The right mascara, applied the correct way, can change your look instantly!
Step-by-step application
- For a cleaner, more open look to your face (and less smudging) try skipping your lower lashes altogether.
- Look down into a mirror to ensure that you get to the root of your lashes.
- Pull your lid up slightly with your ring finger while applying. This will allow you the closest access possible to the base of your eyelid.
- Use a zig-zag movement, working from the base of your lashes to the tip, or roll the wand as you comb it through the lashes. Both of these techniques give good lash separation.
- Use a lash comb to remove any clumps.
- Always apply mascara to the upper lashes from underneath and to the lower lashes from above. Hold wand vertically and run it back and forth.
- Always use less mascara on your bottom lashes – too much tends to look very fake.
- Don't pump the wand. Instead of getting more product you're actually pushing air into the tube, which dries it out. Instead, twist the brush round in the tube.
Coming clean
Before you can begin to get the most out of your mascara, you have to have clean lashes. Continuously leaving mascara on will cause your lashes to become brittle, break and/or fall out. Follow these easy steps.
- Apply an eye make-up remover lotion to a cotton pad.
- Hold the pad against your lashes for about a minute to dissolve the make-up
- Gently wipe outwards. Repeat until all mascara is removed.
- Avoid using oil-based products to remove your mascara, as it tends to collect in the tear ducts, causing puffiness. If you are using waterproof mascara however, you will have to use an oil-based product.
Lash tints
Tinting lashes at a salon is ideal for women with blonde or very fine lashes. Tinting is especially beneficial for no-fuss holidays, when you feel like washing your face and heading out barefaced. Dark-haired girls don't benefit much from tinting as the difference in colour is minimal and you don't get the advantages of curl and added definition that mascara provides.
Mascara wands
Not too long ago, mascara wands and brushes were pretty standard. Today they are technological wonders, developed in such a variety of forms it's difficult to make a choice. The best thing to do is keep trying different products until you find one you love.
What to look for
Thin – with very short bristles, for lengthening and getting close to the base of the lashes.
Medium – with a combination of shorter and longer bristles, for an even coating.
Large – with wide bristles closely packed, for curling and thickening.