Long, voluminous lashes can make the eyes look more wide-awake, bright, and doll-like. For the lucky few who are born with this kind of lashes, they need minimal effort to achieve a striking look. For the rest of us, however, we're thankful for mascaras.
But what are mascaras, and how do we choose the best one from the many effects and color options? This guide will help you get the perfect mascara to complete your look.
What is a mascara?
A mascara is a cosmetic product that enhances the look of eyelashes. It can darken, lengthen, volumize, and define the lashes. Sometimes it can also temporarily color the lashes.
What's in a tube of mascara?
Mascaras have these ingredients in general:
- Pigments. Pigments provide temporary color. Common pigments include iron oxide (for black and brown mascaras) and ultramarines (for blue mascaras).
- Waxes and Oils. Beeswax, carnauba wax, and paraffin thicken the formula, helping to volumize and lengthen the lashes. Oils, like lanolin, castor oil, or mineral oil, help keep the application smooth.
- Polymers. It forms a film that coats and adheres to the lashes, contributing to the mascara's staying power.
- Preservatives. Such as parabens, are added to extend the shelf life and prevent bacterial growth.
How do I apply mascara?
Mascara is applied with a wand with a handle and an applicator brush. Most common applicators come in brushes and combs, but they vary in length, shape, and bristle density.
Dip the applicator into the mascara formula and then gently sweep through the lashes from the base to the tip. You can apply multiple coats to achieve the desired thickness and length.
How does mascara work?
Brushing or combing the lashes with the mascara formula coats each eyelash, making them appear fuller and longer. The waxes and polymers in the mascara help it adhere to the lashes, allowing it to dry quickly and maintain the intended effect (curling, lengthening, volumizing) throughout the day. The pigments in the mascara provide the color that makes the lashes stand out against the skin.
Mascara Trends
Beauty trends related to mascaras have generally stayed the same throughout the decades. Fuller, longer, and thicker lashes are universally admired and preferred, even for those opting for a more natural look.
Western makeup leans more into a bolder, more striking makeup look, which often calls for dramatic eyelashes as well. Because of this, Western makeup trends tend to favor black mascaras and false eyelashes.
On the other hand, Asian makeup tends to lean more into more natural-looking makeup. While fuller and longer lashes are still coveted, Asian beauty trends favor mascaras with softer colors such as browns and neutral grays.
How to Use Mascara
It might be daunting to put a small brush or comb near the eye, but it's easy if you go slow. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply mascara like a pro:
- Start with clean lashes. Clean your lashes of any makeup before applying mascara. This helps the mascara adhere better and prevents clumping.
- Curl your lashes (Optional). For an extra lift, gently clamp an eyelash curler at the base of your lashes, and hold for a few seconds. Move the curler slightly upward the tips of your lashes and press again for a more natural C-shaped curl.
- Remove excess mascara. When pulling the wand out of the tube, gently wipe any excess mascara off the rim. This helps in preventing your lashes from becoming clumpy.
- Apply to lower lashes first. If you're applying mascara to your lower lashes, do this before the upper lashes. This prevents mascara clumps from getting on your eyelids when you look up to apply mascara to the lower lashes.
- Wiggle the wand at the base. Place the applicator horizontally at the root of your upper lashes. Gently wiggle the wand from side to side. This wiggling motion ensures that the roots of the lashes are fully coated and gives the appearance of a thicker lash line.
- Roll the wand and sweep upwards. After wiggling, draw the wand up along your lashes while rotating the wand outwards. Try to do this in a zigzag motion. Rolling outwards and zigzagging coats eyelashes evenly. This also ensures you're using every bit of product on the mascara wand.
- Coat the back of the lashes. Lightly run the mascara wand on the backside of your lashes. This additional step adds more volume and length.
- Use the spoolie's tip to polish the look. Use the tip of the wand to separate any lashes that are sticking together and to coat any small, hard-to-reach lashes, especially in the corners of your eyes.
- Let it dry, then reapply (Optional). Allow the first coat to dry before deciding if you need a second one for added volume or length. Apply subsequent coats only at the tips of the lashes to avoid clumping.
- Comb through lashes (Optional). For a more defined look, use a clean, dry lash comb or spoolie brush to separate lashes and remove any possible clumps.
- Clean up mistakes. If you get mascara on your skin, let it dry completely first. Then, use a small, stiff brush or a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover to gently remove it.
