Mascara 101: How to Avoid Clumpy Mascara

Why Does Mascara Clump?

Before you go blaming your mascara, let’s talk about one of the main reasons for clumpy mascara: application. While the formula and quality can make a difference, sometimes the biggest error is simply how you apply it. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid:

• Overloading the brush: Too much product on the wand means too much product on your lashes.
• Layering incorrectly: Applying too many coats too quickly can lead to thick, clumpy lashes.
• Using expired mascara: Mascaras have a shelf life of around three to six months. If your tube is drying out, clumping is inevitable.
• Pumping the wand: Never pump your mascara! Instead, twist it inside the tube to pick up the right amount of product. Pumping forces air into the tube, drying out your mascara and leading to clumps.
  
  

If you've perfected your mascara technique and are still facing clumpy lashes, then the culprit could be low-quality formulas and brushes. Some mascaras dry too quickly or lack smoothing ingredients, which can lead to uneven application and clumps. Choosing a mascara like Maybelline Colossal Bubble Mascara, which has an inherently lash-inflating, buildable formula, as well as a spiral-shaped inflator comb brush, helps avoid clumping and deliver a separated, sleek lash look. 

How to Apply Mascara Without Clumping

Here are a few easy-to-follow steps for long-lasting mascara that’s free of clumps.

Step 1 Before applying, gently wipe the mascara wand on the edge of the tube or a tissue to remove excess product.

Step 2 Instead of sweeping mascara straight up, wiggle the wand from root to tip in a zig-zag motion.

Step 3 Layer correctly! Once you have applied the first coat, wait until it’s semi-dry before adding another, as this prevents lashes from sticking together. Two coats should be enough… any more, and it could cause your lashes to become heavy and droop!

Our Favorite Clumpy Mascara Hacks

• Before applying your mascara, brush through your lashes with a clean spoolie to separate them.
  
  
• After applying mascara, take a clean, dry mascara wand and gently comb through your lashes to break up any clumps and separate any mascara that has stuck together.
  
  
• Prime your lashes before applying mascara. A good lash primer smooths the lashes and provides a base that grips mascara evenly, reducing the chances of clumps.
  
  
• Choose a good quality mascara. The right formula can make all the difference. If you struggle with clumping, opt for a mascara that’s designed to separate and define.

Here are some of our best non-clumping mascaras:

1. Maybelline Colossal Bubble Mascara: If you love bold, voluminous lashes but don’t want to sacrifice separated, sleek-looking lashes, then Colossal Bubble mascara is the one for you. Its lash-inflating formula paired with its spiral-shaped inflator comb brush allow for buildable, sleek volume that lasts.
   
   
2. Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascaras: This collection of Maybelline mascaras is designed for those who love a lifted, fluttery lash look. Designed to fan out your lashes, giving you a fuller yet natural-looking effect, each mascara in the collection features a unique and exclusive wand that extends and separates the lashes. The lightweight formulas ensure smooth application and prevent product build-up, meaning no clumps—just clean, defined lashes.
   
   
3. Maybelline The Falsies Mascaras: If you're after dramatic, falsies-level lashes without the glue and maintenance, the Falsies Collection delivers. Designed for bold volume and dramatic length, these volumising mascaras mimic the effect of lash extensions while keeping each lash beautifully defined. The flexible brushes and fibre-infused formulas work together to stretch and lift your lashes without weighing them down.