Everything You Need to Know About Mascaras

By Your Beauty Plug
January 8, 2024

Mascaras are one of the most popular and essential makeup products that can instantly transform your look. Whether you want to add length, volume, curl, or definition to your lashes, there is a mascara for you. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one for your needs? And how do you apply and remove it properly? In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about mascaras and share some tips and tricks to help you achieve your lash goals.

What is mascara and how does it work?

Mascara is a cosmetic product that is applied to the eyelashes to enhance their appearance. It usually comes in a tube with a wand that has a brush or a comb at the end. The wand is dipped into the tube and then swept through the lashes from the roots to the tips. The mascara coats the lashes with a pigmented formula that can contain various ingredients, such as waxes, oils, polymers, fibers, and pigments. These ingredients help to thicken, lengthen, curl, separate, and color the lashes, depending on the type and formula of the mascara.

Which mascara lasts the longest?

The longevity of a mascara depends on several factors, such as the formula, the application, the weather, and the individual’s eyelashes. Generally speaking, waterproof mascaras tend to last longer than regular mascaras, as they are resistant to water, sweat, tears, and humidity. However, waterproof mascaras can also be more difficult to remove and can dry out the lashes over time. Therefore, they are not recommended for everyday use, but rather for special occasions or activities that involve water or moisture.

Some mascaras are also designed to be long-wearing or long-lasting, which means they can stay on the lashes for up to 24 hours without smudging, flaking, or fading. These mascaras usually have a flexible and lightweight formula that adheres well to the lashes and can withstand rubbing and blinking. However, they are not necessarily waterproof, so they may not hold up well in wet conditions.

One example of a long-lasting mascara is L’Oreal Paris Telescopic Mascara, which claims to last up to 16 hours and provide extreme length and definition to the lashes. Another example is Thrive Cosmetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara, which claims to last all day and create a false lash effect with its tubing technology.

What are the top 5 mascaras?

The answer to this question may vary depending on personal preference, lash type, and desired effect. However, based on the reviews and ratings from various sources, such as beauty magazines, websites, and blogs, here are some of the most popular and well-loved mascaras in the market:

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara: This mascara is one of the best-selling and most-raved-about mascaras in the world. It promises to deliver intense black volume while lengthening, curling, and separating the lashes. It has an hourglass-shaped brush that helps to achieve separated lashes and a buildable and smudge-proof formula that adds thickness without clumping.
CoverGirl Lash Blast Mascara: This mascara is a drugstore favorite that offers voluminous and dramatic lashes at an affordable price. It has a patented volumizing brush that features over 200 bristles to coat every lash and a hypoallergenic and cruelty-free formula that is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara: This mascara is a lengthening and curling mascara that uses tubing technology to wrap each lash in a water-resistant and smudge-proof tube. It has a vegan and ophthalmologist-tested formula that contains nourishing ingredients, such as babassu oil, glycerin, and vitamin B5, to condition and strengthen the lashes. It also has a tapered brush that helps to lift and separate the lashes and create a natural and fluttery look.
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara: This mascara is a splurge-worthy mascara that claims to give you the lashes of your dreams. It has a unique paddle brush that has two sides: a flat side to load and coat the lashes and a bristle side to comb and lift the lashes. It also has a creamy and glossy formula that contains keratin, castor oil, and carnauba wax to nourish, lengthen, and volumize the lashes.
Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara: This mascara is a cult-favorite mascara that boasts of being the #1 best-selling prestige mascara in the US. It claims to lengthen, curl, volumize, lift, and separate the lashes, giving them a realistic and natural look. It has a specially designed brush that has a dome tip to reach the corners and lower lashes and a long-wearing and smudge-resistant formula that stays put all day.

Which mascara is best for everyday use?

