We get asked almost daily, “What is your favorite [insert beauty product here]?” And one of the most common answers is: the best mascara. Everyone is curious about what gives our lashes that dramatic, yet natural look — without making them clumpy, crusty, flaky, or webby.
So, without further ado, here are our editors’ top picks for the best lash mascaras of all time — featuring Best of Beauty winners, the best drugstore mascaras, Sephora favorites, and luxury brand gems — that give our lashes the ultimate volume, curl, length, and — yes — a false lash effect, every day.
Our Top Picks
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Best Overall
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Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara
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Best Water Proof
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Ere Perez Natural Avocado Waterproof Mascara
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Best Tubing Mascara
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L’Oréal Paris Double Extend Beauty Tubes Lengthening Mascara
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Best Lengthening Mascara
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Urban Decay Perversion Mascara
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Understanding Mascara Types
Volumizing Mascara
Volumizing mascaras add thickness to your lashes. They’re perfect for those with sparse or thin lashes, providing a fuller, more dramatic look. Think of them as the magic wand for lush lashes.
Lengthening Mascara
Lengthening mascaras work wonders for short lashes. They contain fibers or special formulations that extend the length of each lash, making them appear longer and more defined.
Curling Mascara
Curling mascaras are designed to give your lashes an upward curve. Ideal for straight lashes, these mascaras help maintain a curl throughout the day, opening up your eyes.
Waterproof Mascara
Waterproof mascaras are resistant to water, sweat, and tears. They’re perfect for humid climates or emotional events, ensuring your lashes stay intact.
Tubing Mascara
Tubing mascaras wrap each lash in a tube-like polymer. They’re easy to remove with warm water and are great for avoiding smudging.
1. Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara
Essence’s Lash Princess False Lash Effect is the perfect mascara for anyone who wants to achieve a stunning lash look with minimal effort. I was blown away by how it instantly transformed my lashes with one coat, giving them a noticeable boost of lift and length without a curler.
It stayed smooth and flawless all day, with no clumps, smudges, or flakes. It’s not just me who loves it — it has rave reviews from several makeup artists, Strategist writer Jinnie Lee, the Cut editors, and over 240,000 Amazon customers.
Makeup artist Anabelle LaGuardia praises its “amazing length and volume,” and Lee says it “dramatically plump[s] and intensif[ies] my lashes in every single way — it lengthens, volumizes, lifts, and curls each tiny hair.” An unbeatable value for such a high-quality product.
2. Ere Perez Natural Avocado Waterproof Mascara
If you have sensitive eyes, you might want to avoid waterproof mascaras that are loaded with harsh chemicals and hard to remove. But what if you still want a mascara that lasts all day without smudging? That’s where Ere Perez waterproof mascara comes in.
This mascara is vegan, all-natural, and enriched with mamey and avocado oils that nourish and strengthen your lashes. It’s gentle on your eyes and easy to take off with an oil-based cleanser.
It may not give you the most dramatic lashes, but it will definitely make them look more lifted and defined. I tested it myself and I was impressed by how well it stayed on and how natural it looked.
Ere Perez waterproof mascara is a great option for anyone who wants a reliable and gentle mascara that can withstand any weather.
3. L’Oréal Paris Double Extend Beauty Tubes Lengthening Mascara
This mascara comes with a lash primer, which is a great bonus. The primer nourishes your lashes and prepares them for the tubing formula. To avoid clumps, use only a small amount of primer, as recommended by makeup artist Kornelija Slunjski.
She also suggests curling your lashes gently before applying mascara for a more dramatic effect. Another tip is to use a slanted eyeliner brush to coat the base of your lashes with mascara, as deBen explains: “This creates a fuller and more defined look for your lashes and eyes.”
4. Urban Decay Perversion Mascara
Urban Decay Perversion Mascara is the ultimate mascara for bold, dramatic lashes. This mascara delivers intense black color, incredible volume, and stunning length with just one swipe.
The creamy formula glides on smoothly and coats every lash with a volumizing brush that separates and defines.
