If you’ve ever dreamt of having naturally full, thick-looking lashes (haven’t we all?), a volumizing mascara is a must for your makeup look. Designed to give your lashes that bold, dramatic lift, it’s perfect for anyone looking to make their eyes pop. Unlike other mascaras that might focus on lengthening or curling, volumizing mascaras are formulated with special thickening agents that help to create a fuller-looking appearance. The result? Lush, voluminous lashes with loads of volume.
For the most part, what sets volumizing mascara apart from regular mascara is its unique formula and brush. Volumizing mascaras typically have a thicker, more intense formula that coats each lash generously. The brush often features bristles that are designed to grab every lash, ensuring a thick, full coat from root to tip.
To get the perfect voluminous look without clumping, start by wiping excess product off the wand to avoid overloading. Gently wiggle the wand from root to tip, making sure to separate lashes as you go. For added volume, layer the mascara, but give each coat time to dry in between. To finish, use the tip of the wand to catch any small lashes on the corners of your eyes. That’s the short of it, ready for the long (and thick!) of it? Jump in below to get the full-lashed scoop on volumizing mascaras.
What Does Volumizing Mascara Do?
Specially formulated with thickening agents, volumizing mascara coats each lash from root to tip, giving your lashes an impactful, fuller, and thicker appearance. Volumizing mascara is perfect for those who want to add volume and depth, without the need for false lashes or extensions.
The magic lies in its formula, which typically includes ingredients that work to enhance your natural lashes while providing them with extra thickness. Volumizing mascaras also feature uniquely designed brushes with bristles that are spaced and shaped to load the lashes with product, ensuring maximum volume. Whether you're going for a bold everyday look or want to amp up the drama for a special event, volumizing mascara helps lift and plump your lashes, giving them an enviable, full-bodied finish.
Essential Pre-Application Steps
Before applying volumizing mascara, prepping your lashes is in order! Making sure your lashes are clean and ready for application will offer the best results for full, thick lashes that last. First, make sure to remove any old mascara thoroughly—this ensures your lashes are fresh and ready for a clean application. Be sure your lashes are completely dry before applying mascara to avoid clumping.
For that extra lift, use an eyelash curler to add more curl and natural length. This step is especially helpful if you want that wide-eyed, fluttery, and feathered effect. This ensures that your natural lashes look long and enhanced before layering on the volume. Next, set the stage with good lighting. Prime your workspace with plenty of natural light or a well-lit mirror to avoid any mishaps. Lastly, keep clean tissues or cotton swabs on hand in case you need to quickly clean up any smudges!
The Perfect Application Technique
To get that bold, voluminous lash look, start with the upper lashes. Position the wand at the base of your lashes and gently wiggle it from side to side. This technique helps coat the roots with mascara, giving your lashes a thick, full base.
Slowly work your way up to the tips, ensuring each lash is evenly coated for a smooth, voluminous finish. The key is to take your time and build up the mascara gradually. Remember, slow and steady is the way to go—this will help prevent clumping and create that lush, lifted effect you’re after!
Pro Tips for Maximum Volume
For maximum volume, mastering your wand technique is crucial. Try using a slight wiggle as you move the wand from the base of your lashes to the tips—this helps coat each lash thoroughly and creates that full, thick look. You can also focus on using the tip of the wand to hit those hard-to-reach inner corner lashes, or the outer edges for added impact.
If full lashes are in your future, be sure to avoid some of these common mistakes when using a volumizing mascara: Don’t apply too many coats at once! Overloading your lashes with too much mascara can lead to clumping, so build volume gradually instead. Another tip: don’t skip the drying time between coats. Allow the first coat to dry slightly (about 15-20 seconds) to prevent the layers from sticking together. Lastly, using old or expired mascara is a big no. It can dry out, become less effective, and even cause irritation. Always check expiration dates and keep your mascara fresh for best results and clean application.
How to Prevent Mascara from Smudging
No one wants mascara smudging throughout the day—so try incorporating these tips into your routine to keep your lashes fresh and flawless: try using a waterproof formula to lock your lashes in place with smudging or budging.
A little setting powder goes a long way, too—lightly apply some under your eyes to absorb any moisture and prevent mascara from transferring. We love this trick for long-lasting wear! Next, try to avoid applying mascara to the lower waterline. It can sometimes cause transfer, especially if you’re prone to watery eyes. Finally, consider using an eye primer. Not only does it help eyeshadow stay in place, but it can also give your mascara something to grip onto, preventing smudges and ensuring a smooth finish.
How to Remove Volumizing Mascara
Because so many volumizing mascara formulas are waterproof, learning how to remove them while being gentle to the delicate skin around your eyes is important. Here’s how to do it right: First, always use a liquid makeup remover. It helps break down the product without irritating that soft, delicate eye area. When it’s time to remove, be gentle! Never rub your eyes aggressively, as that can cause damage or even break your lashes. Instead, use soft downward motions to gently wipe away the mascara.
For even extra help when it comes to removing mascara, use a makeup melting cleansing balm to help further break down any left over mascara. If you use a cleansing balm, don’t forget to double cleanse!
Volumizing Mascara Favorites
Meet the Hall of Fame for major volume. We’re no strangers to volumizing mascaras, and we’ve got a few that will send lashes to a thicker, fuller, and higher place.
First up is Big Mood Mascara and the name says it all. This mascara gives you that dramatic volume and lifted look with just a few coats. Its fluffy brush and rich formula coat every lash, leaving you with lashes that are thick, full, and absolutely lifted. Bonus, it comes in a waterproof version, too.
Another favorite is Lash it Loud Mascara If you want a high-impact, bold lash look, this one’s for you. Its extra-large brush is perfect for grabbing and lifting each lash, creating a bold, voluminous effect without any clumping. Find this one in a waterproof formula also!
Finally, the Volumizing Mascara is your go-to for adding thick, voluminous layers to your lashes. Its unique brush design and rich formula work together to give you fuller lashes that don’t weigh down or clump, just soft, fluffy volume.
Whether you want intense volume, lift, or a more natural full look, each one delivers thick, full lashes that wow.
Frequently Asked Questions About Volumizing Mascara:
Q: What Mascara Gives the Most Volume?
A: If you’re looking for a mascara that gives the most volume, we recommend reaching for a volumizing mascara. For best results, apply in a zigzag motion from base to tip, waiting a few seconds between coats. Two to three coats usually achieve maximum volume without clumping. Using an eyelash curler before application can enhance the volumizing effect.
Q: What Does Volumizing Mascara Do?
A: When applied, volumizing mascara creates the illusion of having naturally fuller, more dramatic lashes. It's particularly effective for people with fine or sparse lashes who want more definition around their eyes. The effect can be built up with multiple coats, though too many layers can lead to clumping.
The key difference between volumizing mascara and other types (like lengthening mascara) is that volumizing formulas focus on building thickness rather than extending the length of your natural lashes.
Q: What Is the Best Mascara for Length and Volume?
A: For both length and volume, you'll want to look for a mascara that has both lengthening and volumizing benefits.
For length:
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Nylon or rayon fibers that attach to your lashes to extend them
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A lengthening formula that grips these fibers securely
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A precision brush with longer bristles to separate and extend lashes
For volume:
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Thickening waxes and polymers that coat each lash
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Dense, full-bristled brush to deposit more product
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Buildable formula that allows for multiple coats