What Is Volume Mascara?

Volume mascara, also known as thickening mascara, is an eye cosmetic designed to create the appearance of thick and full eyelashes. Many people wear this type of mascara because they have relatively skimpy eyelashes that need mascara in order to be more obvious. Other reasons for wearing such a product include the desire to create a look in which the eyes are the focal point of the face. In many cases, the formula of a volume mascara is developed to build lash thickness. A volume mascara may also have a specially designed brush that applies a significant amount of product to each lash in order to maximize thickness.

Mascara is a type of eye makeup designed to darken, lengthen, and thicken the eyelashes. Thick, long, and dark eyelashes frame the eyes and can enhance a person's appearance significantly. Many people also use eyeliner or eyeshadow placed near the lash line to further enhance the appearance of their eyelashes. There are several different types of mascaras on the market, including mascaras in various colors and those that are designed to make lashes appear longer than they actually are. For individuals who have eyelashes that are relatively long but that are somewhat sparse, volume mascara may be the ideal product.

Different cosmetics manufacturers may use varying formulas in the production of their volume mascara and may also use different brush styles. The brush is often a very important component of the effectiveness of any mascara, as its design will affect the way the cosmetic is deposited onto eyelashes. While many companies favor large, fluffy brushes for their volume mascara, some individuals find these brushes difficult to use. As a result, while eyelashes may indeed look fuller after the use of volume mascara, if the cosmetic is not skillfully applied, the effect may be unnatural or overdone.

When selecting any eye cosmetic, it is important for users to be aware of the potential for eye irritation. Those who wear contact lenses or who have very sensitive eyes may wish to be careful about choosing a mascara that contains fibers to assist with thickening or lengthening lashes. Unfortunately, fibers can sometimes create irritation in the eye or become trapped under contact lenses, which can create significant discomfort for their wearer. Individuals who have these concerns may wish to choose a more basic formula and simply apply it in multiple coats in order to create the look of thick eyelashes.