How to Apply Mascara Without Clumping

If you’re a fan of the no-makeup make up look, you’ll know that the key to pulling it off is making it look as natural as possible. One you’ve mastered the dewy skin, brushed brows and sunkissed blush, the last and perhaps most important step is figuring out how to stop mascara from clumping when you put it on. It’s not as easy as it seems!


There is a plethora of pitfalls that can leave you with thick, spidery lashes. And although the clumpy mascara look could be coming back in style, it’s certainly not for everyone. For those who prefer light and fluttery lashes, here are some of our mascara dos and don’ts for how to dodge the dreaded clumps.

 

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Why does mascara clump?

There are a few reasons you might not be getting the smooth, natural mascara look you deserve – and most have to do with application techniques. Luckily, there are some simple ways you can ace your mascara routine and say goodbye to clumpy lashes for good. First, here are a few reasons your mascara might be looking clumpy:


1. When putting on your mascara, you may be picking up too much product on the wand.


2. You could be giving too much attention to the tips of your lashes.


3. You may be getting carried away with layering and adding product.


4. The product that you are using may not be designed for your desired look.


5. The product could have passed its expiration date or isn’t being stored correctly.

 

So, how to avoid mascara clumping? Now that you know some of the reasons you may be dealing with spidery lashes, let’s walk through how to apply mascara like a pro.

 

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1. Pick a product that is right for you

Not all mascaras are created equal – some may be too bold for your tastes, providing too much volume or not enough curl. If you’re looking for that sweet spot of a lightweight feeling with a luscious look, our much-loved Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara is a good place to start. Its signature formula and specifically designed Exclusive Flex Tower brush bends to volumise and extend every lash from root to tip. Those who want maximum intensity, however, should go for the The Falsies Surreal Extensions Mascara – infused with fibres to thicken and lengthen in one swipe, you’ll get a salon lash look every time.


Speaking of wands: the two main types are bristle and plastic. Both have slightly different functions. A bristle wand will ensure full and even distribution of product on the lashes, while a plastic wand is made for ultimate lash separation. If you’re wondering how to stop eyelashes clumping together, you may want to opt for a product with a plastic wand, like The Falsies Lash Lift Volumising Mascara. Wondering how each mascara will look on you? Use our virtual try on tool to see which will best create the look you’re going for.

2. Use a spoolie for lash separation

Spoolies aren’t just god’s gift to eyebrows – they’re also perfect for eyelashes. Before applying mascara, take a clean spoolie and gently brush your lashes to separate them.

If you find that you’ve applied one coat of mascara too many, you can reach for that same spoolie to brush through your lashes again. This will help redistribute some of the product and separate any stubborn clumpy eyelashes.

3. Prime your lashes

Another top tip to prevent clumpy mascara: coat your eyelashes with a primer first. This will help smooth the lashes and ensure product is evenly distributed to minimise lashes sticking together.

 

You can swipe the Lash Sensational® Sky High Mascara Primer over bare lashes for a noticeable lengthening and thickening effect. This formula is also enriched with a blend of ceramide and vitamin B5 to nourish your eyelashes under mascara.

4. Invest in a lash serum

Adding a high-quality lash serum to your mascara routine can help you avoid clumpy eyelashes. The vitamin-infused Lash Sensational Lash Serum is designed to strengthen and condition lashes by giving them the nutrients they need to appear thicker and fuller. A serum also makes the lashes more flexible and less likely to stick together. Dash on a healthy coat from root to tip before topping with your no-clumping mascara.

5. Store your mascara correctly

To prevent your mascara from clumping in the tube, always screw the wand on tight to prevent air from seeping in the cracks. Make sure that you keep your mascara in a cool, dark place. Too much exposure to sun or heat may interfere with the product's composition, so the best practice is to keep your tubes tucked away in a drawer. 

6. Know when to retire your mascara

Even with the best storage and maintenance, all good things must come to an end. Although your mascara might have been rolling around in your makeup bag all year, the quality begins to deteriorate between three to six months after opening. After that, the product will naturally dry out. So, when the time comes, toss it out and treat yourself to something new for long and luscious lashes.

Maybelline’s best no-clump mascaras

Even with all your pre-care and masterful application, your mascara should be doing the heavy lifting to prevent a clumpy lash result. You can rely on three of Maybelline’s best no-clump mascaras to do the work for you.

 

Maybelline Colossal Bubble Mascara

 

With an inherently lash-inflating formula, the Maybelline Colossal Bubble Mascara is designed with a spiral-shaped inflator comb brush to separate and ‘bubble up’ each lash. This all-day formula is designed for layering to give you defined, voluminous lashes – so you won’t need to worry about how to put on mascara without clumping.

 

Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

If you’re looking for that sweet spot of a lightweight feeling with a luscious look, our much-loved Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara is a good place to start. Its signature formula and specifically designed Exclusive Flex Tower brush bends to volumise and extend every lash from root to tip.

 

The Falsies Surreal Extensions Mascara

Those who want maximum intensity, however, should go for the The Falsies Surreal Extensions Mascara – infused with fibres to thicken and lengthen in one swipe, you’ll get a salon lash look every time.

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