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Best Clear Mascaras: A Guide for Natural and Defined Lashes

Clear mascara is a versatile and underrated makeup product that can enhance your lashes and brows without adding any color or clump. It can also condition, nourish, and protect your lashes from damage and breakage. Whether you want to achieve a natural, no-makeup look, or add some extra oomph to your regular mascara, clear mascara is a must-have in your makeup kit.

In this blog post, we will introduce you to some of the best clear mascaras available in the market, and explain their features, benefits, and drawbacks. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about clear mascara, and give you some tips on how to use it effectively.

What is clear mascara?

Clear mascara is a type of mascara that has no pigment or color. It usually comes in a transparent tube with a wand applicator, similar to regular mascara. The formula of clear mascara may vary depending on the brand and purpose, but it typically contains ingredients such as water, glycerin, wax, and polymers.

What does clear mascara do?

Clear mascara can do many things for your lashes and brows, depending on how you use it. Here are some of the common uses and benefits of clear mascara:

  • It can define and separate your lashes, giving them a natural and subtle lift and curl.
  • It can prime and prep your lashes for regular mascara, helping it adhere better and last longer.
  • It can seal and set your regular mascara, preventing it from smudging, flaking, or fading throughout the day.
  • It can tame and shape your brows, keeping them in place and enhancing their natural arch and color.
  • It can condition and nourish your lashes and brows, providing them with hydration and nutrients.
  • It can protect your lashes and brows from environmental factors, such as dust, dirt, and pollution.

How to choose a clear mascara?

There are many factors to consider when choosing a clear mascara, such as the type of wand, the formula, the price, and the brand. Here are some tips to help you find the best clear mascara for your needs:

  • Select the type of wand based on your purpose. Different wand shapes and sizes can create different effects on your lashes and brows. For example, a curved wand can help curl and lift your lashes, while a thin and precise wand can help define and separate your lashes and brows.
  • Check the ingredients of the clear mascara. Since the eye area is quite delicate, you want to avoid any ingredients that may cause irritation, allergy, or infection. Look for clear mascaras that are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and paraben-free. You may also want to opt for clear mascaras that contain natural or organic ingredients, such as aloe vera, chamomile, or jojoba oil, that can soothe and moisturize your lashes and brows.
  • Choose a clear mascara with a waterproof or long-lasting formula. If you want your clear mascara to stay, put throughout the day, or if you have oily skin or live in a humid climate, you may want to choose a clear mascara that is waterproof or long-wearing. This way, you can avoid any smearing, running, or transferring of your clear mascara. However, keep in mind that waterproof or long-lasting clear mascaras may be harder to remove, and may require a special makeup remover or oil-based cleanser.
  • Compare the prices and reviews of different clear mascaras. Clear mascaras can range from very affordable to quite expensive, depending on the brand and quality. You may want to compare the prices and reviews of different clear mascaras before making a purchase, and see which one offers the best value and performance for your budget. You can also look for clear mascaras that have a money-back guarantee or a free trial, in case you are not satisfied with the product.

Best clear mascaras to buy

Now that you know what to look for in a clear mascara, here are some of the best clear mascaras that you can buy online or in-store. We have selected these clear mascaras based on their features, benefits, drawbacks, and customer reviews. We have also included links to their websites or online stores, where you can find more information and purchase them.

Maybelline New York Great Lash Clear Mascara

Maybelline New York Great Lash Clear Mascara is one of the most popular and affordable clear mascaras in the market. It has a classic wand with a spiral brush that can evenly coat and separate your lashes and brows. It can also prime and set your regular mascara, and tame and shape your brows. It has a lightweight and non-sticky formula that can condition and nourish your lashes and brows. It is hypoallergenic and suitable for contact lens wearers. However, some customers have reported that it can dry out quickly, and that it can leave a white residue on the lashes and brows.

CoverGirl Professional Natural Lash Clear Mascara

CoverGirl Professional Natural Lash Clear Mascara is another budget-friendly and widely available clear mascara. It has a straight wand with a tapered brush that can define and curl your lashes and brows. It can also enhance and lock in your regular mascara, and groom and polish your brows. It has a smooth and glossy formula that can moisturize and protect your lashes and brows. It is ophthalmologically tested and safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. However, some customers have complained that it can clump and flake, and that it can make the lashes and brows feel stiff and crunchy.

Ere Perez Lash + Brow Mascara

Ere Perez Lash + Brow Mascara is a natural and vegan clear mascara that can nourish and strengthen your lashes and brows. It has a curved wand with a dense brush that can lift and curl your lashes and brows. It can also add volume and shine to your regular mascara, and sculpt and fill in your brows. It has a hydrating and soothing formula that contains aloe vera, mamey oil, and almond oil. It is cruelty-free and free of parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. However, some customers have noted that it can be sticky and hard to apply, and that it can irritate the eyes if it gets into them.

Zuzu Luxe Mascara in Clear

Zuzu Luxe Mascara in Clear is a gluten-free and vegan clear mascara that can enhance and condition your lashes and brows. It has a straight wand with a slim brush that can separate and lengthen your lashes and brows. It can also prep and seal your regular mascara, and define and set your brows. It has a gentle and natural formula that contains vitamin E, jojoba oil, and rose extract. It is cruelty-free and free of parabens, sulfates, and artificial colors. However, some customers have remarked that it can be watery and runny, and that it can smudge and transfer easily.

