Get the 411 on the latest lash trend
Volume, lengthening, different colours and even glitter – there are so many players taking over the mascara world, all perfect for different looks. Our favourite right now? It’s got to be tubing mascara.
From the benefits to our top picks, read on to learn all about the mascara trend changing the lash game.
What is tubing mascara?
While normal mascara simply paints your lashes with pigment, tubing mascara coats your lashes in tiny polymers. Your lashes get covered in a ‘tube’ of pigment, making them appear longer and slightly thicker.
What makes it different to regular mascara?
Because of these polymers, tubing mascara also has better lasting power compared to regular mascara. Gone are the days of mascara flaking away or smudging, making this a perfect option if you’re prone to watery eyes or your mascara smearing throughout the day.
And that’s not all – tubing mascara is not only less likely to flake and smudge, it’s also a breeze to remove. Simply add water, gently rub and voilà! Your mascara will start to melt away from your lashes.
Is tubing mascara better than regular mascara?
Neither are better for your lashes, but you might prefer tubing mascaras for a few reasons:
- Their easy removal is fab for sensitive eyes
- The formulas don’t smudge, making them great for oily skin
- You may simply just love a lengthening mascara!
Tubing mascaras aren’t as dramatic as traditional volume ones, but you can create a voluminous effect by adding an extra layer after the first layer has dried. Or, start off with a lash primer to give your lashes some extra thickness.
Is tubing mascara waterproof?
Because of the polymer technology, tubing mascaras are less likely to smudge if water, sweat or tears get on them compared to regular mascara – but, of course, you may see some mascara smudges if you’re watching a particularly emotional rom-com.
Tubing mascara is smudge proof, but not waterproof. But, if you avoid rubbing your eyes, you might be able to avoid mascara coming off.
Tubing mascaras essentially ‘melt’ off in water, so if you need something to help with this, you may need a waterproof mascara.
How can you tell a mascara is tubing?
It might not always be in the name – so if you’re on the hunt for a tubing mascara, you can also double check the ingredients.
Ingredients like polyvinylpyrrolidone, propanediol, 10 dimethicone, polysilicon-11, cera alba or glyceryl stearate can all be signs that the mascara is tubing.
(Or, you could take a peek at our top tubing mascaras below!)
Our top picks for the best tubing mascaras
Whether you’re a fan of wispy length or dramatic volume, there’s a tubing mascara brand for you that’ll create a gorgeous fluttery effect.
Best for: Life-proof lashes
Try: No7 Stay Perfect Long-Wear Tubing Mascara
• Size: 7ml
• Available in both black and brown
Dubbed as ‘life-proof,’ this tubing mascara from No7 is your number one defence against dreaded panda eyes. With a short, flexible brush, this mascara is easy to use, even on the go – plus, it’s fab for creating a lovely lash look with an even lovelier removal process.
Best for: Dramatic doll eyes
Try: KVD Beauty Full Sleeve Long & Defined Tubing Mascara
• Size: 11ml
• Available in black
KVD’s iconic 24H Tattoo pigment transforms into an ultra-lengthening and lifting mascara with long-lasting, dramatic results. The fine bristles make it easy to apply to each individual lash while avoiding any clumps.
Fan of this one? Why not take the formula with you on-the-go using the 5.5ml mini?
Best for: Va-va-voom volume
Try: KVD Beauty Full Sleeve Long & Defined Tubing Mascara
• Size: 12ml
• Available in black
Enriched with sunflower seed wax and shea butter, this formula is gentle on the lashes but big on the volume. Simply wiggle the wand from root to tip, and you’re left with a fabulous long-wear look. Plus, this pairs perfectly with their velvety-smooth eyeshadows!
How do you apply tubing mascara?
You can simply comb and wiggle the mascara wand from root to tip – but, like with regular mascara, there’s some mascara application hacks you can try out to achieve certain looks.
Our tips:
• Want extra volume? Use the end of the mascara brush to coat the lashes in a thicker layer of formula, then comb from root to tip as usual for thicker-looking lashes
• Before applying mascara, carefully use an eyelash curler to create a more lifted effect
• You’ve heard about primers for your base, but what about primer for your lashes? Take your lash look even further with our selection of eyelash and mascara primers
No matter what lash look’s your fave, you can be sure to find the perfect mascara for you at Boots. Amp up your look with expert advice from make-up mogul Huda Kattan or, discover the latest beauty buys trending on socials – perfect for a little treat-me moment!
