• First, you must consider the state of your eyelashes (i.e. are your lashes short or long; sparse). For long eyelashes, you may consider mascara which provides volume to your eyes, to make them thicker and denser.  For short lashes you should choose lengthening mascara.  
• Second, you want to choose a mascara color according to your hair color; brunettes should use black to bring out their eyes, but brown mascara will have a more natural effect on fair-haired women. 
• Next, decide whether you would prefer to use waterproof or water-soluble mascara. Water-soluble is easier to remove without eye makeup remover, thus minimizing the amount of rubbing around the eyes, which can lead to saggy skin. Waterproof mascara is a better choice for athletes, especially swimmers.
• You should also consider the size of the mascara brush/wand. The longer your lashes are the thicker the brush required. On the other hand if you have short lashes then you should opt for short bristled brush. A smaller brush is also good for the hard to reach corners of the lashes and the lower lashes.
• If your eyes are sensitive, use gentle mascara, it is best for contact lens wearers. There are also hypo allergic mascaras available in the market for women having sensitive eye.

Now to the fun part, applying mascara.  Check out the following tutorial in the “Better You” series for applying mascara and using eyelash curlers and comb.

To apply a thin application, use a tissue to take off extra mascara on the wand.

Remember, curling your lashes is absolutely essential.  It lifts and fans your lashes, making your eyes appear bigger.

Sometimes clumps are unavoidable.  Use a eyelash comb to get rid of them.

To avoid bacteria buildup, get a new mascara every two months.