An applicator for applying a cosmetic to eyelashes, comprising a shaft section or at least a coupling section and an applicator section, the applicator section being configured as an internally hollow cage for accommodating the cosmetic, which is substantially or completely closed in the circumferential direction, characterized in that the cage, in the direction perpendicular to its longitudinal axis, has a triangular cross section and comprises on at least one of its circumferential tips a number of passages that communicate with the interior of the cage and into which the eyelashes insert themselves during application.