One of the features that stands out most on a woman’s face, and is sure to be a source of envy for other women, is her eyelashes. Long, curly and lustrous lashes can be hypnotizing but, unfortunately, mother nature distributes them sparingly.
Women who weren’t blessed in the eyelash department still have options, however, thanks to the art and beauty of cosmetic products, which come at a cost -- and I’m not referring to their retail price. Buyers beware.
Eyelash Curlers are the most “natural” way to enhance your lashes, but although no chemicals are involved they do have their risks. To get the best results when curling you must get as close to the eyelids as possible. Be sure to avoid grabbing hold of your lids because you can irritate or hurt your eyes. Even after you’ve maneuvered accordingly, you must still be careful not to tug while your lashes are in the curler because that can cost you some of those valuable lashes.
M.A.C Cosmetics claims their Full Lash Curler is “Designed to curve gently round the lash line. Works with a simple ‘squeeze and release’ motion! Totally tearproof!”
Curl at your own risk.
Heated eyelash curlers are innovative heated eyelash curlers, according to Sephora’s website. They are warranted when regular eyelash curlers are ineffective or for bolder results. These battery operated devices, are generally more expensive than traditional curlers and claim to create longer-lasting curls.
Mascara is a relatively inexpensive way of making lashes pop. Tubes are sold nearly everywhere and easy to apply but its use can also easily attract bacteria. A pilot study conducted by the Journal of the American Optometric Association found the growth of microbial organisms -- such as fungi -- in 36.4 percent of its subject tubes. It recommends “a maximum 3-month use of mascara tubes used on a daily basis.”
Though application is virtually effortless, mascara can just as quickly give itself, and your secret, away if it gets comes in contact with tears or water. To avoid the unattractive raccoon eyes caused opt for a water-proof mascara. Waterproof mascara also claims to stay on longer, and through more conditions so go for a swim, walk in the rain, or let your emotions go free fearlessly.
These are just some of the less-invasive tools and products to give your lashes some support. For more enhanced, permanent results beware of the consequent increase in cost and risk. Determining which method is right for you entails making a choice that you are comfortable with. Things to evaluate are safety, price and your risk, discomfort and pain tolerance. Pay attention to ingredients used in mascaras and any allergies or sensitivities that you might have to them.
Your eyes will thank you with an instinctive batting of your lashes!
Sources:
1. M.A.C Cosmetics. Maccosmetics.com. Web. September 14, 2011.
http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/135/370/Full-Lash-Curler/index.tmpl
2. Sephora. Sephora.com. Web. September 14, 2011.
http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P20039
3. Journal of the American Optometric Association. Optometryjaoa.com. Web. September 14, 2011.
http://www.optometryjaoa.com/article/PIIS1529183908003795/fulltext
Edited by Jody Smith