Cover image by Aleks via Unsplash
Mascara is a staple in most people’s beauty routine, but did you know that the season can affect how your mascara performs? The heat of summer and the cold of winter can change the way mascara behaves on your lashes, making it important to adjust your formula to match the weather. Here’s how to choose the right mascara for hot and cold seasons to keep your lashes looking flawless year-round.
Summer (Hot Weather)
In hot weather, you’re likely to sweat more, and there’s always a higher chance of humidity. This can cause mascara to smudge, run, or even flake. Here are some tips for choosing mascara during the warmer months
Best Mascara Formula for Hot Weather
- Waterproof Mascara
If you’re in a hot climate, waterproof mascara is your best bet. It’s designed to withstand sweat, humidity, and even tears, so it’ll stay put throughout the day, no matter how hot it gets.
Waterproof formulas are ideal for beach days, outdoor events, or any situation where you don’t want to worry about your mascara smudging or running.
- Smudge-Proof or Sweat-Proof Mascara
Look for smudge-proof or sweat-proof formulas, which are lightweight yet resistant to moisture. These mascaras can help prevent raccoon eyes without the heavy, hard-to-remove effect of waterproof formulas.
- Lightweight Formula
In the summer, you want to avoid heavy layers of mascara that can feel too thick or cakey in the heat. Choose a lightweight mascara that offers buildable volume or length without weighing down your lashes.
Mascara Tips for Summer
-
- Opt for a Curved Wand: A curved wand can help create volume and lift without needing too much product, which is great when you’re trying to avoid clumping in the summer heat.
- Avoid Over-Application: In hot weather, less is more. Stick to one or two coats to avoid the mascara running or clumping.
- Carry a Waterproof Makeup Remover: Waterproof mascara is tough to remove, so keep a waterproof makeup remover handy, especially when you’re on the go.
Winter (Cold Weather)
When the temperature drops, cold weather can cause your skin and lashes to become drier, making them more prone to flaking, breakage, or irritation. Winter also brings dry indoor air, which can affect how your mascara wears throughout the day.
Best Mascara Formula for Cold Weather
- Moisturizing Mascara
During winter, opt for mascaras that contain nourishing ingredients like vitamins, panthenol, or keratin to keep your lashes moisturized and protected from the cold. These will help keep your lashes soft and hydrated, reducing the chances of flaking.
- Flexible, Non-Drying Mascara
Choose a flexible, non-drying mascara that won’t crack or flake off throughout the day. A more flexible formula will move with your lashes and not dry out, making it ideal for the colder months when you need more flexibility.
- Volume or Lengthening Mascara
Winter lashes can sometimes feel thinner or sparse due to dryness or harsher conditions. Go for volume-building or lengthening mascara to add extra fullness and length to your lashes, which can help balance out the effect of the cold on your lash appearance.
Mascara Tips for Winter
- Avoid Waterproof Mascara: While waterproof mascara is great for hot weather, it can be drying in the winter. In the colder months, it’s better to stick to regular mascaras or formulas specifically designed to nourish your lashes.
- Apply in Thin Layers: In winter, avoid heavy layers of mascara, as the dryness of your lashes may make them more prone to breakage. Apply thin layers for a more natural look.
- Moisturize Your Lashes: Consider using a lash serum or oil treatment to hydrate your lashes before applying mascara, especially if you notice your lashes becoming brittle in the winter.
Conclusion
Switching up your mascara formula based on the season can help you maintain a flawless look, whether you’re sweating it out in the summer heat or battling the dry winter air. In the summer, waterproof or smudge-proof formulas will help keep your lashes looking great through heat and humidity. In winter, opt for moisturizing mascaras that keep your lashes hydrated and flexible to combat the drying effects of the cold. With the right formula for the season, you’ll be able to keep your lashes looking their best all year round.