Along with our foundation and bold brow obsession, achieving full and lengthy lashes is on our list of Makeup.com priorities. Unfortunately, the product that we use on a daily basis (and literally cannot live without) is working against us. Don't be mad at the mascara though; its only crime is loving our lashes too much. But, if you're guilty of any of these mistakes, your application could be doing more harm to your lashes than good. And we take our lash game VERY seriously.

1. Pumping the Wand

And speaking of germs, you might think you're getting more mascara on the bristles by pumping, but what you're actually doing is forcing air (and therefore bacteria) into the tube, causing it to dry out quickly. Instead, twist the wand as you pull it out of the tube.

2. Curling AFTER Mascara

Unless you like the clumpy look - or want to risk chopping off your lashes - this is a big no-no. Even if you forgot to curl you lashes before your application, just say no to the post-mascara curl.

3. Sharing With Friends

Don't be blinded by BFF love, ladies. It only takes one case of pink eye to really get the (eye) ball rollin'.

RELATED: Caution! Read This Before Sharing Makeup With Friends

4. Using Expired Mascara

Have you been using the same mascara for over three months? If so, it's time to toss it. Because mascara products are moist and the wand comes in constant contact with your lashes, they make for the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. And the longer you keep using it past the expiration date, the longer you risk an eye infection. If you notice that the texture or smell seems off, ditch it!

5. Over-Coating

Sure, we all get a little out of control with our mascara layering and cocktailing. Before you know it, you're on coat 12 and already late for work. It only takes a couple of extra swipes to go from lengthy and voluminous to just plain spidery. So, let's limit ourselves to three-to-four coats. OK, maybe 5. But, that's it!

6. Sleeping With Mascara On

We scold you time and time again for sleeping with your makeup on. Well, the same rule applies to mascara, too. Not only can it cause significant irritation (and even acne), but it can also cause your lashes to become brittle and fall out! Can you say nightmare?!

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