I use L'oreal Featherlash masacara, so I don't know if this works with all mascaras or just the gel kind, but.... I spritz my face (to set mineral makeup) then apply mascara while my lashes are wet from spritzing.  It makes the mascara glide on without any clumps and I don't have to wipe the wand first (with paper towel) to remove excess mascara.  It takes a little bit longer for the mascara to dry, but I'd rather have that then particles from the paper towels mucking up the mascara.

I also apply lipstick/gloss while my lips are still wet, too.  Learned that from the dry skin forumsters. 

This is probably a known trick and I'm just learning it, but I though I'd share anyway.   ;D

GB