While the practice of darkening the eyelashes for cosmetic purposes dates back to ancient Egypt, the first commercially produced mascara to hit the market was created by none other than Eugène Rimmel and launched in 1872. The main ingredients were coal dust and petroleum jelly. Thankfully, the formulation has evolved since then and mascara remains a daily beauty routine staple for people around the globe.

With so many brands available today, it’s hard to believe they all don’t do the same thing. But the difference between good and bad mascara is easy to spot (i.e. flaking, smudging, clumping stinging, etc.). So, how do you find a winner?

Get five tips for selecting your next tube of mascara plus the MIDDI top pick below:

1. Choose your final look.

Before you start comparing the countless options out there, decide what kind of look you want to end up with at the end of your daily makeup routine. If you like a more natural look, a lengthening formula is a great choice. But if you like to glam it up, go for volume and length to get the look of false lashes without the glue.

2. Pick a shade.

The main shades for mascara are black and brown, and you can choose based on the look you’re after. I have dark brown hair and eyes and skin with olive undertones, so I prefer black-as-I-can-find-it mascara. A dark brown shade can have the same impact on those with a fairer complexion or lighter hair. I’ve also used plum mascara in the past to bring out my eye color or applied black on my top lashes and brown on the bottom for a more subtle finish.

3. Consider sensitivities.

If you’re prone to dry eyes or have allergies, make sure to keep that in mind when choosing a mascara. You want to avoid any potentially irritating ingredients like nickel, black iron oxide or fragrance, and may need to opt for a waterproof formula to avoid raccoon eyes by lunchtime. Monitor how your eyes react after trying a new one.

4. Remember your skin type.

Your skin type may also impact how your mascara wears. If your skin is oily, you’re more likely to experience smudging throughout the day. While I tend to avoid waterproof formulas because they can be tough to remove, I usually look for a formula that is water-resistant to help it stay in place.

5. Budget for replacements.

The health of your eyes is nothing to mess around with, so you need to toss your mascara tube for a fresh one every three months. Keep that in mind when deciding how much you want to spend.

Want more tips? Learn how to shop for bath towels here.

MIDDI recommends …

glossier

A post shared by Glossier (@glossier)

I have tried (and loved) other mascaras, but I keep coming back to Lash Slick ($18) from Glossier (previously featured here). This formula expertly separates and elongates my lashes without clumping. It also stays put all day long and washes away with little effort and zero eye irritation. The final look is more natural—it doesn’t add much volume—which makes it perfect for the no-makeup look.

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MIDDI is a weekly roundup of mid-priced beauty, fashion and home buys released every Monday. Have a product you’re searching for? Leave your suggestions in the comments.