How To Apply Mascara: Best Mascaras 2021

By Panasha Desai, Pharmacist

---

Mascara isn't one brush fits all, since eyelashes vary in texture as much as the other hair on your body does. But thanks to developments in formulas and brushes, the best mascaras are available right now. You just have to find your perfect match and learn how to apply it.

Here, we offer a few mascara tips, including how to apply mascara properly, and identify the best mascaras available in 2021.

How To Apply Mascara (Like A Pro)

It only takes a few expertly applied swipes of mascara to transform your eye look from drab to glam! But, as any make-up artist will tell you, getting great-looking lashes is all about taking the right steps before applying your mascara. 

Step 1: Curl Your Lashes

Using an eyelash curler before applying your mascara will help lift and lengthen your lashes. With long lashes, your mascara will go on more smoothly and apply more consistently across all your lashes – no clumping!

Step 2: Use An Eyelash Primer

Would you apply foundation without priming your skin? We hope not! The same goes for your eyelashes. An eyelash primer helps to protect your delicate eyelashes from damage, and will provide a foundation layer that allows your mascara to look that much more impressive.

Step 3: Twirl Your Mascara, Then Wipe Off Any Excess Before Applying

You want to twirl your mascara wand in the tube before applying to make sure it has a consistent coat of liquid across it. However, you want to avoid pumping the wand in and out as this can damage the brush and will force air (and bacteria) into the tube. Not sanitary and not good for getting your mascara to last till the last drop. 

Wiping off excess mascara on the tube as you pull it out is a must. You don't want to be swiping huge globs of mascara across your lashes or you'll end up with splodgy eyelashes at best and getting mascara in your eye at worst. Twirling as you pull out the wand will also help squeeze off excess mascara as it comes out of the tube.

Step 4: Apply Mascara To Your Top & Bottom Lashes

Unless you're going for a very specific look, you'll want to make sure you are getting a good coverage of mascara on both your top and bottom lashes. Start with the top as they tend to be longer and thicker and need more mascara, then move to the bottom. Refresh your mascara, with a twirl in the tube, as needed.

Depending on the mascara you are using, you may have to apply at different angles to get full coverage. Some brushes are conical or curved and this can make it easier to get great separation from end to end.

Step 5: Clean Up The Smudges

Just like in cooking, the final step is the clean up. Make sure to tidy up around your eyelids where any rogue brushstrokes might have left some mascara where you don't need it. A cotton bud or pad can help to do this more delicately and without ruining your mascara application.

Mascara Tips & Tricks

Practice makes perfect when it comes to make-up and applying mascara will come more easily to some than others. But there are some tips and tricks that can help you achieve a sensational look without having to restart again and again.

Don't Be Afraid To Bend Your Brush

While there are some curved mascaras out there, your favourite one might not come with a bend to it. Since eyelids and the lashes on them are on a curve, giving your mascara brush a little bend can make it that much easier to apply. 

Use A Small Card To Protect Your Eyelids

If you are having terrible trouble not getting smears of mascara over your eye area when applying mascara, grab a small card, bank card size, and place it behind your eyelashes while you apply. This will shortcut your cleanup later and help you apply more quickly.

De–Clump Your Mascara With A Toothbrush

Using a NEW toothbrush (not your current one) you can de-clump mascara that has too much liquid caught on its bristles. Do this delicately and regularly to keep your mascara looking its best.

Apply To Both Sides Of Your Lashes For A High Impact Look

Applying mascara to one side of your lashes adds emphasis and this is perfect for casual day or evening looks. However, if you want to really make a statement, apply mascara to both sides of your lashes. Move your mascara slowly from root to tip to get an even coat on both sides.

Hold The Mascara Vertically To Get Small Lashes

If you aren't able to easily apply mascara to the small lashes of your eyes, try holding the mascara vertically as this can make it easier to target those little lashes with the tip of the wand.

Best Mascaras Of 2021

Now that you've been empowered with the tips and tricks you need to perfectly apply your mascara, we want to recommend a few of the best mascaras on the market right now.