Long, lush lashes that look impossibly fluttery might be the dream, but a new internet trend wants to make it a reality. Say hello to mascara cocktailing or the practice of combining two or more layers of your best mascara to create a metaphorical cocktail, of sorts. In the quest for answers, we looked to celebrity-loved makeup artist Arti Nayar for answers, and here’s what we found out.
“The mascara cocktailing trend is the internet’s newest take on layering your mascara,” she affirms, and adds, “For instance, a lengthening mascara may not be as thick as volumising mascara. So, my first layer can be to lengthen my lashes and then once that dries, I layer it with volumising mascara.” The payoff comes in the form of a layered look that makes lashes look fuller and more fluttery while also dialling up the impact of the eye makeup. “If you aren’t a fan of wearing false lashes or extensions, mascara cocktailing can help you achieve a 3D effect without any hassle,” she explains.
The step-by-step guide to mascara cocktailing
- The first step begins with choice of formulas. Ensure that you aren’t using a very thick mascara as your first layer. Also, choosing a fine brush for your first layer will lift the lashes and lengthen them, without making it clumpy so that your lashes don’t stick together.
- Once you have chosen the correct formula, curl your lashes with an eyelash curler, followed by a lengthening mascara which is slightly thinner in consistency and has a finer brush.
- Once that dries, follow it up with a volumising mascara—this can be a slightly thicker formula with a firmer wand because you want to add more length as well as volume.
- If you are doing a smoky eye and want really full lashes, you can choose to go in with one more coat of the volumising mascara for a fuller effect.
What you need to know before trying mascara cocktailing
Mascara cocktailing may sound deviously easy, but it helps to keep some precautions in mind. The Mumbai-based makeup artist agrees, and says, “Always clean off any excess product on the wand before you use the mascara. It also helps to keep a clean spoolie or an eyebrow brush ready. In case your eyelashes get clumpy, you can comb them out with a clean mascara wand or a mascara applicator.” Nayar also recommends opting for some prep and prime for the lashes, the same way that you would prep your eyelids before applying eyeshadow. “I always curl the lashes, brush them out with a clean applicator and then I do two or three coats of mascara, depending on the kind of look I am going for. Always remember to take a moment to let the previous layer dry before going in with the second layer,” she recommends.
Add to cart:
If you are in the quest for the best lengthening and volumising mascaras, here are the names to look for.
- M.A.C Stack Mini Mascara - Black
- Rom&nd Han All Fix Mascara - L01 Long Black
- Smashbox Super Fanned Out Mascara - Black
- GA-DE High lash Lengthening And Lifting Mascara - Black
- Maybelline New York Volume Express Colossal Washable Mascara - Black Noir
Meet the expert:
Arti Nayar’s name is no stranger in celebrity circles—the makeup artist’s brushes have conjured their magic on the faces of Alia Bhatt, Katrina Kaif, Parineeti Chopra, Bhumi Pednekar, Shraddha Kapoor, Disha Patani among other illustrious names. Arti prefers au naturel glam and works towards enhancing the raw features of her clients with her skills.
