Zooey Deschanel and her fabulous peepers. Photo: Getty
Ever since eyelash extensions arrived on the scene, it seems cosmetic companies have had to step up their game, tweaking their formulas and brush designs in a bid to create the same mile-long-looking lashes out of a tube. Here are three of the latest lash-loving formulas to hit the market.
1. Max Factor 24 False Lash Effect Mascara, $24.95, 1800 181 040.
The rundown: It’s the latest addition to the False Lash Effect Mascara family that promises smudge and waterproof volume for up to 24 hours. It’s also formulated with a built-in primer that’s designed to make the product glide on that much more effectively.
The verdict: The waterproof formula makes it perfect for using all year round, but it’s the over-sized wand that’s the real hook. It somehow has a knack for making you feel more in control, especially when it comes to tackling those tricky to reach lashes on the inner corner of the eye.
2. Maybelline New York Falsies Flared Mascara, $19.95, from supermarkets and pharmacies.
The rundown: It’s enriched with pro-keratin fibres to help strengthen lashes but the arched brush is where the real magic is at. Designed to work on short and long lashes, the curve of the bristles allows the brush to get right in at the roots to create shape and lift.
The verdict: It's a triple threat, it’s got volume, length and definition in the bag. Once you’re done coating the baby lashes, use the long bristle side of the brush to feather the outer corners for a powerful winged-look – minus the hassle of false lashes.
3. Estee Lauder Two Tone Eye-Opening Mascara in Bold Black/Rich Brown, $58, esteelauder.com.au.
The rundown: It’s a dual-ended wand that contains two lash-specific brushes and shades of mascara – brown for the bottom and black for the top, to create volume and definition of perfect proportions. The mascara also boasts BoldVolume™ technology, that’s said to contain thickening fibres to fill gaps.
The verdict: Nowhere near as intimidating or complicated as it sounds, the tiny brush and brown-toned mascara work like a dream to create just the right amount of definition on the bottom, without exaggerating dark circles or smudging. Added bonus: the micro-brush also moonlights as a convenient brow tamer.
Some extra makeup artist-approved tips to help make the most of your magic wand.
1. Unless it’s waterproof, avoid wearing mascara on the bottom lashes. The bottom lashes sit too close to the skin and the combination of moisture and oil from the eye area tends to cause the product to smudge before breakfast is out.
2. Can’t get enough volume? After years of creating spidery-lashes, chubby lashes are on the way back. To beef-up your lashes, try dusting a translucent powder across the eyelids with a soft, fluffy eye shadow brush before coating with mascara. The powder not only gives the lashes something extra to adhere to, but it also helps to set eye shadow and liner.
3. A change of wand is as good as a holiday.
Most mascaras have a use-by date of around six months before they start to turn clumpy and dry. If you’re trying to save coin, it’s best to stick with a supermarket buy that you can afford to update regularly and keep your reserves for more important buys, like primer and foundation.
