Myths about mascara – what's true and what's not?
Mascara is part of many women's daily make-up routine, but there are numerous myths surrounding this popular beauty product. Does mascara make eyelashes heavy? Does it cause eyelashes to break off or does it even increase hair loss? Many of these myths could have been passed down from older generations, like a grandma. In this blog, we clear up the most common misconceptions and clarify what's really behind these myths. Discover the truth about mascara and learn how to properly care for your lashes without having to give up your favorite look!
Key Takeaways
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Mascara itself does not damage the lashes, but incorrect removal and care can cause damage.
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Waterproof mascara can have a drying effect, but gentle make-up removal methods can help prevent damage.
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Mascara does not actually lengthen lashes, it only creates an optical effect of length and volume.
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A common beauty myth is that frequent brushing makes hair grow faster, but growth is actually determined by the root.
Definition of beauty myths
Beauty myths are common misconceptions and misunderstandings in the beauty industry, often caused by a lack of information or false assumptions. These myths can relate to various aspects of beauty care, such as skin, hair and eyes. A typical example is the belief that frequent brushing of hair makes it grow faster - a myth that is passed down from generation to generation without any scientific basis. Such myths can lead to misinformation and wrong decisions when it comes to the care and well-being of the skin, hair and eyes. It is therefore important to be well informed and to critically question what you hear or read.
Why are beauty myths dangerous?
Beauty myths can be dangerous because they can lead to wrong decisions that affect the health and well-being of the skin, hair and eyes. For example, the common myth that mascara makes eyelashes brittle can lead people to avoid using mascara. In reality, mascara has no negative effects on eyelashes if it is applied and removed correctly. Another example is the belief that you can get rid of spots by washing your skin frequently, which can actually dry out the skin and make the situation worse. Such myths can not only lead to unnecessary worry, but can also damage the skin, hair and eyes.
Does mascara break eyelashes?

Many of us have heard at some point that mascara breaks eyelashes. But is there really anything to it? The myth that mascara damages eyelashes is widespread, but the truth is a little more complex. Mascara itself does not cause eyelashes to break. Rather, other factors such as rough make-up removal or the use of unsuitable cosmetics can cause damage to the eyelashes.
One point that is often overlooked is the proper care of the eyelashes. Many people forget that eyelashes also need care products, similar to our hair and in the right color. Similar to hair, proper brushing strokes can help maintain lash health by distributing the natural oils and detangling the lashes.
Here are some tips for lash care:
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Use moisturizing oils and serums to keep lashes healthy and prevent breakage.
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Give your lashes a regular break from mascara to avoid dryness and brittleness.
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Gently cleanse your lashes to remove any make-up residue.
A gentle make-up removal ritual, especially with waterproof mascara, is essential to avoid damaging the delicate lashes. Aggressive rubbing or the use of harsh cleansers can cause lashes to be pulled out or weakened, reinforcing the myth that mascara causes lashes to break.
Finally, it is important to understand that lashes are subject to a natural growth cycle. They fall out after a certain period of time and are replaced by new ones. This natural process can be mistakenly associated with the use of mascara, although there is no direct link.
❌ Myth
"Mascara causes eyelashes to break."
Many believe that the use of mascara leads directly to eyelash breakage.
✅ Fact
"Mascara itself does not break the eyelashes."
The actual reason for eyelash breakage often lies in improper make-up removal or the use of aggressive products. With the right care, your lashes will stay intact!
💡 Care tips
- 🧴 Use moisturizing oils and serums.
- ⏸️ Take regular breaks from mascara.
- 🧼 Gently remove make-up without rubbing vigorously.
Is waterproof mascara bad for lashes?
Waterproof mascara is a blessing for many women, especially on special occasions or in high humidity. But there are concerns that it could be bad for lashes. The main difference between waterproof mascara and normal mascara lies in the ingredients. Waterproof mascara contains less water and more water-insoluble substances, which can cause lashes to dry out .
These drying substances mean that using waterproof mascara can increase the risk of eyelash breakage, especially if it is used frequently. But the mascara itself is not the problem - it's the methods we use to remove it. The intense rubbing and use of harsh cleansers can irritate the delicate skin around the eyes and damage the lashes.
Despite these risks, waterproof mascara also has its benefits. It is particularly useful for occasions where longevity is important, such as weddings or sporting events. To minimize the disadvantages, it is advisable to use special, gentle make-up removal products and to care for the eyelashes after application. A good piece of advice is to care for your eyelashes after use.
❌ Myth
"Waterproof mascara is bad for your eyelashes."
Many people believe that waterproof mascara dries out your eyelashes and makes them brittle.
✅ Fact
"Waterproof mascara tends to dry out the lashes, but the real danger lies in removing it."
The mascara itself is not the problem. Aggressive removal with the wrong cleaning products can damage the lashes.
💡 Care tips
- 🧴 Use gentle, oil-free make-up removal products.
- 💧 Care for your lashes after wearing them, e.g. with lash serums.
- ⏸️ Only wear waterproof mascara on special occasions to minimize the risk of it drying out.
Does mascara really lengthen eyelashes?

