Mascara might look simple, but it’s often the trickiest part of a beauty routine. Whether you want fluttery lashes or bold drama, knowing how to put mascara correctly can completely change your makeup game. Here are smart, beginner-friendly tips to help you master your lash routine like a true pro. 1. Start with a Clean Lash Line Oil, leftover eye cream, or yesterday’s mascara? All of that can ruin a fresh coat. Always begin with clean, dry lashes so your mascara can grip evenly. 2. Curl Before, Not After A lash curler is your best friend—but only before mascara. Curling after application can break your lashes or cause them to stick to the curler. Hold the curler for 5–8 seconds on each eye to lift and open up your eyes instantly. 3. Wiggle from the Root When applying, place the...
Mascara might look simple, but it’s often the trickiest part of a beauty routine. Whether you want fluttery lashes or bold drama, knowing how to put mascara correctly can completely change your makeup game. Here are smart, beginner-friendly tips to help you master your lash routine like a true pro.
1. Start with a Clean Lash Line
Oil, leftover eye cream, or yesterday’s mascara? All of that can ruin a fresh coat. Always begin with clean, dry lashes so your mascara can grip evenly.
2. Curl Before, Not After
A lash curler is your best friend—but only before mascara. Curling after application can break your lashes or cause them to stick to the curler. Hold the curler for 5–8 seconds on each eye to lift and open up your eyes instantly.
3. Wiggle from the Root
When applying, place the mascara wand at the base of your lashes, wiggle it side to side, and then pull it up. This wiggle technique builds volume at the root and avoids spider lashes.
4. Don’t Pump the Wand
Avoid pumping the wand in and out of the tube—it introduces air and dries out the product faster. Instead, swirl it inside to collect the formula.
5. Use the Tip for Lower Lashes
Lower lashes can get messy fast. Use just the tip of your mascara wand vertically for precision, or switch to a smaller brush designed for lower lashes.
6. Double Coat with Patience
Want bolder lashes? Let the first coat dry for 20–30 seconds before going in with a second layer. This prevents clumping and helps build length and volume gradually.
7. Clean Up Smudges with a Q-tip
Mascara on your eyelid or under your eye? Let it dry completely before trying to clean it. Once dry, a dry Q-tip or angled brush will flake it off without ruining your look.
8. Choose the Right Mascara for Your Lashes
Short lashes? Go for a lengthening mascara.
Straight lashes? Try a curling formula.
Sparse lashes? Volumizing mascaras with a thick brush are ideal.
Normal lashes? Try colored mascara
Knowing how to put mascara also means choosing the one that suits your unique lash type.
9. Replace It Regularly
Mascara should be replaced every 3 months—even if there’s product left. Using it beyond that can risk eye infections and poor performance.
10. Bonus Hack: Heat Your Curler (Safely!)
Warm up your lash curler with a hairdryer for 5 seconds (not more!) before curling. It gives you a longer-lasting lift—just test the metal with your fingers first to avoid burns.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to put mascara without clumping?
To avoid clumps, wipe off excess product from the wand before applying. Use a zigzag motion from the base of your lashes upward, and allow the first coat to dry slightly before layering.
2. What is the correct way to apply mascara on lower lashes?
Use the tip of the mascara wand vertically for better control. Apply lightly with small strokes and consider using a lengthening or waterproof formula to prevent smudging.
3. Should I curl my lashes before or after putting on mascara?
Always curl your lashes before applying mascara. Curling after can damage your lashes and cause breakage.
4. How many coats of mascara should I apply?
Two coats are usually enough for most people. The key is letting the first coat dry partially before applying the second to avoid a spidery effect.
5. How do I remove mascara without damaging my lashes?
Use a gentle eye makeup remover or micellar water on a cotton pad. Press it against your closed eyes for 10–15 seconds to dissolve the mascara before wiping away gently.
6. How to put mascara on for a natural look?
Apply one light coat, focusing more on the roots than the tips. Use a lengthening mascara and avoid layering. Brown or dark brown mascara can also look more natural than jet black.
7. Can I use expired mascara if it looks fine?
It’s best not to. Even if it looks or smells okay, expired mascara can harbor bacteria and increase your risk of eye infections. Replace it every 3 months.
If you’ve ever felt like mascara just doesn’t “work” for you, chances are it’s all about technique. These tips will help you elevate your lash game and finally master how to put mascara without mess, clumps, or frustration.
