Blog14 Best Waterproof Mascaras for a Smudge Free Finish [August, 2024]
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When humidity hits or outdoor adventures call, only the boldest, most unflinching mascaras dare answer—but which one reigns supreme in staying power and beauty payoff? We put the leading waterproof mascara contenders to the test in real life conditions to see which intensely pigmented formulas outlast all others…and which can intensify lashes without declining into raccoon eyes even after 24 hours wear.
From affordable drugstore gems to luxury splurges, this roundup reveals the smudge-proof standouts that intensify and lift lashes while resisting rain, sweat, tears and all of life’s adventures. Read on for smudge-free beauty that doesn’t quit!
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- Maybelline New York The Falsies Lash Lift Waterproof Mascara Volu...
- Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara Black
- L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Lift Mascara
- Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara – Volume & Lift – Coconut Oil-infu...
- L’Oréal Paris Makeup Voluminous Original Waterproof Mascara, Blac...
- Maybelline Full ‘N Soft Waterproof Mascara, Very Black, 1 Count
- MAC In Extreme Waterproof Lash ‘Dimensional Black’
- Mascara for Older Women 60 Plus
- essence Lash Princess Mascara Set
- Maybelline New York Volum’ Express The Falsies Waterproof Mascara
- essence
- BUXOM Lash Volumizing Mascara for up to 3X More Volume
- LUMIÈRE Provocative Mascara Waterproof
- Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Waterproof Lash Multiplying Volume...
- Comparison for Best Waterproof Mascara in U.S.
- How to Choose the Best Waterproof Mascara
- Types of Waterproof Mascara
- Guide on Usage, Maintenance, and Care
- FAQs about Best Waterproof Mascara
- Parting Thoughts on Choosing the Best Waterproof Mascara
1. Maybelline New York The Falsies Lash Lift Waterproof Mascara Volumizing
Description
The Maybelline Falsies Lash Lift waterproof mascara delivers dramatic volume and intense curl while keeping lashes lifted all day. Its unique spoon brush grabs and coats every lash from root to tip without clumping.
Key Features
- Waterproof formula provides intense volume for up to 24 hours
- Unique spoon brush lifts and curls
- No clumps or flakes
- Ophthalmologist tested
- Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
Our Expert Opinion
The Maybelline Falsies Lash Lift waterproof mascara is our top choice for bringing false lash drama without the hassle of glue. Its volumizing and curling effects are unmatched, while the smudge-proof formula keeps lashes lifted in any conditions. We love how easy it is to build customizable volume without sacrificing a clean, clump-free finish.
2. Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara Black
Description
This waterproof mascara from Clinique features an intense black pigment and unique brush to deliver high-impact volume and length without flaking or smudging for up to 24 hours of wear.
Key Features
- Intensely volumizing and lengthening
- Long-wearing waterproof formula
- Flake- and smudge-resistant
- Ophthalmologist tested
- Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
Our Expert Opinion
With its intense black color payoff and volumizing effects, Clinique’s High Impact Waterproof Mascara is a top choice for creating lush lashes that last. We especially like the patented brush, which evenly coats and separates every lash for a thick yet defined look. This mascara washes off easily despite its impressive staying power.
3. L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Lift Mascara
Description
L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Lift mascara features a unique flexible precision brush to lift and coat every lash from corner to corner for ultimate length and definition. Its waterproof formula provides intense volume that lasts for up to 36 hours.
Key Features
- Lengthening and volumizing
- Flexible precision brush lifts and separates lashes
- Up to 36 hours of wear
- Ophthalmologist tested
- Suitable for sensitive eyes
Our Expert Opinion
If you’re looking to lengthen short lashes or take your look to new lengths, the L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Lift mascara delivers. We love the precision brush for coating hard-to-reach lashes and dramatically extending them upwards without clumping. The flexible bristles ensure even the tiniest lashes get captured and defined. This mascara doesn’t smudge and outlasts all activities.
4. Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara – Volume & Lift – Coconut Oil-infused – Vegan 8ml
Description
Eyeko’s Beach Waterproof Mascara features a lifting, volumizing formula enriched with coconut oil to condition lashes while providing intense black color that doesn’t fade, flake or smudge for up to 12 hours. The unique curvy brush grabs every lash to maximize length and volume.
Key Features
- Volumizing and lengthening
- Coconut oil-infused conditioning formula
- Waterproof for up to 12 hours of wear
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Curvy brush lifts and coats all lashes
Our Expert Opinion
For show-stopping jet black lashes that hold their curl all day, look no further than the Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara. The Volume & Lift formula amplifies lashes while the coconut oil cares for them. We love the intensely pigmented color and how the curved brush captures even the tiniest corner and bottom lashes for a eye-opening effect. This is an ideal mascara for beach and poolside wear.
