Beauty Q&A: Can You Extend the Life of Dried Out Mascara?

Soak the Mascara

If you prefer not to add anything to the formula, you can also soak the mascara in warm water. “This heats the product inside to help it move a little better,” says Stern. “This won’t have a permanent effect though — you’ll have to rewarm the mascara with every use.”

Refresh Your Stash

If you have tried both of the above techniques with no success, Stern says it’s time to buy a new product. Some of our favorites right now are the L’Oréal Paris Bambi Oversized Eye Mascara and the Maybelline New York Volum’ Express Colossal Up To 36 Hour Waterproof Mascara. To preserve fresh mascara and make it last longer than the typical four to six months, there are a few things you can do. Stern recommends wiping off the excess mascara from the wand after every use to prevent clumping and to ensure the tube is completely closed so the formula doesn’t dry out.