What do foundation, eyeshadow, and mascara have in common? They all work better with a primer. Now, mascara primers (and primers in general) are quite contentious to those who haven’t used them yet. After all, if you’ve been applying mascara successfully without one, priming your lashes might seem like an unnecessary step to add to your beauty routine, which is probably complicated enough as it is!
While lash primers won’t make or break your makeup look, their ability to add length, volume, and definition can take your lashes to the next level. When paired with your favorite mascara, you can get a super dramatic look that rivals what you’d get with falsies. This underrated product is nothing short of a game changer.
Are you curious to learn more about mascara primer? Then keep reading because in this article, we’re going to answer all your mascara primer-related questions, from what it is, to its benefits and application. Be warned: Once you try it, you might find it hard to go back to a primer-less existence.
What Is Mascara Primer?
A mascara or eyelash primer is a product that acts as a base coat for the lashes. It’s applied before mascara and its main purpose is to create a smooth surface for even mascara application. It has a tacky consistency that gives more grip for the mascara to adhere to your lashes, thereby adding length and volume while also separating the individual lashes. Moreover, certain formulas contain nourishing ingredients that condition and strengthen your lashes.
Mascara primers are packaged in a tube with wand applicator. They look identical to a regular tube of mascara but are typically white in color to distinguish it. The formula is also white so that you can see where it’s been applied, though some makeup brands have created tinted formulas that blend more seamlessly to the eyelash.
Is Mascara Primer the Same as Mascara?
Although they are packaged and applied similarly, lash primer and mascara are not the same and thus, not meant to be used interchangeably. Eyelash primers should be used together with mascara to create fuller-looking lashes.
What Are the Benefits of Mascara Primer?
Mascara is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to enhance your lashes. However, it can’t achieve the dramatic length or fullness that other options like falsies and lash extensions provide.
That said, an eyelash primer can give your mascara a major boost of volume, length, definition, and staying power. It creates a smooth base for even mascara application while separating the individual lashes, both of which can help prevent clumping. Moreover, its tacky consistency gives mascara more grip so that it lasts all day long.
Mascara primers are also great for lash health. If your lashes are prone to drying out from mascara use, a lash primer can protect your lashes by acting as a barrier between the hair and your eye makeup. On top of that, makeup brands are developing formulas with ingredients that nourish and protect the hair, leaving you with healthier eyelashes.
We know that’s a lot to take in, so here are all the benefits of mascara primer in a nutshell:
- Adds length for longer-looking lashes
- Adds volume for fuller-looking lashes
- Helps separate the individual lashes for more definition
- Prevents clumping
- Helps keep your mascara on for longer
- Creates a protective barrier that prevents mascara from drying out your lashes
- Conditions, softens, and strengthens your lashes with nourishing ingredients
- Improves the look of your favorite mascara
- Easier to apply than false lashes
- More affordable than eyelash extensions
How to Apply Mascara Primer
Applying eyelash primer is super easy and isn’t all that different from how you apply mascara. There are, however, a couple of tips and tricks that will ensure maximum lash impact.
Step 1: Curl Your Lashes
It’s best to use an eyelash curler before applying any kind of product to your lashes. Primer and mascara have a slightly sticky consistency even when they’ve dried completely. Curling your lashes with product on can cause the hairs to stick, which could potentially break or pull out your lashes. Yikes!
Start with clean lashes. Place the rubber pad of the lash curler along the base of your upper lash line, then squeeze the curler with light pulses. Tilt the curler upwards and curl the middle and top section of your lashes. Working your way from the roots to the tips will give you a more natural and defined curl.
Step 2: Apply Eyelash Primer
Just like mascara, the primer is applied with a wand applicator. Hold the wand along the base of your lashes, then brush upwards while wiggling the wand from side to side. Make sure every lash is coated with primer before proceeding to the next step.
Pro Tip: You can apply up to two coats of primer for more dramatic results.
Step 3: Let It Dry
There is some debate as to how mascara should be applied to primed lashes. Some argue that it’s better to apply mascara while the primer is still slightly damp because dry primer is difficult to work with and can result in clumpy lashes. On the other hand, others believe that mascara should be applied after the primer has dried completely for better results. At the end of the day, this boils down to personal preference. We recommend trying both methods to see which one works for you.
Pro Tip: Mascara primer needs at least 30 seconds to fully dry.
Step 4: Apply Mascara
Once you’ve decided on whether to let your primer dry or leave it damp, it’s time to apply mascara.
Starting from the roots of your lashes, sweep up to coat your lashes with mascara. Wiggle the wand from side to side to prevent clumps from forming. Coat the top and bottom sides of your lashes, making sure to cover any white spots of lash primer.
A lash primer adds intense length and volume, so one coat of mascara might be enough for an everyday makeup look. If you want a bolder look for an evening out, you can apply a second coat of mascara. Anything over that and you risk getting spider lashes.
Pro Tip: Use a lengthening mascara for extra fluttery lashes or a volumizing mascara for extra thick lashes.
Step 5: Clean Up
No matter how skilled you are, makeup mistakes are bound to happen. This is especially true for eye makeup products like mascara. In which case, you can clean up any smudges with a cotton bud and eye makeup remover. Carefully wipe off any spots. Additionally, you can use a lash comb to brush out any clumps of mascara. Once you’ve cleaned everything up, you’re good to go!
source https://degreesofvanity.com/how-to-use-mascara-primer/
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