Happy Friday! I’ve been a mascara junkie for several years now, even before I really dove into the world of beauty. Mascara can really add a lot to your face – it draws people to look at your eyes just by adding a bit of definition. But mascara has one big downfall that we all experience from time to time, and that is clumping! No one likes clumpy lashes, and it can be really frustrating when you are rushing to get ready in the morning and your lashes decide to clump together. Today I’m going to share five easy steps to clump free lashes with all of you so you can avoid the dreaded clump. These steps can be used together or separately to maximize your clump free success rate! 
1. Remove Leftover Mascara
First things first, make sure your lashes are clean before you attempt to layer on new mascara. This might sound silly, but mascara likes to stick with you even after removing makeup, washing your face, and taking a shower. We’ve all experienced the not-so-chic raccoon eye look after getting out of the shower! Leftover mascara can definitely contribute to clumpy lashes, so use an eye-makeup remover before doing your makeup to get rid of any residue. The Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover is an affordable remover that can be found at your local drugstore or on Amazon HERE. When you start with a clean base, you’re setting yourself up for clump free success!
2. Use an Eyelash Curler
I was never a fan of eyelash curlers because I have naturally curly lashes and thought a curler was an unnecessary tool for me. However, I got this pink eyelash curler to review from the brand Crave Naturals and fell in love with it. Not only does an eyelash curler curl your lashes, but it separates them. Your lashes will have a much more difficult time clumping together when they are separated. Don’t be afraid to break out a curler! It’s really not as scary as it looks! You can purchase my favorite curler online HERE and read my full review HERE.
3. Use a Lash Comb
4. Test, Test, Test!
This next tip is one of the most important, and it is all about finding the right mascara for you. I call it “Test, Test, Test!” because that it what you have to do. All of us have different eyelashes, and some mascaras will clump them up, while others will work perfectly. You need to find the perfect formula and perfect applicator for your lashes, and that’s where the testing comes in. Here at Adventures in Polishland I’m all about the fabulous and affordable. If you are having trouble finding the right mascara for you, I suggest going to the drugstore and buying whatever mascara is on sale that week and testing it out. Keep trying inexpensive mascaras until you find one that works for you. Everyone has different lashes, but here are my favorite drugstore mascaras: CoverGirl Super Sizer (pictured above), CoverGirl Clump Crusher, and L’Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes.
5. Get a New Mascara
My last tip is very straightforward – if your lashes are clumping up it might be time to get a new mascara. Mascara should only be used for about three months before tossing it and getting a new one (another reason to buy affordable mascaras at the drugstore!). I know I am guilty of using mascara WAY past its expiration date, but when my mascara gets clumpy I know for sure it’s been too long. If your beloved mascara has suddenly dried up, it’s time to restock!
That brings us to the end of this post! I hope you found these tips helpful. I would love to know what else you do to ensure your lashes remain clump free. Let me know your tips in the comments, and please share your all-time favorite mascara as well. I would love to test it out!
Some of the products in this post were provided for my unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links. All opinions are my own. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.