Search
Close this search box.

The Best Mascaras for Every Lash Need

Mascara is one of the most essential makeup products that can instantly transform your look. Whether you want to add length, volume, curl, or drama to your lashes, there is a mascara out there for you. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one for your lash goals? To help you out, we have rounded up the best mascaras for every lash need, based on expert reviews, customer ratings, and our own testing. Here are the top 10 mascaras that you need to try this year.

Best Mascara Ever: L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara

If you are looking for a classic mascara that delivers on all fronts, you can’t go wrong with the L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara. This cult-favorite mascara has been around for decades and is still loved by many beauty enthusiasts for its ability to create full and soft lashes. The formula is enriched with ceramides and panthenol to condition and protect the lashes, while the fluffy brush coats every lash with rich and buildable pigment. The result is a voluminous and defined lash look that lasts all day without clumping or flaking.

Best Volumizing Mascara: e.l.f. Big Mood Mega Volume & Lifting Mascara

If you want to achieve a dramatic and eye-catching lash look, you need a mascara that can pump up the volume. The e.l.f. Big Mood Mega Volume & Lifting Mascara is a new launch that promises to do just that. This mascara features an hourglass-shaped brush that hugs every lash and delivers a generous amount of product. The formula is infused with jojoba wax and carnauba wax to create a lightweight and flexible texture that adds volume and lift to the lashes. The mascara is also vegan and cruelty-free, making it a great choice for conscious consumers.

Best Lengthening Mascara: Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Lash Mascara

If you want to make your lashes look longer and more fluttery, you need a mascara that can extend and separate them. The Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Lash Mascara is a popular option that claims to do both. This mascara has a flexible wand that bends to reach every lash, from the root to the tip. The formula is infused with bamboo extract and fibers to create a long-lasting and smudge-proof effect. The mascara also comes in a waterproof version for extra staying power.

Best Thickening Mascara: Physicians Formula Eye Booster Instant Lash Extension Kit

If you want to create the illusion of thicker and fuller lashes, you might want to try a lash extension kit. The Physicians Formula Eye Booster Instant Lash Extension Kit is a two-step system that consists of a mascara and a lash-boosting fiber. The mascara is formulated with a lash-enhancing serum that nourishes and strengthens the lashes, while the fiber adds instant length and volume. The kit is hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, and suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Best Waterproof Mascara: essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara

If you want a mascara that can withstand sweat, tears, and humidity, you need a waterproof formula that won’t budge or smudge. The Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara is a budget-friendly option that delivers on its name. This mascara has a conic-shaped brush that coats every lash with a waterproof and volumizing formula. The mascara creates a false lash effect that lasts all day, without clumping or flaking. The mascara is also vegan and cruelty-free, making it a great value for money.

Best Sensitive Mascara: Almay Length & Lift Mascara

If you have sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses, you need a mascara that is gentle and non-irritating. The Almay Length & Lift Mascara is a good option that is designed for sensitive eyes. This mascara has a slim and tapered brush that lifts and lengthens the lashes, without weighing them down. The formula is ophthalmologist-tested, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and safe for contact lens wearers. The mascara is also available in four shades, including black, brown, black brown, and purple.

Best Tinted Mascara: Honest Beauty Honestly Healthy Serum-Infused Lash Tint with Castor Oil

If you want to add a subtle hint of color to your lashes, you might want to try a tinted mascara. The Honest Beauty Honestly Healthy Serum-Infused Lash Tint with Castor Oil is a unique product that combines a lash serum and a lash tint in one. The serum is enriched with castor oil, biotin, and peptides to nourish and strengthen the lashes, while the tint adds a natural-looking wash of color. The mascara is available in three shades, including black, brown, and plum.

Best Non-Clumping Mascara: essence Maximum Definition Waterproof Volume Mascara

If you want a mascara that can create a smooth and clump-free lash look, you need a mascara that has a precise and separating brush. The essence Maximum Definition Waterproof Volume Mascara is a great option that has a flexible rubber brush that combs through every lash. The formula is waterproof and volumizing, creating a defined and long-lasting lash look. The mascara is also vegan and cruelty-free, making it a great bargain.

