Sarah Laidlaw, director of hair and makeup for Priceline, gives us the lowdown on lashes.
Q. Why are lashes so important to the overall eye appearance?
A. Lashes are what frame the eyes, making them appear larger and helping the eyes look lifted and more awake. Full lashes help make the eyes look larger, too, as the whites look whiter and the iris colour more pronounced. The fuller the lashes, the darker the lashes appear.
Q. What products do you recommend to encourage lash hair growth?
A. Lash growth serums are amazing. They get the most out of your lashes by supporting them during the growth phase and help them stay in the follicle for longer. L’Oreal Paris Lash Serum ($31.99) is a clinically proven gem. Freeze Frame Lash Prescription ($69) is another excellent product which encourages lash hair growth.
Q. Do lash conditioners work?
A. In a word, yes! Just like using conditioner on the hair on your head, lash conditioners add humectants and emollients to help soften and smooth lash hairs. They also help the lashes to withstand damage from curlers, lash dyes, lash lifts and makeup application and removal. The softening and conditioning add flexibility to the lash fibers, which helps defend against breakage. Try Cover Girl Lash Blast Lash and Brow Serum ($24.95) or Rimmel London Wonder Care Lash & Brow Serum ($26.95).
Q. What’s your go-to product to make lashes look thicker?
A. I love a lash-thickening mascara such as Maybelline the Falsies Surreal Extensions Washable Mascara in Blackest Black ($27.99) or Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara ($8). Both of these products contain ingredients that instantly make the lashes look thicker with no clumpiness.
Q. Is black the best shade for mascara?
A. While black mascara is the go-to shade for most of us, there are many ways to make coloured mascara work for you. If you are just wearing mascara and no other eye makeup then the best shade will depend on your eye colour and your skin tone. Brown works well for blondes and blue really makes the whites of your eyes pop. Try Natio Precision Tubing Mascara in Brown ($17.95) or Australis Mega Lash Mascara in Electric Blue ($14.95). When wearing a full eye look, I find black mascara helps frame the eyes and defines the lashes against the eye shadow and liner.
Q. How long should you keep your mascara once opened?
A. The rule of thumb for mascara is 3-6 months from opening. The main reason is that the environment of the mascara tube is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause eye irritations and infections. There is a small symbol on all mascaras called a PAO (period after opening) which tells you how long you can safely use the mascara for. If you live in a hot climate or carry mascara in your handbag regularly then you should stick closer to the 3 rather than the 6 months of use. Also, never let anyone else use your mascara as this also carries risk of infection.
Q. What’s your take on waterproof mascara?
A. I love it! Waterproof mascara is one of those irreplaceable makeup inventions. It’s great for events where you may get a little teary such as weddings and farewells. It’s also a good hack if you have hooded eyes and tend to get a lot of mascara transfer.
Q. Do you prefer the use of false eyelashes or lash extensions applied at a salon?
A. I really do not like lash extensions. I find that it is only a really skilled person who can apply them so they look really natural and flattering. I prefer a curated look with false lashes, which offer varieties to suit all eye shapes. Ardell Natural Lash in Style 172 ($12.99) is one of the best.
Q. Any tips on getting the perfect lash look?
A.This really depends on your eye shape, type of lashes and personal preferences on the eye look you prefer. Personally, my favourite look is a full curled frame for the eyes. I love heated eyelash curlers for the results they give. The one I recommend and use the most is the Touch Beauty Silicone Heat Eyelash Curler ($49.99) and I love a false lash for extra drama as well as a volumising mascara for a similar effect. CBM
