How to Buy Mascara

From LoveToKnow Buy

Buying mascara is an easy process, but there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure you get the best kind for you. Why do you even need it? Mascara is an absolute makeup essential for the eyes. It can easily be worn on its own, or with additional makeup products for a more striking, dramatic effect. Read the advice below before making a decision on mascara.

Mascara Buying Tips

It is not a good idea to test mascara in the store. Not only can it be messy, but it is not wise to use an eye makeup applicator that has been shared by others. By all means, take a look at the tester to get an idea of the color, consistency and type of applicator, however. If you’re unsure of what mascara is right for you, consult a salesperson for advice.
What color mascara should you buy? Look to your hair color for guidance. Black mascara works best on brunettes, while brown mascara is recommended for blondes or those with lighter-colored hair.
Make a decision about whether or not you want waterproof or water-soluble mascara. Needless to say, waterproof mascara works well for women who are in the water (swimmers, those who work outdoors in snow or rain) and also for when you perspire a lot, such as during a workout. Water-soluble mascara is what most women wear for "everyday". It’s very easy to take off without makeup remover.
You may need to experiment to find the right formula for your needs. Many women find that the drugstore brands are sufficient for their needs; of course all of the department store cosmetic lines have mascara as well.
You should figure out which kind of mascara brush you like. Curved brushes work best for most women; they allow you to coat more lashes at once. There are also straight brushes, which are great for getting to corner lashes.
Hold on to your receipt when you buy mascara. When you open the package, make sure it’s not dried out or clumpy. If it is, return to the store to exchange it.
If the mascara you purchase begins to irritate your eyes, discontinue using it right away.

Replace Mascara Frequently

You should always replace your mascara every three months. Mascara begins to dry out if it is kept any longer. Also, if you have been ill with a virus or eye infection, you may want to replace your mascara sooner

Best Places to Buy Mascara Online

You'll find plenty of great places online to shop for mascara. Here are just a few:

Drugstore.com has an amazing selection of mascara from some of the biggest names in the beauty business, including Cover Girl, Revlon, L’Oreal and Maybelline. Create a shopping account and begin making purchases!

One of the leading purveyors of high-quality beauty products, MAC Cosmetics allows visitors to its official site to make purchases from its great selection of mascaras. Different shades are available for most profiled mascaras.

Walgreens allows makeup lovers to shop online for mascara from such popular cosmetics companies as Almay, Uptown Visions, Max Factor, Milani and Revlon. You can sort the mascara section by price or brand.