10 Best Mascaras & Tips on How to Apply Them, According to Experts

“Finding a good eyelash curler is a step not to be overlooked, as this is the base prep for your mascara," says Emmy award-winning hair and makeup artist Nirvana Jalalvand. Though she personally recommends the Dior Backstage eyelash curler, she stresses that “everyone’s eye shape is different [and so is each curler], so finding one that fits the shape of your own eye is key!”

Once you’ve secured the proper curler, celebrity makeup artist Janice Daoud, who works with the likes of Miley Cyrus and Isabela Merced, says that prepping the lashes means curling the lashes first. “Use a lash curler and hold for about 5–10 seconds for maximum curl.”

Other prep can include separating the lashes before mascara application. Celebrity makeup artist Denika Bedrossian takes a “clean spoolie” to her lashes to separate them and “avoid any lashes sticking together.”

Last but not least, as part of the prep process, Jalalvand suggests using a primer serum, like the Diorshow Maximizer 4D, before applying your regular mascara in order to achieve more definition and lengthening.

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Lash essentials vary but can include pre-mascara primers, certain applicator wands, different types of mascara products, or even lash dry shampoo. “Mascara applicators are so personal,” explains Bedrossian. For example, she prefers a smaller, thinner brush to avoid clumping and explains that “fluffy applicators give a lot of volume but may not separate lashes as much.”

She also advises opting for a tubing mascara if you’ve experienced runny mascara. “Tubing mascaras not only stay on well but also lengthen and separate so beautifully." If you are still unsure which mascara is right for you, Maybelline has a mascara quiz that is a helpful starting point.

Finally, who says that dry shampoo is only for hair? If you want to refresh flaking mascara after a day, Jalalvand suggests purchasing the MAC Lash Dry Shampoo Mascara Refresher because it softens existing mascara without dragging your eyelashes.

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Everyone’s technique will be different, but taking the time to tweak your technique can help you lift your lash game. First things first, do your wand wonders and only use a little product at a time. Chanel US makeup artist Tyron Machhausen says, “To avoid clumping, it’s important not to have too much product on the brush when applying it to the lashes. If the brush appears to be too heavily coated, gently blot the mascara wand with a tissue.”

Started from the bottom (lashes), now we’re here. Jalalvand says that “if you have longer eyelashes you should always do the bottom ones first. Doing that will stop an annoying mascara transfer to your upper lid.”

In terms of the application, the consensus is to apply from the root to the tip and to do so with a wiggle. Lancôme's global international artist Sheika Daley says, “A great trick is to wiggle the wand at the base of the lashes before pulling it through. This gives maximum volume and lift!” Similarly, Machhausen suggests starting the bash at the lash base and moving upwards “with a wiggling motion in order to coat the lashes evenly.”

When it comes to mascara, layering is key. Daoud suggests applying multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat to avoid clumping. “Let each layer dry for a few seconds before applying the next. This will build the perfect length and fullness to your lashes,” she adds.

If you are looking to achieve a “lifted, feline-eye look,” Rodial founder Maria Hatzistefanis told Teen Vogue her secret. “I focus only on the outer corners of my lashes and skip the lower ones—this keeps the eyes looking lifted and fresh. The Rodial XXL Mascara Waterproof is my go-to for this trick—the built-in lifting brush makes it effortless!”

If you want to fan out your lashes (which Daoud says is trending), she suggests using “a clean spoolie brush or lash comb to comb through lashes after applying mascara to separate and define the corners.” Fanned and fabulous!

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