Mascara For Beginners

By Your Beauty Plug
December 17, 2023

Mascara is one of the most essential and versatile makeup products that can instantly transform your eyes and your whole look. Whether you want to add some drama, definition, or curl to your lashes, there is a mascara for you. But with so many types, formulas, and brushes to choose from, how do you find the best one for your needs? And how do you apply it like a pro? In this blog post, we will answer all your questions about mascara and give you some tips and tricks to get the most out of your lash game.

Why is mascara used?

Mascara is used to enhance the appearance of your eyelashes by adding color, volume, length, and/or curl to them. Mascara can also help protect your lashes from environmental damage and make them look healthier and fuller. Mascara can also change the shape and expression of your eyes, making them look bigger, brighter, or more dramatic. Mascara can also complement your eye color and your eyeshadow, creating a harmonious or a contrasting effect. Mascara can also create different moods and styles, from natural and subtle to bold and glamorous.

How do mascaras work?

Mascara works by coating your lashes with a pigmented formula that adheres to them and creates a film. The formula usually contains waxes, oils, pigments, polymers, and preservatives. Waxes help thicken and shape the lashes. Oils help moisturize and smooth the lashes. Pigments help add color and intensity to the lashes. Polymers help form a film and bind the mascara to the lashes. Preservatives help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in the mascara. The formula can also contain other ingredients, such as fibers, vitamins, or minerals, that can enhance the performance or the benefits of the mascara.

The brush or the wand of the mascara also plays an important role in how the mascara works. The brush or the wand can have different shapes, sizes, and materials, depending on the type and the effect of the mascara. The brush or the wand can help distribute the formula evenly and avoid clumps and flakes. The brush or the wand can also help separate, curl, lift, or extend the lashes, depending on the design and the direction of the bristles or the combs.

How to apply mascara

Applying mascara can be easy and fun if you follow some simple steps and tricks. Here are some of them:

Curl your lashes: Curling your lashes can help open up your eyes and make your lashes look longer and curlier. You can use an eyelash curler to gently squeeze your lashes at the base, the middle, and the tip for a few seconds each. You can also heat up your eyelash curler with a hair dryer for a few seconds before using it to make the curl last longer. However, be careful not to burn yourself or your lashes. You can also apply a curling mascara after curling your lashes to help lock in the curl.
Use an eyelash primer: Using an eyelash primer can help prepare and prime your lashes for the application of mascara. It can help condition, strengthen, and protect your lashes from damage. It can also help thicken, separate, and lengthen your lashes for a better mascara result. You can apply one or two coats of primer on your top and bottom lashes and wait for at least 30 seconds before applying mascara.
Wiggle and roll: Wiggling and rolling your mascara wand can help distribute the mascara evenly and avoid clumps and flakes. You can start by placing the wand at the base of your lashes and wiggling it back and forth as you move it up to the tip. You can also roll the wand as you wiggle it to help curl and lift your lashes. You can repeat this motion until you reach your desired effect. You can also apply mascara on the back of your lashes to help add more volume and definition.
Use two mascaras: Using two mascaras can help you achieve the best of both worlds. You can combine a mascara with volumizing powers with another with lengthening or curling properties. You can apply the first mascara on your lashes and then apply the second one on top of it. You can also use different mascaras for your top and bottom lashes to create a more balanced and natural look. For example, you can use a volumizing mascara on your top lashes and a lengthening mascara on your bottom lashes.
Use a lash comb: Using a lash comb can help separate and define your lashes and remove any excess mascara. You can use a metal or plastic lash comb to gently comb through your lashes from the base to the tip. You can also use a lash comb to blend your natural lashes with your false lashes if you are wearing any. You can also use a lash comb to curl your lashes by holding it at the tip of your lashes and bending it upwards.
Remove your mascara properly: Removing your mascara properly can help prevent your lashes from breaking, falling out, or getting infected. You can use a gentle and effective makeup remover that is suitable for your skin and eye type. You can also use a cotton pad, a cotton ball, or a reusable cloth to gently wipe off your mascara from your lashes. You can also use warm water and a gentle cleanser to wash off your mascara from your lashes. You should avoid rubbing, pulling, or tugging your lashes as this can damage them. You should also remove your mascara every night before going to bed as this can help your lashes breathe and rest.

Can you wear mascara every day?

You can wear mascara every day as long as you choose a good quality mascara that is suitable for your lash type and your eye sensitivity. You should also make sure to apply and remove your mascara properly and gently, as well as to take care of your lashes with some nourishing and hydrating products, such as eyelash conditioners, serums, or oils. You should also replace your mascara every three to six months or sooner if it smells bad, changes color, or becomes dry or clumpy. This can help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in your mascara that can cause eye infections or irritations. You should also replace your mascara if you have had an eye infection or a cold sore as this can contaminate your mascara and spread the infection.

