Courtesy of L’Oreal
If you’ve tried every mascara under the sun and still can’t find one that won’t smudge, flake, or run, it may be time to switch to a waterproof mascara.
- Most Affordable Waterproof Mascara: Essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara
- Best Waterproof Tubing Mascara: Caliray Come Hell or High Water 24-hour Tubing Mascara
- Top Volumizing Waterproof Mascara: Yves Saint Laurent Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara
You might think that waterproof mascaras are reserved for beach and pool days or ocassions where you know you’re going to cry, like a wedding. But if like clockwork black flakes appear on your cheeks by noon, it’s time to reconsider.Ā
If you’re struggling to find a smudge-proof and flake-free mascara that won’t leave you with raccoon eyes (we’ve all been there), a waterproof mascara is the solution you’ve been searching for. And there are so many out there with rave reviews proving why waterproof mascaras are the secret to long-lasting lashes.
In addition to being flake and smudge-proof, waterproof mascaras can be more effective at holding a curl, since they’re often made with slightly different ingredients.
Whether you need a mascara that’ll last through sweaty workouts or long days at the office, these long-wear waterproof mascaras will make smuding, flaking, and raccoon eyes a problem of the past.
LāOreal Paris Original Telescopic Waterproof Mascara
If you love the OG L’Oreal Telescopic Mascara, you’ll adore this waterproof version. It features aĀ last-separating comb for long, defined lashes that never look clumpy.
Shopper review: “What I love most is how it actually stays put. Iāve worn this through long days, workouts, and even some tears, and it doesnāt smudge or flake at all. It gives a clean, defined look that you can build up for more drama without it getting clumpy.”
5-star ratings: 9,300+
MĀ·AĀ·CStack Waterproof Mascara
For thicker, fuller lashes that stay put, opt for this waterproof mascara you can layer up for volumizing effect. Reviewers call out that it provides an instant lash lift and a defined curl, even if you have straight lashes.
Shopper review: “The brush separates my lashes nicely while adding noticeable volume and length without making them feel heavy or clumpy. I also really like that the formula holds the curl throughout the day and doesnāt smudge, even after several hours of wear.”
Caliray Come Hell or High Water 24-hour Volumizing & Lengthening Tubing Mascara
Prefer a tubing mascara? Look no further than this one from Caliray, which individually coats each lash for volume and length. It’s formulated with lash-conditioning argan oil as an added bonus.
Shopper review: “Iāve used a lot of tubing mascaras and this gives the most oomph of any Iāve tried. Lots of length, you can layer it for volume, holds shape all day. I live in a super dry and windy climate so mascaras often flake through the day and get in my eyes. Not this one!”
Essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara
Coming in at under $5, this drugstore mascara performs as well as anything from luxury brand. It will help you achieveĀ bold, big lashes in just a few swipes without flaking, fading, or smudging.Ā
Shopper review: “This mascara absolutely lives up to the hype. I was looking for something that would give me bold, dramatic lashes without clumping, and this mascara delivers every time. The wand separates beautifully, adds tons of length and volume, and really gives that āfalse lashā look without the hassle. The waterproof formula is a standoutāno flakes, no smudging, even after a long day, workouts, or humidity.”
5-star ratings: 81,200+
CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Waterproof Mascara
Another affordable option that delivers luxury-level lashes is this waterproof mascaraĀ from CoverGirl’s fan-favoriteĀ Lash Blast line. The volume-boosting bristles fully and evenly coat every single lash.
Shopper review: “I have tried so many expensive brands and still hadĀ smudging. Hard to believe this inexpensive brand is better than them all for me. I will always keep this brand as my go to at the gym, on long runs, and long flights.”
LancƓme Lash IdƓle Lash-Lifting & Volumizing Waterproof Mascara
If you want a high-end mascara that actually delivers, reviewers rave that this one from LancĆ“me is worth every penny.Ā The curved wand volumizes, lengthens, and separates lashes while also being smudge-proof.
Shopper review: “If you’re looking for a mascara that could last you an entire shift as a nurse, this is the one for you! Reddit guided me to this masacara and I a m forever grateful. It doesnt run or flake. No raccoon eyes by the end of shift. Chef’s kiss.”
5-star ratings: 19,000+
L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Panorama Waterproof Mascara
TheĀ clump-resistant formula of this mascara is ideal for those who want to achieve long, separated lashes.Ā The tapered wand is perfectly designed for getting into the inner and outer corners.
Shopper review: “I desperately need another tube of the LāOrĆ©al Paris Voluminous Panorama Mascara because itās that good!!! This mascara gives amazing volume and length without clumping, and it stays put all dayāeven in humidity. TheĀ waterproof formula really lives up to its name; Iāve tested it through long days, workouts, and occasional tears, and it doesnāt budge.”
5-star ratings: 21,000+
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara
A bestseller, the weightless formula of this mascara feels like you have nothing on. But when you look in the mirror, you’ll notice extra long lashes, and most importantly, no raccoon eyes.
Shopper review: “I love this product. Can’t beat it for the price. Stays on all day, hardly any running of the mascara despite how much I sweat during the workday. I’ve been using it for several years, and I have yet to find a betterĀ waterproof mascara that works as well as this one.”
5-star ratings: 182,100+
Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara
For natural-looking lashes that are noticeably longer and more defined, try this waterproof mascara for buildable volume. Reviewers love the lightweight feel and long-wear formula.
Shoppers review: “Iāve been using the Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara, and it has quickly become a staple in my makeup routine. This mascara delivers on its promise of long-lasting wear, staying put through humidity, tears, and even workouts without smudging or flaking. The formula adds noticeable volume and length to my lashes, creating a bold yet natural look. What I love most is how lightweight it feelsāno clumping or heaviness, even after multiple coats.”
Yves Saint Laurent Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara
Waterproof and humidity-resistant, this splurge-worthy mascara thickens and volumizes with every swipe. The nourishing formula conditions lashes and is ultra-pigmented.
Shopper review: “This mascara is insane. Like insane. First of all, it is BLACK, the pigment is intense. Second of all, it gives so much volume I almost wanna cry it is so good. No flaking, no smudging, and I live in the Caribbean – I WOULD KNOW.”
Want to try out the brown mascara trend? These are the best ones.
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