Explainer | Mascara: everything you need to know about the eye make-up essential, from brush type to application and removal
- Mascara is an essential part of your make-up, but do you know how to use it properly and safely?
- Read on to find how to build volume, protect against breakage, and how long to keep your mascara
Ask anyone who’s into make-up and they’ll tell you mascara is an essential, but did you know it started out as a tool to repel malicious spirits and people with bad intentions?
In Ancient Rome, curved, lengthy, dense eyelashes were coveted and believed to keep bad spirits away from your eyes, which were thought to be the windows to your soul. Women often mixed kohl and burnt cork to make their lashes appear darker.
It wasn’t until the 19th century that French chemist and perfumer Eugène Rimmel developed the first commercial non-toxic mascara, which was mainly formulated with coal dust and petroleum jelly.
Today, mascara is a beauty staple and the most profitable eye make-up, followed by eyeliner, eye shadow and eyebrow make-up.
There are so many options, from formulation to colour intensity, to brush functionality, to curling and defining power, so if you’re still doubtful about which one is best for you, here are some tips.
Match your brush to your lash
Did you know there’s a particular type of brush for every type of lash? For example, if your lashes are curly and thick you’re better off with an oversized, more viscous wand that’s able to hold your lashes and cover every strand. Long, thin brushes with delicate bristles are ideal for short, curly or very fine lashes, as they make it easier for mascara to be applied down to the roots, and pull lashes up for extra length and definition.
Hourglass-shaped brushes are best for scattered lashes, as the combination of thick, thin, short and long bristles will help volumise, while building density at the root, which will provide definition and length.
If you want a brush that delivers lots of product in little time, a plastic bristle brush is the one for you, but if you’re looking for attention to detail and easy access to difficult zones, a pointed tip brush may be a better option.
Curl your lashes before, not after
There’s always been a big debate about when to curl your lashes, but most experts agree it should be before you put mascara on.