Waterproof mascara: because happy tears deserve respect, too!

Let us be clear: tears are not a flaw to hide. They are one of the loveliest ways of showing that something has touched our hearts. But if we are going to get emotional in the front row, we might prefer not to end up with black streaks down to our chin. Here is what helps.

Waterproof or water resistant?

They are not the same, however similar the labels may look.

• Waterproof formulas are designed to resist water and tears, but performance varies. For the beach or pool, check the manufacturer's directions: no mascara offers unlimited resistance.

• Water resistant means resistance to more limited exposure. “Long wear” refers to duration, and does not automatically mean waterproof. Check the packaging and how easily the product comes off.

Choosing your mascara

• Brush and formula work together. A slim brush with short bristles helps reach little lashes in the corners; a bigger, fuller brush may add volume. Start with a small amount: everyone's lashes are different.

• Curved or straight? A curved brush helps curl lashes; a straight brush can lengthen and separate them.

• Colour matters. Black is the most intense. Brown looks softer, whether your hair is blonde, red or white, or you simply prefer a more natural finish.

• Sensitive eyes or contact lenses? Choose products intended for the eye area and follow the directions. “Ophthalmologically tested” does not guarantee no irritation. Stop using a product that bothers you; if irritation persists, see a doctor.

Applying it without clumps

• Start with clean, dry lashes. Waterproof mascara does not adhere well over cream or makeup remover.

• Curl before applying mascara, never afterwards: curling coated lashes can break them.

• Do not pump the brush in and out of the tube. That introduces air and dries the formula. Twist it instead.

• Work from roots to tips with a zigzag motion. Concentrate at the base and ease off towards the ends.

• For lower lashes, hold the brush vertically and use the tip with very little product. These tend to smudge first.

• One coat, two at most. Waterproof mascara dries quickly: waiting too long between coats can cause clumps.

The most important part: taking it off

Your lashes need care here. Water and soap will not remove waterproof mascara properly, and rubbing is a quick way to lose a few lashes.

• Use a two-phase eye makeup remover, shaken first, or a cleansing oil labelled for the eye area. Follow the product instructions.

• Rest a soaked pad on your closed eye for the indicated time, letting the mascara dissolve without rubbing.

• Gently wipe downwards, without scrubbing.

• Repeat with a clean pad until no colour remains.

• Then cleanse your face as usual.

Three mistakes to avoid

• Sleeping in makeup. It happens, we know. But leaving mascara on overnight can weigh down lashes and irritate your eyes.

• Rubbing it off. If removal takes force, try a different remover or formula. For everyday use, choose mascara you can remove gently.

• Keeping it too long. Mascara has a short life: around three months is a cautious rule, while respecting any shorter period on the packaging. Throw it away if it changes smell or dries out; do not add water. Do not share it. With an eye infection, stop using makeup and discard cosmetics used during the infection.