How To Fix What You Lack In Your Lashes
I was once asked in an interview what makeup item I wouldn’t go without. Not by any standards a tough question, although it was one to consider when going through the list of cosmetic items I use on any given day. The answer, however, came easy. I thought to myself, what is the one product that highlights the most important feature on my face? Mascara, of course.
We all know applying false eyelashes is a tedious affair. Between the messy glue and proper length of the lash line according to your eyelid, false eyelashes are not designed for daily wear, nor do many look realistic.
Lash extensions have taken off as well in the cosmetic industry in the past few years, as has the desire for luscious eyelashes. But ladies, eyelash extensions are an expensive solution to an easily fixable problem…
The first step – essential to volume, length, and curl – is to use an eyelash primer. It essentially sets up eyelashes for the mascara by acting as a base coat to provide the initial volume, length and curl. Hint: you won’t use as much mascara, so your mascara will last longer and end up costing less!
My impulse buy of the week for eyelash primer is Lancôme’s Cils Booster XL Super Enhancing Mascara Base. Ranked number one in Sephora reviews, the primer is an exceptional partner for any mascara. Enhanced with micro-fibers, it smoothes and coats the lashes allowing for fewer coats of mascara, which can be hard on your lashes. The innovative triangular brush also separates the lashes to avoid clumping.
The second step is to take a good look in the mirror and decide what you lack in your lashes. Eyelashes are different from person to person, but there are mascaras catered to everyone. Again, the three key elements to a full lash are volume, length and curl. So, what are you missing? Hint: everyone can wear black mascara. Black may seem heavy if you’re not used to a lot of makeup, but I assure you that it will blend and not look out of place no matter your hair, eye, or skin color.
The third step is to apply the mascara you’ve chosen. To avoid clumps, do not dip your mascara wand in and out of the tube, as it allows for airflow and dries out the mascara formula. Careful of how many swipes you use per application. The more mascara you build, the more likely your lashes will stick together. Remember, this is also where an eyelash primer makes a difference! Hint: the shelf life of mascara is three months once opened; do not keep your mascara longer than that.
My impulse buys of the week for mascara are Lancôme’s Hypnose Drama for volume, L’Extreme for length, and Virtuose for curl. Lancôme is responsible for 40% of mascara sales in the world, and has produced the leading formula for the past ten years. With over eleven mascara choices, I bet you’ll find one you love!
You can find your perfect mascara at any cosmetic counter at the Bay, Sears or Sephora.