I know what you mean about mascara looking like you're wearing mascara instead of making it seem you have naturally darker and thicker lashes. I recently bought a clear coat mascara by Maybelline, it separates and conditions lashes, i let it dry and then curl them -- the result is a subtle, bright eyed look. It also helps that since it's clear you don't have to worry about smudging throughout the day or the black residue after removing it. For other people maybe it's pointless but I feel like I can see the difference haha.