•Decide what you want out of your mascara. There is a mascara for just about any kind of lash enhancement--volumizing, lengthening, defining, faster growth, waterproof--plus many products that combine these effects. Take a look at your lashes and decide what sort of enhancement they need.
•Pick your shade. For the most part, black is the way to go. It gives the illusion of thickness and length and can really make your eyes pop. If your lashes are red or blonde, however, make brown your go-to shade, wearing light brown for everyday and a dark brown to amp up the drama.
•Invest in an eyelash curler, while you're at it.
•Remove the wand from the mascara tube by twisting back and forth instead of pumping it up and down.
•Wipe off excess mascara on a tissue or on the lip of the tube.
•Look up to lift your lashes. You should still be able to see yourself in the mirror out of your peripheral vision.
•Place the wand against the base of your lashes and wiggle it back and forth a little.
•Pull the wand out toward the tips of your lashes with a zig-zag motion, or another little wiggle.
•Don't neglect the lashes on the inner and outer part of your eyelid