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Mascara is a simple step that instantly brightens your eyes.

Mascara is the one makeup item that women can’t live without; no matter how rushed you are, you can always find time to apply some. It is a simple step that opens up the eyes and makes you look more awake and done up. There are so many mascaras out there and tons of tips and tricks to help you achieve certain looks and to make sure your eyelashes stay healthy.

For those who like to keep it simple and just want to define the lashes, L’Oréal’s Telescopic and Lancôme’s Definicils are excellent mascaras that separate and lengthen the lashes without any clumping. If you want something a bit more voluminous, Dior Show (large brush), Benefit’s They’re Real! (small brush) and Lancôme’s Hypnôse Grandiôse (swan neck brush) are excellent mascaras to amp up your lash’s volume.

When you apply the mascara, instead of blinking it on, hold the wand at the base of the lashes and slowly wiggle it upwards. This will make sure the entire lash is coated. If you want a bit more length, use the tip of the wand on the tip of the lashes. For more volume, repeat the application process two to three times.

If you want big eyelashes but don’t want to apply false lashes, apply a mascara base first as it will really intensify your lash’s volume and length. Mascara bases are also great ways to nourish and protect your lashes. Brands such as Shiseido, Lancôme, Dior and Gosh all make excellent bases that don’t clump.

For those who don’t mind putting a bit of extra work into the look of your eyelashes and love volume, false lashes are an amazing addition. Chose your favourite style from brands such as Quo, Ardell and MAC and make sure you use a good quality adhesive. I recommend Duo for the best hold. Apply a small layer of adhesive to the false lash and wait it to become tacky. Then position the center of the false lash to the base of your lash line and press on gently. Once the lashes are dry, apply one to two coats of mascara to create a blended look.

To complete any mascara look, tight line your upper lash line with a black, waterproof eyeliner. This will help achieve a seamless look with false lashes and will also make your eyelashes appear much fuller.

At the end of the day, mascara can be a tricky thing to remove especially if you are using something waterproof, but you want to make sure you never vigorously rub your lashes as this will make them brittle and could cause them to fall out.

Soak a cotton pad and cotton swab with makeup remover. Fold the cotton pad and place it underneath your lashes, then gently swipe the cotton swab downwards onto the cotton pad. This will remove the bulk of the mascara and then you can use the other side of the cotton pad to remove the rest. Use this removal process and your lashes will love you.