What Is Mascara Cocktailing?

What Is Mascara Cocktailing?

Mascara cocktailing, also called lash layering, is a makeup trend that involves combining different mascaras to create a unique look. The idea behind mascara cocktailing is to use different mascaras to create a unique look that can be tailored to your needs, and how you’re feeling that day.

What Are the Benefits Of Mascara Cocktailing?

The benefits of mascara cocktailing are numerous. “It is an incredible technique for maximising the benefits of different mascaras while combining them seamlessly,” explains makeup artist Lisa Caldognetto. Mascara cocktailing is used to give your lashes length and definition, as well as achieve a more dramatic and voluminous look.

Additionally, you can layer different mascaras to create a finish that is tailored to the occasion. For example, you can use a volumising mascara on top of your usual formula for a night out, while you might be inclined to add in a lengthening mascara if you want to achieve a more minimal makeup look.

“With the hotter summer months, holiday and events season approaching, cocktailing your mascaras will also give your look the extra mileage it needs to withstand the elements,” says Lisa, who recommends including a tubing mascara in your cocktail. “These work by encasing each individual lash with a polymer-based formula that creates tiny "tubes" around the lashes, providing smudge-proof and long-lasting wear that can be easily removed with warm water.” What’s the best tubing mascara? Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara, £31.00.

What Are The Best Mascaras To Cocktail?

When it comes to choosing the best mascaras for your cocktail there are a few things to consider, including what kind of look you want to achieve. Alongside a tubing mascara, you might want to include a formula with a finer brush, such as Sweed Lash Lift Mascara, £22.00. The skinny wand and brush are designed to reach the root of your lashes to help to create a more dramatic, lifted look.

If volume is at the top of your list, Milk Makeup Kush Mascara, £14.00 should be mixed into your cocktail. The combination of the cone wand and criss-cross bristles provides a fuller finish without looking clumpy. Nars Climax Mascara, £15.00 is also worth considering as you can apply layer after layer without it feeling heavy or crispy.

How To Cocktail Your Mascaras

First and foremost, whether you’re cocktailing your mascara or not, “To get the best use of your lashes, always prep them by curling midway and then at the root,” says makeup artist and winner of the BBC's Glow Up 2022, Yong Chin Breslin. We love Surratt Relevée Lash Curler, £32.00 as it curls without pinching lashes and lids.

Which order should you apply your cocktail? “Start with the mascara that has a thin wand with bristles varying in length as these catch every lash. Apply densely at the root and wiggle the wand forward to get a feathered effect,” says Yong Chin. “I then play around with the mascara that has a fuller or curved wand to add voluminous flutter.” The result? Longer, volumised lashes with a natural curl that lasts all day.