There’s nothing quite like a great mascara – or like getting a mascara you thought would be great, only to have it leave clumps everywhere. If you’re interested in the best of the best, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re going for waterproof, lengthening, volumizing, or any other kind of mascara, you’ll find some foolproof recommendations below. Some of them are from well-known brands like CoverGirl, while others are from boutique operations like Pamplemousse. Regardless, you’ll have plenty of choices in the options listed here.
#1: CoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara
If you’re searching for dramatic volume in a drugstore mascara, this is a great choice. It’s infused with jojoba and coconut oils to moisturize your lashes, and is perfect for layering to get a more intense look. Some users say that it started flaking after a while, but for the most part it wears well without clumping, transferring, or smudging. It goes on easily, stays on for as long as you want it to, and can be quickly removed with a gentle cleanser or makeup wipe.
#2: Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
This mascara is preceded by its reputation, but does it live up to the hype? It most certainly does. It promises (and delivers) an intense black color, while the hourglass-shaped applicator perfectly separates, curls, and lengthens the lashes. You can build up the volume with multiple lump-free layers, without looking overdone in the process. Some users say that the formula is too wet for their liking, but this can be fixed by simply wiping away the excess before each application. Whether you’re going for a bold everyday look, or you want to glam yourself up for a special event, this mascara can get the job done.
#3: Pamplemousse Glitz & Glam Waterproof Mascara
You may live in a humid environment, or you may need a mascara that won’t budge in sudden rainstorms; regardless, there’s nothing quite like the security of knowing that your mascara is waterproof. This one is resistant to water, humidity, and smudging in general, so you can be confident that it’ll stay in place rain or shine. You’ll also enjoy longer, fuller lashes that don’t clump together, even with multiple applications.
#4: CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara
Here’s another crowd-pleaser that delivers on both performance and affordability. Its best quality is probably the amount of volume it adds to lashes, without clumping or looking over-the-top. Even though the formula is thick enough to deliver an intense look, it’s also balanced enough to define the lower lashes. Some users don’t care for the strong smell, but that isn’t an issue for most people. Given how well this mascara performs for all kinds of looks, it’s a strong contender for a spot in your personal makeup collection.
#5: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara
Brought to you by this brand’s iconic Pillow Talk line, this mascara is designed to lift, lengthen, and bring intensity to your lashes. Not just the ones that are easy to reach, by the way; the applicator is designed to reach the tiny eyelashes at the corner of your eyes, that so often result in accidental smudges from the average mascara. This mascara is also humidity-proof and smudge-proof, so you can apply it and then forget about it.
#6: Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara
If you’re interested in length more than intensity, this could be the mascara for you. So many mascaras focus on their ability to create bold looks with multiple layers, but what if you want to highlight the length of your lashes? This tubing mascara is the answer to that question, since it forms “tubes” that encase individual lashes for a more defined look. You’ll also get some curling and volume, but the lengthening feature is what makes this mascara stand out. Users say that the delicate applicator makes hard-to-reach spots more accessible, meaning you can pay attention to every lash.
#7: Uoma Beauty Drama Bomb Extreme Volume Nourishing Mascara
As you can probably tell from the name, this mascara pulls out all the stops. If you require a mascara that will give you a striking look while also nourishing your lashes, look no further! The formula includes ingredients like jojoba oil, castor oil, avocado oil, and a variety of (vegan) waxes that hydrate, protect, and volumize. Users say that this product could be easier to remove, but that’s part of the price of bold mascara that doesn’t budge no matter what.
#8: Honest Beauty Extreme Length Mascara + Lash Primer
Lash primers are great for thickening and separating your lashes before you apply the actual mascara, but it can also feel like overkill to keep an extra item just for that purpose. With this 2-in-1 product, though, you won’t have to keep track of anything more than you usually do. You can also condition your lashes with the jojoba esters in the primer, while enjoying a longer wear time as well. One small downside is that the grip on the primer handle is quite short due to size constrictions, making it a little harder to maneuver. However, most users think that the pros outweigh the cons.
#9: ILIA Beauty Limitless Lash Mascara
Anyone who’s a fan of “clean beauty” will enjoy using this mascara. It’s popular for a reason: not only is it specially formulated, but it also nourishes, lifts, and lengthens the lashes. On one side of the applicator you’ll find shorter bristles that are perfect for curling and volumizing; on the other side are longer bristles that lengthen and separate the lashes.
#10: IT Cosmetics Lash Blowout Volumizing Mascara
This mascara can be built up so much, you’ll look like you have false lashes – all with zero flaking or smudging. Users note that the consistency is perfect for repeat applications, without any clumping. If you’re interested in drama as well as wearability, you’ll love this mascara.
The takeaway
Finding the perfect mascara doesn’t have to involve experimentation; the experts have already done it for you! No matter what you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone here.
