The Way to Apply Mascara That Really (Truly) Prevents Clumps

Makeup-artist approved!

This article was written by Helen Clemson and provided by our partners at Women’s Health South Africa.

We grilled makeup artist Cheryl Parker on how to get the best results for photo shoots. Here’s how to amplify those lashes:

1. “First, I dab the wand on the back of my hand to get off any excess product that’s sitting on the tip—this is usually the smudge and clump culprit.”

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2. “To apply, I twist the wand horizontally so there’s even distribution of product.”

3. “I only apply beneath the lashes to push them up. Applying on top of the lashes causes clumps and weighs the lashes down. To avoid clumping, I sweep it on slowly, as quick strokes dry the product out.” Watch the video below for a super simple trick that'll help you coat every lash evenly with mascara:

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4. “To get the fanned-out look, I use the tip of the wand in a windscreen-wiper motion in the inner and outer corners.”

5. “Lastly, I use what’s left on the wand on the bottom lashes to create a natural look.”