I’m always looking for new beauty ideas to try, whether it’s makeup, tools, or application techniques. I don’t always end up embracing them personally, but I do make note on what actually works so I can share them with you, like the three tips I’m sharing below. Give them a try and let me know how they go! And if you have tips on more ways to get better results from makeup and beauty tools, let me know below or by Snapping or Tweeting me @galmeetsglam.com!

1. Place the round end of a plastic spoon face down under the eye when applying mascara to avoid getting mascara on the skin, and to allow a thicker application. Use on top as well.

Additional trick? Press the mascara wand gently to the base of the top lashes to leave a slightly smudged line, creating the illusion of thicker lashes.

2. If you use an eyelash curler to open up your eyes, heat up the metal and soften the pad with a blow dryer or warm water before curling for best results (check to make sure the curler is not too hot for the skin).

Additional tip? Clean your eyelash curler with a soft cotton pad and a little rubbing alcohol. Make sure to rinse well after. Also remember to replace silicon pads frequently for best results.

3. Put a very small amount of white or a light blush creme shadow at the inside corners of the eyes, on the center of the lid, and right over and under the eyebrow to open-up eyes and make whites stand-out. Gently blend well.

Additional tip? Avoid frosted shadows, which can highlight wrinkles and go for creamy, matte ones instead.