This article contains links to products we recommend. GlowNourish may earn a commission from some links, at no extra cost to you — see our Affiliate Disclosure. It is general beauty information.
If you could only keep one makeup product, plenty of people would choose mascara — and for good reason. A single coat opens up the eyes, defines your lashes, and makes you look instantly more awake, even with zero other makeup. But not all mascaras are created equal: some lengthen, some volumise, some hold a curl, and some flake by lunchtime. Here are eight of the best for every lash goal, plus how to apply it like a pro and avoid the dreaded clumps.
Quick picks:
- 🏆 Best overall: A buildable lengthening-and-volumising mascara — Check price on Amazon →
- 📏 Best for length: A defining lengthening formula — Check price on Amazon →
- 💧 Best waterproof: A smudge-proof waterproof mascara — Check price on Amazon →
What makes a great mascara
Three things decide whether a mascara wows or disappoints:
- The formula: lengthening (fibres that extend lashes), volumising (thicker, fuller coats), or defining (separates each lash).
- The brush: big fluffy brushes add volume; thin or curved brushes give precision and separation; silicone brushes define and reduce clumps.
- The wear: does it hold a curl, resist smudging, and last all day without flaking under your eyes?
Match the formula and brush to your lash goal and you're 90% of the way there.
The 8 best mascaras
🏆 Best overall: Lengthening + volumising hybrid
The do-it-all pick — adds noticeable length and fullness, builds without clumping, and works for everyday or evening. If you want one mascara, this is it.
- Best for: Most people, all lash types.
- Pros: Buildable, versatile, defined yet full.
- Cons: Build slowly to avoid going too dramatic.
📏 Best for length: Defining lengthening mascara
A fibre-rich formula with a precise brush that stretches lashes to their full length and separates every one for a fluttery, doll-like effect.
- Best for: Short or straight lashes wanting length.
- Pros: Dramatic length, great separation.
- Cons: Less volume than thicker formulas.
🦋 Best for volume: Dramatic volumising mascara
A big, fluffy brush and rich formula that coats lashes thickly for bold, full-bodied drama — think instant false-lash effect.
- Best for: Sparse lashes and going-out looks.
- Pros: Maximum fullness, eye-opening drama.
- Cons: Can clump if over-applied — wiggle and build.
💧 Best waterproof: Smudge-proof formula
Holds up through rain, tears, workouts, and humidity without smudging or flaking. Ideal for events, holidays, and emotional movies.
- Best for: Long days, heat, and watery eyes.
- Pros: Stays put, holds a curl.
- Cons: Harder to remove — use an oil-based remover.
🌿 Best for sensitive eyes: Gentle ophthalmologist-tested mascara
A gentle, often fibre-free formula designed for contact-lens wearers and sensitive or watery eyes — defines without irritation.
- Best for: Sensitive eyes and lens wearers.
- Pros: Gentle, comfortable, easy to remove.
- Cons: More natural, less dramatic effect.
↗️ Best for holding a curl: Curl-locking mascara
Formulated to lift and hold a curl all day, so straight or downturned lashes stay perky from morning to night.
- Best for: Straight or stubborn lashes that drop.
- Pros: Lasting lift, wide-awake eyes.
- Cons: Curl your lashes first for best results.
💸 Best budget: Cult-classic drugstore mascara
The under-$10 legends that have topped best-of lists for years — proof you don't need to splurge for gorgeous lashes.
- Best for: Everyone; beginners and budgets.
- Pros: Incredible value, reliable.
- Cons: Range of formulas — pick by your lash goal.
🤎 Best brown mascara: Soft natural-effect mascara
Brown mascara is the secret to ultra-natural, soft-focus eyes — perfect for fair lashes, no-makeup days, and mature eyes.
- Best for: Natural looks and lighter colouring.
- Pros: Softer and more natural than black.
- Cons: Less dramatic definition.
How to apply mascara like a pro
- Curl your lashes first with a lash curler — this single step makes the biggest difference.
- Wipe excess off the wand to avoid clumps.
- Wiggle at the base of your lashes, then sweep up to the tips — the wiggle deposits product where it counts.
- Build a second coat while the first is still slightly wet to avoid clumping.
- Coat the lower lashes lightly with the tip of the wand for balance (or skip for a cleaner look).
- Comb through with a clean spoolie if you get any clumps.
How to avoid clumps and smudges
- Don't pump the wand in and out of the tube — it pushes in air and dries out the formula.
- Replace mascara every 3 months — old mascara clumps and harbours bacteria.
- Set under-eye concealer with a little powder to stop lower-lash smudging.
- Use waterproof on humid days or if you have oily lids.
Frequently asked questions
Lengthening or volumising — which do I need?
Lengthening if your lashes are short or straight; volumising if they're sparse or you want drama. Hybrid formulas do both for everyday wear.
How often should I replace mascara?
Every 3 months. It's the makeup product most prone to drying out and growing bacteria.
How do I remove waterproof mascara without losing lashes?
Use an oil-based or bi-phase remover, press a soaked cotton pad on closed eyes for a few seconds, then wipe gently — never rub or tug.
Should I curl before or after mascara?
Before. Curling after can crimp lashes and break them. Curl first, then apply.
The bottom line
The best mascara is the one that matches your lashes and your goal — a lengthening-and-volumising hybrid for everyday, a fibre formula for length, a fluffy brush for volume, and waterproof for long or emotional days. Curl first, wiggle at the base, build while wet, and swap it every three months. One great mascara can transform your whole face.
🏆 Top pick: Lengthening + Volumising Mascara — Check price on Amazon →
Next: put it all together with our everyday natural makeup tutorial and concealer guide.
