Mascara + Lashes
January Beauty Favorites
I’ve tried a few new lash/mascara products lately and thought I would dive a little deeper into some of them today. I usually turn to Instagram stories for a quick review or impression of a product, but for those that don’t follow along over there I wanted to provide some helpful thoughts here as well!
For the past several months I’ve been getting regular lash lifts. A lash lift is not the same as lash extensions – it’s just a perm for your lashes. You can read all about my first experience here. It helps them stay curled and makes a very big impact for those of us with straight, limp lashes! It’s really shaved so much time off of my makeup application in the mornings, so it’s worth doing regularly!
For the first time, I experienced a bit of lash loss last month that I truly believe was unrelated to the lash lift. It was weeks after the last lift I had, and there were a few other factors contributing to the loss. So I canceled my most recent lash lift appointment in order to give my lashes a little break.
In the meantime, I started experimenting with false lashes until my lashes grew back in, mostly only on days that I was shooting. Despite being a makeup lover, false lashes are something I almost never deal with.
I also tried a new mascara by Benefit that really impressed me!
So enough backstory, let’s get into the products!
I tried One Two Lash magnetic lashes and was really disappointed in them. The concept is genius, but the execution of the actual lashes fell short. I found them to be very difficult to work with, and that was mostly because the band of the lashes was so straight. Even if I could get the magnet close to the base of my lashes, the straight band stuck out on both ends making the lashes look really strange. After roughly 20 attempts to make them work, I put them back in the mail to return them.
My favorite false lashes have been by Eyelure, which is a brand I found at Ulta. The Naturals multi-pack gives you a very natural look. I also really liked these lashes that offered a bit more thickness than the former lashes.
The best glue I’ve ever used for false lashes is this version of DUO glue.
While false lashes won’t be a daily option for me, I have learned a few tricks since I’ve been applying them more frequently, so a tutorial on how to apply them will be coming very soon to the blog!
For a long time, my regular routine of mascara has been Benefit Roller Lash + Cherry Bloom lash fibers + Bobbi Brown Eye Opening mascara to finish. I realize that sounds rather fussy, but if you had lashes like me, you’d understand! While those are still some of my favorite products, I thought I’d share a few other recent mascara “tries” in case you are looking to try something new as well.
I gave Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara a go after seeing Andrea rave about it in a few of her videos. While it gives a cleaner finish to the lash than Bobbi Brown Eye Opening mascara, I found I was wanting a bit more thickness with the product. I think Better Than Sex would be a GREAT mascara option for those of you that already have thick or long lashes.
I also tried Benefit’s new mascara Bad Gal Bang thanks to all the hype about it online. I don’t think a mascara launch will ever be quite like They’re Real (also by Benefit), but since the brand is known for making game-changing mascara, any launch by them is sure to create some buzz.
I found the formula to be very lightweight, which works great for me, and by 2 coats I was really pleased with the impact. I could see how it could be clumpy if you let the coats dry between applications, so I would suggest moving relatively quickly as you apply. You don’t need to move as quickly as you do with Benefit’s They’re Real, which I did not like, but I just wouldn’t let a few minutes pass between coats.
I didn’t notice a profound amount of length, which is something I’m looking for in a mascara, but the definition and volume was so noticeable that I sort of forgot about the lack of length after awhile. I have not tried it with Cherry Blooms lash fibers yet, but I imagine that will help contribute some length!
I’m anxiously awaiting my next lash lift to get a bit more curl into my lashes, and my appointment is right around the corner!
A few preemptive Q & A’s:
- Have you tried Rodan and Fields Lash Boost? Yes, but I had a bad experience with it. I experienced dramatic lash loss on one eye and thinning on both eyes. I have plenty of friends that rave about it, in fact my own mom has had a great experience with it, but it did not work for me.
- Have you tried Latisse? Yes I have. It made my eyes a bit dry but I saw pretty quick results from it. I may try it again one day and just space out my application of the product to spare my eyes from being dry again.
- Have you gotten lash extensions? I’m not sure I ever will. While they can look really great, I’m worried that my already weak and thin lashes won’t be able to handle the additional weight that lash extensions can add.
More questions? Simply leave them in the comments below! I’ll do my best to pop back in during the week and answer!
comments
I always swear by Benefit’s products, especially their brow stuff! I don’t always use mascara but I think I’ve got to give the products you mentioned a go. They sound good! 😀
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
I love their brow products too!
When you say you use more than one mascara, do you do a full base-to-tips mascara application of each type? Or simply use the others to lock in the fibers/add just to the tips?
Yep, usually!
I’m blessed with long thick lashes, so I’m able to wear pretty much any mascara , but prefer certain brands just because of application time, clumping and fullness. Like you, I experience intermittent eyelash loss which I attribute to natural shedding. I find there are usually little lashes already growing in and the shedding is barely noticeable to others while annoying to me!
Have you tried Thrive Causemetics? Thinking of trying the mascara.
