The main reason mascara flakes is because the product dries out or doesn’t adhere well to your lashes. This can happen for several reasons, including expired mascara, over-pumping the wand, or using a formula that doesn’t suit your lash type. Luckily, with the right tips, you can keep your mascara flake-free.
How to Stop Mascara from Flaking
Replace Old Mascara
One of the biggest reasons mascara flakes is because the formula dries out over time. Mascara tubes are typically only safe to use for about three months after opening.
Beyond that, the product thickens, dries, and becomes prone to issues like mascara clumpy texture and flaking. Using old mascara means you risk applying a flaky, crumbly product that won’t adhere well to your lashes.
To prevent mascara from flaking, make it a habit to replace your mascara every three months or sooner if you notice it drying out or smelling strange.
Avoid Applying Too Many Layers
It’s tempting to build dramatic volume by applying multiple coats of mascara, but too much product can cause mascara flake.
Thick layers take longer to dry and may crack or crumble as your lashes move throughout the day. Instead, apply one to two even coats, letting the first coat dry completely before adding a second.
This technique helps create smooth, flexible lashes that are less likely to flake or smudge.
Use the Right Wand
The mascara wand plays a crucial role in preventing flakes. A wand overloaded with product or one that deposits clumps can cause uneven drying and flaking.
Before applying, gently wipe excess mascara off the wand on the tube’s rim. Also, avoid pumping the wand in and out of the tube, as this pushes air inside, drying the formula faster.
Apply mascara with gentle, controlled strokes to evenly coat lashes without clumping, which helps keep mascara from flaking throughout the day.
Mind Your Eye Cream and Primer Choices
Oils from eye creams or makeup removers can break down mascara formula, leading to flaking and smudging.
If you apply moisturizer near your lash line, opt for lightweight, water-based eye creams that won’t interfere with your mascara’s hold.
Additionally, using a lash primer designed to work with your mascara can create a smooth base and improve adhesion. This helps your mascara stay put, reducing flakes and fallout.
Choose the Right Mascara Formula
Not all mascaras are created equal. Some formulas dry hard and brittle, while others stay flexible and resist flaking. Waterproof mascaras tend to last longer but can sometimes be prone to flaking if not removed properly.
Tubing mascaras, which coat each lash in a thin “tube” of product, often resist flaking better than traditional mascaras. Gel-based formulas also tend to offer more flexible, long-lasting wear.
Knowing your lash type and lifestyle helps you pick a mascara that won’t flake or smudge under your specific conditions.
Tips for Choosing a Good Mascara That Doesn’t Flake
Look at the Ingredients
If you want mascaras that dont flake, check what’s inside. Avoid ones with heavy wax or powder. These can dry fast and cause flaky mascara. Choose mascaras with oils or smooth ingredients. These keep your lashes soft. A good non flaky mascara sticks well and doesn’t crumble.
Know Your Lash Type
Your lashes matter when picking mascara. If your lashes are thin, thick formulas might weigh them down. This can cause flaky mascara. Pick light mascaras that make lashes longer, not heavy ones. If your lashes are thick, you can use volumizing mascaras. But make sure they say non flaky mascara on the label.
Waterproof or Not?
Waterproof mascaras are good if you want mascaras that dont flake. They don’t smudge or run. But some waterproof ones dry hard and flake if you don’t take them off right. Look for waterproof mascaras that stay soft. These are better non flaky mascara options.
Avoid Dry Formulas
Dry mascara causes flaky mascara. Choose creamy or gel mascaras. They stay soft on your lashes longer. Non flaky mascara feels smooth and moist. It doesn’t crack or fall off.
Read What Others Say
Check reviews before buying. People often say if a mascara flakes or not. Look for mascaras called mascaras that dont flake by users. This helps you avoid flaky mascara problems. Reviews show what works for your skin and weather.
Try Before You Buy
If you can, test mascaras in the store. Put some on your hand or lashes. Watch how it dries. See if it flakes after a few minutes. Good non flaky mascara feels light and soft. This way, you pick the best mascara that won’t flake.
The Bottom Line
Flaky mascara results from dried-out or heavy formulas that crack and crumble.
Over-applying mascara or using an overloaded wand speeds this up. Choosing a non flaky mascara designed for your lash type, along with avoiding oily eye creams near your lashes, keeps flakes at bay.
Look for waterproof mascaras that stay soft and use proper application techniques to stop mascara from flaking all day.