Mascara is the one makeup product most people reach for every single day — but there's a huge difference between applying it quickly in the mirror and applying it like a pro. This guide covers the best techniques for full, lifted, clump-free lashes, the common mistakes to avoid, and how lash serums can genuinely transform your natural lashes over time.
Before You Start: Prep Your Lashes
The best mascara application starts before you even open the tube. A few prep steps make a real difference:
- Curl first, always. An eyelash curler lifts the lash root and opens up the eye. Curl before mascara, never after (wet mascara on curlers = lash breakage).
- Wipe the wand. Too much product on the brush is the primary cause of clumping. Wipe one side of the wand on the inside of the tube neck before applying.
- Start on a clean eye. Remove any old mascara or eye makeup residue first. Old flakes can stick to fresh mascara and create that spider-leg look.
Step-by-Step Mascara Application
- Position the wand at the root. Place the brush at the base of your upper lashes, as close to the lash line as possible without touching the lid.
- Wiggle, then sweep. Wiggle the brush left and right at the root to build volume, then sweep upward in one smooth motion to the tips. This separates lashes and deposits colour evenly.
- Apply a second coat while still wet. Don't wait for the first coat to dry before adding a second — that's when clumping happens. Apply your second coat within 30 seconds of the first.
- Lower lashes: use the tip of the wand. Hold the brush vertically and use just the tip to coat lower lashes. This gives control and avoids smudging.
- Use a lash comb or clean spoolie. Run a clean spoolie through your lashes immediately after the final coat to separate any clumps.
Mascara Techniques for Specific Goals
- For length: Brush lashes upward and slightly outward. A thin, lengthening formula with a fine brush works best.
- For volume: Use a thicker, volumising formula with a dense brush. Apply in zigzag motions at the root.
- For a wide-eyed look: Focus extra coats on the outer corners and curl lashes before applying.
- For a natural look: One coat of a brown-black mascara, lightly applied, keeps things understated and everyday-appropriate.
Common Mascara Mistakes to Avoid
- Pumping the wand in and out of the tube (it pushes air in and dries mascara faster)
- Applying too many coats in one go (leads to flaking and heaviness)
- Using mascara past its 3-month mark (bacteria build-up, reduced performance)
- Rubbing eyes when removing — always use a gentle oil-based remover and press, don't rub
Want Better Results Long-Term? Use a Lash Serum
If you want your mascara to look better because your lashes are genuinely fuller and longer, a lash serum is your answer. Unlike mascara, lash serums work on the hair growth cycle itself — nourishing follicles, reducing breakage, and promoting healthier, longer lashes over time.
Olaplex Lashbond Building Serum
The Olaplex Lashbond Building Serum uses Olaplex's patented bond-building technology — the same science behind their beloved hair care range — applied to lashes. It works by repairing broken bonds within the lash structure, making lashes stronger, less prone to falling out, and visibly fuller over time. Apply nightly along the upper lash line as part of your evening routine.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Boosting Serum
For a more accessible everyday option, the Maybelline Lash Sensational Boosting Serum conditions and strengthens lashes with a lightweight formula. Use it as a primer before mascara to prep lashes and extend wear, or apply nightly on its own.
Build Your Lash Routine
| When | Step |
|---|---|
| Morning | Curl lashes → Apply lash serum as primer → Apply mascara with wiggle-and-sweep technique |
| Evening | Remove mascara gently → Apply Olaplex Lashbond Serum to bare lashes |
Consistent use of a lash serum alongside great mascara technique gives you noticeably better results within 4–8 weeks.
Shop Mascaras & Lash Serums
Find mascaras and lash serums at BeautyNmakeup.co.uk with fast UK delivery. Don't forget to check out our full Foundations & Concealers range to complete your look.