Mascara cocktailing is everywhere right now. It’s blowing up on TikTok, and makeup influencers are going wild over it. People are seriously loving it and talking about it. If you’re not sure what mascara cocktailing is and you’re new to the trend, let me break it down for you.
It’s basically when you layer two, three, or more mascaras to create a custom lash look. It makes your lashes pop and gives you more control over the lash look you want. In this guide, I’ll share 7 tips and tricks for mascara cocktailing to help you get the perfect lash look.
Mascara Cocktailing To Make Your Lashes Pop
1. Choose the right mascara
First things first: Mascara come in different formulations that give different effects. Choosing the right mascara is key if you want that lifted lash look. Mascara formulas and wands are made for different effects.
For example, you’d use one wand for lengthening and a different one for curling or volumizing. So, if you’re going for long, subtle lashes instead of thick ones, you’d want a wand that’s designed for lengthening, and vice versa.
Mascara cocktailing is all about customization and finding what works for you. Think about the final effect you want when mixing your mascaras. Like said before, formulas can be volumizing, curling, lengthening, waterproof, or even a mix of them.
If you’re going for volume, start with a volumizing mascara, then follow up with a lengthening one. Lengthening mascaras are designed to separate the lashes and get rid of any clumps the volumizing mascara might leave behind. That’s why picking the right mascara is so important.
2. Start with clean lashes
Always start with a clean base and that goes for everything. Whether it’s your go-to makeup routine or your favorite skincare, prepping is key. If you want your lashes to pop like a pro, make sure you prep them properly. Start by gently cleaning your lashes with a gentle cleanser to remove any residue.
3. Apply the first formula
Make sure your lashes are totally dry before applying the first mascara. I’d recommend starting with a thick volumizing formula. L’Oréal Lash Paradise Mascara is perfect for this. Start at the roots and apply as many coats as you like.
4. Apply the second formula
Now, apply the second mascara just when the first one is neither too dry nor too wet. For lengthening, I prefer using a lengthening mascara as the second formula. My go-to is L’Oréal Paris Makeup Telescopic Original Lengthening Mascara. It helps to declump the volumizing mascara and does an excellent job at separating and lengthening the lashes.
5. Wiggle and Swipe Technique
Wiggle the mascara wand near the roots of your lashes. This will deposit most of the mascara at the base, where you want more volume. Then, swipe the wand upward through your lashes, doing so smoothly. This will pull the mascara from the base to the tips, adding clear definition and length.
You can also add a third waterproof mascara on top of your volumizing and lengthening mascaras to lock everything in place. This is an important step for those who tend to get mascara smudges. Just remember to use a good oil based or dual phase remover at night.
6. How to remove mascara without damaging your lashes
The big challenge after mascara cocktailing is removing it, especially after layering different formulas. But with the right technique, you can prevent damage to your eyelashes.
The first step is always to remove your mascara with a gentle eye makeup remover or oil-based cleanser. Personally, I prefer using an oil-based cleanser because it breaks down mascara easily. Both makeup removers and oil-based cleansers are great options for this.
If you prefer makeup wipes, start by soaking a cotton pad with the remover and gently placing it over your eyes. Let it sit for 10-15 seconds to loosen the mascara. Then, softly wipe the pad in a downward motion to remove the mascara. Make sure not to rub too aggressively. If you have any stubborn spots, gently swipe the pad over those areas again
You can also use micellar water if you prefer a gentler, non-oily solution. For extra care, try using a lash serum at night to nourish your lashes after removing makeup.
7. Best mascara combination to try
One of the best things about mascara cocktailing is how personalized and customizable it is. Whether you want to add volume or length, layering different mascaras designed for those specific purposes helps you create the exact look you’re after. Here are a few of my fav top mascara combinations you can try.
Volumizing and Lengthening: Start with a volumizing mascara. L’Oréal Lash Paradise is my go-to for this step. Volumizing formulas can sometimes cause a bit of clumping but don’t worry, that’s where your lengthening mascara comes in.
Follow up with a lengthening option like L’Oréal Telescopic which helps separate and extend your lashes. This combination gives you a beautifully defined and lifted look.
Curling and Waterproof: If a curled lash look is more your vibe, start with a curling mascara like Maybelline Lash Sensational, then layer a waterproof formula like Benefit’s They’re Real! Waterproof Mascara on top. I love this combo for people who already have long lashes and just want that cute, lifted curl. It gives long-lasting, smudge-proof definition and holds the curl all day.
All-in-One: For those who prefer a simple look with subtle volume and lift, a single mascara that does it all is the way to go. All in one mascara adds volume, length, and curl in one swipe. It gives you thick defined lashes with just one coat. It’s a convenient option and perfect for anyone short on time but still wanting a bold lash look.
Related Read: How to Apply Winged Eyeliner: 9 Foolproof Tips
FAQS on Mascara Cocktailing
Can you use two different mascaras together?
Yes, you can absolutely use two or even three different mascaras together. This is a common technique called mascara cocktailing, where you layer a volumizing mascara followed by a lengthening one.
It’s often more effective to use two separate mascaras instead of relying on an all-in-one formula. That way, you get more defined and noticeable results.
Which mascara goes first, volumizing or lengthening?
When cocktailing mascaras, always start with the volumizing one. The goal is to build a thick fuller base with the volumizing formula first. After that, follow up with a lengthening mascara to separate and extend the lashes for a more defined finish.
Is 3 coats of mascara too much?
Applying more than three coats can sometimes lead to clumping. It really depends on your technique and the type of formula you’re using. Some mascaras might start clumping after just three layers, while others can handle four or five without an issue.
In general, clumping tends to happen when you go a little overboard. I’d suggest sticking to around 4–5 layers max with a good-quality mascara.
What is the best technique for mascara?
- Start with a clean base
- Wiggle at the base
- Smoothly swipe the wand upward
- Apply each layer carefully
- Focus on the tips for extra length
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