One of the biggest expectations of mascara is that it will lengthen eyelashes. But can mascara really promote eyelash growth? The answer is no. Mascara cannot actually lengthen the lashes, but it can create an optical effect that makes the lashes appear longer and more voluminous.
This effect is achieved by the mascara coating and thickening each lash, which creates a fuller look. The effectiveness of mascara depends heavily on the texture and shape of the brush. A good mascara should apply evenly and provide a robust finish that does not damage the lashes.
Many modern mascaras are made with ingredients that provide optimal texture and durability to give lashes a groomed look. It is important to remember that mascara does not actually grow the lashes, it merely changes their appearance.
There are many myths about mascara, particularly in relation to its effect on the lashes. But by understanding how mascara works, we can make better informed decisions and get the results we want.
❌ Myth
"Mascara actually lengthens lashes."
Many people believe that mascara promotes the actual growth of eyelashes.
✅ Fact
"Mascara only makes the eyelashes appear longer."
Mascara coats the eyelashes, making them look thicker and longer, but does not actually lengthen them.
💡 Care tips
- 🔍 Choose mascaras with lengthening formulas and special brushes.
- 💧 Supplement your routine with eyelash serums to promote natural growth.
- ✨ Use an eyelash curler to maximize curl.
Can mascara help lashes stay curled?
Many women wonder if mascara can help improve the curl of their lashes. In fact, a high-quality mascara can contain ingredients that strengthen and condition lashes during application.
Mascara can improve the curl of lashes by coating each lash and providing structure and hold. The result is lashes that are not only more voluminous, but also look curlier. Different types of mascara formulas can affect the appearance of lashes, with some targeting volume and others definition and lengthening.
Another important factor is the brushes. Using a mascara with a curved brush can help to lift and volumize the lashes. In addition, applying mascara in layers allows for greater volume and a more defined curl, which improves the overall appearance of the lashes.
Techniques such as combing the lashes from root to tip help to lengthen the lashes and achieve the desired curl. So with the right application and the right products, lashes can actually stay curlier.
❌ Myth
"Mascara does not make lashes curl better."
It is often believed that mascara has no effect on the curl of the eyelashes.
✅ Fact
"Mascara can actually improve the curl of the eyelashes."
Mascara coats the lashes, giving them structure and hold, which leads to more voluminous and curled lashes.
💡 Care tips
- 🔍 Choose mascaras with special brushes for more curl.
- 💧 Apply mascara in layers to increase volume.
- ✨ Use an eyelash curler before applying mascara for maximum curl.
Does mascara make lashes heavy?

Another common myth is that mascara makes lashes heavy. Many women fear that using mascara could affect the health and strength of their eyelashes. These are just some of the common beauty myths that often circulate.
However, modern mascara usually contains waxes and oils that coat the lashes and help to define them well without weighing them down. These ingredients ensure that the lashes stay light and flexible while looking good.
The right choice and application of mascara can ensure that it holds the lashes without weighing them down or flaking. A hypoallergenic product is particularly recommended for sensitive eyes to avoid skin irritation and mascara flaking.
❌ Myth
"Mascara makes lashes heavy."
There is a widespread belief that mascara weighs down lashes and affects their health.
✅ Fact
"Modern mascara stays light on the lashes."
Modern mascara contains ingredients such as waxes and oils that coat and define the lashes without making them heavy.
💡 Care tips
- 🔍 Choose a lightweight formula for voluminous and flexible lashes.
- 💧 Look for hypoallergenic products, especially for sensitive eyes.
- ✨ Apply mascara in thin layers to avoid clumping and flaking.
How often should you replace mascara?
For a long-lasting effect and to avoid flaking, it is important to replace the mascara regularly, ideally every three months.
Mascara should generally be used within 6 months of opening to avoid infection. It is recommended to change mascara every 2 to 3 months to minimize the accumulation of bacteria and the risk of eye infections.
The shelf life of mascara is often stated as 6 months from opening, but it should be disposed of earlier for hygienic reasons. It is important to stop using the mascara if it develops an unpleasant odor or the consistency changes.
Conclusion
In summary, there are many myths about mascara and eyelash care. It is important to know the truth behind these myths in order to maintain the health and beauty of your lashes.
Proper application and care, as well as choosing high-quality products, can help keep lashes healthy and looking their best. Mascara can help define and beautify lashes without damaging them.
Ultimately, it's up to us to make informed choices and care for our lashes properly. With the right knowledge and the right products, we can keep our lashes looking their best.
✨ Summary of the most important points ✨
- 💡 Beauty myths: Common misconceptions and misunderstandings in the beauty industry.
- 🚫 Wrong decisions: Myths can affect the health of your skin, hair and eyes.
- 👁️ Eyelash care: An essential part of eye care.
- 🔧 Eyelash curler: Used correctly, it has no negative effects on eyelashes.
How to avoid beauty myths
To avoid beauty myths, it is important to keep up to date with the latest research and recommendations from experts. Critical thinking and questioning information is also crucial. Don't blindly trust everything you hear or read, but consult trustworthy sources such as dermatologists or cosmeticians. These experts can give you sound advice on the best care and treatment for your skin, hair and eyes. By staying well-informed and relying on the right sources, you can avoid beauty myths and preserve the health and beauty of your skin, hair and eyes.
🔎 Sneak Peek: Discover more about eyelash care & Eyelash curlers! 🔎
✨ The importance of eyelash care
Eyelash care is an often underestimated part of eye care. Healthy eyelashes protect your eyes from dust and dirt and at the same time contribute to a beautiful, well-groomed look. Want to find out how to keep your eyelashes healthy and strong? Read more about the best eyelash care here .
🔧 MYTH: The eyelash curler pulls out lashes
A common myth is that the eyelash curler pulls out or damages lashes. This is false - when used correctly, they give your lashes a beautiful curl without causing any damage. Want to know how to use an eyelash curler correctly? Find out more about the safe use of eyelash curlers here.