How do I choose mascara?

The best mascara for you depends on your lash type, your desired effect, and your personal preference. Here are some tips to help you choose the best mascara for you:

Know your lash type: Your lash type is determined by the length, thickness, density, and curl of your lashes. You can use a magnifying mirror to examine your lashes and identify your lash type. For example, if you have short lashes, you may want to look for a lengthening mascara that can help extend your lashes. If you have thin lashes, you may want to look for a volumizing mascara that can help add fullness to your lashes. If you have straight lashes, you may want to look for a curling mascara that can help lift and hold the curl of your lashes. If you have sparse lashes, you may want to look for a defining mascara that can help separate and coat each lash.
Know your desired effect: Your desired effect is the look that you want to achieve with your mascara. You can use your mood, your occasion, or your inspiration to decide your desired effect. For example, if you want to create a natural and subtle look, you may want to look for a clear or brown mascara that can help enhance your lashes without drawing too much attention. If you want to create a bold and dramatic look, you may want to look for a black or colored mascara that can help make your lashes stand out and pop. If you want to create a fun and playful look, you may want to look for a glitter or metallic mascara that can help add some sparkle and shine to your lashes.
Know your personal preference: Your personal preference is the style, the formula, and the brush that you like the most in your mascara. You can use your experience, your comfort, or your recommendation to decide your personal preference. For example, if you like a classic and simple style, you may want to look for a regular or waterproof mascara that can help give you a reliable and long-lasting result. If you like a modern and innovative style, you may want to look for a tubing or fiber mascara that can help give you a unique and impressive result. If you like a smooth and creamy formula, you may want to look for a wax-based or oil-based mascara that can help give you a soft and moisturizing feel. If you like a light and dry formula, you may want to look for a water-based or polymer-based mascara that can help give you a crisp and clean feel. If you like a thick and dense brush, you may want to look for a bristle or a silicone brush that can help give you a voluminous and dramatic effect. If you like a thin and precise brush, you may want to look for a comb or a rubber brush that can help give you a lengthening and defining effect.

How long does mascara last?

The shelf life of mascara depends on the type, the quality, and the storage of the mascara. Generally, mascara lasts for about three to six months after opening. However, some factors can shorten or extend the shelf life of mascara, such as:

The type of mascara: Some types of mascara may last longer or shorter than others, depending on the formula and the packaging. For example, waterproof mascara may last longer than regular mascara, as it is more resistant to moisture and bacteria. However, tubing mascara may last shorter than regular mascara, as it is more prone to drying out and losing its elasticity. The packaging of the mascara can also affect its shelf life, as some tubes or bottles may have better seals or pumps than others, preventing air and contaminants from entering the mascara.
The quality of the mascara: The quality of the mascara can also influence its shelf life, as some mascaras may have better ingredients, more advanced formulas, and more innovative brushes than others. Generally, the more expensive mascaras tend to have better quality and longer shelf life than the cheaper ones. However, that does not mean that you cannot find good quality mascaras at a lower price range. Some of the factors that can affect the quality of the mascara are the type and the amount of waxes, oils, pigments, polymers, and preservatives in the formula, as well as the shape, size, and material of the brush or the wand.
The storage of the mascara: The storage of the mascara can also affect its shelf life, as some conditions can cause the mascara to deteriorate faster or slower than others. You should store your mascara in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. You should also avoid pumping your mascara wand in and out of the tube as this can introduce air and bacteria into your mascara and make it dry out faster. You should also wipe off any excess mascara from your wand with a tissue or a paper towel before applying it to your lashes. You should also keep your mascara away from other makeup products or tools that may contaminate it.

Does clear mascara really work?

Clear mascara is a type of mascara that has a transparent formula that does not add any color to your lashes. Clear mascara can work as a natural and subtle way to enhance your lashes by adding some shine, definition, and curl to them. Clear mascara can also work as a base coat or a top coat for your regular mascara, as it can help prime and protect your lashes, as well as seal and set your mascara. Clear mascara can also work as a brow gel, as it can help tame and shape your brows. Clear mascara can also work as a lash conditioner, as it can help nourish and hydrate your lashes.

What is the best mascara for length and volume?

