The Perfect Lash

Next to lipstick, using mascara can create dramatic and eye-opening effects. Mascara is available in a huge assortment of colors, all claiming to give you the thickest or longest lashes. You can buy waterproof mascara, mascara which is safe for contacts and just plain old mascara.

Mascara can be tricky to apply, so it's important to follow a few simple rules. Remember, you want your lashes to look natural, not fake or clumpy - unless you're going for that Betty Boop look!

First, a word about eye lash curlers. Always use your eye lash curler first, before applying mascara. There are many different types available on the market, including heated curlers. Curl near the roots, then in the middle, and finally close to the tips. Eye lash curlers will make your eyes larger and more youthful looking. For a more rounded curl only use the curler twice (once at the base and once at the mid-lash part). Make sure all your lashes are in the curler and hold the curler closed for approximately 30 seconds.

Application:

Applying mascara should be the last thing you do in your makeup routine.

Lightly powder your lashes to give the mascara something to cling to; the powder will also make your lashes look thicker!

Twirl, don't pump, the wand when coating it with mascara. Wipe excess mascara from the wand with a Kleenex.

Always make sure the entire lash is covered, by starting at the base of your lashes and combing your wand horizontally all the way through to the very tip.

When applying to your lower lashes hold the wand vertically, running it from side to side. Personally I apply two coats to my top lashes and only one light coat to my bottom lashes, but I have very long lashes. Experiment and do what looks best on you. Remember, you don't want to look like a cartoon character!

Before applying the second coat, comb through your lashes first; this will separate your lashes and help prevent clumping. It is easier to separate and comb through lashes when they're still wet.

To make your application look as natural as possible, make sure your lash is coated as close to your flesh as possible.

Like all makeup, mascara needs to be removed every night.

Tips and Tricks

TIP: If your mascara is brand new, wipe the wand on a Kleenex to remove any extra mascara. This can help in preventing clumping and smudging. You can also do this if you only want to wear a 'hint" of mascara.

TIP: Flaking and Smudging ~ Sometimes it is just a matter of trying different brands to see what works best with your skin and lash type. Look for smudge-free mascara. If smudging is a huge problem, try wearing mascara only on your top lashes.

TIP: When applying mascara, always have a cotton ball or a Q-tip available, along with some eye makeup remover. If you make a mistake, or if your mascara smudges, you can quicky clean up the mess.

TIP: If your lashes are light don't use black - try brown instead, as this will look much more natural. If your lashes are dark try a soft black; this will give you a much more romantic, soft look.

TIP: If you want that "no makeup" look, try using one coat of clear mascara.

If you have a tip or a trick, you would like to submit, we would love to hear from you. Please email your ideas to submissions@sssh.com

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