Montana Cox for David Jones store

One of the most asked questions I get as a professional makeup artist is “whats your favourite Mascara”.  Finding the perfect mascara is almost as hard as finding the perfect man! We demand a lot from both! 😉 Lash wise – we want smudge-proof, thickening, lengthening, defining, curling, plumping & the list goes on, then you also have the choice of waterproof v’s non-waterproof.

So here are my Top 5 Mascaras

5 – Lancôme ‘Hypnôse’ – Custom Volume Mascara

This is such an old favourite of mine, great for every day! The slim brush head makes it easy to apply, perfect for smaller or deep-set eyes. Coating each lash individually without clumping! I recommend 2-3 coats of this mascara, resulting in beautiful well defined natural lashes. ($52) Perfect for everyday wear.

4 – Yves Saint Laurent ‘Mascara Volume Effect Faux Cils’ (False lash effect)

If you like full, high intensity lashes, then this is the mascara for you, the formula is thick enriched with vitamin b5, plumping the lash, defining and curling as you go. If you want a softer look avoid doing too many coats, as it does build up quickly. Perfect Mascara for an evening or party look, and essential to have in your kit if you’re a makeup artist. Great for short lashes too! i do find this mascara can dry out quickly however – always make sure that you seal it closed. $55

3 – Maybelline ‘Great Lash’ Mascara

If you weren’t born with it either, then you should defiantly try one of Maybelline’s original products. ‘Great lash’ has a flexible brush, allowing you to get right down to the root, curling and lengthening with a really intense black pigment. 1 coat is enough for a natural look, 2-3 for a more dramatic look. Your wallet will also thank you, as you can pick one up for around $16! this is also a great 1st mascara for teenage girls.

Elle Magazine shot by Margaret Zhang, HMU by me

2 – Diorshow ‘Iconic OverCurl’

For me, this is the McDaddy of all mascara’s; the beautiful curve of the wand hugs the entire lash in one big swoop, lifting & curling as you go. It gives perfect lash separation, building up layers without clumping. Resulting in lush – perfectly defined, full lashes; it’s also flake free but not entirely smudge proof for my eyes, by the end of the day, i noticed some transfer. but i do I love  this mascara! so quick and effortless too – who doesn’t want that! $52

1 – Keyvn Aucoin Curling Mascara

My ultimate current favourite Mascara is the Keyvn Aucoin Curling Mascara, this is 100% flake free, smudge proof, ZERO transfer. it has a latex formula and it what we call in the indusrty “tubular” for those not in the know. I do have to go in and get a few coats on before it has time to set, it doesn’t give me the the same thickness as say the Dior ‘Overcurl’ or the ‘Two faced ‘Better than Sex Mascara’ (which i also used to love, but they changed the formula on me). But i will take completely smudge proof over volume any day, and washes off completely – so no panda eyes the next day! This is also the best mascara for Bridal Makeup.

What’s your favourite mascara?

SMA xx

Hair & Makeup // Nicola Johnson