If you’re anything like me, that is too lazy to wear false eyelashes, or you’re just not in for eyelash extensions, and still want to get the look of longer and voluminous eyelashes, then you’ve come to the right place. Eyelashes make such a huge difference, which is why we love falsies but applying them can be a hassle sometimes. Heck, all the time. Like I still can’t get the hang of it. Fun fact: I’ve only worn false lashes 6 times, and for someone who does makeup often, that isn’t a lot. Okay, that’s enough for now, let’s get into these tips on how to slay your mascara routine like a pro.

Step 1: Apply mascara from the root of your eyelasheseyelashes root

First, take out the mascara wand from the tube, and wipe the excess off the wand to prevent it from getting on your eyelid. Then, tilt your head backward and wiggle the mascara wand along your lashes from root to tip. This will amplify the lashes right from the bottom. You can also blink your lashes through the application to make it look fluffier.

Step 2: Apply mascara to the tip of your eyelashesMascara tips

After applying mascara from the root of the lashes, the next step is to apply it over the lashes concentrating on the tip. This will add extra length to the lashes.  Mascaras with fibers are perfect for this step.

Step 3: Apply a second coat

Applying the second coat of mascara will help maximize volume and thickness. Wait in between for the first coat to dry a little bit. The trick while applying this second layer is to press the wand against the root of the lashes and hold it up for a while. This will help to really curl up the lashes because the second step can make the lashes look straight.

Step 4: De-clump lashes

After applying two coats of mascara, it is likely that your lashes will look clumpy, and if you’re not a fan of that look, you can fix it. There are several ways to de-clump your lashes from metal lash combs, bobby pins to clean toothbrushes. I personally separate mine with a clean disposable mascara wand.

Step 5: Apply mascara to the bottom lashesBottom eyelashes

Looking downwards, apply mascara vertically to your bottom lashes for a natural, separated look. Facing downwards will prevent it from getting on your face. You can further prevent this by placing your fingers or a card under your eyelashes. This tip also works for the top lashes.

Other hacks to make eyelashes appear fuller

Tightlining: Applying black eyeliner to the inner lash line makes the lash line appear darker and that instantly gives the illusion of fuller lashes. This can be done with either gel, kohl or pencil liners but not liquid eyeliners.

Black eyeshadow: I know a lot of people find tightlining scary, or for some people, their blinking eyes just won’t let them tightline. This method by makeup artist, Wayne Goss is a good alternative. Apply a jet-black eyeshadow very close to the lash line in an undetectable manner.  This will make the lash line appear darker and open up the eyes.  Watch a demo here.

Eyelashes comparison
Without eyeshadow|With eyeshadow

Dust some matte eyeshadow or translucent powder on your lashes in between coats to make the second coat stick on and increase volume.

Use more than one mascara for different effects. If you have a mascara that is good for adding length, and another which feathers out the lashes, you can mix them to get better results.

Lastly, if you run out of your favorite mascara, and the new one isn’t performing as you desire, take the wand of that mascara you like and dip it into the new one to get your desired effect.

Some of my favorite mascaras:

Note Cosmetics Lash Master: I love this one especially because of the big wand. It gives instant volume and it is jet-black. The only downside is you can easily get mascara on your lids because of how big the wand is.

L’oreal Miss Manga: The wand of this mascara makes it so versatile. It gets those tiny hairs that are hard to reach. It is also good for adding length and volume to the eyelashes.

Eyeko Lash Alert Mascara: I love using this one for my bottom lashes. The wand makes application so easy and I like it for separating too.

If you really want to make your eyelashes look longer and thicker, then you must be ready to put in a lil more effort like you do with your base application. You can’t spend 5 seconds on your lashes and expect it to look luscious. Except you’ve been blessed with naturally long lashes, or you have some magic mascara (we’ll like to know which one, if that’s the case).

Share this with someone who you think will benefit from it, and let me know if you have any other hacks I missed on xx.

Shares: