Lash Out

It's true what they say ladies, eyes are the windows to the soul. And let's be honest, they’re usually the first thing a guy notices. Your eyes could have the most beautiful color or a twinkle to stop traffic, but no one will notice if you don't frame them the right way. They key, dolls, is mascara, and knowing just how to apply it!

Mascaras come in many different formulas, such as lengthening, thickening, curling, and waterproof. When trying to decide which one is best for you, look in the mirror with a discerning eye and determine what formulas fit you and your needs. Could your lashes use a little more length? Do you often sweat, cry, or get caught in the rain? And don't be afraid to experiment, as you can also double up and use two formulas if you have more than one area of lash improvement, just apply one on top of the other.

My favorite department store products include any mascara from Lancome (the leaders in the industry) and Dior's new Diorshow: New Look. My favorite drugstore finds are Maybelline Lash Stilleto and Covergirl LashBlast. 

Putting on mascara should have the same effect as slipping on a pair of heels—an instant feeling of power and sexiness take over when applied. The key, however, is to do it correctly so that you look fabulous, not clumped up and spidery. (We all know those lashes from a mile away—yikes!—but we’ll talk more about them in a later post titled Vampy vs. Trampy.)

ACP's tips to lashing out—the right way:

1. Take your mascara wand and start at the very base of the lash line—applying the makeup close to the lash line will help give the illusion of thickness.

2. Start to wiggle or zig-zag at the base and work towards the tip. As you reach the outer part of the lash, stop wiggling and just sweep up to avoid applying too much mascara to the tips.

3. Turn the mascara sideways and give one quick sweep across the lower lash line with the product that is left on the brush from the initial application. But Andrew, mascara on my lower lashes? Absolutely! You wouldn’t want a masterpiece that isn't complete, now would you? I didn’t think so.

Now that we’ve gone over the basics of applying, here are a few more tips to help you get those lashes looking like perfection. 

- If mascara really clumps on you and/or you want a more natural look, blot the wand with a tissue before applying.

- Don't pump the wand back and forth in the tube before applying, this will let in air and bacteria and will dry the mascara out faster.

- Wait a few seconds before blinking to avoid those embarrassing smudges.

- Black-hued mascara is always the best choice because it looks great on everyone. Blues can be fun to as they brighten the whites of the eyes, but I usually apply the blue shade over the black and just swipe it on the tips. Stay away from brown mascara—the red in it can make the eyes look tired.

And there you go my little makeup mavens! Now all I need is for you to promise me one thing: PLEASE, PLEASE discard your mascara after two months—three at the most. After that point they are bad. Bad, bad bad! Toss it and get yourself a new one! Trust me on this one.

Now go blast those lashes, bat those eyes, and remember: sexy not spidery!

Until next time my loves,

xoxo

Andrew