I've tried hundreds of mascaras

A quick and ageless make-up trick, mascara is arguably the cheapest and quickest way to lift and define your eyes. And yet knowing which one to buy is an elusive quest because there are so many different wands and formulations to choose from. 

Some give vavavoom volume, others coat eyelashes in natural looking, barely-there strokes. You can lengthen, separate, curl and lift with a mascara formulation in a multitude of colours and finishes including wash-off tubing mascaras and stay-put waterproofs.

Then there’s sustainability credentials to add to your wish list. Niche brands are leading the way here. Authored, the capsule makeup range by actor and influencer Tanya Burr has invented one of the first aluminium casings for her high-performance length enhancing mascara thus making it infinitely recyclable. 

Whereas make-up artist Gucci Westman’s Westman Atelier Mascara is free from typical toxic nasties without compromising on performance. While a host of brands from Urban Decay and Byredo have developed entirely vegan formulations for the conscious consumer. 

The mascara that will give you the effect you desire is largely down to the wand style which varies from odd shaped ball designs to conical, curved, fluffy and spiral brushes in a variety of widths, some super skinny for precise application, some fat and life giving. 

According to make-up artist Ruby Hammer, finding the mascara type that’s right for you is about more than just preference, you need to consider your eyelash type and know the wand’s specific function. Find your tailormade mascara from a few of our favourites, old and new, below.

6 key mascara types, and best products to buy

This article is kept updated with the latest information.

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