A mascara wand is a brush used to apply mascara to eyelashes. It comes in various shapes, sizes and materials to evenly coat lashes from root to tip. Proper wand selection and technique maximize lash volume, definition and curl based on your lash type. Wands must also be cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria from causing eye infections.
How to Clean Mascara Wand?
Cleaning your mascara wand regularly helps prevent bacteria growth that can cause eye infections. Here are a few tips for cleaning mascara wands:
- Remove excess mascara from the wand by wiping it against the rim of the mascara tube.
- Wet a cotton ball or round pad with makeup remover. Gently wipe the wand in an up and down motion to remove residue.
- For a deeper clean use a mascara cleansing solution or baby shampoo. Soak the wand for 5-10 minutes before wiping clean.
- Rinse the wand with warm water and let it air dry fully before replacing the cap.
- For latex wands gently wipe with a makeup remover wipe to avoid damaging the bristles. Avoid submerging.
- Clean wands weekly for hygienic application and to extend the mascara’s lifespan.
How to use a Curved Mascara Wand?
Curved mascara wands are designed to capture lashes from different angles. To get the most from this wand shape:
- Start by wiggling the wand at the base of the lashes to coat and separate.
- Turn the wand sideways and gently brush from root to tip in a zig-zag motion on the outer lashes.
- For the inner corners, hold the wand vertically and wiggle at the base then brush upwards.
- Curl lashes before and/or after applying for dramatic lift at the edges.
- Expect even coating along the lash line thanks to the curved brush. Touch up in thin coats as needed.
The Mascara Wand You Should Be Using, According to Your Lash Type
The shape and size of your mascara wand can make all the difference in how your lashes look. Here’s a breakdown of the best wand for each lash type:
Thick, oversized brush
Perfect for short sparse lashes needing volume at the root. The large brush grabs each lash.
Long, skinny, fine-toothed brush
Great for long lashes needing separation without bulk. The narrow brush defines each lash.
Hourglass-shaped brush
Best of both worlds the tapered shape volumizes at the root and then separates with the skinny end.
Plastic bristle brush
Soft flexible bristles are gentle on sensitive eyes and coat lashes without clumping. Good for sensitive eyes.
Spike ball brush
Conical plastic bristles evenly grip each lash tip for a dramatic curled look. Great for lifting lashes.
Pointed tip brush
The precision brush separately coats each lash from root to tip for a defined, wide eyed look.
What Do Different Mascara Wands Do
It comes in many shapes to achieve different lash looks. Here’s a breakdown:
The basic mascara wand
This classic s-shaped plastic or nylon brush is the industry standard. It deposits pigment all over for easy volume.
The curved mascara wand
Slightly arched, it hugs lashes better to amplify fullness without heavy clumping. Greition.
The hourglass mascara wand
Tapered with a skinny end, it combines root volume with precise lash separation.
The ball mascara wand
The plastic ball tip lifts each lash and sculpts them into deep curls that last all day.
The comb mascara wand
This unique dual brush features fine teeth that gently lengthen, separate and condition lashes in one swipe.
The skinny mascara wand
A precise slim wand grabs each lash for a wide eyed doll like look. Great for lower lashes too.
Frequently Asked Questions
The very first mascara wand was created in 1915 by T.L. Williams. It consisted of a sable hair brush resembling a small paintbrush which deposited an aniline-based formula onto lashes.
When selecting a mascara wand consider your lash type and desired look.
Final Thoughts
A carefully selected mascara wand is key to achieving lush show stopping lashes. Different shapes and bristle types perform certain functions like volume, lift and definition. Consider your natural lash texture and preferred aesthetic then pick a wand tailored for maximum impact. With the right partner, lashes transform into stunning eye framing features worthy of any beauty look. Get lash savvy and choose thoughtfully.
