Want longer lashes? Learn how to apply mascara for length the right way and see the difference. No special formulas needed—just the perfect technique.
Can you make short eyelashes look longer with mascara?
Yes! You can apply mascara for length and make short eyelashes look much longer.
The key is choosing the right mascara—lengthening mascaras, with their special formulas or fibers, are designed to make your eyelashes longer.
Even without a lengthening mascara, a good volumizing mascara can still give you great results and help your lashes look longer.
Methods to Apply Mascara for Length
You don’t need a lengthening mascara to make your lashes look longer. Whether you’re using lengthening mascara or not, we’ll show you how to apply mascara for length and achieve longer, more defined lashes.
With Lengthening Mascara
- Remove Excess Mascara: Start by wiping excess mascara off the wand. Too much product can cause clumps, making your lashes appear heavy. A clean wand ensures smooth application.
- Apply Mascara from Root to Tip: Use a zigzag motion to apply mascara from the roots of your lashes. This separates each lash and helps them appear longer and more defined.
- Add a Second Coat: Allow the first coat to dry briefly, then apply a second coat to add extra length. Lengthening mascaras contain fibers that attach to your lash tips, extending their length with each layer.
For a natural look, limit yourself to two coats to avoid heavy lashes and clumping.
Without Lengthening Mascara
- Choose a Volumizing Mascara: These mascaras add both volume and length, helping your lashes appear longer without needing a specialized formula. Use a mascara with a thinner wand for better control.
- Apply in a Zigzag Motion: Start at the base and move the wand from root to tip. This ensures each lash is coated and separated, enhancing length and definition.
- Build Length with Layers: Let the first coat dry, then apply a second coat to build length without weighing down your lashes. If you notice clumps, comb through your lashes for a smoother finish.
Curl your lashes before applying mascara for an instant lift, making your lashes appear longer even without lengthening mascara.
Mistakes That Prevent Lashes from Looking Longer
- Not Applying Mascara from Base to Tip: A lot of people apply mascara only at the roots of their lashes. To make lashes look longer, make sure to coat them from the base all the way to the tips. If you skip the tips, your lashes will look shorter.
- Using Too Much Mascara: When you dip the wand into the tube too many times, you get too much product. This can weigh your lashes down and make them look clumpy. Wipe off the excess on the wand to avoid this, and you’ll get cleaner, longer lashes.
- Skipping Layers: Rushing through mascara can make your lashes look thick and heavy. To make them look longer, apply a light coat first, wait a few seconds for it to dry, then add a second coat. This will build length without making your lashes too thick.
- Choosing the Wrong Type of Mascara: If you use a volumizing mascara, it might make your lashes look fuller but not longer. For the best results, go for a mascara that is specifically designed to lengthen your lashes, as this formula coats each lash for a more stretched-out look.
- Using a Thick Wand: A bulky wand can make it hard to apply mascara evenly. This can cause clumping. Choose a mascara with a thinner wand. It gives you better control. This helps separate your lashes and makes them look longer.
- Not Curling Your Lashes: If you skip curling your lashes, they can appear flat, which makes them look shorter. Curl your lashes before applying mascara to lift them up, and then the mascara will help add extra length.
- Applying Mascara Too Close to the Lash Line: Applying mascara too close to your lash line can make your lashes look clumpy and heavy. Start a little higher on the lashes and wiggle the wand to the tips for a smoother, longer effect.
- Ignoring the Bottom Lashes: If you only apply mascara to the top lashes, it can make your eyes look unbalanced. To make your lashes look longer and fuller, apply mascara to lower lashes as well. Lightly coat the bottom lashes to add more length and create a balanced look. A thin wand or small brush works best for precision on the lower lashes.
The Bottom Line
You can make your eyelashes look longer with any mascara by following the right steps. No need for special formulas—just the right technique! Coat your lashes from base to tip, use a light zigzag motion, and let each coat dry before applying another.