How to Use Tubing Mascara – Expert Guide to Apply & Remove

Okay, so here’s the thing: tubing mascaras really are a game-changer — but only if you actually know how to use tubing mascara the right way.

At first glance, they might look like your regular mascara wand and tube, but honestly, the magic is in the formula. Tubing mascara feels feather-light, stays locked in place all day long, and then at the time of removal, it comes off without the raccoon-eye drama whatsoever.

Now, here’s the catch. The first time you try one, it can feel a little weird.

So, if you’ve swiped it on and thought, “Um… is this even doing anything to my lashes?” — trust me, you’re not alone. Most of us don’t nail it the first go, and it’s not because tubing mascaras don’t work, but because no one actually properly explains how different they are from the traditional formulas.

And that’s exactly why we put this guide together. In this article, we’re going to walk you through not only how to apply tubing mascara step by step, but also how to remove tubing mascara at the end of the day without any tugging, any scrubbing, or any lash loss whatsoever.

And because we’ve been there too, and faced issues, we’ll also point out the rookie mistakes that you must avoid — so you don’t accidentally give up on what could have been your new holy-grail lash product.

So, whether you’re completely brand-new to tubing mascaras or maybe you’ve just tried before and felt confused, this is the guide that’ll make it click.

📌BTW, if you’re still unsure what tubing mascara even is? You must check out our explainer on what tubing mascara actually is — where we break down all the benefits of tubing mascara, the ingredients used in it, and the myths that surround it.

📌And, if you already know this holy grail, and now you want to try the best options? You must head over to our roundup of the best tubing mascaras of 2025 to find out the budget steals and the clean beauty favorites.

Before You Start – Prepping for Success

Alright, so here’s the real thing. Tubing mascara isn’t hard at all, but it’s a little picky for sure. You can think of it like that one friend who always shows up looking literally effortless— but you know what? It’s only because she prepped behind the scenes.

The same story applies to the tubing mascara as well. If you can give your tubing mascara to the proper setup. In that case, it’ll stay put no matter what, the application will look clean, and most importantly, it will come off with absolute zero drama, for sure.

Here’s how we already have (and honestly, anyone who has hooked on tubing mascara) made it work:

Clean, Dry Lashes Only

First things first, always remember, tubing mascara needs an entirely fresh canvas to settle down. If there’s even a hint of your eye cream or concealer, or maybe your SPF, hanging around, the tubes just will not stick right.

💡Little hack: If you want, you can blot your lids and your lashes with a tissue. Because even the most “invisible” residue can cause dreaded flaking as well.

Don’t Mix and Match

This is a very big one. Tubing mascaras like to work solo. So, the moment you pile on a volumizing or maybe your favorite waterproof formula underneath your tubing mascara, it’s going to be clump city for sure.

And, the upside, btw? They’re just perfect over your lash lifts or lash tints. Since you’ll get the cleanest and well-defined look without any extra bulk.

Curl First, Not After

As tubing is super lightweight, it’s incredible when it comes to holding the lash curl. But only if you curl first and curl your bare lashes, then go in with your tubing mascara.

Remember, you must not curl after putting on with tubing formula — because the tubes dry into a flexible little coat, and post-curling with tubing mascara can snap or pull them right off.

💡 Products to Avoid: Lash Primers – Because primers usually sneak in oils, waxes, or silicones — and these are the things tubing mascara doesn’t love.

💡 Always remember, the less you do here, the better it is. Because Clean lashes = happy lashes.

📌By the way, if you’re looking for the right way of curling your lashes, we have got your back. Must check out our How to curl your lashes the right way guide, where we have shared our secrets of curling without damaging the precious lashes.

How to Use Tubing Mascara

So once you’re done with preparing your lashes, the next thing is to apply them not only on the top lashes but also on the bottom lashes perfectly. So, over here, we’re going to show you exactly how the professionals and the experts are doing it.

How to Apply Tubing Mascara (Step-by-Step)

So now that your eyelashes are clean and prepped, let’s actually get into the most fun part — putting the actual stuff on. The cool thing is, once you know how to apply tubing mascara, it’s honestly way quicker and way less messier than the regular kind you are dealing with.

Here’s the little rhythm we follow:

Step 1 – Curl First, Then Wipe the Wand

First move: You must lock in the curl before any mascara even touches your lashes. You must curl them bare because tubing mascara is feather-light, so it holds curl beautifully, but it won’t create it from scratch automatically.

And then, take your tubing mascara wand and gently scrape the extra off on the rim of the mascara tube. (BTW, don’t use tissue — because tissue cases shed little fibers and will ruin everything.)

Step 2 – Root to Tip, Nice and Smooth

So, the magic basically kicks in on this part. Here, you need to place your mascara brush at the root of your eyelashes and wiggle your lashes just a little, then pull just straight up to the tip.

