5 mascara techniques to take your eye makeup to the next level

Applying mascara seems simple enough — to someone who's never done it before! There's a lot that goes into the perfect look, and it helps to know what works and what doesn't.
For most of us, the goal is fuller, darker lashes without clumps. If you haven't tried some of these newer techniques, give them a go. You may discover you'll cut your application time in half (and spend less time mopping up unwanted flecks).
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1. Start with a clean wand
When you buy a new tube of mascara, the wand has been covered in product for weeks (or longer). Initially, it probably has too much mascara on it, so take a moment to clean off the wand before you begin. You'll get a more precise application, and the wand won't be overloaded (and wet and clumpy). Micellar water, also known as cleansing water, is effective at helping clean wands. Get the full cleaning tutorial here.
2. Do bottom lashes first
As counterintuitive as this sounds, there's a really good reason to do your lower lashes first. If you apply mascara on the top lashes, they'll be wet when you tilt your head to do your lower lashes. Avoid the messy cleanup by starting on the bottom first.
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3. Customize the wand
Just because some manufacturer made a mascara wand straight doesn't mean it has to stay that way. You'll have an easier time applying mascara if you don't have to keep your entire arm horizontal. Bend the wand using the tube as a guide, or wipe off the excess product with a makeup blotting sheet and bend it into a 90-degree angle.
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4. Remove clumps between coats
No matter how much of a hurry you're in, mascara will always look better if you take the time to remove any clumps with a spoolie in between coats. After all, if your lashes are stuck together, another coat definitely won't improve matters.
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5. Apply translucent powder between coats
This technique is also known as the "tempura lash" effect because you apply a light coat of translucent powder to your lashes with a clean mascara wand or spoolie in between coats. Disposable lash wands work well for this.
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