The best mascara for everyday use depends on your personal preference and lifestyle. However, some general criteria to look for are:

A formula that is easy to apply and remove, without causing irritation or damage to the lashes
A formula that is suitable for your lash type and eye sensitivity, whether you have dry, oily, thin, sparse, or sensitive lashes or eyes
A formula that is long-wearing and smudge-proof, but not necessarily waterproof, unless you need it for specific reasons
A formula that gives you the desired effect, whether you want a natural, subtle, or dramatic look
A brush that is comfortable and effective to use, without poking or scratching your eyes or clumping or flaking your lashes

One example of a mascara that meets these criteria is Honest Beauty Mascara + Lash Primer, which is a 2-in-1 product that has a primer on one end and a mascara on the other. The primer helps to condition and prep the lashes for the mascara, while the mascara helps to add length, volume, and definition to the lashes. The formula is vegan, cruelty-free, dermatologist-tested, and ophthalmologist-tested, and it contains natural ingredients, such as jojoba oil, shea butter, and rice protein. The brush is dual-sided, with a curved side to curl and volumize the lashes and a straight side to lengthen and separate the lashes.

What is the best mascara for length?

The best mascara for length is one that can extend and elongate the lashes without weighing them down or making them look spidery. There are different types of mascaras that can achieve this effect, such as:

Fiber mascaras: These mascaras contain tiny fibers that attach to the lashes and create a false lash effect. They can add significant length and volume to the lashes, but they can also be messy and irritating to the eyes, especially if the fibers fall off or get into the eyes. An example of a fiber mascara is [L’Oreal Paris Voluminous X Fiber Mascara], which has a black primer on one end and a fiber-infused mascara on the other.
Tubing mascaras: These mascaras use a special polymer that forms tiny tubes around the lashes and seals them in place. They can add noticeable length and curl to the lashes, and they are also water-resistant and smudge-proof, but not waterproof. They can be easily removed with warm water and gentle pressure, without the need for makeup remover. An example of a tubing mascara is Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara, which we mentioned earlier.
Plastic or rubber bristle mascaras: These mascaras have a brush that is made of plastic or rubber bristles that are short, fine, and densely packed. They can help to coat every lash and separate them, creating a lengthened and defined look. They can also prevent clumping and flaking, as they can comb through the excess product and distribute it evenly. An example of a plastic or rubber bristle mascara is CoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara, which has a smooth and creamy formula that glides on the lashes and a molded brush that hugs the lashes and delivers volume and length.

What is the #1 best mascara?

The #1 best mascara is a subjective question, as different people may have different opinions and preferences. However, based on the popularity, ratings, and reviews from various sources, one of the most highly regarded and recommended mascaras is Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara, which we mentioned earlier. This mascara has won multiple awards and accolades, such as the Allure Best of Beauty Award, the Glamour Beauty Award, and the InStyle Best Beauty Buy Award. It has also been praised by celebrities, influencers, makeup artists, and beauty editors, as well as millions of customers who have purchased and loved it.

Which mascara makes your eyelashes look the longest?

The mascara that makes your eyelashes look the longest is one that can add both length and curl to your lashes, as curling your lashes can help to lift them and make them appear longer. There are different ways to achieve this effect, such as:

Using an eyelash curler: An eyelash curler is a tool that can help to bend and shape your lashes into a curved position, making them look longer and more open. You can use an eyelash curler before applying mascara.
Applying a curling mascara: A curling mascara is a type of mascara that can help to hold and enhance the curl of your lashes, making them look longer and more lifted. A curling mascara usually has a curved or angled brush that can fit the shape of your lashes and a formula that can set and lock the curl in place. An example of a curling mascara is Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara, which has a flexible and tapered brush that can reach every lash and a buildable and clump-free formula that can deliver length and curl.
Applying a lengthening mascara: A lengthening mascara is a type of mascara that can help to extend and elongate your lashes, making them look longer and more defined. A lengthening mascara usually has a brush that has short and fine bristles that can coat every lash and a formula that can contain fibers, polymers, or waxes that can add length and thickness to the lashes. An example of a lengthening mascara is L’Oreal Paris Telescopic Mascara, which we mentioned earlier.

Which mascara is the best for length and volume?

