Quick answer

Apply a thin coat of Tartelette Tubing Lash Primer to clean, dry lashes, let it set for a few seconds, then immediately follow with your mascara while the primer is still slightly tacky. This locks in lift and length without clumping.

Why a tubing primer changes your mascara routine

Unlike a traditional conditioning primer, a tubing formula wraps each lash in a protective layer that helps mascara grip better and removes with warm water. That means you can build more volume without the tugging that often comes with heavy mascara layers.

The trade-off: tubing primers need to be worked quickly. If you let the primer dry completely before adding mascara, the tubes can flake or refuse to bond with the mascara formula. Work one eye at a time to avoid this.

When to skip the primer (and what to do instead)

If you prefer a natural, barely-there lash look, a primer may add more volume than you want. In that case, use a single coat of your regular mascara and focus on curling instead.

Also, if your lashes are very sparse or you have sensitive eyes, patch-test the primer first. Tubing formulas are generally gentle, but any new product can cause irritation.

Step-by-step: layering Tartelette Tubing Lash Primer under mascara

  1. Start with clean, dry lashes: Cleanse lashes and make sure they are completely dry before applying primer. Any oil or moisture can prevent the tubing formula from adhering properly. Checkpoint: lashes should feel dry to the touch, not tacky.
  2. Curl first, then prime: Use an eyelash curler before primer. Curling after primer can break the tubes and cause flaking.
  3. Apply a thin coat of primer: Wipe excess primer off the wand and apply from root to tip in a zigzag motion. Focus on the mid-lengths and tips for extra length. Avoid overloading the roots. Mistake to avoid: using too much primer, which leads to clumps and slow drying.
  4. Let it set for 5–10 seconds: Pause just until the primer is slightly tacky but not fully dry. This is the ideal window for mascara to bond.
  5. Immediately apply mascara: While the primer is still tacky, apply your mascara from root to tip. Use a light hand—the primer already adds volume, so one or two coats is often enough. Checkpoint: if you see white patches, you waited too long; remove and start over.
  6. Separate and define: Use a clean lash comb or spoolie to separate lashes while mascara is still wet. This prevents clumps and ensures even coverage.
  7. Remove with warm water: At the end of the day, soak lashes with warm water for a few seconds, then gently slide the tubes off with your fingertips. No need for harsh makeup remover. Mistake to avoid: rubbing or pulling—tubes should slide off easily.

Product facts

  • tartelette™ tubing lash primer: White-tinted tubing primer that boosts volume, length, and lift while wrapping lashes in protective tubes. The white tint helps you see exactly where you've applied primer, so you can coat evenly before mascara.

    tartelette™ tubing lash primer

    tartelette™ tubing lash primer

  • tartelette™ tubing lash primer: Makes mascara removal a breeze—no tugging or scrubbing. You can wear heavier mascara layers without dreading the end-of-day cleanse.