For many makeup lovers, mascara can be a make-or-break tool in their cosmetic bag.

Without mascara, eyes can look smaller, tired, or simply just not as vibrant.

Still, not everyone wants to apply glue to their lash line.

Woman applying mascara

Putting on mascara requires a certain amount of certainty.

There are some advantages to taking a break from it every once in a while, though.

There will be less bacteria on your eyelashes

Even without makeup on, eyelashes hold bacteria.

Woman with eye infection

The tiny transparent mites feed on oil and dead skin while clutching onto eyelashes.

In addition, mascara has a short shelf life.

Keeping it any longer than that can also lead to eye infections.

Woman with long eyelashes

Consequently, they can also experience damage if not taken care of adequately.

That’s when you might mindlessly rub your eyes which can also damage lashes.

So go ahead and give your lashes in their natural state a few days of rest.