Written by Lesley Holland Downey
Chances are your first makeup items included mascara. The transformation that this one step gives your eyes is pretty amazing. There are lots of opinions out there about which one is “best,” but the answer is, it depends on what you want, your individual eye shape, your skin type, and how your eyes are set. It’s a little like finding the perfect match on a dating app. There’s the brush itself to consider; do you like a massive brush or a dainty one? Curved or hourglass-shaped with bristles or straight across with a silicone shaped wand? Then there’s the formula and how it goes on. Is it smooth and “layer-able”? Or is it a more dramatic thick coating that gives extra oomph right away? Is it easy to remove? Or will the staying power be worth the effort in getting it off? Here are some mascaras that are worth a look this spring.
All Around Great Mascaras
These three are highly rated and are like the little black dresses of mascaras.
Tubing
Trish McEvoy makes two great mascaras that use polymers to encase each lash in a water-resistant tube—removal is easy but a little surprising as the whole case comes off with warm water, leaving little lash-like remnants behind.
Waterproof
On the rare occasion you really need a waterproof mascara, DiorShow is buildable and smooth—just remember to use an oil-based eye makeup remover to take it off.
Multitasking
Chantecaille Faux Cils Longest Lash has built-in growth peptides in every swipe so no need for an extra lash conditioning serum. A splurge item for sure, but worth it if you use mascara religiously.
For Short or Sparse Lashes
Ready to grow your own enviable lashes? Try a lash conditioner like RevitaLash then follow up with RevitaLash Double-Ended Volume Set which includes volumizing mascara and primer.
Best “Green”
Some of you may be wondering what’s in the products you use daily, and these formulas promise to deliver real results without yucky ingredients.
ILIA Limitless Lash has a 99% naturally derived, vegan, cruelty-free, and lightweight formula. This mascara enables you to customize your look with a synthetic brush with multiple lengths of bristles.
Westman Atelier Eye Love You has a big fluffy brush that deposits layers of non-toxic, plant-based waxes and pigments with 99% natural ingredients.
Best to Fake Lash Extensions
Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions delivers amazing length, plus sales go to support women-centric philanthropic organizations. Good lashes doing great things!
Best Steals
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High
Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect
Essence Lash Princess Sculpted Volume
Best Accessories
Shu Uemura Iconic Lash Curler or Surratt Beauty Relevée Lash Curler
Jane Iredale Deluxe Spoolie Brush or Lash Star Lash Styler
Leave a Reply