Le Volume De Chanel (plus 5 tips to make the most of your mascara)

Source

In all my years as a beauty editor, I've tried just about every mascara on shelf, but was never 100% happy with any specific formulation... until I tried Le Volume De Chanel for the first time earlier this year. Apart from the coveted 'Chanel' branding that appears on the nondescript black tube, there's no telling just how miraculous this lash-lengthening formulation really is - until you've tried it.

This mascara not only lengthens your lashes, it also thickens each individual lash after just one coat, and without any unsightly clumps at that. I'm particularly smitten with the exclusive 'snowflakes' wand, which combines both long and short bristles to deliver a gorgeous, wide-eyed look. This mascara has fast become one of my most reached for items in my makeup bag, and I'd even go as far as adding it to my desert island must-have list (think: sunscreen. Lip balm. Le Volume De Chanel). For my tips on how to make the most of your mascara, read on...

Curl your lashes

Sure, mascara will lengthen and define your lashes, but an eyelash curler is indispensable if you're after va-va-voom lift and curl. Always curl your lashes before applying your mascara, as you risk breaking your lashes if you curl them once you've applied mascara.

Don't forget to condition your lashes
Most women I know wouldn't think twice about conditioning their hair after every wash, yet not many women actually bother (or think about) treating their lashes to the same care. And there's no need to invest in super-pricey lash products either - simply apply a little vaseline to your lashes before going to bed and you'll notice that your lashes will look longer and more luscious in no time. Seriously - try it!

If it's 3 months old (or older!), toss it! 
Mascara expires after 3 months, so there really is no reason to hang onto your old mascaras. After 3 months, bacteria starts to grow in the tube, and this could lead to red, itchy eyes or even a nasty infection.

DON'T 'pump' your mascara
If you really want your expensive tube of mascara to last, refrain from pumping the mascara wand in and out of the tube if you can help it. This only pushes more air into the tube, which dries out the product and could also lead to clumping.

Ensure that you're applying your mascara properly
If you're guilty of a quick 'swipe and go' in the mornings, you might want to slow down a bit and take a minute or two to apply your mascara properly for best results. Try this tip I've learnt from many makeup artists behind-the-scenes at beauty shoots:

1. Hold your wand on top of your lashes at the base, then swipe downwards to coat the top of your lashes.
2. Next, hold the wand on the under side of your lashes, right at the base, and gently 'wiggle' the wand upwards.

This little trick really helps to lengthen and define your lashes, while opening up your eyes. Try it - it really works, and you rarely need a second coat of mascara.