By The Maya Finds team
The short answer: if your lashes look thinner after 40, pick a mascara that matches what you want to fix. For short lashes that seem to disappear, use a lengthening formula that coats from root to tip without clumping. For sparse lashes that look see-through, use a buildable volumizing formula in thin coats. If your eyes are sensitive or water easily, look for a gentle, smudge-resistant formula and skip heavy layers. Below: what to look for, how to apply mascara on thin lashes, and our two picks.
Why lashes can look thinner after 40
Many women notice that their lashes look shorter, sparser or lighter in color as the years go by, much like the hair on their head. Eyes can also become drier or more sensitive, so the heavy, clumpy mascaras that worked at 25 suddenly flake, smudge or feel itchy by lunchtime. The good news: the right formula and a lighter hand make a big difference. (If you notice sudden or patchy lash loss, check with your doctor, since that's a different situation.)
What to look for in a mascara for thin lashes
- Length vs. volume. Lengthening mascaras stretch and separate each lash. Volumizing mascaras build fullness. Thin, short lashes usually look best with length first; sparse lashes benefit from a little volume.
- Buildable, not clumpy. Two or three thin coats look more natural on mature lashes than one thick coat.
- Smudge- and flake-resistant. Mascara that travels under the eyes makes them look tired. A formula that stays put keeps the look clean all day.
- Gentle on sensitive eyes. If your eyes water or sting easily, choose a formula made for sensitive eyes and patch test first.
- The right shade. Black adds the most definition. Brown looks softer, especially if you have fair skin or light brows. Blue or purple can brighten the whites of the eyes for a fun change.
Our picks
1. For short, thinning lashes: Lengthening Mascara for Thinning Lashes, $32
The Lengthening Mascara for Thinning Lashes is a 2-step mascara. The Step 2 end coats and builds length from root to tip, and the Step 1 end combs out any excess for clean, separated lashes. The formula is made to resist smudging and flaking all day, and the brand lists it as vegan and cruelty-free. It comes in black, brown, blue or purple (10 ml).
2. For sparse lashes and sensitive eyes: Volumizing Mascara for Sensitive Eyes, $32
The Volumizing Mascara for Sensitive Eyes builds fuller, bolder-looking lashes in a few coats, with a formula designed to be gentle on sensitive eyes. Choose classic black or a pop of blue (10 ml). Start with one thin layer and add more until you like the look.
Finish the look: liner and brows
- Kajal Eyeliner Pen for Watery Eyes ($23.99): a soft kajal pen made for watery and sensitive eyes, in 5 shades from Blackest Black to Royal Blue Shimmer. Smudged close to the lash line, it makes thin lashes look fuller at the root.
- Eyebrow Pencil for Thinning, Sparse Brows ($19): a fine pencil in dark brown, dark coffee, dark grey or black. Defined brows frame the eyes, so the whole eye area looks more awake.
All four are in our Mix & Match collection: add any 2 and 10% comes off automatically at checkout.
How to apply mascara on thin lashes
- Start clean and dry. Remove old mascara and let any eye cream sink in first, so the formula grips the lashes.
- Curl gently (optional). A light curl before mascara makes short lashes look longer. Never curl after mascara.
- Wiggle at the root. Place the wand at the base of your lashes and wiggle it slowly up to the tips. Most of the color belongs at the root, where lashes look sparsest.
- Use thin coats. Let each coat set for a few seconds, then add another. Two or three thin coats beat one heavy one.
- Comb out clumps. With a 2-step mascara, use the comb end. Otherwise, a clean spoolie works.
- Go lighter on the lower lashes. A single light coat, or none at all, keeps the look soft and avoids smudges.
- Remove gently at night. Hold a soaked cotton pad on closed eyes for a few seconds, then wipe down. Don't rub.
Quick comparison
| Pick | Price | Best for | Shades |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lengthening Mascara | $32 | Short, thinning lashes | Black, brown, blue, purple |
| Volumizing Mascara | $32 | Sparse lashes, sensitive eyes | Black, blue |
| Kajal Eyeliner Pen | $23.99 | Fuller-looking lash line | 5 shades |
| Eyebrow Pencil | $19 | Framing the eyes | 4 shades |
FAQ
Should I wear black or brown mascara after 40?
Black gives the most definition and works for most women. If black looks harsh with your coloring, or your brows are light, brown looks softer and more natural. You can also mix: brown on the lower lashes and black on top.
Is waterproof mascara better for mature lashes?
Not always. Waterproof formulas take more rubbing to remove, which is hard on thin lashes. A smudge- and flake-resistant formula that comes off with a gentle remover is often the kinder everyday choice.
How often should I replace my mascara?
A common rule of thumb is about every three months, or sooner if it dries out, smells off or bothers your eyes. Don't share mascara.
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