Clumps, smudges, flakes, sometimes mascara just doesn't want to stay in picture perfect place.  We decided to put the mascara meltdowns to an end and seek the advice of a cosmetic pro.  Celebrity makeup artist, Hector Simancas has answered all our common questions on mascara and false eyelashes.  From application mistakes to which products to try, Hector has covered it all below in our makeup Q+A.  Read on to learn more about how to wear your mascara and falsies the right way and click through the slideshow to view his eye-popping makeup favorites.

So Hector, what are the most common mistakes women make when applying mascara or false lashes?

Well I am always observing others to take in additional tips and techniques.  I love to watch women doing their makeup when they're on the go.  I catch them on subways, in their cars, at make-up stores, and I learn from them.  The eye is a delicate part of your body, so we really need to think twice before we put anything there.  Some common mistakes?  One:  Never ever test mascara at the makeup store.  I know this makes shopping more difficult, but I suggest you try several mascaras until you until we find the right one.  If you can try a mascara from your sister, a friend, your mom, that's really helpful when making a selection.  Two:  Always use a lash curler and curl lashes at least 3 times before you add mascara.  Start from the root of the lashes, and then go to the middle and then to the end, for a nice curve.  Always check the corner and redo it as many times as you need until you get the perfect curve.  And three:  Add a thin coat of mascara on the root first and let it dry so you create a base and don't lose the curve that you made with the curler.  Then go to the tips and middle, in that order.  After that you can keep adding more and more mascara, but always let lashes dry a little.

How do you avoid mascara getting on your cheeks?

A lot of times the problem can be the bottom lashes.  Don't use mascara on lower lashes during the day, just wear a brown pencil inside with a little bit of black on the corners.  Another option would be to tint your bottom lashes black.  It's a great way to use less mascara.  There are many beauty salons that provide this service.

What is your go-to technique for applying mascara? 

First, curl your lashes really well before applying any mascara.  If you have long lashes, only put mascara on the tips.  If your lashes are shorter, start from the root and go out, and one or two coats will be enough.  The less you use, the more natural your lashes will look. 

When buying mascara, there are so many choices.  What type of mascara works best for what types of lashes?

If you have full lashes, any mascara will be good (lucky you!).  For shorter lashes, go for a mascara formula with fibers that helps to extend them.  And remember, the key is all about how you apply, and how much you apply.

Which celeb do you think has the best eye makeup and why?
Jennifer Lopez is the first celebrity that comes to my mind.  Her eye makeup looks are always clean, fresh and elegant.

Are there any rules to wearing false eyelashes?  Are they only for special occasions?

These days there really aren't any rules for wearing false lashes.  It's up to you which look you want, but please don't wear them for more that one day.  Take false lashes off at night, clean them and use them again the next day if you want.  It makes a big difference.  You want clean fresh lashes instead of having days of a messy nest, which will help maintain the beauty and brightness of your eyes.  You can use full false lashes or half lashes, just make sure you don't over do it for your everyday looks, so when you use them for special occasions, it keeps its impact.  

Any additional tips or tricks?

Another option for mascara application is to use a small flat brush so you can have better control of the amount of mascara you are adding.  The life of the mascara will also be longer because you aren't putting bacteria and dry product back into the container.  Simply take the mascara and put some on top of your hand, and use the mascara from there with the brush.

Can your lashes ever be too long?

If you want to look like a Drag queen (which I hope you don't!), then no.

LOL.  What are your favorite lash and mascara products?

For me, mascara is like moisturizer, so whatever formula you find works for you is the best, but try a few different mascaras before deciding.  My mascara favorites:  Maybelline Great Lash Mascara.  It is a cult-classic, easy-to-use, washable mascara. The formula allows you to build healthy-looking lashes without clumps or globs.  I also love Dior Diorshow Mascara in shade 090.  It's creamy, buildable, and allows you to achieve dramatic lash volume.  And the new Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils Babydoll is great.  The formula creates long-lasting volume and intense color that is even and clump-free.  For false lashes, my favorites are Shisem Lashes by The Face Shop, and Illamasqua False Eyelashes, available at Sephora.

See Hector's work at www.factorydowntown.com