The 3 Truths About Waterproof Mascaras Exposed
When you enter a beauty store's mascara aisle, you always have a choice: waterproof mascara or ordinary mascara. It's common for a manufacturer to provide one mascara in both varieties; logically, waterproofing may appear to be the superior option. But only after much investigation. I've opted to forego waterproof mascara entirely. Yes, it's OK for special events, such as happy tears at a wedding or doing an underwater picture session.
However, using it daily might cause dry, brittle eyelashes that are more prone to falling out (lash breakage is a real thing). Ahead, you will read about the three most important truths which will make you reconsider your makeup choices when it comes to waterproof mascaras. But first, for the beginners in makeup, let us start from the basics.
History of Mascaras
Kohl was first used to darken the lashes and eyelids in 4000 BC. Kohl was created by grinding stibnite and was used to conceal one's eyes. It was thought to fend off evil spirits and guard the soul. It was utilized by men and women alike. Victorian women used to manufacture their mascara by heating a combination of ashes or lampblack and elderberry juice and applying it to their lashes. The notion of mascara did not emerge until the nineteenth century.
Eugene Rimmel, a chemist, created a cosmetic utilizing petroleum jelly, which had just been synthesized at the time. Approximately at the same period, Thomas Lyle Williams made a comparable invention for his sister Maybel in 1915. In 1917, he began with the product that we now know as the brand Maybelline.
What do mascaras do?
Mascaras are often used to lengthen and thicken lashes. It promotes the growth of thicker, darker, and more defined eyelashes. Mascara comes in liquid, cream, and cake varieties. However, the basic formula stays the same.
What are waterproof mascaras?
Waterproof mascara simply means a type of mascara that does not easily wash away with water. Carbon black or iron oxide are pigments used in mascara to darken the lashes, a polymer that covers the lashes, and oils or waxes to thicken the mascara. Oils such as lanolin oil, mineral, paraffin, petrolatum, castor, or carnauba wax, are used.
Aside from these essential elements, waterproof mascaras contain different chemicals. Dimethicone copolyol is a form of silicone that provides a silky and smooth finish to the product. It repels water and is frequently used in shampoos and conditioners to help preserve a lustrous look. It is also used in mascara for the same purpose. Water does not react with it, allowing the mascara to remain smudge-free. If you're still a fan of waterproof mascara's lasting ability, here's what you need to know.
1. Waterproof mascara can cause lash drying
Waterproof mascara is made more resistant to sweat, tears, and water by using waxes and silicones. When you compare two bottles of mascara—one ordinary and one waterproof—you'll discover that the latter has a few more components that aren't good for your lashes, such as isododecane and cyclopentasiloxane.
“The components used to make the solution waterproof can have the effect of drying out lashes, leading to them falling out," Dr. Dendy Engelman says (dermatologist at Manhattan Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery). Consider it similar to long-lasting lipstick. It lasts forever, yet it leaves your lips cracked and dried. The same holds true for waterproof mascara.
2. There are two methods for removing waterproof mascara
As a waterproof mascara is meant to persist, removing it might do more harm to the lash than conventional mascara. Getting waterproof formulations off takes many steps and a lot of rubbing. I usually begin with a makeup-removing wipe. Then, I go over my eyes again using a cotton pad and a specific eye makeup remover product. I still wind up with smeared towels at the end of the day (ugh!).
It is critical to use an oil-based makeup remover before applying waterproof mascara. Use a cleaning oil, such as Vichy Pureté Thermale Cleansing Micellar Oil ($18), or a bi-phase makeup remover, such as Lancome Bi-Facil ($30). Allow around 15 seconds for the oil to break down the water-resistant components. To eliminate any lingering greasy residue, use a moderate facial cleanser.
3. Remove your waterproof mascara before going to bed
“Because waterproof mascara is harder to remove at the end of the night," adds Dr. Engelman. "Sleeping with mascara on can cause lashes to fall out.” Even if your lashes don't entirely fall out, they can break. As you toss and turn at night, stiff mascara-coated hairs can become twisted and broken. And, for the record, eyelash serums aren't particularly effective. So, it's best to start with your lashes intact.