The best mascara for length and volume is one that can add both dimensions to your lashes, making them look fuller and more dramatic. There are different types of mascaras that can achieve this effect, such as:

Volumizing mascaras: These mascaras are designed to plump up and thicken your lashes, making them look more voluminous and noticeable. They usually have a brush that has thick and fluffy bristles that can deposit a lot of product and a formula that can contain waxes, oils, or polymers that can create a dense and creamy texture. An example of a volumizing mascara is Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara, which we mentioned earlier.
Combining mascaras: Another way to get length and volume is to combine two different mascaras that can complement each other and create a layered and customized effect. For example, you can use a lengthening mascara first to extend your lashes and then a volumizing mascara on top to add thickness and drama. Or you can use a curling mascara first to lift your lashes and then a fiber mascara on top to add length and volume. The possibilities are endless, as long as you find the right combination for your lashes and your desired look.

How long does mascara last?

Mascara is a product that has a limited shelf life and should be replaced regularly to avoid bacterial growth, eye infections, and reduced performance. The general rule of thumb is to replace your mascara every three to six months, depending on how often you use it and how well you store it. However, there are some signs that can indicate that your mascara is expired or spoiled, such as:

A change in color, texture, or smell: If your mascara becomes dry, clumpy, flaky, or watery, or if it changes color or develops a foul odor, it means that it has gone bad and should be discarded immediately. These changes can indicate that the mascara has been exposed to air, moisture, or bacteria, which can affect its quality and safety.
A change in performance or effect: If your mascara does not apply as smoothly or evenly as before, or if it does not give you the same results as before, it means that it has lost its effectiveness and should be replaced with a new one. These changes can indicate that the mascara has been used up, dried out, or altered by other products, such as eyeliner or eyeshadow, which can affect its consistency and pigmentation.
An eye irritation or infection: If your mascara causes your eyes to itch, burn, swell, or become red, or if you develop any signs of an eye infection, such as discharge, pain, or blurred vision, it means that your mascara has been contaminated and should be thrown away immediately. These symptoms can indicate that your mascara has been infected by bacteria, fungi, or viruses, which can cause serious eye problems, such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, or styes.

How do you make mascara look longer?

There are some tips and tricks that can help you make your mascara look longer and more flattering, such as:

Curl your lashes: Curling your lashes can help to lift them and make them appear longer and more open. You can use an eyelash curler before applying mascara, or you can use a heated eyelash curler or a hair dryer to warm up your regular eyelash curler and enhance the curl. You can also use a curling mascara to hold and boost the curl of your lashes.
Prime your lashes: Priming your lashes can help to condition and prep them for the mascara, as well as add some extra length and volume. You can use a lash primer, which is a product that is specifically designed to prime the lashes, or you can use a clear or white mascara, which can also act as a primer. You can also use a powder, such as baby powder or translucent powder, to dust your lashes and create a base for the mascara to stick to.
Wiggle and zigzag your wand: Wiggling and zigzagging your wand can help to coat every lash and separate them, creating a lengthened and defined look. You can start from the roots of your lashes and wiggle your wand back and forth as you move it to the tips. You can also zigzag your wand from side to side as you sweep it through your lashes. This can help to prevent clumping and flaking, as well as add some curl and volume to your lashes.
Apply multiple coats: Applying multiple coats can help to build up the length and thickness of your lashes, making them look more dramatic and noticeable. You can apply two or three coats of the same mascara, or you can layer different mascaras to create a customized effect. For example, you can use a lengthening mascara first to extend your lashes and then a volumizing mascara on top to add thickness and drama. Or you can use a curling mascara first to lift your lashes and then a fiber mascara on top to add length and volume. However, be careful not to apply too many coats, as this can make your lashes look clumpy and heavy.
Use a lash comb: Using a lash comb can help to separate and define your lashes, making them look longer and more natural. You can use a lash comb after applying mascara, or you can use it between coats to remove any excess product and distribute it evenly. You can also use a lash comb to curl your lashes, by gently pushing them upwards with the comb and holding them for a few seconds.

Conclusion

Mascaras are amazing products that can enhance your lashes and your overall look. However, they can also be confusing and overwhelming, as there are so many types, formulas, and brushes to choose from. Hopefully, this blog post has helped you to understand some of the basics and FAQs about mascaras and how to use them properly. Remember to always choose a mascara that suits your lash type, eye sensitivity, and desired effect, and to replace it regularly to avoid any eye problems. And most importantly, have fun and experiment with different mascaras and techniques to find your perfect lash look.