When we think about where we would be without our mascara, we shudder a little bit inside. Sure, it has a tendency to streak down our face anytime we feel a bit emotional (YouTube proposal videos should come with a warning - "may cause excessive sniffling") but we have to admit that the pros have greatly outweighed the cons throughout the years. Whether you've stayed with your holy grail since the first swipe or switched up your mascara as often as your polish, we've compiled the ultimate guide to mascara wands to help your lashes look luscious, always. Just stick to waterproof if you tend to tear up easily (no judgment).

Comb: A comb-shaped mascara wand will help you avoid the dreaded c-word: clumps. The plastic bristles will distribute the formula evenly throughout your lashes and leave you with natural-looking length. Clumpy clown lashes, no more!

Product picks: , L'Oréal Telescopic Shocking Extension s, Clinique High Lengths Mascara

Ball: Though these wands might look like something out of a science fiction movie, they're nothing to be afraid of. Their unique shape allows them to grab each lash individually, from larger lashes all the way to the tiniest lashes in the inner corner of your eyes. The downside? Applying mascara with this type of brush is more time-consuming than your standard wand.

Product picks: Givenchy Phenomen'Eyes, Technic iDoll 360 Mascara

Thick: Thick, big, fat...if your wand fits that description, chances are your lashes will too. Thicker brushes are usually made with synthetic fibers and will give you a plush, voluminous final look. These types of brushes are great for plumping up your fringe, but might be difficult to maneuver on short lashes.

Product picks: Benefit BADgal Lash, MAC Plush Lash, Maybelline Volum' Express The Mega Plush

Thin: Long wands with short, spaced-out bristles will help lengthen, define and separate. These types of wands are great for anyone with naturally-thick lashes who wants to accentuate and add length. Many of these wands also include fibers, which attach to your lashes and make them appear longer. Some formulas will thicken your lashes as well as lengthen.

Product picks: Lancôme Définicils High Definition Mascara , Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils , TooFaced LashGASM

Curved: If your lashes tend to stick straight out or down, use a curved mascara wand. Curved brushes are made with your natural eye shape in mind, and will open up your lashes and wing them out. Holding the brush with the curve facing down, wriggle it through your lashes to give your lashes a lift.

What type of mascara wand is your favorite? Sound off in the comments!

photo credit: L'Oréal, Givenchy, Benefit, Lancôme, Maybelline