Mascara MASTERCLASS

Like a magic wand, use these tips and tricks to choose and apply your ticket to instant lash drama

- Beauty editor ANNA LEE

Mascara is the unsung hero of every beauty bag. Lipstick gets the glamour, foundation gets the credit, but mascara? It's the quiet power player that can transform your entire face in seconds. Yet despite being the most reached-for item in our make-up bags, mascara is also the one most of us apply on autopilot.

In the prep

Start with clean, dry lashes - any oil or skincare residue can compromise even the best formula. To instantly open your eyes, reach for a lash curler, creating the illusion of longer, lifted lashes. For maximum impact, warm your curler slightly (a few seconds with your hairdryer is enough), then press gently at the base of lashes, then release and repeat halfway up the lash for a soft, natural curve rather than a sharp bend.

Manicare Eyelash Curler with Comb, $17.99; MAC Stack Legit Lash Primer, $65