The most common mistakes when applying mascara (and how to avoid them)

Mascara can be the perfect final touch – but also the biggest trap. There’s nothing worse than neatly applied make-up that turns into smudges under the eyes or clumps on the cheeks after half an hour. Though it looks simple, applying mascara has its own rules – and small mistakes can completely change the effect.

The most common mistake is applying too much product at once. When the wand comes out overloaded, lashes stick together and lose their shape. The solution is simple: remove the excess and work in thin layers, gradually building volume and length. Another common mistake is applying mascara only from the tips. Start from the roots and pull the wand upwards – this way you get a base and natural volume.

And finally – never apply mascara on wet or unclean lashes. Traces of eyeshadow or oils will only speed up smudging. Always clean your lashes first, and if you’re using a curler, do it before the first coat. The result is neatly separated and lifted lashes, free of clumps and smudges – exactly what you expect from mascara.