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What Are the Different Types of Mascara?

Christina Edwards
Christina Edwards

So many different types of mascara are on the market today, it may be hard to choose the right mascara. Curling mascaras are typically best for individuals with little to no natural curl in their lashes, while lengthening mascara is excellent for individuals with short lashes. Volumizing mascara can also make lashes appear thicker and fuller. Any one of these mascaras may also be waterproof, including the brightly colored mascaras, which are sometimes trendy.

Curling mascaras are types of mascara that can help enhance the natural curl of a person's eyelashes. These usually come with a curved mascara wand, or applicator, which helps produce the curl. The mascara formula is usually a little thicker than other types of mascara, and it helps hold the curl. Curling mascara can be used with or without a separate eyelash curler.

For individuals with short eyelashes, lengthening mascaras may be the right choice. These types of mascara contain very tiny synthetic fibers. When the mascara is applied, these fibers bind to the tips of the eyelashes, making them appear longer.

A woman applying mascara to her eyelashes with a straight brush.
A woman applying mascara to her eyelashes with a straight brush.

Full, thick eyelashes are often considered a sign of beauty in most cultures, but not every woman is blessed with thick lashes. Volumizing mascara, or thickening mascara, can help women with sparse lashes achieve the illusion of thick eyelashes. The ingredients in these types of mascara are usually somewhat thicker than the ingredients in other types, however, and this can cause the mascara to clump and flake at times.

Mascara comes in different varieties to suite a person's needs.
Mascara comes in different varieties to suite a person's needs.

Active individuals may want to consider waterproof mascaras. The ingredients used in these types of mascara are chosen because they can help repel water. Most waterproof mascara will typically stay on the lashes while a person is sweating, crying, and even swimming. Most of them do require a special makeup remover, however, which can be somewhat harsh.

Failing to wear waterproof mascara when it rains – or when sweating or crying – can cause the makeup to run and smudge.
Failing to wear waterproof mascara when it rains – or when sweating or crying – can cause the makeup to run and smudge.

Brown and black are typically the most common mascara colors. Generally speaking, dark-complexioned individuals can usually wear either brown or black mascara. Fair-skinned individuals, on the other hand, should usually save the black mascara for a dramatic look. Individuals with very blonde eyelashes may also want to consider a clear mascara.

Brightly colored mascara also seems to be popular from time to time. They are often used to create a wild and edgy look. Colors such as pink, purple, and green are available, but blue seems to be the most popular colored mascara. Many makeup artists claim that blue mascara makes the eyes seem brighter.

Discussion Comments

SteamLouis

The formula used for mascaras are mostly the same across the board. But there are many different types of mascara wands out there with different styles and shapes. I always have trouble selecting the right mascara wand. Right now, I have one that is made of plastic and looks like it has spikes. It separates lashes very well but doesn't make them fuller. I think I will go for a brush style next time.

discographer

@ysmina-- I'm not an expert on mascara, but as far as I know, some mascaras are oil based while others are water based. (There are even a few gel based ones now). Water based mascara is the easiest to remove but will smudge very easily. If you can find an oil based mascara that is not waterproof, that is your best bet for a mascara that doesn't run but is easy to remove with soap and water.

When you are wearing non-waterproof mascara though, you do need to make a conscious effort to keep it dry. It's bad news for people with allergies or who have to use eye drops. On those days, just avoid mascara or use a clear gel mascara that won't cause problems even if it does smudge.

ysmina

I always have issues with mascara. I like regular mascara (non-waterproof) but it does run and smudge after some time. Sometimes I get teary eyed from the cold air or wind. And I can feel the mascara starting to run.

Waterproof mascara resolves this issue but it's such a hassle to remove it at the end of the day. Even eye makeup remover has a difficult time and I have to wash my face several times to get everything out.

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    • A woman applying mascara to her eyelashes with a straight brush.
      By: haveseen
      A woman applying mascara to her eyelashes with a straight brush.
    • Mascara comes in different varieties to suite a person's needs.
      By: Africa Studio
      Mascara comes in different varieties to suite a person's needs.
    • Failing to wear waterproof mascara when it rains – or when sweating or crying – can cause the makeup to run and smudge.
      By: fotografiche.eu
      Failing to wear waterproof mascara when it rains – or when sweating or crying – can cause the makeup to run and smudge.