Hello Lykkers! Mascara is one of those makeup steps I notice immediately when I skip it. Even on days when I barely wear anything else, a little definition on my lashes can make me look more awake.

I also like switching mascaras depending on the result I’m after. Sometimes I want long, lifted lashes that still look neat. Other mornings, I’m in the mood for bigger, more dramatic volume. Here are three mascaras I’d happily keep in rotation when I want my lashes to do a little more work.

1. Anastasia Beverly Hills Lash Sculpt Lengthening & Volumizing Mascara

The Anastasia Beverly Hills Lash Sculpt Lengthening & Volumizing Mascara appeals to me when I want both length and fullness instead of having to choose one. I usually start at the roots and wiggle the wand gently upward, especially toward the outer lashes. That little movement helps me build definition without immediately making the lashes look overloaded. For a dinner plan or a makeup look with eyeliner, I’d add another coat to make the eyes look more noticeable.

2. Dior Diorshow 24H Buildable Volume Mascara

Dior Diorshow 24H Buildable Volume Mascara gives me a different mood. The buildable-volume idea is what makes it interesting because I don’t always want to go straight from bare lashes to a very intense look. On a normal day, I’d keep the first layer lighter and focus on separating and defining the lashes. Then, when I’m getting ready for an evening out, I can add more product and make the lashes look fuller.

3. Kiss Me Heroine Make Mascara

Kiss Me Heroine Make Mascara is the one I associate with a more focused lash routine. Japanese mascaras have a reputation for taking lash definition seriously, and I like the idea of using one when I’m concentrating on lift, separation, and a clean-looking finish. I’d reach for it when my eye makeup is otherwise simple. A little liner, curled lashes, mascara, and maybe some blush can be enough. I also appreciate mascaras that let me work slowly from the lash roots upward because I’m much happier with controlled definition than clumpy lashes.

I don’t expect one mascara to create every look I want. Anastasia Beverly Hills Lash Sculpt makes sense when I’m after length and volume, Dior Diorshow gives me room to build a fuller effect gradually, and Kiss Me Heroine Make fits the more precise, lash-focused side of my routine. For me, mascara can completely change the mood of a makeup look. One day I want soft and tidy lashes; the next, I’m adding another coat and suddenly my simple makeup feels ready for dinner.