Eyelashes need daily care and conditioning

By Al Varela

 A reader writes: I can't seem to find a mascara that doesn't weigh my lashes down. I have short thin lashes and want to achieve a full, lush look and also want my lashes to curl. I usually curl my lashes then apply mascara and curl again. Then I comb them out and reapply another wand of mascara. I have tried many brands on the market and now I see colored mascara. Does a color help to make the lashes appear fuller? Is there a better way to apply mascara?

The method you use to apply your mascara seems tedious and time consuming. Your antiquated curlers and combs are not necessary with the quality of today's mascara and may be more damaging for thin, short lashes.

Beautiful lashes begin with daily care and conditioning. Mascara should always be removed at the end of the day using a gentle non-oily eye-makeup remover. Next, apply a conditioning base to the tips of your clean lashes. If mascara is left on too long, it will dry and crack, causing damage to you lashes. Kelemata is a fabulous eye care line that has an incredible eye-makeup remover, conditioning balm and a natural dye, cream mascara.

Since you have thin lashes you should choose a cream base mascara and avoid any waterproof mascara. Waterproof mascara is more difficult to remove and could cause too much harm to your lashes. Reserve your waterproof mascara for occasions when emotions may well up.

Always look for a thin brush in a mascara. A thinner brush helps to prevent the excess mascara from accumulating on the lashes. There is also no need for the wasteful practice of wiping the brush prior to application when using a thin brush.

Apply one coat of mascara on the top and bottom of the lashes. Allow the mascara to dry before applying a second layer to promote a fuller look. If you insist on using a curler, start at the base of the lash and walk the curler outward towards the tip. Avoid curling the center of the lash to prevent an unnatural, angular crease.

The use of colored mascara can be an excellent way to create the illusion of a fuller eyelash. Be sure to start with a black mascara. Allow it to dry and then apply the colored mascara from the middle of the lash to the tip. Remember that the colors may change as they dry on the lash, so a little experimentation may be in order.

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