Try brands that have oscillating or vibrating wands to keep mascara from clumping
WHEN IT COMES to beauty, the littlest things matter. Whether it?s thicker-looking lashes or shiny hair, these things seem to make all the difference when wanting to look our best.

Here are my tips on getting sexy lashes and dealing with damaged hair. I hope these do the trick!

My eyelashes are short and sparse. What are my options for getting longer, thicker lashes? ?Diana H.

Many people wonder what the big deal is about eyelashes, but those who?ve seen themselves with long, lush lashes can agree they make a huge difference. Aside from their primary function, which is to protect the eyes, lashes (when curled and coated with mascara) make the eyes look bigger and prettier.

They open up the eyes, giving them a wide-awake look that can appear either fresh or glamorous, depending on your makeup.

Thankfully, safe and effective ways of lengthening and defining our lashes that go beyond our trusty eyelash curler are now available. Mascara now has several variants that work on specific lash types: Long lashes that need density should look for mascara with thickening formula; thick but short eyelashes should use mascara that would both lengthen and define them; and for lashes that are short and thin (these are yours), a lengthening and volumizing mascara will work for you.

To get the length you are trying to achieve, make sure to use an eyelash curler before applying mascara. Then, work in a few coats of mascara to really extend and thicken your lashes.

A trick I learned is drawing in black waterproof eyeliner along the lash lines to define the lashes. Doing this never fails to make my lashes look thicker. Also, clumping mascara can be avoided by trying brands that have oscillating or vibrating wands. These deposit the right amount of mascara on your lashes, preventing clumps from forming.

Lots of patience and a steady hand are required to pull off false eyelashes. But once you get the hang of it, they are an easier way to get a more defined fringe. These can instantly add drama to your look, depending on whether you choose to apply a full band of lashes or individual sections.

Most makeup artists use tweezers to set the falsies in place, and dark adhesive to stick them on, as they easily blend into your lash line.

If you can?t be bothered with applying mascara or false eyelashes every day, you have another option: eyelash extensions. Most salons now offer lash extensions, which last about 60-90 days depending on the cycle of your hair growth and how careful you are with your lashes.

These are made from synthetic fibers, which are applied to your individual lashes. And if you?re going for a natural no-makeup look, lash enhancers might just be the option for you. These have recently been approved by the FDA in the US and claim to lengthen lashes and promote their growth.

My hair has become dry and coarse from chemical treatment. What cheaper alternatives can you suggest for repairing my damaged hair? ?Liana C.

An inexpensive way of keeping your hair healthy and shiny is by getting a hot-oil treatment in the comfort of your home. Hot-oil treatments are now easily bought at your local beauty specialty stores or drugstores and shouldn?t be pricey.

Doing it yourself shouldn?t be difficult, too. After applying the treatment on your hair, soak a towel in a tub of hot water. Then wring the excess water from the towel and wrap it around your head. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Do this twice a month to keep your hair in great shape, and stay off the styling products for a while (like straightening or curling irons).

Also, treat your extra-dry hair by shampooing only every other day while still using conditioner daily. This will keep your hair from drying out, and give it a smooth, shiny coat.

Got a beauty question? E-mail the author at ask.kelly misa@gmail.com.