What, where and how to wear glitter mascara

dpa, dpa on May 26, 2026

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BERLIN — Glitter eyelashes are back, and this time you can sport the look anywhere, not just at parties or festive occasions.

Used correctly, glitter mascara can look both subtle and glamorous, says German makeup artist Lukas Wythe.

He shares what matters when you apply this mascara, which colors are particularly popular and how you can avoid typical mishaps.When to wear glitter mascara?

Often reserved for special occasions, it is particularly popular at Christmas and New Year’s Eve, says Wythe. But elsewhere, people are wearing glitter mascara to everyday appointments, say observers.

Professionally, it's frequently used in photo shoots, on the catwalk or in the theatre, as glitter particles create strong light reflections.

It is ideal for parties and at weddings, it can add a subtle touch, if you just make the tips of your eyelashes sparkle slightly.How to apply

To ensure the effect doesn’t look patchy and is clearly visible, the makeup artist recommends always using glitter mascara as a topper. First, apply a classic mascara, preferably in black or brown, though a dark red is also an option. This first coat provides shape and structure.

Now apply glitter mascara on top, along your whole lash line or just to specific areas. For a subtle effect, highlight only your outer lashes or the tips. But for a more powerful look, move the brush through your lashes in gentle zigzag motions so to make sure all the particles stick.

Bear in mind that glitter mascara takes longer to dry than conventional products, as many mixes are designed for effect rather than hold.

Once applied, keep your eyes half-closed until your mascara has dried completely. If you skip this step, you risk glitter falling onto your skin and spoiling your makeup.What about the rest of your makeup?

How your glitter mascara harmonizes with the rest of your makeup depends on the look you’re aiming for.

One elegant look combines a soft brown shade on the eyelid, minimal shading and nude gloss on your lips. That gives your glittery lashes center stage.

For a more eye-catching look, opt for metallic eye shadow or use an eyeliner in a matching color, such as silver with silver mascara. The smokey eye look also goes surprisingly well with glitter.

Combined with taupe, black or bronze shades, this creates a sophisticated effect that doesn’t look overdone, according to Wythe.How to make sure nothing goes wrong

You can avoid some mishaps like getting the product in your eye. Modern glitter mascaras usually contain firmly bound particles, that should not be a problem. If some does get in your eye, don't rub it, but rinse it out using eye drops or water. If the redness persists for more than a day, check with a doctor.

If you get some of the glitter on your skin, Wythe has a simple trick: sticky tape. A piece of adhesive tape will pick up the particles without smudging your makeup. He advises against using brushes or cotton pads, as they usually spread the glitter around more.

Mascara smudges on the eyelid are also easier to remove than you may think. Don't grab a cotton bud straight away, but let the smudge dry completely first, then gently scrape it off with a clean eyelash brush. That leaves your makeup underneath intact.What color to buy?

Silver, gold and rose gold dominate the color palette. Pick silver for winter or evening looks, whilst gold goes with almost any eye makeup. Rose gold, on the other hand, has a softer and more romantic effect.

Wythe also sees an increase in holographic effects, inspired by series such as "Euphoria," as well as bronze and copper tones, which work particularly well for brown and green eyes.Removing glitter mascara

When removing makeup, Wythe recommends using oil-free eye makeup removers, as you sometimes get a filmy residue which doesn't feel very nice when using products containing oil. That's even less appealing for contact lens wearers.

If you use a tubing mascara underneath the glitter layer, this makes cleansing even easier, as you can remove the formula with warm water. Micellar water and cleansing balms also work well.