dab a cotton swab with a face moisturizer, such as Bobbi Brown’s Hydrating Face Cream, and gently press it onto the smudge for a quick fix.
7 Hacks to Elevate Your Mascara Game
Now that you’ve mastered the basics, here are some expert hacks to take your lashes to the next level:
Hack 1: Use a Business Card
Tired of smudges on your eyelids? Place a business card behind your lashes while applying mascara to protect your eyeshadow and keep things neat.
Hack 2: Transform Mascara into Eyeliner
If you’re out of eyeliner, let your mascara multitask! Use a small eyeliner brush, like Ofra Cosmetics’ Eyeliner Brush #1, to pick up product from the wand. Gently line your upper lash line, starting from the inner corner outward.
Hack 3: Coat Both Sides of Your Lashes
For a bolder effect, apply mascara to both sides of your lashes. Start underneath as usual, then carefully coat the top side from root to tip for thicker, darker lashes.
Hack 4: Add Translucent Powder Between Coats
Dusting translucent powder, like Naked Cosmetic’s HD Finishing & Setting Powder, onto lashes between coats of mascara can create a thicker, fuller look. Apply one coat of mascara, brush on some powder, and finish with another coat.
Hack 5: Hold the Wand Vertically for Lower Lashes
To coat delicate bottom lashes without smudging, hold the wand upright and gently press it against the lashes. This ensures precision and full coverage.
Hack 6: Let Smudges Dry Before Cleaning
If you notice smudges, resist the urge to wipe them immediately. Wait for them to dry, then use a Q-tip to gently clean up without disrupting the rest of your makeup.
Hack 7: Use a Lip Brush for Bottom Lashes
When traditional wands struggle to reach tiny bottom lashes, borrow a lip brush, like Luxie Beauty’s LUXIE 160 Lip Brush. This small, precise tool ensures smooth, even application.
By following these steps and hacks, you’ll be well on your way to achieving flawless, eye-catching lashes every time!
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