Mascara is a makeup essential for most women, and a dried-out tube can be a frustrating experience. It’s tempting to throw it away and buy a new one, but why waste money when you can revive it?
In this article, we will go through the steps to fix dry mascara and restore it to its former glory.
Contents
What Causes Mascara to Dry Out?
Before we jump into the solution, let’s first understand what causes mascara to dry out. Mascara has a shelf life of three to six months, and after that, it can start to dry out. However, there are other reasons why your mascara may dry out prematurely.
Exposure to Air
Exposure to air is one of the most common reasons why mascara dries out. When you open the tube and expose it to air, the liquid inside starts to dry out.
Pumping the Wand
Pumping the wand into the tube repeatedly can introduce air into the tube, causing the mascara to dry out faster.
Leaving the Wand in the Tube
Leaving the wand in the tube can cause the mascara to dry out as well. When the wand is in the tube, it can introduce air and bacteria into the tube, which can cause the mascara to dry out faster.
How to Fix Dry Mascara
Now that we know the reasons why mascara dries out, let’s look at how to fix it. There are several ways to revive dry mascara, and we will go through them step by step.
Step 1: Add Eye Drops
One of the easiest ways to fix dry mascara is to add a few drops of saline solution or eye drops into the tube. This will help to thin out the mascara and make it easier to apply.
Step 2: Warm It Up
Another way to fix dry mascara is to warm it up. You can do this by placing the closed tube of mascara in a glass of warm water for a few minutes. This will help to loosen up the mascara and make it easier to apply.
Step 3: Use a Mascara Primer
Using a mascara primer can help to revive dry mascara. Apply the primer to your lashes before applying mascara. The primer will help to hydrate your lashes and provide a smooth base for the mascara to adhere to.
Step 4: Use a Makeup Setting Spray
Another way to fix dry mascara is to use a makeup setting spray. Spray the setting spray onto your lashes after applying mascara. This will help to hydrate your lashes and set the mascara in place.
Step 5: Add Vaseline
If your mascara is extremely dry, you can add a small amount of Vaseline to the tube. This will help to moisturize the mascara and make it easier to apply.
Tips to Prevent Mascara from Drying Out
Prevention is always better than cure, and the same goes for mascara. Here are some tips to prevent your mascara from drying out:
Store It Properly
Store your mascara in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help to prevent it from drying out.
Don’t Pump the Wand
Avoid pumping the wand into the tube repeatedly as this can introduce air into the tube, causing the mascara to dry out faster.
Replace It Regularly
Replace your mascara every three to six months to ensure that it is fresh and not dried out.
Conclusion
Fixing dry mascara is easy and can save you money in the long run. By following these simple steps, you can revive your mascara and have it looking as good as new. Remember to take preventive measures to ensure that your mascara lasts longer.
FAQs
Can I add water?
Adding water to your mascara is not recommended as it can introduce bacteria into the tube, causing it to spoil faster. Instead, use saline solution or eye drops to thin out the mascara.
How often should I replace my mascara?
Mascara should be replaced every three to six months, depending on how frequently you use it. Using old mascara can cause eye infections and irritation.
Can I use olive oil to fix dry mascara?
While olive oil can moisturize your lashes, it is not recommended to use it to fix dry mascara. Adding oil to the tube can cause it to spoil faster and can also affect the formula of the mascara.
Can I fix clumpy mascara?
Yes, you can fix clumpy mascara by adding a few drops of saline solution or eye drops into the tube and shaking it well. This will help to thin out the mascara and remove clumps.
How can I tell if my mascara has dried out?
If your mascara is clumpy, difficult to apply, or has a dry texture, it may have dried out. If you’re unsure, it’s best to replace it to prevent any potential eye infections or irritation.