The mascara also contains nourishing ingredients such as marine collagen and honey extract to help your lashes grow stronger and healthier. Whether you want a natural look or a full-on glam, Urban Decay Perversion Mascara will give you the lashes of your dreams.
Key Ingredients to Look For
Beeswax
Beeswax helps volumize and lengthen lashes. It also adds a protective layer to each lash, enhancing durability.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid hydrates and conditions lashes. It’s a great ingredient for those looking to improve lash health while wearing mascara.
Carnauba Wax
Carnauba wax adds a natural sheen and helps with the mascara’s hold. It’s perfect for achieving a glossy finish.
Peptides
Peptides promote lash growth and strength. They’re ideal for those looking to improve the overall health and length of their lashes.
Application Tips for Best Results
- Start at the Base: Begin applying mascara at the base of your lashes. Wiggle the wand upwards to coat each lash evenly.
- Multiple Coats: Apply multiple coats for a more dramatic effect. Let each coat dry slightly before adding another.
- Use a Lash Curler: Curl your lashes before applying mascara for added lift. It makes a noticeable difference.
- Clean the Wand: Regularly clean the wand to avoid clumps. A clean wand ensures smooth application.
How to Choose the Right Mascara for Your Lash Type
Short Lashes
For short lashes, lengthening mascaras are your best bet. They extend the length of each lash, making them appear longer and more defined.
Sparse Lashes
Sparse lashes benefit most from volumizing mascaras. These formulas add thickness and create a fuller lash line.
Straight Lashes
Curling mascaras are ideal for straight lashes. They help maintain an upward curl, making your eyes look more open and awake.
Sensitive Eyes
If you have sensitive eyes, look for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free mascaras. These options are gentler and reduce the risk of irritation.
FAQs
How do I prevent mascara from smudging?
To prevent mascara from smudging, opt for waterproof formulas. These are designed to withstand water, sweat, and tears, ensuring your lashes stay intact all day.
Additionally, avoid applying too much product, especially on the lower lashes, as this can lead to smudging. Using a primer before applying mascara can also help set the product and reduce smudging.
How can I make my mascara last longer?
Store your mascara in a cool, dry place and avoid pumping the wand into the tube, as this introduces air and can dry out the product. Ensure you close the tube tightly after each use. Using a lash primer can also extend the wear of your mascara.
How often should I replace my mascara?
Mascara should be replaced every three months. Regular replacement helps prevent bacterial buildup, which can lead to eye infections and irritation.
What is the best way to remove waterproof mascara?
Use an oil-based makeup remover to break down waterproof mascara gently. Apply the remover to a cotton pad, press it against your closed eyelid for a few seconds, and then wipe away. This method helps dissolve the mascara without tugging at your lashes.
How do I apply mascara for the best results?
Start at the base of your lashes and wiggle the wand upwards to coat each lash evenly. For more drama, apply multiple coats, allowing each layer to dry slightly before adding another.
Use a lash curler before applying mascara for added lift and ensure the wand is clean to avoid clumps.
What ingredients should I look for in a mascara?
Look for ingredients like beeswax, which helps volumize and lengthen lashes, and hyaluronic acid, which hydrates and conditions. Carnauba wax adds a natural sheen and helps with hold, while peptides promote lash growth and strength.
Which type of mascara is best for short lashes?
Lengthening mascaras are ideal for short lashes. These mascaras often contain fibers or special formulations that extend the length of each lash, making them appear longer and more defined.
How can I choose a mascara for sensitive eyes?
For sensitive eyes, select hypoallergenic and fragrance-free mascaras. These formulas are gentler and reduce the risk of irritation. Always check the ingredient list to avoid potential allergens.
Is there a specific way to apply mascara to avoid clumps?
Yes, start by wiping off excess mascara from the wand before application. Apply the mascara in thin layers, allowing each coat to dry slightly before adding another. Wiggle the wand from the base to the tip of your lashes to distribute the product evenly.
Can I use mascara on my lower lashes?
Absolutely! When applying mascara to your lower lashes, use the tip of the wand and apply lightly to avoid clumps and smudging. Waterproof formulas can be particularly effective for lower lashes as they minimize the risk of smudging throughout the day.
