MASCARA WORKSHOP: THE FORMULA
It’s day 2 of my Mascara Workshop and there are two posts coming your way today! First up, let’s talk about mascara formulas. It’s something that often gets ignored and flashy wands are shoved in our faces instead, but there’s a reason for this… Mascara formulas haven’t actually evolved that much since they were first created.
The most recent development has been ‘tubing mascaras’, such as the DJV Beautenizer Fiberwig mascara. The oils and waxes used in most mascaras were replaced with flexible polymer so the mascara applies a lot more ‘wet’ than usual. The idea is that when it dries it wraps around each lash giving full coverage to the entire lash. It’s an exciting new development and from the tubing mascaras I’ve tried so far, I like it!
Aside from this there are a few different well-known formulas to pick from (and of course different colours too!).
Standard or waterproof //
Waterproof mascaras have a reputation for being worn at weddings or any other events where crying takes place, but they do so much more than that. Waterproof mascaras are a great option for those with oily skin and oily eyelids as the mascara is less likely to run throughout the day. If you have straight lashes and need to curl them, then the waterproof formula will hold a curl for a lot longer than a standard mascara. The only downside is removing them is a lot harder, so if like me you don’t have oily lids or straight lashes then I’d stick to the standard formula!
Lash fibres //
Something like the Japonesque Fast Lash Thickening Fibres was created to coat your lashes in synthetic fibres before applying your usual mascara. The idea is that it gives the mascara something to grip to and you’re left with a more voluminous lash look. the fibres are usually white so it feels and looks weird when you first apply it but after layering on your mascara you wouldn’t know they were there. They’re a great alternative for those who can’t apply false lashes, but be careful especially if you’re a contact lens wearer as the fibres can get messy!
Lash Primer //
Lash primers are an extra step you can take if you’re really dedicated to your lashes. Some, like this Dior one have two purposes, to coat the lashes with serum and prime them at the same time. The serum helps them to grow thicker and the primer helps create a curled, voluminous base before applying your mascara. I haven’t yet found a lash primer that’s wowed me, but a bit like the fibres if you have short lashes an extra helping layer can’t hurt!
Check back later today for some tips on application!
The most recent development has been ‘tubing mascaras’, such as the DJV Beautenizer Fiberwig mascara. The oils and waxes used in most mascaras were replaced with flexible polymer so the mascara applies a lot more ‘wet’ than usual. The idea is that when it dries it wraps around each lash giving full coverage to the entire lash. It’s an exciting new development and from the tubing mascaras I’ve tried so far, I like it!
Aside from this there are a few different well-known formulas to pick from (and of course different colours too!).
Standard or waterproof //
Waterproof mascaras have a reputation for being worn at weddings or any other events where crying takes place, but they do so much more than that. Waterproof mascaras are a great option for those with oily skin and oily eyelids as the mascara is less likely to run throughout the day. If you have straight lashes and need to curl them, then the waterproof formula will hold a curl for a lot longer than a standard mascara. The only downside is removing them is a lot harder, so if like me you don’t have oily lids or straight lashes then I’d stick to the standard formula!
Lash fibres //
Something like the Japonesque Fast Lash Thickening Fibres was created to coat your lashes in synthetic fibres before applying your usual mascara. The idea is that it gives the mascara something to grip to and you’re left with a more voluminous lash look. the fibres are usually white so it feels and looks weird when you first apply it but after layering on your mascara you wouldn’t know they were there. They’re a great alternative for those who can’t apply false lashes, but be careful especially if you’re a contact lens wearer as the fibres can get messy!
Lash Primer //
Lash primers are an extra step you can take if you’re really dedicated to your lashes. Some, like this Dior one have two purposes, to coat the lashes with serum and prime them at the same time. The serum helps them to grow thicker and the primer helps create a curled, voluminous base before applying your mascara. I haven’t yet found a lash primer that’s wowed me, but a bit like the fibres if you have short lashes an extra helping layer can’t hurt!
Check back later today for some tips on application!
