Before I start explaining how to apply mascara to accentuate your eyes and bring that "finished" look to your makeup, there are a few basics to consider.

First of all, you're going to need quality mascara. Cheap brands have a tendency to lump and clump both in the container and on your eyelashes. The best way to get the lush, full lashes you see in magazines is to invest in quality makeup.

Some of my favorite brands are Laura Mercier and Clinique, but Falsies by Maybelline and Clump Crusher by Cover Girl are both excellent and inexpensive choices that you can find at your local drugstore.

Another point to remember is that mascara doesn't age well. It can get dry and clumpy in the container over time, so you need to make sure that you're working with fresh product.

How old is the mascara in your makeup bag? It's almost impossible to get full lashes without clumps when using old mascara, so if you answered more than 3 or 4 months, then it's time to visit the store and get a new tube.

How To Apply Mascara

The best way to load your mascara wand is to twist it in the tube a few times before pulling it out. As you're pulling it out, let the brush rub up against the sides of the tube. That will remove any excess on the wand. Pumping the wand up and down into the mascara tube will push air into the tube, causing your mascara to dry out and get clumpy.

Mascara can be applied to both your top and bottom lashes, although some people prefer to apply it only to the top. There are no rules here, so try both and see what look fits you better.

If you choose to apply mascara to both your top and bottom lashes, its best to start on the bottom. If you have notice that you're getting mascara on the delicate skin under your eye, you can try holding a plastic spoon under your lashes while applying your mascara. That way, any excess will be on the spoon and not your skin.

For your top lashes, I recommend starting at the base in the middle of your lashes and applying one coat over all of your upper eyelashes. Next, go back and wiggle the wand back and forth from the base of the lashes to the ends, working your way from the outside in.

Wiggling the mascara wand like this will help keep the mascara from clumping and your lashes from sticking together. Once you're doing, you can go back and apply another coat if you think it's necessary. However, if you’re using good quality mascara with adequate coverage, you probably won't need to

Finally, go over your lashes a couple of time with an eyelash comb. This helps to separate your lashes and remove any excess mascara that might transfer to your eyelid.

Remember that tears and mascara don't go well together, so be patient while you’re learning and give yourself plenty of time before you have to leave the house.