That little wiggle will anchor the tubing formula at the base. So, the sweeps coat your whole lashes in that signature tubing “sleeve.”

💡BTW, please note, one clean coat beats five sloppy layers. So, trust us on this one, precision always wins.

Step 3 – Add a Second Coat (Right Away)

If you want extra length or separation, this is the moment for it.

Now, you can go for coat number two immediately while the first one’s still wet. Because once tubing dries on your lashes, it’s basically game over — the formula won’t layer, and pushing it just leads to clumps.

💡You should always treat tubing mascara like a one-minute art project: quick, clean, confident. Just two thin coats at maximum, and that’s it, you’re golden.

Step 4 – Let Them Set (~75 Seconds)

Here’s the most challenging part — doing nothing.

You must not blink like crazy or touch your lashes while they are drying. So, about 75 seconds (give or take) is the sweetest spot regardless of the lash type. You’ll know they’re set when you tap and nothing transfers.

💡Fun fact: Unlike regular mascaras, tubing mascaras don’t need 3–4 passes to build up BTW. Just 1–2 coats and that’s it, you’re with the full flutter effect you have always wished for.

How to Apply Tubing Mascara on Bottom Lashes

Okay, so you’re already done with your top lashes and looking fabulous. But now, what about those little guys on the bottom? Aren’t those deserving to be as fabulous as the top one? We bet yes.

We have seen a lot of people skip the bottom lashes because they’re scared of smudges or panda eyes. But, guess what? Tubing mascara is basically made for bottom lashes and for no drama, no flakes.

Here’s the rhythm we follow down there:

Step 1 – Flip the Wand Vertical

So, for the bottom lashes, instead of holding your mascara wand sideways like on top lashes, we actually recommend that you turn the wand upright. You should use just the tip of your mascara brush so you’re not coating half your under-eye by accident.

Step 2 – Dot, Don’t Swipe

Think of tiny tap-tap-tap motions right along your lash line because dotting is way cleaner and gives much more control than dragging the brush across.

Step 3 – Shield If You Need To

If you’re nervous about hitting the skin? You can try holding a card or even the back of a spoon right under your lashes to help create an instant barrier and to make zero mess.

Step 4 – Keep It Light

So always remember, when it comes to the bottom lashes, one thin coat is usually all you need. Usually, more than one coat can look spidery really fast.

But that single tubing coat? It’ll help open up your eyes without the raccoon look for sure.

How to Remove Tubing Mascara

Alright, so we’ve curled and coated the top and bottom lashes, and all set… now let’s talk about the part that usually gives mascara a bad rep: and that’s removal. But guess what? This is actually where tubing mascaras shine the brightest.

If you’ve ever stood at the sink scrubbing your waterproof mascara off, with tubing mascara. In that case, you’re definitely about to fall in love with tubing mascara. Because, with it, there will be no more raccoon eyes, no need for oily removers, and most importantly, no lashes sacrificed in the process.

Here’s exactly how we take it off without the drama:

Step 1 – Warm Water Only

Tubing mascara usually doesn’t budge with cleansers or wipes — instead, it responds well to warmth. So, all you need is to splash your lashes with warm (not scalding) water, around body temperature.

Or, it would be even better if you could soak a washcloth in warm water, press it over your closed eyes for about 20–30 seconds, and just chill.

💡 Because the tubes literally soften with the light heat. So, the simple suggestion would be just not to rush it, but rather to let the water do the work.

Step 2 – Press, Don’t Rub

Once they’re soft, the removal of the tubing mascara is then ridiculously easy. All you need is to use your fingertips to gently pinch your lashes and slide downward. And, that’s it, the little “sleeves” will easily slip right off — so, no tugging, no scrubbing, and absolutely no lashes falling out.

Step 3 – Expect Threads, Not Smears

The first time you remove tubing mascara, it can be a little… odd.

You’ll see the tiny black “threads” coming off in your fingers. And, by the way, don’t panic because those threads are not your lashes; they are just the tubes of the tubing mascara.

Once you see how clean and mess-free it is, you’ll understand why people call it weirdly satisfying.

💡 Pro Tip Box – Skip the Remover

Whether oil-based removers or micellar water? With tubing mascara, you can just forget about them. Because they actually mess with the tubing bond. The beauty of this formula is that you only need warm water, and that’s it.

⚠️ Safety Note

If you ever feel irritation, you must stop right away. Never tug dry tubes; instead, let them soften first. If irritation keeps up, check in with an eye specialist.

🎯 Ready to Try Tubing Mascara?

So now that you know exactly how to apply tubing mascara the right way — and just as importantly, how to take tubing mascara off without the drama — the only thing you’re left with is finding your match. And honestly? That part’s the fun bit.

We’ve already done the testing (and the lash-flaking for science), so you don’t have to. Our roundup of the best tubing mascaras of 2025 is packed with formulas that are beginner-friendly, smudge-proof, and actually live up to the hype.

