How to: The Perfect Mascara Application

Image: Swimparallel via Flickr and Creative Commons License

One of the questions I get asked most often is how to apply mascara. There's a good reason why it's a staple in most beauty regimens--mascara adds a very feminine touch to any eye. So how do you achieve a perfect mascara application?

Each artist has their own preferred way of applying mascara, but this is mine.

How to apply mascara:

1. Open the mascara and check the wand for any clumps. If you see any, swipe the wand over a tissue or across the top of the mascara tube to remove them.
2. Bring the wand up to your eye and apply by wiggling the mascara wand slowly from the base of the lashes to the tips. Wiggling helps separate lashes and creates an even application.
3. Close your eyelid halfway and lightly swipe the mascara wand from the base to the tip of your eyelashes--on the top side (closer to your brow). Be careful not to get mascara on your eyelid.
4. Apply additional coats by repeating steps 2-3 until you are satisfied with the length and thickness. For best results, apply all coats when mascara is wet.

Pro tips:

• If you plan to curl your lashes, I recommend curling before mascara if using a metal (manual) eyelash curler, and curling after mascara if using a heated lash curler.
• If you are wearing false eyelashes, I recommend applying mascara, applying false lashes, and then using a heated curler to curl your own lashes so they blend with the false lashes' curl.
• Be sure to apply plenty of mascara at the inner and outer corners of your eyes. These are commonly missed but can really open up your eyes.
• For a natural look, especially if you are fair skinned, apply mascara on upper lashes only. For a more dramatic look, apply mascara gently on lower lashes by wiggling back and forth from root to tip. I try to apply lightly on lower lashes to avoid a "spidery" look.
• Consider colored mascaras, or a accenting with a color on lower lashes only for a colorful, playful look.

Product recommendations:

Click here for my favorite mascara options. Most are vegan, and all are cruelty-free.

Disclosure notice: This review contains affiliate links. No additional compensation was accepted and the opinions are my own. Please verify any claims with the manufacturer, especially if you have any allergies or concerns.

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