The top 7 most common mascara application mistakes and how to avoid them

Most modern women would agree mascara is more than just makeup. It's the finishing touch, the essential step in our makeup routine that equips us to take on the world.

Mascara lengthens and accentuates the lashes, drawing attention to your eyes and making them pop. While mascara commercials may claim their specific product works miracles on your lashes, application has much to do with the end result. Putting on mascara may seem like a no-brainer, but keep reading to ensure you're not making these common mistakes.

Nobody wants raccoon eyes! If you're finding your mascara is running, try using a waterproof mascara. At the very least, have one on hand to use if you're heading to the pool or about to watch a tear-jerking movie. Waterproof mascara tends to be thicker and more prone to clumping, but you can easily control its build up by applying the tips below. This will save you the hassle of compulsively checking your makeup in the mirror to make sure your mascara stays where it should.

The best way to prevent your mascara clumping is to clean your wand each time you apply mascara. All you need to do this is a cotton pad and micellar water (We recommend Simple Micellar Cleansing Water). Pour some micellar water onto a cotton pad and remove the mascara application wand from the tube. Place the tip of the wand on the cotton pad and twist it until the wand is clean and clump free.
​

If you are looking for fuller lashes, take an extra few seconds and apply a second coat of mascara. This second coat will adhere to the first and double the volume of your lashes. Still not satisfied? Apply a third coat. "Hey, your lashes are looking a little too full today," said no one ever in the history of ever. Go on, layer it up and bat those beauties at the next passerby!

Sad news, makeup does expire! Not only that, extended use leads to growth of bacteria, so it's wise to replace your mascara every few months to prevent infection. Older formulas also tend to dry out which will lead to clumps and your lashes sticking together. If you're struggling to get the results you want with a mascara brand that typically works for you, it may be time to buy a new bottle.

One of the keys to beautiful lashes is even application of mascara. This starts with making sure the wand has mascara evenly dispersed throughout. While you might be in the habit of pumping your wand up and down, rotating the wand in circular motion will ensure the product evenly coats each side of the wand. Now you will be able to coat every single lash evenly and thoroughly.

Curling your lashes after applying mascara is another common mistake. Mascara makes lashes stiffer so the curler is more likely to create a hard bend rather than a soft curl. Also, the curler will likely remove some of the product you just worked to build up. Curling lashes before applying mascara will save your curler from getting messy and help keep lashes separate and natural looking.

You may be holding back the potential of your lashes if you only coat the bottom part of your top lashes. Applying a coat from the top of your lashes as pictured below builds volume. Instead of simple upward strokes, wiggle the wand back and forth ever so slightly as you work your way out to ensure your lashes are coated on both sides.