How to layer your favourite mascaras for maximum length and volume

On TikTok, one of the hottest beauty trends now is mascara cocktailing. Users have taken to their TikTok accounts to share the secret behind their luscious-looking lashes. Turns out, the trick is to use not one but multiple mascaras. 

While this lash beautifying method has gained popularity on social media, it isn’t a new makeup technique. Beauty educator Larry Yeo explains that makeup artists like himself have been layering different types of mascaras together for many years. Fellow makeup artist Lasalle Lee recommends mascara cocktailing for Asians, especially because our lashes tend to be short and point downwards.  

New to the trend? Larry suggests looking at how you want your lashes to look, their natural curling state and your budget. If your lashes already have a natural curl, simply use two coats of a volumising mascara, followed by a lengthening mascara to achieve a lush look. “Those whose lashes tend to be more stubborn and straight can curl the strands first before applying a lengthening mascara,” he shares. 

Another pro tip from Larry: use a waterproof base first so as to create a solid hold on the lashes before applying anything else. Before moving to the next mascara, be sure to wait for each product to dry first, reminds makeup artist Lasalle Lee. Otherwise, you’ll risk pigments clumping on your lashes. 

With so many products sitting on your lashes, you might wonder what’s the best way to properly remove them before bed. Larry shares that a double-phase eye makeup remover or oil cleanser is your best bet. 

Mascaras To Try

Gucci Beauty Mascara L’Obscur in black, $65

Credit: Gucci Beauty

1/6

Its lengthening and longwear formula promises to breathe new life into your peepers, ensuring that all eyes are on you wherever you go.

Givenchy Beauty L’Interdit Mascara, price unavailable

Credit: Givenchy

2/6

Give your lashes a strong and sophisticated look with this 24-hour wear mascara that also has beauty ingredients including ceramide-like actives and d-panthenol for strengthening and nourishing purposes.

Heroine Make Micro Mascara Advanced Film EX, price unavailable

Credit: Heroine Make

3/6

If “my lashes but better” is what you’re looking for, look no further. The ultra fine micro brush and upgraded Long EX Fiber formula combine to ensure a smooth and even coat with every stroke.

KVD Beauty Full Sleeve Long + Defined Tubing Mascara, $40

Credit: KVD Beauty

4/6

Easy application aside, users love this mascara for its buildability and ability to make their eyes look awake without weighing their lashes down. Bonus: it can even be easily washed away with warm water — that can a great time saver for us busy women.

Benefit Cosmetics Fan Fest Mascara, $51

Credit: Benefit Cosmetics

5/6

Dramatic and defined lashes are what you’ll get with the help of this mascara. Not only is it buildable, the formula is designed for a smooth and clump-free application. The results: “perfect butterfly eyelash effect”, according to an online review.

Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara, $61

Credit: Lancôme

6/6

Sparse and dull lashes will admit defeat to this eye-opening mascara. Its 360 micro-bristle arch-curved brush, coupled with the longwear and feathery light pigment, lifts lashes effortlessly.