Essence Lash & Brow Gel Mascara

Essence Lash & Brow Gel Mascara is a cheap and cheerful clear mascara that can shape and style your lashes and brows. It has a straight wand with a thick brush that can coat and curl your lashes and brows. It can also boost and fix your regular mascara, and tame and tint your brows. It has a clear and gel-like formula that can hydrate and smooth your lashes and brows. It is dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types. However, some customers have reported that it can dry out fast, and that it can leave a shiny and sticky finish on the lashes and brows.

Dr. Hauschka Brow & Lash Gel

Dr. Hauschka Brow & Lash Gel is a certified organic and biodynamic clear mascara that can care and refine your lashes and brows. It has a straight wand with a fine brush that can comb and fan out your lashes and brows. It can also prime and prolong your regular mascara, and fill and fix your brows. It has a nourishing and strengthening formula that contains neem, eyebright, and rose wax. It is cruelty-free and free of synthetic preservatives, fragrances, and dyes. However, some customers have mentioned that it can be pricey and hard to find, and that it can clump and flake off.

e.l.f. Cosmetics Clear Brow & Lash Mascara

e.l.f. Cosmetics Clear Brow & Lash Mascara is a dual-ended clear mascara that can groom and polish your lashes and brows. It has two separate wands with spiral brushes that can apply and distribute the product evenly on your lashes and brows. It can also prep and top your regular mascara, and shape and hold your brows. It has a lightweight and non-sticky formula that can condition and soften your lashes and brows. It is cruelty-free and vegan, and free of phthalates, parabens, and sulfates. However, some customers have complained that it can be messy and hard to remove, and that it can make the lashes and brows look wet and greasy.

Frequently asked questions about clear mascara

Here are some of the most common questions that people have about clear mascara, and their answers:

How to use clear mascara?

There are many ways to use clear mascara, depending on your desired effect and preference. Here are some general steps to follow when using clear mascara:

  • Curl your lashes with an eyelash curler, if you want to add some extra lift and curl to your lashes.
  • Apply clear mascara to your lashes, starting from the roots and wiggling the wand upwards to the tips of your lashes. You can apply one or more coats, depending on how much definition and shine you want.
  • Apply clear mascara to your brows, brushing them upwards and outwards to create your desired shape and arch. You can use a spoolie or a brow brush to blend and smooth the product on your brows.
  • If you want to use regular mascara, you can apply it over the clear mascara, or use the clear mascara as a top coat to seal and set your regular mascara.
  • To remove clear mascara, you can use a gentle makeup remover or a micellar water, and a cotton pad or a reusable cloth. You can also use an oil-based cleanser or a cleansing balm, and massage it gently on your lashes and brows, then rinse with water.

How often should you replace clear mascara?

Like any other makeup product, clear mascara has an expiration date and a shelf life. You should always check the packaging of your clear mascara for the expiration date, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. You should also look for the PAO (period after opening) symbol, which is usually a jar with a number and a letter, such as 6M or 12M. This indicates how long you can use the product after opening it, before it goes bad.

As a general rule, you should replace your clear mascara every 3 to 6 months, or sooner if you notice any changes in the texture, smell, or color of the product. You should also replace your clear mascara if you have had an eye infection, or if you have shared it with someone else.

Can you use clear mascara on eyelash extensions?

Clear mascara can be used on eyelash extensions, as long as it is oil-free and water-based. Oil-based or waterproof clear mascaras can damage the glue and cause the eyelash extensions to fall off prematurely. You should also avoid clear mascaras that contain alcohol, glycol, or other harsh chemicals that can dry out and weaken the eyelash extensions.

To use clear mascara on eyelash extensions, you should apply it sparingly and gently, and avoid rubbing or tugging on the lashes. You should also use a lash comb or a spoolie to separate and smooth the lashes, and prevent any clumping or flaking. You should also clean your clear mascara wand regularly, and avoid double-dipping it into the tube, to prevent any bacteria or dirt from contaminating the product.

Can you use clear mascara on your lower lashes?

Yes, you can use clear mascara on your lower lashes, if you want to add some definition and shine to them, without making them look too heavy or dark. Clear mascara can also help prevent your regular mascara from smudging or transferring on your lower lash line, especially if you have oily skin or long lashes.

To use clear mascara on your lower lashes, you should use a thin and precise wand, and apply it lightly and carefully, starting from the roots and wiggling the wand downwards to the tips of your lashes. You can also use a tissue or a cotton swab to remove any excess product or residue on your lower lash line.

Conclusion

Clear mascara is a versatile and underrated makeup product that can enhance your lashes and brows without adding any color or clump. It can also condition, nourish, and protect your lashes and brows from damage and breakage. Whether you want to achieve a natural, no-makeup look, or add some extra oomph to your regular mascara, clear mascara is a must-have in your makeup kit.

We hope this blog post has helped you learn more about clear mascara, and how to choose and use it effectively. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. And if you liked this blog post, please share it with your friends and family. Thank you for reading! 

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