It’s like the good hair day effect: a single stroke of mascara can trigger a rush of confidence that lets you start the day with a little more pep. And yet that single stroke can Also lead to a nonstop onslaught of under-eye and facial smearing (not exactly the definition of a self-esteem boost).
I can attest to that. One particularly hot afternoon a few summers ago, I was partying at a well-attended (read: sweaty) outdoor party when a friend whispered to me that I had something under my eyes. Panic set in as I ran to the bathroom, looked in the mirror and saw that my mascara was smeared and smeared to panda levels—and not in a sweet way. Since then, I’ve been *extremely* careful with mascara – especially in summer, when sweating, rubbing my eyes, and the odd tear cause the color to smudge.
But after a recent conversation with celebrity makeup artist Brielle Pollara, I realized my stubborn use of low-quality sample-size mascaras might be the cause. Rather than living in a mascara-free anxiety-filled zone, Pollara had a recommendation: test out a variety of high-quality formulas and invest in one that can withstand all the elements. After some trial and error, I came to a verdict: Tartelette™ Tubing Mascara is a long-lasting formula that lives up to its reputation as a lash extension in a tube— and now through August 31, you can snag a three-piece set for just $40—just $13 more than the price of one.
Tarte Tubing Mascara Trio – $40.00
Originally $58, now $40 until August 31
- Smudge-proof tube formula
- Gives even the shortest eyelashes curl and lengthens them
- Easy to remove
- For the set you have to buy three mascaras
What makes this mascara different from the others I’ve tried? “Tubing mascara is a type of formula that coats each (lash) with polymer ‘tubes’ instead of pigments like traditional mascara. This makes it more resistant to wear, sweat, tears and more,” says Pollara. “The tubes around each lash typically last all day without dissolving.”
This type of mascara is especially great for people with shorter or straighter lashes, she says. That’s me—and Tartelette gives my lashes a decent amount of volume with just one coat (though I usually do two coats because I’m taking care of myself). Plus, it gives me a curl that I’d normally only dream of with an eyelash curler. Bonus: The formula wipes off incredibly easily with any regular eye makeup remover. Seriously, when you remove Tartelette mascara, it’s Strictly speaking gone – no more waking up with residue on your face or pillow.
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After using my lengthening, clump-free mascara all summer long, my habit of repeatedly running to the bathroom to check my makeup is a distant memory. (Huge thanks to my friend at the infamous party whose impetus set this whole journey in motion.)
Ultimately, your beauty routine is yours to decide. But if you find yourself pondering whether or not to wear mascara every morning, don’t let fear of smearing dictate your decision. Grab the tartelette trio while it’s on sale – and make the “good eyelash day” effect special all year round.
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