WHEN it comes to makeup essentials, mascara comes first on our list. Curling lashes and applying a few coats of mascara may sound simple, but it makes a big difference. Lashes not only define the eyes. They make us look more awake and with an extra fringe, can appear very sexy.

Eyelash curlers

Using an eyelash curler is easy. Make sure your lashes are clean. Position the pressing plate of the curler to your lashes and hold it down for five to 10 seconds. According to many makeup artists, the curler should not be used after mascara has been applied, as the lashes might break off or get stuck to the rubber or silicone pads.

For women with short, hard-to-reach lashes, a small, plastic curler may work better. This allows you to see your lashes better and allows you to safely get close to the base. A heated curler does its job well, but just to be safe, always test the applicator if it is warm. It should never be hot enough to burn your finger, as it will surely burn your lashes.

Mascara used to be limited to one formula. Nowadays, we have different kinds depending on how we want our lashes to look.

Lengthening mascara is made of a thinner formula that extends the lashes, but offers a more natural look. A few coats may be necessary to get an impact.

Thickening mascara coats every strand to make the lashes appear denser. Although it is effective, it is also prone to clumping. To avoid this, have a lash comb ready as you apply the mascara. Running the comb through your lashes while the mascara is wet will allow you to separate the hairs with ease.

Waterproof mascara is best used for special occasions and very hot or rainy weather. However, this may be difficult to remove, so find a makeup remover that completely takes it off.

Colored mascara is fun to wear and makes you look young or trendy. Adding a few coats of plum mascara brightens the eyes and works well if you have tired or red eyes.

Vibrating mascara comes with a battery-operated wand that vibrates as you apply the mascara. The motion instantly separates lashes, preventing clumping and depositing more mascara onto each lash.

False eyelashes

False eyelashes add drama and sexiness to one’s look. They are available in a full band of lashes and in individual sections. Most makeup artists use tweezers to set the falsies in place. They prefer dark adhesive as it blends into the lash line. Application requires patience and practice, but it gets easier as you keep doing it. If you don’t feel confident applying it yourself, have a professional do it for you.

Lash extensions are made from synthetic fibers and applied to individual lashes. They add length and thickness to lashes and are semi-permanent. Extensions last for 60-90 days.

The newest trend in the beauty industry is the lash enhancer. This formula claims to lengthen lashes and promote lash growth. By means of chemicals that help treat glycoma, lashes grow considerably long. This is the drug’s side effect, which was then studied for its cosmetic possibilities. Safety concerns were an issue in the past years, but the lash enhancer has recently been approved by the FDA in the US.