Mascara is a makeup essential that can dramatically enhance the eyes, making them appear larger, brighter, and more defined.

However, achieving the perfect mascara look requires some know-how to avoid clumps, smudges, or flaking.

Whether you’re aiming for voluminous lashes, length, or both, mastering proper mascara usage is key. Here are several tips for making the most of your mascara application, ensuring you achieve beautiful, fluttery lashes every time.

1. Start with Clean Lashes

Before applying mascara, it’s crucial to start with clean, dry lashes. Leftover makeup or oil from the day before can cause clumping and flaking. Use a gentle eye makeup remover to clear any previous product.

Afterward, wash your face and gently pat your lashes dry to prepare them for a smooth mascara application.

2. Curl Your Lashes for Lift

For a more open, wide-eyed look, consider curling your lashes. Eyelash curlers can lift your lashes, making them appear longer and fuller. To avoid damaging your lashes, use the curler before applying mascara.

Squeeze gently at the base of your lashes, hold for a few seconds, then move the curler slightly outward and squeeze again. This creates a natural, lifted curl without any harsh bends.

3. Choose the Right Mascara Formula

Not all mascaras are created equal, and selecting the right formula can make a significant difference. Volumizing mascaras are ideal if you want thicker, fuller lashes, while lengthening mascaras will stretch shorter lashes.

Waterproof formulas are great for humid conditions or tear-proof wear but can be harsh on your lashes if used too often. If you have sensitive eyes, look for hypoallergenic or sensitive-eye formulas to avoid irritation.

4. Wipe Excess Product from the Wand

One common mistake people make is applying too much mascara at once. Excess product on the wand can lead to clumping and uneven application.

Before using your mascara, lightly wipe the wand on a tissue or the edge of the tube to remove excess product. This will allow you to build up your mascara in thin, even layers rather than overloading your lashes from the start.

5. Apply in Thin Layers

Instead of applying a thick coat of mascara all at once, it’s best to apply it in thin layers. Begin by wiggling the mascara wand at the base of your lashes to build volume at the roots, then sweep upward toward the tips.

Wait a few seconds for the first coat to dry slightly before applying another layer. This technique will help you achieve a fuller, clump-free look while giving you more control over the amount of product you apply.

6. Don’t Forget the Lower Lashes

Many people neglect their lower lashes, but adding a light coat of mascara can balance out your look. Use the tip of the mascara wand to gently apply product to the lower lashes, being careful not to smudge.

7. Use a Lash Comb for Separation

A lash comb can help remove any clumps and evenly distribute the product, ensuring that each lash is coated without sticking together. This step is especially useful if you’re applying multiple coats of mascara.