The most important element of your eye makeup is mascara. I’ve mentioned in a previous column that mascara is one of the most crucial steps in your basic daily makeup wear. Mascara, even without any eye shadow, creates definition.
Choosing the right formula is half the battle and there are several formulas that mascara can come in. They are:
Waterproof – as the word suggests, this will not smear or smudge from water or tears.
Thickening – contains waxes and silicone polymers, which thicken each lash from root to tip.
Lengthening – this formula contains plastic polymers that adhere to the tip of the lashes, creating length.
Defining – mascara that coats each lash, keeping them separate and defined; this will not contain polymers, and is great for an everyday, more natural look.
A mascara wand that serves your purpose is also very important. Most mascara come with the appropriate applicator. I’ll list a few kinds of wands and how they help apply the mascara:
A wand with long, fat, full, thick bristles will help thicken and lengthen your lashes, because each lash gets individually coated.
A wand in which the bristles are in the shape of a football (thin in front, thick in middle, and then thin again at the end) helps to define, thicken and lengthen lashes. Using the tip on the wand and applying mascara vertically will help define each lash.
A wand that is widely spaced is great to use to define and separate your lashes.
The waterproof formula that I mostly use on a bride and bridal party is Splash-proof Lash by MAC.
I’ve also recently received Film Noir by Hourglass, as a sample. The purpose of this formula was to give you a full spectrum. It defines and lengthens lashes, and is smudge-proof. (I am not 100% certain it is waterproof). In my opinion, the wand picks up too much product, causing the lashes to clump. I suggest wiping off excess mascara on the tip of the tube (this is a good idea in general, but with this wand especially), then apply a thin, even coat. You may then apply a second coat once the first layer dries.
My favorite mascara for everyday use is Great Lash in “Blackest Black” by Maybelline. This usually costs about $5 at most drug stores. It is perfect for everyday use, defining and adding color to lashes. In addition, the wand picks up a perfect amount of product.
Sharona Silva is a makeup artist, specializing in airbrush makeup, who works in the New York City area. Sharona recently launched her own skin care line for all types of skin. Please submit questions to [email protected]. Questions may be used in future columns; all inquiries will remain anonymous. Visit www.sharonasilva.com for more information.
