I Have Asian Eyelashes, and These Are the 5 Mascaras That Actually Give My Lashes Life (2024)

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I already know I don't need to ask if my Asian people out there have ever struggled with getting their lashes to look fluttery and defined. And yes, falsies and lash extensions are always an option, but sometimes, those options aren't available for all of us. Instead, finding the best mascara for Asian lashes is the way to add length and volume—after some trial and error, that is.

Most volumizing mascaras formulated in the U.S. are on the thick and gloopy side, with very big brushes. But for short, Asian lashes, these types of mascaras are much too heavy. A thick formula quickly overwhelms a very straight and short lash, and will take out any curl we've tried to achieve. Plus, a fat brush will only deliver more product with one swipe! Think of it like putting too much hair pomade into freshly styled hair—it can weigh everything down and ruin the look.

That's why I opt for mascaras with a small or medium size brush and a waterproof version for long-lasting wear, and a drier, more fibrous formula. I rounded up my picks—and lash hacks—ahead. Ironically, all the products to make the cut are from Asian beauty brands.

Lash Hacks for Asian Eyes

Heat Your Eyelash Curler

Using heat to curl your Asian lashes is key. You could fudge these other rules a bit, but not this one. Start by grabbing a lighter, then hold your lash curler right above the flame for about seven to eight seconds to get it warm. Just make sure to test the warmth of it on your hand before going in.

Curl Lashes at Multiple Angles

The shape of your eyelash curler can cause hell when it comes to getting each and every lash thoroughly curled, so my advice is to curl from multiple angles. Go in directly straight at first, curl from the base upward in incremental steps, and then see how your lashes are looking after you've done your first curling. My outer corner lashes rarely get well-curled the first go-around, so I'll go back in (after re-applying some heat) at a slight angle. That way I can better catch all my lashes with the clamp.

Don't Apply Mascara at the Base of Your Lashes (At Least Not at First)

I don't really like the whole "apply from the roots and upwards, making sure to wiggle" credo. At least, not when I first start applying mascara. I find that it risks undoing the hard work I put into curling, especially if there's more product on that wand than I anticipated. What I prefer to do instead is apply product at the tips of my lashes and dispense where I want more of the mascara to sit and hold, before going to the roots.