The best mascara for length and volume is a mascara that can help you achieve a false-lash effect by adding extra length and volume to your lashes. The best mascara for length and volume should have a formula that contains fibers, waxes, or polymers that can help extend and thicken your lashes. The best mascara for length and volume should also have a brush that has a thick, dense, and tapered shape that can help coat and separate your lashes from the root to the tip. Some of the best mascaras for length and volume are:

L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara: This mascara has a creamy and smooth formula that contains waxes and polymers that can help create intense length and volume. It also has a soft and fluffy brush that has over 200 bristles that can help capture and coat every lash. This mascara is also available in waterproof and primer versions.
Maybelline New York The Falsies Lash Lift Mascara: This mascara has a fiber-infused formula that can help lift and lengthen your lashes. It also has a double-curved brush that can help curl and volumize your lashes. This mascara is also ophthalmologist tested and suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening & Volumizing Mascara: This mascara has a long-wearing and smudge-proof formula that can help lengthen, curl, and volumize your lashes. It also has a specially designed brush that has a domed tip and staggered bristles that can help define and separate your lashes. This mascara is also available in different colors, such as brown, blue, and purple.

What is the best lifting mascara for a false-lash look?

The best lifting mascara for a false-lash look is a mascara that can help you achieve a lifted, curled, and fanned-out effect on your lashes. The best lifting mascara for a false-lash look should have a formula that is lightweight, flexible, and long-lasting, that can help hold and enhance the curl of your lashes. The best lifting mascara for a false-lash look should also have a brush that has a curved, angled, or hourglass shape that can help lift and fan out your lashes. Some of the best lifting mascaras for a false-lash look are:

Lancome Lash Idole Lash-Lifting & Volumizing Mascara: This mascara has a gel-emulsion formula that contains white tea extract and polymers that can help lift and volumize your lashes without weighing them down. It also has a curved and hollow brush that has 360 micro-bristles that can help coat and curl every lash. This mascara is also clump-free, flake-free, and smudge-free.
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara: This mascara has a diamond-shaped formula that contains natural waxes and keratin that can help lift and lengthen your lashes. It also has a dual-sided brush that has a flat side and a bristle side that can help load and comb your lashes. This mascara is also vegan and cruelty-free.
Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara: This mascara has a tubing formula that creates tiny tubes around each lash that can help lift and extend your lashes. It also has a tapered brush that has a spiral shape that can help separate and curl your lashes. This mascara is also easy to remove with warm water and gentle pressure.

What is the best mascara for volume?

The best mascara for volume is a mascara that can help you achieve a thick and full effect on your lashes. The best mascara for volume should have a formula that is rich, creamy, and buildable, that can help add density and dimension to your lashes. The best mascara for volume should also have a brush that has a large, fluffy, or spiral shape that can help coat and plump your lashes. Some of the best mascaras for volume are:

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara: This mascara has a collagen-infused formula that can help create intense volume and drama. It also has an hourglass-shaped brush that can help curl and separate your lashes. This mascara is also vegan and cruelty-free.
Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara: This mascara has a gluten-free and cruelty-free formula that can help create a false-lash effect. It also has a conic-shaped brush that can help coat and volumize your lashes. This mascara is also affordable and high-quality.
Dior Diorshow Mascara: This mascara has a microfiber-enriched formula that can help create a runway-ready look. It also has a XXL brush that can help deliver extreme volume and length. This mascara is also available in different colors and finishes, such as matte, satin, and metallic.

What is the best mascara for length?

The best mascara for length is a mascara that can help you achieve a long and fluttery effect on your lashes. The best mascara for length should have a formula that is thin, smooth, and stretchable, that can help extend and elongate your lashes. The best mascara for length should also have a brush that has a small, thin, or comb-like shape that can help reach and lengthen every lash. Some of the best mascaras for length are:

Covergirl Lash Blast Length Mascara: This mascara has a nylon-fiber formula that can help create up to 80% longer lashes. It also has a precision brush that can help define and separate your lashes. This mascara is also hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist tested.
L’Oreal Paris Telescopic Original Mascara: This mascara has a carbon-black formula that can help create intense length and color. It also has a flexible brush that has a flat side and a comb side that can help stretch and comb your lashes. This mascara is also fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara: This mascara has a vegan and cruelty-free formula that contains orchid stem cell complex and castor seed oil that can help nourish and lengthen your lashes. It also has a rubber brush that has a tapered tip and hundreds of bristles that can help coat and curl your lashes. This mascara is also a tubing mascara that can be easily removed with water and gentle pressure.

How do you keep eyelashes curled?

Keeping your eyelashes curled can help open up your eyes and make your lashes look longer and curlier. Here are some ways to keep your eyelashes curled:

Use an eyelash curler: Using an eyelash curler can help create a lasting curl on your lashes. You can use a metal or a plastic eyelash curler to gently squeeze your lashes at the base, the middle, and the tip for a few seconds each. You can also heat up your eyelash curler with a hair dryer for a few seconds before using it to make the curl last longer. However, be careful not to burn yourself or your lashes. You can also apply a curling mascara after curling your lashes to help lock in the curl.