I was going to ask the same thing. I just ordered their Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara! I hadn’t heard of the company until last week. I ordered the mascara (which has awesome reviews) last Friday and it should be here tomorrow.
I JUST tried this brand for the first time about a week ago. LOVE this mascara. It has an almost silicone coating when it’s dried, so the end result is almost no smearing. Pretty good lengthening and thickening, too.
I’ve used Latisse for at least a 1 1/2 years, and saw good improvement, but nothing ‘dramatic’, but yes a difference. It did take a while. My eyes were slightly drier, nothing a little eye drop couldn’t solve in the morning. I do LOVE my lash extensions and have had them for about 6 months. They save so much time, and I use so much less eye make up – of course, no mascara and no need to curl them. I no longer have the need for eyeliner.
Beware, I had extensions for almost 2 years- it destroys your lashes. I went to someone really good and paid a lot of money weekly. I had long lashes, but did it for convenience. Now they’re so short. I will never put extensions on again.
So, probably a strange question, but my hair has always been SUPER stubborn! Like, perm gone in 2 weeks kind of stubborn. Do you think a lash lift would hold in my lashes? They are fairly long, but blonde and stick straight!
Have you tried RapidLash? It has been working for me..
I’m so excited to try the new Benefit mascara! And you’re review makes me even more excited! I just ran out of Roller lash so the timing of the launch is perfect! xAllie http://www.theallthatglittersblog.com
I have stick straight and super thick eye lashes, no eye lash curler can tame them for long (even heated). I’m going to try that lash lift. I had heard of it before and it scared me, chemicals so close to my eyes, but it seems to be pretty popular. Thanks!
http://www.holycitylife.com
Have you tried the It Cosmetics Superhero mascara? We have the same lash issues (need volume and length). I love the roller lash too, but the superhero takes the cake! I’ve purchased it twice.
I recently tried a lash lift because of your rave review, and I think I’m hooked! I also just started using Isehan Kiss Me Heroine Make Long & Curl mascara (from Japan – I buy on Amazon) and I really like it. Holds curl like no other mascara I’ve tried and is SUPER waterproof. Their remover is incredible, but micellar water also works.
Thanks for all the great information you provide! Do you have any recommendations for tube style mascara? I have major flaking issues with non-tube versions. However, I have not yet found a tube mascara that does a great job with both volume and length.
I was thoroughly impressed with It’s So Big from Elizabeth Mott…. you can buy it on Amazon.
Just chiming in about tube mascara … the Kevyn Aucoin Volumizing Mascara has been a game-changer for me. I’ve always had trouble with mascara and other eye products smudging, and this is the only thing that performs well for me. I use it with Stila liquid liner, Urban Decay eye shadow and Givenchy clear brow gel. Very fast, easy and effective. You’re definitely not going to have super-thick, long lashes with this formula, but it creates a lovely, polished look that stays all day.
Have you tried any purple shampoos? I get highlights that tend to become brassy after a week or so.
the best product I’ve found to reduce/eliminate brassiness is Brass Off Color Obsessed Mask!!!
Hi Kate, my name is Elaine and believe it or not, I’m 61 and enjoy following you. 😉 My question is about a waterproof mascara for pool and vacations. Do you have a favorite? Thanks, be blessed
Please please please try Lancome Grandiose mascara. It has a unique brush, called a swan neck, that allows you to go on top of your lashes in addition to the conventional direction. The formula also lets you apply multiple coats without getting clumpy. I was a hardcore Lancome Hypnose user for a long time but tried this on a whim 3 years ago and have never looked back =) xoxoxo
Thank you Lily!
I’ve been wondering which one to buy, and you’ve convinced me to try this one.
http://a-woman-of-a-certain-age.com/
Have you tried Epic Mascara by Younique? I’m a mascara snob & I LOVE it.
No I haven’t!
Agree! I swapped back to a maybeline old faithful and it was TERRIBLE (flaked off working hours) so I went back to Epic! I HATE the plastic wands and Younique is still the brush/regular wand thankfully!
Younique has a product similar to the lash boost from R&F. I’m not sure if the formulas are the same, but if you’re wanting to try something else, might be worth a shot.
Also, do you have a tutorial on applying fibers? They seemed to just dry out my mascara, but maybe I’m doing it wrong.
I have been reading a lot of good things about castor oil for eyebrows and eyelashes. Have you ever tried it?
I use castor oil very regularly for lash growth and I notice a big difference when I use it. It is affordable and works really well. Definitely give it a try!
I have been using castor oil on my eyelashes too. I am 53, and due to menopause, I have noticed a big change in my hair and eyelashes. Both have become much thinner. I noticed a big difference in my eyelashes after 2 weeks of using the castor oil. It is very affordable, and I like the fact that it is natural.
