Do you often get disappointing results when you apply mascara? We've listed 5 common mascara mistakes — and how to fix them!
1. Your lashes aren't clean
If you haven't fully removed yesterday's mascara or cleansed your eye area properly, any new mascara you apply won't adhere as well — and your lashes will end up poorly separated.
To prep your lashes properly, use a make-up remover that tackles even the most stubborn mascaras while caring for and soothing the delicate eye area. A good option is Caring Eyes Waterproof Make-Up Remover, which is designed to be gentle around the eyes.
2. It won't stay in place
Is there anything more frustrating than mascara that smudges or flakes before the day is over? Sometimes the product itself is the issue. To keep your mascara in place all day, you can prime your lashes with a mascara primer — or simply switch to a formula that holds better.
If you're ready for a new mascara, look for one that nourishes and hydrates your lashes as it colours them. Xlash Mascara is a water-resistant mascara that delivers jet-black, full-looking lashes — ideal if you need something that genuinely stays put.
3. Don't forget the expiry date
Keep an eye on your mascara's expiry date. Beyond that, the general recommendation is to replace mascara after three months — the formula starts to break down, bacteria can build up, and the texture may begin to clump.
4. Your lashes are clumping together like spider legs
This usually happens when you go in with an extra coat before the previous one is dry, causing lashes to stick together and fan out in all the wrong ways — a look most of us would rather avoid. If it does happen, take an eyebrow brush and gently comb through your lashes once they've dried to separate each one.
5. Your mascara is drying out your lashes
Wearing lots of layers of mascara every day — or, big no-no, sleeping in it — can leave your lashes drier and more fragile over time. Lashes need a chance to breathe and shouldn't be put under unnecessary strain.
If you're not comfortable going bare-faced, try a nourishing mascara or support your lashes with an eyelash serum. Xlash Eyelash Serum is formulated with caring ingredients that add moisture and nourishment to your lashes for a longer, fuller look – use it for at least 28 days for visible results. By boosting your lashes with a serum, you also reduce the risk of mascara drying them out further.
If you'd like a mascara that adds colour and looks after your lashes at the same time, Lash Booster Mascara is worth a look. It's a serum-infused tubing mascara with ingredients such as panthenol, biotin, hyaluronic acid and blueberry seed oil, which moisturise and keep lashes soft and flexible. The tubing formula won't smudge or flake, and in the evening it comes off with lukewarm water, no rubbing needed. That means less wear and tear on your lashes. A simple routine is Xlash Eyelash Serum on clean lashes at night and Lash Booster during the day.
