The right mascara brush can instantly define your lashes and deliver anything from a softly curled look to lashes that give falsies a run for their money. But here’s the catch. There are a dizzying amount of brush types to choose from, including curved, hourglass, cone-shaped, ball-tipped, and more.
Fortunately, identifying the ideal brush for your lashes doesn’t need to be complicated if you know what to look for, that is. Beforehand, we’ll showcase the most common mascara brush shapes, explain how each one works, and share who may benefit from each type.
We’ll also include some of our top picks for the best lengthening mascara, best-volumizing mascara, and best mascara for short lashes, among other categories. The end goal? Snagging your perfect match.
For most, the goal of applying mascara is to achieve volume, length, and definition. Enhancing your eyelashes is more than having the perfect application technique, but if that’s what you’re looking for, you can find it here.
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Which Mascara Wand Is Best for You?
When it comes to our makeup routines, there is no single way that works for everyone. Much like skincare, you need to adapt to your eyelash type.
With mascara, the right wand can help accentuate your lashes and make you feel your very best.
The Cone-Shaped Mascara Wand
The lashes on the inner and outer corners of your eye can be hard to reach, but not with a cone-shaped mascara wand!
This shape covers every single lash evenly and provides length and volume all around. The wand works great on all types of lashes – long as short, thin as thick.
Straight Brush for Defined Lashes
Straight mascara brushes are a must-have for achieving a defined and natural look. Their linear design evenly coats lashes, separating them for a clean and polished finish.
To use this type of mascara brush, start at the base of your lashes and wiggle the wand upward for even distribution.
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Spiral Brush for Lengthened & Separated Lashes
Spiral wands get an A+ in lash separation and definition. Their twisted bristles are ideal for preventing clumps, providing a clean and evenly fanned-out appearance.
For this brush type, we recommend starting at the base of your lashes and twisting the wand upwards to capture each lash. This technique enhances length and creates that covetable, well-defined lash line.
Curved Wand for Curled Lashes
Curved mascara wands are perfect for adding a bit of drama by lifting and curling your lashes. The arched design seamlessly follows the natural curve of the eye to enhance volume and create a wide, doe-eyed effect.
To use this type of mascara, begin at the roots and gently sweep the wand upwards for an instantly lifted effect.
Hourglass Brush for Curled & Long Lashes
If you want curls and dramatic length, try an hourglass-shaped mascara brush. This type of design can lift, curve, and amplify both straight and short lashes.
The tapered middle concentrates product on the center lashes, while the rounded edges coat the outer and inner lashes. When using this type of mascara brush, start at the base, then wiggle the wand upward to build volume. Finally, sweep the brush towards your lash tips for a flawless finish.
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Thick & Fluffy Wand for Volumized Lashes
Thick and fluffy wands are a great pick for anyone seeking serious length and volume. The dense bristles coat lashes generously, creating a full, voluminous effect.
So, if your goal is to achieve a high-glam look, reach for a thick and fluffy mascara brush. When applying, start at the base and comb through to the tips, layering for intensified drama.
Comb Brush for Defined & Separated Lashes
Comb mascara brushes are excellent for separating and defining each lash. They also come in handy for sparse and thin lashes since they allow you to coat each lash with precision.
The spaced-out, comb-like bristles also help prevent clumps for a sleek, natural finish. Begin at the base, combing through lashes from root to tip.
The Bendable Mascara Wand
Lastly, get the 360° false lash look with a bendable mascara wand. This design will make it easier to reach every lash for high impact, instant volume, and lasting curls.
You’ll have complete control of your application and will not have to coat the same lashes twice.
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