Alright besties, let’s talk mascara today! Whether you’re just starting to explore the absolute magic of makeup, or you’ve been in the beauty game for a while now and want some good old refresh on your mascara skills—the tea’s hot and ready!
Mascara might seem basic, but getting that perfect lift, length, AND volume combo? It takes a little technique. And that’s why your girl, Su, is here to hook you up with all the tips and tricks on how to apply your mascara like an actual PRO.
Let’s get into it because #lashgoals are ALL in the details! 🙌🏼💄
Tip #1: Start With Clean Lashes Always
First things first: if we’re gonna get those lashes poppin’, we need a clean starting point. So cleanse off any leftover makeup or oils that might be chillin’ on your lashes. If you’re sporting waterproof mascara or heavy eye makeup, make sure you grab a gentle eye makeup remover. You don’t want your old mascara clumping up with your new mascara—that’s a disaster waiting to happen.
Clean lashes are the blank canvas where all the magic happens: AKA clump-free lashes that are ready to SLAY 🤍.
Tip #2: Curl Before You Coat
If you’re not using an eyelash curler, pop that baby out right now because it’s time to change your life. Curling your lashes before mascara is a total MUST. It helps your mascara cling to the lashes better while giving you that snatched, lifted look with your eyesflyin’ high.
Confession time: I used to skip this back in the day and SWEAR I’d still get “lift.” It wasn’t until I started curling that I saw how much my lashes could seriously go from meh to WOW. Do not sleep on this step!
When using the curler, pinch your lash line at the base for a few seconds—give it that nice squeeze—but then, move the curler up along the length of your lashes and gently press again. Trust me, the difference is real (and your curl will hold longer!).
Tip #3: Mascara Primer Is Everything
Listen, I know mascara primers aren’t exactly trending on TikTok right now, but these things are like the secret sauce nobody talks about! They’re like the Setting Spray for your lashes that keep them hydrated, lifted, and separated, giving you that extra volume and XXL-length.
Make sure to grab a lash primer and swipe it from root to tip like you’re applying mascara. Give it a few seconds to dry, then get ready for the main course—mascara time!
Tip #4: How to Apply Your Mascara Like a True Queen
Next up is major—it’s ALL IN THE APPLICATION. We’ve got the products and the tools, so now let’s focus on how you apply your mascara for the ultimate transformation:
- Wipe off excess product: When you pull the wand out, there’s always TOO much product clinging onto the brush. Wipe it off on the inside of the tube or on a tissue before you start applying mascara.
- Wiggle and sweep: Start at the base of your lashes and wiggle the wand side to side as you sweep upwards. This helps coat every single lash and gets that volume from the roots.
- Layer it up (but don’t go overboard): It’s chill to go in for more coats, but don’t go crazy. Two or three coats will give you that volume and thickness without crossing into spider-leg-looking-lash territory (👀 yikes!).
- Don’t forget the lower lashes: Don’t leave your bottom lashes lonely!! Use the tip of the wand and apply mascara in short, vertical strokes. If you’re scared of smudging (we’ve all been there), hold a small piece of paper or tissue underneath to catch any mistakes.
Tip #5: Use That Lash Comb, Sis
If you’re checking out your lashes post-application and they’re looking a bit clumpy—no freak out necessary. Grab yourself a lash comb and gently brush through to separate those bad boys. Pro tip: do this while the mascara is still a little wet because it’s easier to work with.
FUN FACT: A clean, unused toothbrush works just as well as a lash comb in a pinch! Yep, you heard me right. So don’t panic if you forget your lash comb—or just didn’t buy one yet.
Great lashes don’t happen by accident; they happen by appointment, effort, and several coats of the perfect mascara.
Tip #6: Waterproof When Necessary
Okay, waterproof mascara is like that person you only wanna call for special occasions. Why? Waterproof is legendary for staying power, but it’s also SUPER drying for your lashes if used all the time. So my advice: save it for nights you know you’re gonna sweat, cry, or maybe even take a surprise dunk in the ocean (hello, beach day feels 💧🌊).
On regular days, reach for a non-waterproof formula to protect your natural lashes. It’ll be easier to remove at night without pulling them out.
Tip #7: Changing Up Your Wand Game
Without getting into all the science stuff (🤓), just know the brush shape really makes a HUGE difference in how your lashes will turn out. I always bring a few different ones with me, depending on the look I’m going for.
- Hourglass-shaped wand: BEST for adding volume. Think big, thick, fluffy lashes.
- Curved wand: Perfect if you want extra curl without the manual curler.
- Thin wand: Ideal for REALLY lengthening and getting those hard-to-reach lashes.
It’s giving all the different girl groups; some are known for vocals, some are known for choreo—different vibes for different needs!
Tip #8: Keep It Fresh (No Expired Mascara)
Say it with me: NO old mascara! Your mascara is good for like 3–6 months after you open it, so don’t be out here trying to stretch its life to that seriously old tube in your makeup bag from a year ago. Old mascara doesn’t just cause clumping—it’s a breeding ground for bacteria and can lead to eye irritation or even an infection. So toss it out when it’s time to move on!
If your mascara is starting to smell funny or clump up when you open it… It’s time to break up, babe.
Tip #9: Smudge-Proofing Like a Pro
Ever have those days when your mascara decides to run and make you look like an extra from a 90s grunge music video? Yeah…no thanks.
To avoid any under-eye smudging, here’s the trick: lightly dust translucent powder on your under-eye area and lids before applying mascara. The powder helps absorb any oils that might cause things to get messy.
Also: consider using a mascara with a long-wear formula—especially if you have oily skin or love rocking dewy makeup (which can sometimes contribute to mascara meltdowns).
Tip #10: Removing Your Mascara (Without Tugging!)
Your lashes need love when it’s time to take your makeup off too! You can’t just rub your eyes n’ pray for the best. Get an eye makeup remover designed specifically for waterproof or heavy mascara. Put some on a cotton pad, then gently press it against your lashes for a good 10 seconds before wiping off. This will help break down the formula without you having to aggressively scrub.
Letting your remover sit on your lashes before wiping is chef’s kiss—it saves you from losing precious lashes in the process.
My Favorite Mascara Picks:
Now you might be asking, “Su, what’s your go-to for mascara?” Glad you asked, babe! Here are some of my current favs that never let me down:
- Maybelline Lash Sensational: A drugstore fav that always gets me compliments on my lashes (for like, 10 dollars 🙌).
- Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara: Need I say more? The volume and drama with this one…chef’s kiss!
- L’Oreal Lash Paradise: If you’re ballin’ on a budget, this one’s gonna be your BFF! It’s high drama for half the price. YAS 🔥.
All in all: experimenting with mascara is where you can get really creative and find out what fits your vibe the best! I always say: don’t be afraid to try out new things, layer differently, or even triple coat on days when you’re feeling EXTRA (we love an extra lash moment, am I right!?).
Put these tips to work, and you’ll be serving lash envy at all your zoom meetings, dates, AND beach days in no time.
Go grab that wand, babe. It’s time to level up that mascara game 🔥!
XO Su
