Other than foundation, mascara is the product I cannot do without. I love what it does — a few coats, and eyes look awake, more finished. But as my eyes have become more sensitive over the years and I have lost lashes with certain mascaras, I am now very picky about which brands I use.
A few lessons I’ve learned along the way
- The skin around the eyes is thin and sensitive, and the tear film (the layer that keeps eyes hydrated) is easily irritated. Many mascaras contain preservatives, fragrances and fibres that exacerbate this. Even ‘clean’ or natural mascaras aren’t immune; plant-based waxes or essential oils can sometimes be just as triggering.
- Hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested labels are generally free from the most common irritants.
- Tubing mascaras can be a game-changer. They form tiny water-resistant ‘tubes’ around each lash, don’t flake and remove easily with warm water — no rubbing required.
- Avoid waterproof ones if possible. The extra staying power often needs a stronger remover.
- Mascara should be replaced every three months. Old formulas are breeding grounds for bacteria.
- Air travel is notoriously dehydrating, which can leave eyes feeling drier and more reactive, while changing climates can also affect how your mascara behaves, with some formulas flaking or smudging more than usual. I often swap my regular mascara for a lightweight formula or skip it entirely on long flights.
The best mascara for sensitive eyes
For me, the best mascara is the one I don’t feel once it’s on — no stinging, no watery eyes, just lifted, defined lashes that last through the day. I recently discovered the Sisley range, which not only ticks all those boxes but also encourages lash growth, thanks to an innovative lash care formula and is perfect for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. There is also a mascara for each need, be it volume, length or curl.
- So Stretch is for length and definition. It contains vitamin peptide and arginine, for longer, stronger, and thicker lashes, damask rose extract and castor oil to sheath and soften for more resistant lashes and a protective synthetic ceramide.
- So Curl provides instant curl and volume and a triple action care formula that strengthens, enhances and nourishes the lashes.
- So Intense is a fortifying, volumising mascara that works to thicken lashes in two weeks. The comb brush separates lashes and distributes double-coated pigments evenly for intense colour.
- So Volume gives volume, curl and definition. It boosts lash health, and the XXL brush gives a fab high-definition effect without clumping.
