How To Fix Clumpy Lashes?

Learn how to perfect even mascara application to prevent those pesky clumps in your lashes.

Reviewed by Favour Akinjiyan, Makeup Artist
Written by Jyotsana Rao, BE
Edited by Madhumati Chowdhury, MA (English Literature)
Fact-checked by Vaishali Sinha, MA (Comparative Literature)  • 

Using too many strokes of mascara leads to droopy, product-laden lashes. So, here are some tips on how to fix clumpy lashes that can ruin your whole look on an important day. Sometimes, a hurried application may lead to an uneven look, and some of the chunks freeze on a few lashes, making them look downright ugly, for lack of a better word.

Well, we have some detailed steps below to help you avoid this situation. So, scroll down to take notes and make sure your mascara spreads evenly without any room for error. Pro skills check!

protip_icon Keep In Mind
  • Break Between Coats: Break Between Coats Applying a second coat right after the first can cause the eyelashes to clump together. Wait till the first coat is dry before applying the second layer.
  • Unclean Lashes: Break Between Coats When you don’t remove the mascara properly and completely, it causes clumping and makes the next application difficult.
  • Number Of Coats: Break Between Coats Limit the number of mascara coats to 2-3, as overcoating will lead to drooping and clumping.

Step 1: Get a good mascara product

Mascara applicator with spaced bristles fixes clumpy lashes
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Image: Shutterstock

Well, like the first step in any crisis, take a deep breath and calm down because this can be fixed – to perfection! Clumpy lashes can be avoided and can actually be fixed in a snap.

Old, unused mascara will give you the caked up clumpy look and eventually can also lead to eye irritation. So, one great tip for having the perfect lashes is to use your mascara while it is still new. Buy a long-lasting and non-clumping mascara that is waterproof and smudge-free. Also, find a mascara that has a defining mascara applicator or spoolie which has plenty of space in between the bristles. A bristle like that goes in between each and every lash, covering, separating, and lengthening each one to give you natural-look lashes. Too many plush bristles on a mascara applicator will give you the clumped look when you apply it over your lashes.

Step 2: Apply mascara like a pro

While applying mascara, always check if your applicator has any excess liquid on it because this excess liquid is going to stick onto the lashes causing a mess. Remove any excess liquid at the edge of the bottle so that your wand just has a layer that beautifully coats those lashes, volumizing them.

Brush your lashes starting from the roots up, wiggling the wand gently from side to side. Working through your lashes in a slight zig-zag motion removes clumps. This technique works best on lashes that are still a bit wet, so perform the zig-zag motion right after you’ve applied your primer and mascara. This defines the lashes well without any clumping. It’s the mascara placed near the roots, not the tips that gives the illusion of length.

protip_icon Quick Tip
You can also wipe excess mascara on a tissue instead of the side of the tube before applying it to your eyelashes.

Step 3: Fix any imperfections

Now, for any reason, if your lashes look clumped even after this, we recommend keeping a wet make-up remover pad handy. It is crucial to remove traces of the disaster quickly and effectively before the mascara dries up. The moment you realize your mascara has gone awry, without much ado, simply wipe your lashes holding the make-up remover pad at a sixty-degree angle with your forefinger between your lids. This sweeping movement will take off all the excess mascara while leaving your eye shadow, if any, intact.

Now, using a paper towel, pat dry your lashes gently; tissues will tend to stick on to the lashes while a paper towel will soak up any extra moisture. Using gentle yet firm strokes, coat your lashes again with mascara, do the zigzag routine, and use a curler for the perfect blinkers. Remember to close your eyes and place the mascara wand on top of your lashes at the base and pull through to remove any clumps.

protip_icon Quick Tip
You can use a clean toothbrush to comb through your lashes from the root to the tips. This will ensure that excess product is removed without any issue.

Continue reading to learn more about the longevity of mascara and how to keep your lashes smudge-free.

How Long Does Mascara Last?

Once you open it, a mascara typically lasts for three to six months. Watch for changes in texture, smell, or any irritation, as these may indicate it’s time for a new tube. However, to prevent bacterial contamination and ensure optimal performance, it is recommended to replace your mascara once every three months. You can make it last longer by keeping it from getting smudged.

But, how do you prevent mascara from smudging? Well, here is one trick for you. You can set your mascara on your lashes with a light dusting of translucent setting powder. Avoid applying too much product though and opt for tubing mascaras that form water-resistant tubes around each lash, preventing smudging.

When it comes to makeup, there is nothing unfixable. So, why endure the discomfort that clumpy lashes give you? Not only do they come in between your vision but also they spoil your look. So, now that you know how to fix clumpy lashes, what is holding you back? Learn from the tips and tricks mentioned above and get started. Your makeup should define your features and enhance your look. So, do not let any makeup products ruin your day. Also, applying the mascara gently with precision is the key.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my eyelashes look like spider legs?

Your eyelashes may look like spider legs after applying the second layer of mascara either because you applied too much mascara or because your mascara has a thick formula.

Are clumpy eyelashes in style?

Yes, clumpy eyelashes are back in style. This style opens up the eyes and makes them look bigger.

How can I avoid getting mascara on my eyelids or under my eyes when fixing clumpy lashes?

Shield your eyelid or under-eye area with the help of a plastic spoon or business card to shield the skin and avoid getting mascara on the eyelids. Also, you can use a spoolie brush to comb your lashes before and after applying mascara to separate clumps.

Can clumpy lashes be a sign of an underlying eye or health issue?

Clumpy lashes may or may not indicate an underlying health issue. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms or irritation around the eyes.

Can I use Vaseline instead of mascara?

While Vaseline provides sheen and moisturizes the lashes, it won’t be able to give a volumizing and lightning effect to your eyelashes as a mascara.

Key Takeaways

    • A waterproof and smudge-free mascara with space bristles may help prevent clumpy lashes.
    • Lashes should be brushed from the roots up in a zig-zag motion to avoid clumping.
    • The application process becomes easier if you remove the excess mascara before applying.
    • A toothbrush can help comb the lashes and remove the clumps.
How To Fix Clumpy Lashes

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team


Learn how to fix clumpy lashes with these easy beauty tips! Click on the video and get luscious, curled lashes by follwing this simple tutorial.
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