Why is it difficult to remove waterproof mascaras?
Waterproof mascara is notoriously difficult to remove. Because it is built to be waterproof, it is exceedingly tough to disassemble once you wish to remove it. Sure, many manufacturers may claim that their mascara is waterproof yet readily removed with eye makeup remover when necessary. But have you ever experienced this?
Whether you use the most exemplary eye makeup remover, the famous brand waterproof mascara is tough to remove. There will always be remnants of it on your lashes. If it's complicated to remove, it might take up to a day. It isn't helping your lashes at all. In severe circumstances, if the mascara isn't completely removed, it might lead to eye infections.
So, what is the solution?
There are several considerably better choices. They're gentler on your lashes and the skin surrounding your eyes. And they still perform the same function as waterproof mascara.
Water-resistant Mascaras
They have less harsh components yet perform just as well as waterproof mascara. Both forms of mascara are designed to be water-resistant. As a result, water-resistant mascara is also resistant to sweat, tears, and everyday moisture.
It protects against perspiration in the summer, while working out at the gym, or if your eyes tend to moisten or tear up often during the day. It's also kinder to the eyes because it's simpler to remove than waterproof mascara. Furthermore, it will not harm or cause your eyelashes to become brittle or damaged. As a result, it is appropriate for everyday use.
The most significant difference between these two is the amount of wetness they can resist. It is not resistant to a day of swimming in a pool or the sea. However, this is only a concern if your face will be immersed in water the whole time, for instance, during swimming. So, water-resistant mascara will suffice unless you're going swimming or plan on immersing your face in water frequently throughout the day.
Water Resistant Natural and Organic Mascara
Here are some excellent healthy beauty alternatives that are softer and safer for your eyes and health.
- The Ere Perez Almond Oil Mascara is waterproof and resistant to tears, sweat, and ordinary moisture. It also only contains natural substances that are excellent for your eyelashes and will not harm them. It's also vegan-friendly.
- Jane Iredale Pure Lash Mineral Mascara is another of my favorite natural water-resistant mascaras. Again, only nutritional elements are used to care for your lashes. Despite this, it still protects against moisture and is simple to remove. It's also vegan-friendly. It contains wheat and hence is not gluten-free.
Tips for removing waterproof mascara
There are two methods for removing waterproof mascara.
Using commercial products
- Use hypoallergenic products even if you do not have sensitive skin; they are less damaging.
- To remove waterproof makeup, use an oil-based makeup cleaner.
- Pour a generous quantity of cleanser onto a cotton ball or pad. Close your eyes and place the cotton pad/ball on them.
Note: Gently rub the cotton pad on your eyelids and let it soak in.
After a few seconds, gently glide the cotton pad/balls downwards toward the lashes' tips. If necessary, continue the operation until the whole product has been removed.
By using natural products
There are a few natural items that will help you simply remove sticky mascara. Here's a list to get you started:
Olive Oil:
- Take three to four drops of olive oil, apply them to your eyes, and massage them together.
- Gently massage your eyelids.
- Do not rub your eyes.
- Wipe the oil away with a cotton ball or pad.
Coconut oil: Take a small quantity of coconut oil on a cotton pad and dab it on your eyelids for 10-20 seconds. Gently wipe it down.
Almond Oil: For this oil, use one of the above methods. Since of its thin consistency, it can be used in various ways.
After wiping away the product:
- Use a q-tip to take off the mascara from the foundation.
- Wash your face with lukewarm water.
- Apply moisturizer, and you're done!
Conclusion
If I were to select a favorite item from my beauty kit, it would undoubtedly be mascara. Unfortunately, there is such a thing as too much mascara. The famous brand waterproof mascara components are far more potent and harsher than those in ordinary mascara. These substances harm your eyelashes, causing them to become very dry and brittle. This causes fallout and the loss of some of your lovely eyelashes. Waterproof mascara is notoriously difficult to remove. Because it is built to be waterproof, it is exceedingly tough to disassemble once you wish to remove it.
Fortunately, Womenwire.com has you covered. Use mascara sparingly and follow these waterproof removal methods to maintain healthy fluttering lashes for the rest of your life!