💡 Editor’s Favorite for First-Timers

If you’re brand-new to tubing, we recommend that you buy Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash tubing mascara. It gives absolute clean length, holds curl, and slips off with just warm water. So, no scrubbing, no sore eyes, no “did I just lose three lashes?” panic whatsoever. By the way, we have a separate article reviewing the Thrive tubing mascara, as it surely deserves it. You can read the article Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions review as well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Alright, so let’s talk about the truth — tubing mascara is made to be easy. Like, yeah, ridiculously easy. But you should know there are a few little traps you have to be very cautious about so as not to mess it up.

Think of these suggestions below as the “don’t do this” notes you’d give a friend before handing her the wand:

• ❌ Layering it over waterproof mascara – You should never do that. In fact, it’s better not to layer over anything. The idea is more like wearing sneakers over heels, and trust us on this one, it just doesn’t make any sense at all. Tubing mascara needs its own clean stage; otherwise, you end up with clumps and flakes.
• ❌ Putting on lash oils or serums right before – Look, the thing is, oils are great at night, after all, your lashes do need some rest, nah? But in the morning? They’re like putting lotion on before painting your nails. The mascara won’t stick. So, we always suggest everyone keep oils specifically for bedtime and your tubing mascara for daytime.
• ❌ Trying to remove with regular makeup remover – old habits die hard, we know for sure. But you need to understand this isn’t your regular or waterproof mascara, so you basically don’t need balms, oils, micellar water, or any other extra product.

When it comes to tubing mascara, warm water is the only thing that does the whole job. Honestly, that’s the beauty of this mascara.

• ❌ Packing on five coats “just in case” – With the tubing mascara, more is not more, rather more=mess. All you need is just two fast, light coats = fluttery lashes. Anything extra and you’re in stiff, spidery territory.
• ❌ Curling after it dries – Curling after drying is a massive no when it comes to tubing mascara for sure. Because once the tubes are set, they form a little sleeve around each of your lashes. So, curling after putting on the tubing mascara basically tries to bend a shell — and yeah, it can either snap or peel. Not cute.

💡 Fun fact: The reason tubing works so well is that each lash gets its own tiny sleeve. But if you slip in oils, primers, or other random extra mascara layers between your lash and the formula, the tubing bond weakens. So, you must keep it clean and straightforward, and the results are going to amaze you.

Quick Troubleshooting Guide

FAQs

Alright, let’s clear things up with the little questions that always pop up with tubing mascaras. We’re pretty sure you’re probably wondering at least one of these questions:

🔗 Still curious? Check out our full deep dive on what tubing mascara actually is — where we geek out on the science, ingredients, and myths.

Why Tubing Mascara Matters (Now More Than Ever)

Here’s why we’re so obsessed with tubing mascara:

• Rushed mornings? You don’t need to check the mirror every hour for smudges; tubing mascara has your back.
• Sensitive eyes? No more stingy removers.
• Long days? Your lashes will look fresh right up until you bid your tubes goodbye.

Unlike waterproof mascaras or regular mascaras, tubing formulas can provide you with the best of both worlds: great stay-put power and definitely the gentle and mess-free removal.

A combination like this is pretty rare for sure — and honestly, we are pretty confident once you experience tubing mascara, you won’t want to go back.

Final Thoughts – Tubing Mascara Is Easy (Once You Know How)

Okay, so to wrap things up. Tubing mascara might feel a little weird the first time you try, and that’s because of the way it applies and the way it comes off.
However, it’s all definitely different from regular or waterproof formulas. But here’s the secret you should never forget: “different” doesn’t mean “hard.”

Because, once you get the rhythm or the hang of your tubing mascara — you will get cleaner lashes, smoother coats, faster drying, ease of removal with just warm water — and that’s honestly one of the easiest swaps you can ever make in your beauty routine.

💬 One of our testers literally said:

“I used to deal with smudges by lunchtime — tubing mascara helped me fix that overnight.”

And honestly? It’s definitely going to be the same for you, too, for sure.

🎯 Want to Try One That Nails It?

If you’re ready to give tubing mascara a test drive, you can start with the one we always recommend to first-timers:

🪄 Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions

• It’s just an allrounder for length, comfort, and easy removal.
• Editor-tested, sensitive-eye approved.
• Comes off with just warm water. So, no remover, no drama.

📎 By the way, you can peek at our complete individual review guide to the Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions review, where we discussed what it helped us with and why it’s a deserving purchase candidate still in 2025.

👋 And that’s it! Thank you very much for hanging out with us. Hopefully, this tutorial guide has helped make tubing mascara feel a little less mysterious to you and a lot more doable.

So, try it once, and you’ll get why so many of us refuse to wear anything other than tubing mascara.