The mascara applicator includes a container with a removeable cap. A brush extends from the cap such that when the cap is mounted on the container, bristles on the end portion of the brush shaft pick up mascara within the container. An elongated shield extends from the cap in a direction parallel to the brush shaft and spaced from the brush shaft a short distance. The shield prevents excess mascara from being deposited on the eyelid of the user as the mascara is applied. The distance between the shield member and the brush shaft remains constant while the applicator is in use. In one embodiment, the shield member is rigid and not retractable into the cap. In a second embodiment, the shield is foldable into a recess in the cap wall. In a third embodiment, the shield is telescopically received in a slot in the cap when retracted.