How to Choose the Right Mascara

Mascara is one of the most essential and versatile makeup products: It can be worn alone for a subtle effect, or combined with other makeup for striking and noticeable results.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mirrors
• Mascara
• Waterproof Mascaras

1. Decide whether you would prefer to use waterproof or water-soluble mascara. Water-soluble is easier to remove without eye makeup remover, thus minimizing the amount of rubbing around the eyes, which can lead to saggy skin. Waterproof mascara is a better choice for athletes, especially swimmers.

2. Choose a mascara color according to your hair color; brunettes should use black to bring out their eyes, but brown mascara will have a more natural effect on fair-haired women.

3. Avoid choosing colored mascara if it is to be worn with a conservative outfit or in the workplace. However, if you're planning to wear it for a fun evening out, feel free to get creative with different colors.

4. Choose the type of mascara brush according to your preference. A straight brush is good for coating the hard-to-reach corner lashes, while a curved brush makes it easier to coat more of your lashes at once.

Tips & Warnings

• If the mascara you choose is already dried out upon purchase, return it and request a refund.
• Some beauty consultants suggest replacing your mascara tube every three months.

on 6/30/2006 If there are only one or two types of cosmetics you use, make sure one of them is mascara, it makes a big difference with minimal effort. Don't forget to wash it off each night.

on 2/21/2006 If you want lashes to look more natural, try a clear mascara. It enhances your natural color and doesn't ever look overdone.

on 11/22/2005 I put mascara from the bottom to top and whirl it around. This makes my lashes look thicker and longer. For the bottom lashes, I like to make it dark. I used to wear eyeliner, but making both the bottom and top lashes dark, there is no need. I use Maybelline intense XXL, it's wonderful and so is Maybelline Volume. I always get complimented about my eyelashes in school! People first want to know what mascara I use.

on 11/22/2005 To easily eliminate mascara clumps, rotate the brush back and forth as you pull it out of the tube. Do not wipe the excess mascara at the tip of the brush onto the tube, as this could lead to drying on the inside of the tube which leads to future clumps.

For thicker looking lashes, spin the brush at the base of your eyelashes and slowly rise to the tips. In the middle of applying, softly blinking will help balance the amount on each lash.

on 11/22/2005 Pumping the brush won't just dry your mascara out prematurely, it will dry in the tube unevenly. The air pockets that pumping creates cause your mascara to get lumpy. Several layers of mascara is more effective than one thick coat. To make sure your coats go on nice and thin, twirl your brush in a bit of tissue before you apply it. There will still be plenty of mascara on the brush and the coats will dry quickly, making it easier to do several without it getting sticky. I know you think I'm crazy, but try it once and see!