Best Mascara Primer: PUR The Complexion Authority Fully Charged Lash Primer

If you want to boost the performance of your mascara, you might want to use a mascara primer. The PUR The Complexion Authority Fully Charged Lash Primer is a product that can enhance any mascara. The primer is infused with a magnetic polymer matrix that wraps around each lash, creating a base for the mascara to adhere to. The primer also helps to condition, strengthen, and lengthen the lashes, while preventing smudging and flaking. The primer is vegan and cruelty-free, making it a great addition to your lash routine.

Best Vegan Mascara: NYX Professional Makeup On The Rise Liftscara Volumizing Mascara, Clean and Vegan Formula

If you are looking for a mascara that is vegan and clean, you might want to check out the NYX Professional Makeup On The Rise Liftscara Volumizing Mascara, Clean and Vegan Formula. This mascara is made with 94% natural ingredients, including rice bran wax, sunflower seed oil, and rosemary leaf extract. The mascara has a curved brush that lifts and curls the lashes, while adding volume and length. The mascara is also smudge-proof and long-wearing, making it a great choice for vegans and non-vegans alike.

FAQs

Q: How do I choose the best mascara for my lashes?

A: The best mascara for your lashes depends on your lash type and your desired look. For example, if you have short and sparse lashes, you might want to look for a mascara that can lengthen and volumize them. If you have straight and stubborn lashes, you might want to look for a mascara that can curl and hold them. If you have sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses, you might want to look for a mascara that is gentle and hypoallergenic. You can also use the above list as a guide to find the best mascara for your lash need.

Q: How do I apply mascara correctly?

A: To apply mascara correctly, you should follow these steps:

  • Curl your lashes with an eyelash curler, if needed, to open up your eyes and create a base for the mascara.
  • Wiggle the mascara wand at the base of your lashes, then sweep it upwards to the tips, coating every lash with the formula. You can repeat this step until you achieve your desired volume and length.
  • Use the tip of the wand to reach the inner and outer corners of your eyes, as well as the lower lashes, for a more defined look.
  • Comb through your lashes with a lash comb or a clean spoolie, if needed, to remove any clumps or excess product.
  • Apply a second coat of mascara, if desired, for more drama and intensity.

Q: How do I remove mascara without damaging my lashes?

A: To remove mascara without damaging your lashes, you should follow these steps:

  • Soak a cotton pad with a gentle eye makeup remover, preferably one that is oil-based or micellar, to dissolve the mascara.
  • Press the cotton pad gently against your lashes for a few seconds, then swipe it downwards to remove the mascara. Avoid rubbing or tugging your lashes, as this can cause breakage or irritation.
  • Repeat this step until all the mascara is gone, then rinse your eyes with water to remove any residue.
  • Apply a lash serum or a moisturizer to your lashes, if needed, to nourish and condition them.

Q: How do I choose the right mascara color for my eye color?

A: The most common mascara color is black, which works well for most eye colors and occasions. However, you can also experiment with different shades of brown, blue, purple, or green to enhance your eye color and create different effects. For example, brown mascara can create a softer and more natural look, especially for blondes and redheads. Blue mascara can make your eyes appear brighter and more awake, especially for brown and hazel eyes. Purple mascara can add some fun and drama to your look, especially for green and blue eyes. Green mascara can create a subtle contrast and highlight your eye color, especially for hazel and brown eyes.

Q: How do I apply mascara to my lower lashes without smudging?

A: Applying mascara to your lower lashes can be tricky, as it can easily smudge or transfer to your under-eye area. To avoid this, you can try these tips:

  • Use a waterproof or smudge-proof mascara, such as essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara, to prevent any unwanted transfer.
  • Use a small and thin brush, such as the one in essence Maximum Definition Waterproof Volume Mascara, to reach your lower lashes without touching your skin.
  • Hold a tissue or a spoon under your lower lashes to catch any excess product or fallout.
  • Apply mascara only to the tips of your lower lashes, not the roots, to create a more natural and balanced look.

Q: How do I make my mascara last longer?

A: Mascara is one of the makeup products that tends to dry out and expire faster than others. To make your mascara last longer, you can follow these tips:

  • Store your mascara in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
  • Avoid pumping your mascara wand in and out of the tube, as this can introduce air and bacteria into the formula. Instead, twist the wand gently to get enough product on the brush.
  • Clean your mascara wand regularly with a mild soap and water to remove any clumps or residue.
  • Replace your mascara every three to six months, or sooner if you notice any changes in smell, texture, or performance.
Stay In Touch

Never miss an important update. Be the first to receive our exclusive beauty tips straight into your inbox.