If your lashes have been looking a little sparse or droopy, makeup artist Shannon Reed has the solution. With over 20 years in the beauty industry, she’s learned exactly which mascaras deliver the best results — without the mess or frustration many women over 40 often face.
Shannon shared her “Holy Grail” mascara picks on TikTok, revealing the four must-haves she looks for in any lash product.
First, it can’t create raccoon eyes. “No flaking, no smudging, no mess by the end of the day,” she explained. Second, it has to volumize lashes without clumping: “I personally want fuller lashes, not spider lashes.” Third, it can’t weigh down curls — if you take the time to curl your lashes, they need to stay lifted. And finally, it must remove easily at night. “I do not want to sit and fight with my mascara for an hour when I’m ready to go to bed,” Shannon added.
@shannon_reed1 Holy Grails Part 8: Mascara. As a makeup artist of over 20 years, I’m picky about mascara — especially in my 40s. No raccoon eyes, real volume without clumps, won’t weigh my curl down, and comes off easily at night. The mascara that checks every single box for me is the @ILIA Beauty Limitless Lash Mascara — which is why it’s a true holy grail! I’m Shannon, and I share beauty and wellness to help women feel their best inside and out. If that’s your vibe, hit follow and let’s glow #holygrailproducts #beautyover40 #makeupover40 #mascara #ilia original sound – Shannon | Over 40 Glow
Best Mascara, According To MUA
Her top pick that checks all these boxes? The Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara. Shannon calls it a true “holy grail,” not only for its formula but also for its innovative brush design. One side of the brush features a lash comb to separate and define, while the other side has shorter, denser bristles to build volume right at the root. This dual-action design ensures that lashes look full, lifted, and perfectly separated — no clumps in sight.
Shannon emphasizes that finding the right mascara is about more than just appearance; it’s about practicality and care for your lashes. “This is one of those products I reach for over and over again,” she said. With the Limitless Lash Mascara, sparse lashes can look longer, thicker, and more lifted without the hassle of smudging, spider lashes, or hours spent at the makeup remover stage.
For women looking to feel their best both inside and out, Shannon encourages experimenting with mascaras that meet your individual needs. Her message is clear: the right product can make a noticeable difference, boosting confidence and keeping your lashes healthy and defined.
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The bottom line
Whether you’re in your 20s, 40s, or beyond, the Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara promises to transform your lashes with length, lift, and volume — all while staying mess-free.