Use a waterproof or a tubing mascara: Using a waterproof or a tubing mascara can help keep your lashes curled and smudge-free. Waterproof mascara has a formula that is resistant to water, sweat, tears, and humidity. It can help keep the lashes looking flawless and curled in any condition. However, it can also be harder to remove and can dry out the lashes over time. Tubing mascara has a formula that creates tiny tubes around each lash. It can help keep the lashes looking long and curled without clumping or flaking. It can also be easily removed with warm water and gentle pressure.
Use a lash serum or a lash conditioner: Using a lash serum or a lash conditioner can help nourish and strengthen your lashes and make them more resilient and flexible. It can also help stimulate the growth and the curl of your lashes. You can apply a lash serum or a lash conditioner on your lashes before or after applying mascara, or at night before going to bed. You can also look for a mascara that contains lash serum or lash conditioner in its formula.

What is the best waterproof mascara?

The best waterproof mascara is a mascara that can help you achieve a long-lasting and smudge-proof result on your lashes. The best waterproof mascara should have a formula that is water-resistant, sweat-resistant, tear-resistant, and humidity-resistant, that can help keep your lashes looking flawless and curled in any condition. The best waterproof mascara should also have a brush that can help coat and define your lashes without clumping or flaking. Some of the best waterproof mascaras are:

Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara: This mascara has a liquid ink formula that can help create a sensational lash look. It also has a fanning brush that has 10 layers of bristles that can help capture and unfold every lash. This mascara is also ophthalmologist tested and suitable for contact lens wearers.
Urban Decay Perversion Waterproof Mascara: This mascara has a creamy and pigmented formula that can help create a voluminous and intense lash look. It also has a twisted trim brush that can help separate and lift every lash. This mascara is also vegan and cruelty-free.
Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara: This mascara has a 4-in-1 formula that can help lengthen, curl, volumize, and condition your lashes. It also has a 360-degree magniLASH wand that can help coat and define every lash. This mascara is also vegan, hypoallergenic, and ophthalmologist tested.

How to remove waterproof mascara

Removing waterproof mascara can be tricky and challenging, as it is designed to resist water and other makeup removers. However, there are some ways to remove waterproof mascara without damaging or irritating your lashes. Here are some of them:

Use an oil-based or a dual-phase makeup remover: Using an oil-based or a dual-phase makeup remover can help dissolve the waterproof formula and make it easier to wipe off. You can use a cotton pad, a cotton ball, or a reusable cloth soaked in your makeup remover to gently press and hold on your lashes for a few seconds. Then, you can swipe downwards and sideways to remove the mascara from your lashes. You can repeat this process until all the mascara is gone. You can also use a Q-tip dipped in your makeup remover to remove any stubborn mascara from the corners or the lower lashes.
Use a micellar water or a cleansing balm: Using a micellar water or a cleansing balm can help break down the waterproof mascara and make it easier to wash off. You can use a cotton pad, a cotton ball, or a reusable cloth soaked in your micellar water or your cleansing balm to gently massage your lashes in circular motions. Then, you can rinse your face with warm water to remove the mascara from your lashes. You can also use a gentle cleanser to cleanse your face and your lashes after removing the mascara.
Use a warm compress or a steamy shower: Using a warm compress or a steamy shower can help loosen the waterproof mascara and make it easier to slide off. You can use a washcloth soaked in warm water or a towel heated in a microwave to make a warm compress. Then, you can place it over your eyes for a few minutes. Then, you can use a cotton pad, a cotton ball, or a reusable cloth to gently wipe off the mascara from your lashes. You can also take a steamy shower and let the steam soften the mascara on your lashes. Then, you can use your fingers or a cotton pad, a cotton ball, or a reusable cloth to gently remove the mascara from your lashes.

What happens if you sleep with mascara?

Sleeping with mascara can have some negative consequences for your lashes and your eyes. Sleeping with mascara can cause your lashes to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage or fall out. Sleeping with mascara can also cause your lashes to stick together or to your pillow, which can pull or tug your lashes when you wake up. Sleeping with mascara can also cause your eyes to become irritated, inflamed, or infected, as the mascara can transfer to your eye area or your pillow and harbor bacteria and fungi. Sleeping with mascara can also cause your skin to age faster, as the mascara can create free radicals that can damage your skin cells and collagen.

Therefore, you should always remove your mascara before going to bed, as this can help your lashes and your eyes stay healthy and beautiful.

What does eyelash conditioner do?

Eyelash conditioner is a product that can help nourish, hydrate, and protect your lashes. Eyelash conditioner can also help stimulate the growth and the curl of your lashes. Eyelash conditioner usually contains ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, peptides, oils, or extracts that can help improve the health and the appearance of your lashes. Eyelash conditioner can be applied on your lashes before or after applying mascara, or at night before going to bed. Eyelash conditioner can also be found in some mascaras that have a 2-in-1 formula that can help condition and coat your lashes.

I hope this blog post was helpful and informative for you.