Prevent Mascara From Smudging With These Easy Tips

We've all had times when we've woken up with the raccoon look in full effect. Smudgy mascara happens but I don't know many people who appreciate mascara gone south.

With a few simple tips you can keep those product slips at bay . . .

Give yourself credit: when applying mascara use a credit card or business card to act as a shield between your lashes and your lids. Any slip-ups will go on the card instead of you.

Soak it in: after applying eye cream or foundation around the eye area, give the product a chance to soak into the skin before applying your mascara. Skin that's too hydrated can attract smudges.

Powder room: apply a light dusting of powder around your eyes to help suppress oil. Keep reading . . .

Towel it off: thin, even coats of mascara are one of the simplest ways to prevent mascara from making a downward slide. To avoid clumpy, clustered lashes, just run the wand over a tissue to create a light-on-the-product coating. Let each layer dry completely before applying the next.

Get back to your roots: sweep on mascara from root to tip, tapering off at the ends. Less product on the tips can help prevent inadvertent slips onto the skin.

You're in the clear: use a clear coat of mascara for the finishing touch. This extra step acts similarly to a hair gloss, locking in colour and protecting your lashes.

Stockists: Elizabeth Arden (1800 015 500)