So you have eye shadow to compliment your eyes and you know all about eye shadow finishes and forumulas; what now? The next step is to define your eyes. Which mascara will meet your needs—do you want longer lashes, fuller lashes, volumized lashes or waterproof lashes?

Mascara can be one of those products where you have to test a few before you find the perfect formula.Every cosmetics line has several mascaras to choose from, which can be a bit overwhelming for even a makeup expert. Most cosmetic companies, such as Revlon, have at least ten mascaras forumals to choose from: Custom Eyes, Custom Eyes Waterproof, Revlon Glow Luscious, Revlon Glow Luscious Waterproof, Revlon Double Twist...all in all, there are 17 mascaras to choose from—and this is just one cosmetics line. Sephora has 158 mascaras to choose from!

Want to know an easy way to you choose what’s best for you? Just answer this question and look below: are your lashes sparse, long, short or lush?

• Waterproof: helps to stop smudging and flaking. This is recommended in the summer, if you are athletic, or if your old mascara tends to flake off. This will enhance all types of lashes, from short to long. You can buy a special eye makeup remover for waterproof mascara so you don't end up with mascara streaks on your pillow.

• Lengthening: is great for those that have short or thin lashes. Usually two coats will suffice; make sure you allow time for the mascara to dry in between coats. You can also find a Lengthening Waterprood formula--two in one!

• Volumizing: Sparse lashes? This will add fullness. If you have thin lashes, volumizing is the answer for you. It will add length to your lashes.

• Defining: If you already have lush and long lashes, this is a great forumla to enhance them by reaching each lash.

You will want to begin with a Primer. Just as we discussed primer with eye shadow, a mascara primer will assist with longer lasting color and smoother application. Many types of mascara will come with a primer on one side of the tube and color on the other, creating a functional two-in-one product. You can apply the color while the primer is drying.

Next you will want to use an Eyelash Curler. You can find them at any drug or beauty store; some are more expensive because they are heated or have other features. You just need a basic curler to begin. For some reason, many women are scared of curlers. It is a very simple process: While looking down, place the curler at the roots of the top lashes (this should not pinch!). Next squeeze the curler from root to the end of the lash with even pressure—don’t crimp. If your eyelashes crimped, you didn’t apply even pressure and can begin again. Use a gentle hand so not to pull out lashes! Always apply before the mascara, otherwise you can easily break lashes off and create clumping.

After you’ve primed and curled, you’re ready for the mascara! If you have dark eyes, you will do well with black, black/brown or charcoal colored mascara. Those of you with light eyes and complexions, a soft brown will compliment your eyes. Today there are all sorts of colors—if you are young and want to try a fun color, go for a blue or purple! Or, if you already have perfect lashes, you can use a clear color to draw attention to them or create a dewy look.

Take the mascara wand, ensuring it is not overloaded with mascara (don’t pump the wand to get more product). Move the wand from root to tip—this will help ensure every lash gets color. If you’d like more volume, you can add a second a second coat (make sure the first one dried!) by using the wand to push the roots up. Not everyone applies mascara to bottom lashes; if you choose to, hold the wand upwards and just touch on each lash as you move it back and forth. My finishing touch is to use the mascara wand and add a bit more color on the outside top lashes to create definition.

One problem with mascara is clumping. If this occurs, you should invest in an eyelash comb that allows you to comb out the clumps and create a sleeker look. If you smudge shadow, don’t try to wipe away while wet! This will make it harder to clean. Rather, wait for it to dry and use a q-tip to wipe the smudge.

Always make sure you replace the mascara every three months or if you get eye infection-bacteria can run rampant.

Mascara really is not that difficult to apply and often women may use mascara to define their eyes without shadow and it still creates a lovely look. Now that you know how to choose mascara based on your lashes and eye color, you should have no problems enhancing your beautiful eyes!