From one lash girl to another, my first step is the L’Oreal Voluminous Primer. I let that dry for a minute then apply the Voluminous mascara. And I finish off with either Marc Jacobs Velvet Noir (Sephora) or Essence Lash Princess Sculpted Volume Mascara (I got this at Ulta). Both of those makes a MAJOR difference for my thin, medium length lashes. I have tried a bunch of fibers, but I found that when I apply mascara over it, it usually doesn’t coat the lashes and i end up with flakes of fibers all over my undereye, not a good look, lol!
Funny, I found the Big Gal Bang totally opposite. I thought it was terrible, too wet and clumpy. I got no volume, but tons of length. And it smudges and flakes on me and I’ve only had it on a couple hours.
I’ve never tried Benefit’s products, but I know people really like them. I love Chanel’s Inimitable mascara because it’s got a tiny wand and separates the lashes so well. I tried Bobbi Brown’s Eye-Opening mascara but found it super clumpy and hard to get to the base of my lashes without getting everywhere. Is that your impression of it? I thought I’d like it a lot more but it happens every time I use it. Maybe my eyes are to inset or something. Does the Benefit mascara separate?
http://www.shessobright.com
I have heard the trick to the magnetic lashes is to hold them in a curl and blow dry them to hold the curl shape before applying. Put the top one on first and then the bottom. Just let the bottom one go and blink when it gets close to the lash. I want to try a set from lillash.com.
that’s exactly my problem with false lashes …whenever I want to really like a new falsies …its weird band doesn’t allow me to….sometimes the lash band is so straight that I end up adding more glue to it.
Better Than Sex Waterproof is SO much better than the regular. For me it works so much better, holds a huge curl, and I get compliments all the time. Benefit tests on animals FYI. I would love it to see you take your blog in a cruelty-free direction.
I wanted your opinion on my lashes since I feel like I’ve asked just about everyone else in the universe! I have pretty long lashes and hooded brow bone so my lashes touch my brow bone, when I first put mascara on everything is fine but as the day goes on I find my mascara on my brow bone…. not sure if I have oily lashes or what. Do you think a tint and lash lift could help this?
Try monsiuer big by Lancôme. Just bought it and man is it great! I was ask today if I was wearing false lashes…I had been a tarte gifted user and I am converted!!
I have been looking for a new mascara & was unsure if the Too Faced one would be any good for me, but actually after reading this I realise that it sounds right up my street. So despite it not being for you, I can’t wait to give it a go. Thanks for such a great review!
Holly from The Art of Being Holly xo
I like the longer and fuller eyelashes, cause they can high light my facial beauty!
Right now you can get a free sample of the Bad Gal Bang mascara at Sephora online. Code BADGAL with a $25 purchase. I wanted to try it but not spend $24 on it! So excited!
I get lash lifts and I love the difference it makes.
My favorite is Marc Jacobs – Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara. The best! I’m getting a lash lift this coming weekend and I can’t wait to see my lashes after with this mascara on!
I found Bad Gal unimpressive. Within two hours, it had migrated under my eyes and I hate the raccoon look!
oh thats frustrating! It is definitely a thick mascara, and may not be for everyone!
Hi Kate,
I know you are a fan of Tarte brand and wondered what you think of their mascaras??
I tend to have mascara transference to my upper eyelids throughout the day (long after the mascara has dried)…any tips on how to avoid this, other than using a water proof formula?!? Currently using Monsieur Big by Lancôme, however this happens with all mascaras!
Hey! You look so pretty. Can I ask one question, Does mascara damage eyelashes? because when I wore last time in the party and my aunt came to me and said don’t wear too much mascara it will affect your eyes. So, I am confused Is it really do? Thank you!
I’ve never heard that before. Waterproof mascara can be really difficult to remove so maybe she meant the removal process can affect your lashes?
Yes, maybe! I can’t live without mascara when I go outside. So, I was asking you. Thank you Kate
Waterproof mascara can keep you a beautiful image for whole day long, but it is also harmful to eyelashes and eyelid skin. be careful with it.
Beautifully described about mascara .
Hi Kate,
Your awesome i love the way u have intelligible details of the products.
Nice, will those products helps men to achieve same results?
What are some tips to make lashes longer and thicker, like is there a serum or anything?
Admire your Beautiful face, you are look gorgeous!
I’ve been using Bad gal bang since it’s release. And really like it. But I recently switched to tarte concealer, and I feel like I have a huge amount of mascara that falls throughout the day and sticks to the concealer. So I end up with awful dark circles…worse that what I’m trying to cover. Help!
Nice looking!
What are your recommendations for waterproof smudgeproof mascara? Need something new for my son’s wedding next weekend! Thanks!
I typically avoid waterproof mascara but I’ve been using the Exhibitionist Mascara by Covergirl and they make a waterproof version!
Thanks you
Have you ever tried a dark brown mascara? Is there a noticeable difference between a dark brown and black mascara? When should you wear a dark brown mascara? I am so curious
Hi! The link to the Ulta natural lashes doesn’t work anymore. Any idea where I can find an extremely natural looking lash like the one you describe?