Your Guide To The Best Mascaras

From waterproof mascaras that won’t budge to gentle formulas for sensitive eyes, we break down the best mascaras for length, volume and definition

Content editor

Nabeela Saghir

Finding the best mascara for you

Mascara might seem like a small step in your routine, but using the right one can completely transform your look. Lengthening mascaras stretch and separate each lash for a fluttery finish, while volumising formulas build thickness and intensity. Curling mascaras help lift straight lashes and hold their shape, and waterproof options keep everything in place during longer days, humidity or unexpected downpours.

Just as important as the formula is the wand: slim brushes offer precision and separation, while fuller, fluffier wands deliver maximum volume.

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Best waterproof and smudge-proof mascaras

Designed to last all day, the best waterproof and smudge-proof mascaras are a must-have in your beauty routine. They’re ideal for holidays in warm climates, intense workouts or big emotional moments when you don’t want to worry about touch-ups. Our go-to? Benefit’s Badgal Bang! waterproof mascara. It gives your lashes bold, long-lasting volume.

The trade-off is that these formulas require a little more effort to remove, so investing in an effective, gentle make-up remover is key to protecting your eyelashes and avoiding unnecessary rubbing.

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Best mascaras for mature women and sensitive eyes

Finding the best mascara for sensitive eyes or more delicate, mature lashes means choosing formulas that are both gentle and effective. Look for mascaras that are hypoallergenic, fragrance free and enriched with conditioning ingredients to help support and protect lashes.

A reliable choice is Clinique’s High Impact mascara. It's allergy tested, 100% fragrance free and suitable for contact lens wearers, offering comfortable, everyday definition without compromise.

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Best mascaras for length and volume

If you’re looking to dial up definition, understanding the difference between the best volumising mascara and length-focused formulas is key. Volumising mascaras are designed to thicken each lash, creating a fuller, more dramatic effect, while lengthening mascaras work to stretch lashes from root to tip. Wand shape plays a big role too: fuller, fluffier brushes amplify volume, while slimmer, comb-like wands help separate and elongate.

For those searching for the best mascara for short eyelashes, technique matters just as much as formula. Wiggle the wand at the roots to build fullness, then sweep upwards to pull out length, layering lightly to avoid clumps.

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The best mascara colour to make your eyes pop

Black mascara will always be a classic, but switching up the shade is an easy way to make your eyes stand out. For blue eyes, a softer brown mascara can feel more natural, while green eyes pair beautifully with burgundy or plum shades. If you have brown eyes, you have the most versatility – rich purples, blues and even green-toned mascaras can all help add dimension and contrast.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, a pop of colour can instantly elevate your look. Something like Benefit’s BADgal BANG! volumising mascara in a bold blue shade adds a playful twist.

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Top mascara picks for every lash look