Mascara Variations
Over the years, mascara formulations and brush designs have evolved to cater to a wide range of preferences and needs. Here are the different variations of mascara available in the market:
Clear Mascara
A transparent gel that grooms lashes (and brows), providing a natural look while shaping and holding them in place.
Best For
A no-makeup look or setting eyebrows. Suitable for all lash types.
Pros
Versatile; can be used on lashes for a natural look or on brows for grooming.
Cons
Lacks the dramatic effect of colored mascara. Clear mascara may not provide enough hold for very unruly brows.
Color Mascara
Mascaras with shades beyond traditional black or brown.
Best For
Creative, bold makeup looks. Individuals who want a pop of color.
Pros
Adds creative flair to makeup looks.
Cons
It may not be suitable for everyday. Some shades may not be as noticeable on darker lashes.
Curling Mascara
It is formulated to help lashes hold a curl, often featuring a curved brush to assist in curling lashes from the base.
Best For
People with straight lashes who wish to achieve a lifted, curled lash look.
Pros
Provides a long-lasting curl.
Cons
Curl may not hold all day without using a lash primer or curling with a wand before application. It's also not as effective on very straight or heavy lashes.
Fiber Mascara
Fiber mascara incorporates tiny micro-fibers that attach to lashes, enhancing volume and length for a more dramatic effect.
Best For
Achieving significant volume and length without resorting to false lashes.
Pros
Adds considerable length and volume. This can replace the need for false lashes.
Cons
The application can be messy; fibers may flake off and irritate the eyes.
Lengthening Mascara
Its formula contains fibers that adhere to the tips of lashes, visually extending their length beyond the natural endpoint.
Best For
Those with short lashes.
Pros
Creates the illusion of longer lashes; perfect for elegant, elongated lash looks.
Cons
The fibers may flake off. Lengthening mascara may make the lashes look spidery and unnatural if over-applied. It requires careful application for an even look.
Nourishing Mascara
It is infused with vitamins, oils, and conditioning agents to nourish and strengthen lashes during wear.
Best For
Maintaining healthy lashes. Ideal for those with dry or brittle lashes.
Pros
Conditions lashes. It helps promote healthier, stronger lashes with continuous use.
Cons
It may not offer as dramatic volume or lengthening effects as other types.
Primer Mascara
A base coat is applied before colored mascara to amplify its effects and improve durability.
Best For
Maximizing the effects and longevity of your standard mascara.
Pros
It can make mascaras wear longer and look more vibrant.
Cons
It adds an extra step to the makeup routine.
Tubing Mascara
Forms water-resistant "tubes" around each lash for added length and volume, easily removed with warm water.
Best For
Long wear without smudging and those seeking easy removal at the end of the day.
Pros
Smudge-free and easy to remove.
Cons
Unlike traditional mascaras, it may lengthen more than thicken; tubes may slide off in hot conditions and may irritate those with sensitive eyes.
Volumizing Mascara
A mascara designed to make eyelashes appear fuller and thicker.
Best For
Individuals with thin or sparse lashes.
Pros
Instantly enhances lash thickness. It is ideal for dramatic makeup looks as it often provides a bold appearance even with a single application.
Cons
Prone to clumping; can weigh down lashes if over-applied.
Water-Based Mascara
Water-based mascaras are designed to feel lightweight and look natural. Because water is the primary solvent of this type of mascara, it's a favorite choice for individuals with sensitive eyes. It's also a great option for individuals with eyelash extensions because the formula won't break down the glue."
Best For
Individuals who want a natural look. Perfect for those with heavy eyelashes, sensitive eyes, and individuals with eyelash extensions.
Pros
Lightweight and gentle on the eyes. Easy to remove. It will not break down the glue used for eyelash extensions.
Cons
Mascara may run and cause "panda eyes" when exposed to sweat, humidity, and other liquids.
Waterproof Mascara
This mascara formula is resistant to water, tears, and sweat. The mascara stays put without smudging or running.
Best For
Long wear in humid conditions, water activities, or emotional events, like weddings.
Pros
Smudge-proof and long-lasting.
Cons
Difficult to remove; may require an oil-based makeup remover and can be drying to lashes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use black mascara for a natural look?
Yes, by applying fewer coats.
How often should I replace my mascara?
Every three to six months, depending on the formula.
Are natural mascaras waterproof?
Some are, but it varies by brand.
Can certifications guarantee the mascara won't irritate my eyes?
They minimize the risk but can't guarantee against individual sensitivities.
Is brown mascara suitable for all eye colors?
Yes, it can complement all eye colors, especially lighter ones.
