Cosme

When you stand at the makeup counter or aisle, it can be confusing. Should you get lengthening, curling, thickening or non-smudging? And what, just what, is the difference between each of these anyway? (Is there a difference, or are these mascara types all hype, designed to get you to buy more than one type?)

Mascaras these days are loaded with proteins & waxes all designed to condition your lashes & come in problem-solving formulations. InStyle's beauty book, Getting Gorgeous, breaks down these different types of mascaras. Here goes:

Lengthening mascara My favorite mascara is Lancome Definicil:

It's touted as a lengthening mascara & beauty editors swear by it. Lengthening mascaras have dense bristles that allow you to get more mascara on your lashes & especially on the tips of your lashes.

Thickening mascara When you want bulk, you do want to buy the mascaras touted as 'thickening.' These products contain a thicker formula of waxes & silicone polymers that coat lashes & make them appear bulkier. The best thickening mascara on the market (according to InStyle magazine's 2006 'Best Beauty Buys' guide) is Christian Dior Diorshow (about $22):

Waterproof mascara Obviously these 'non-smudging' mascaras contain special synthetic formulas meant to repel moisture. But these can be harsh on your lashes (to prevent breaking lashes, you can put Vaseline on them before you go to sleep). A great waterproof mascara is Maybelline Lash Discovery:

Non-clumping mascara These contain ingredients like silk extract & glycerin. The applicators also have longer wands which allow for a more even application.