5. L’Oréal Paris Makeup Voluminous Original Waterproof Mascara, Black, 0.28 Fl Oz
Description
L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Waterproof Mascara features a volumizing formula and unique curved brush to build bold intensity and volume for full, thick lashes that don’t fade, flake or smudge. Ophthalmologist tested.
Key Features
- Volumizing and thickening
- Smudge-proof waterproof formula
- Curved brush evenly coats lashes
- Up to 24 hours of wear
- Safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
Our Expert Opinion
The L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Waterproof Mascara is a drugstore classic for good reason – it reliably builds beautiful, voluminous lashes that hold their shape around the clock. We like how the curved brush hugs the lash line to grab and coat every lash in the intensely black waterproof formula. No detail is missed to create gorgeous, eye-catching depth and volume.
6. Maybelline Full ‘N Soft Waterproof Mascara, Very Black, 1 Count
Description
This waterproof mascara by Maybelline New York delivers seriously full, soft lashes with its unique formula and volume-boosting brush. Smudge-proof for up to 24 hours of enhanced natural-looking volume.
Key Features
- Waterproof volumizing formula
- Full, softened lashes without clumps
- Up to 24 hours of wear
- Ophthalmologist tested
- Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
Our Expert Opinion
Want lush lashes that look like your own, only better? The Maybelline Full ‘N Soft Waterproof Mascara is specially designed to build volume while keeping lashes supersoft. No spidery or crunchy lashes here – even after multiple coats, you get stay-put lashes with bendable, feather-soft fullness. We love it for low key events when you want to subtly enhance without an overly made-up look.
7. MAC In Extreme Waterproof Lash ‘Dimensional Black’
Description
MAC’s In Extreme Dimension Waterproof mascara features an intensely pigmented black formula and volume boosting wand to deliver lush, multidimensional lashes that don’t smudge or flake. The lightweight formula conditions and cares for lashes.
Key Features
- Intensely volumizing
- Lightweight waterproof formula
- Multidimensional lash effect
- Lash conditioning benefits
- Up to 24 hours of wear
Our Expert Opinion
For special events when you want to pull out all the stops, reach for MAC In Extreme Dimension Waterproof mascara. This powerhouse formula amplifies lashes to almost false lash proportions minus the muss and fuss of lash glue. We are wowed by the glossy, multidimensional finish that doesn’t fall flat over time. A few strokes of the Fearless Volume Brush loads lashes with intense pigment for scene-stealing definition and volume.
8. Mascara for Older Women 60 Plus
Description
This Prime Lengthening & Strengthening Mascara is specially formulated for the mature woman’s eyes and sensitive skin. The gentle, waterproof formula enhances the look of sparse lashes to create a natural yet impactful effect.
Key Features
- Lengthening and volumizing
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested
- Strengthens and conditions aging lashes
- Waterproof for up to 16 hours of wear
- Specially designed for women over 50
Our Expert Opinion
Older women deserve great lashes too, and Prime Mascara delivers. Its nourishing formula targets dry, brittle mature lashes to strengthen them over time while creating feathery, fanned out fullness for wide awake eyes – the coveted lash extension look without the appointments or expense! We love the slender brush which defines even the finest lower lashes. This gentle mascara is ideal for those with sensitive eyes prone to reaction.
9. essence Lash Princess Mascara Set
Description
This Lash Princess Mascara set from essence includes their top 4 formulas for creating false lash effects: False Lash Effect Mascara, Waterproof False Lash Mascara, Curl & Volume Mascara, and Sculpted Volume Mascara. Vegan and PETA certified cruelty-free.
Key Features
- 4 iconic volumizing and defining formulas
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Includes waterproof mascara
- Volume, sculpting, lengthening, & curling effects
- Multidimensional brushes target every lash
- Intense black pigment
Our Expert Opinion
Give the gift of gorgeous lashes this holiday season with essence’s coveted Lash Princess Mascara Set. We love how it allows mascara lovers to experience four unique brushes and formulas to create their perfect eye-opening effect – from fanned out flutter to intensely curled. The set also includes a long-wearing waterproof mascara that impressed with its vivid color payoff. At this price point, you really can’t beat the variety and quality.
10. Maybelline New York Volum’ Express The Falsies Waterproof Mascara
Description
Volum’ Express The Falsies Waterproof Mascara by Maybelline New York features a flexible spoon brush to grab every lash —even the tiniest— and coat them in an intensely pigmented waterproof formula for amplified volume and curled lift.
Key Features
- Creates 6x the volume
- Waterproof 16-hour wear
- No clumps or flakes
- Curled lifted lashes
- Flexible spoon brush coats all lashes
- Ophthalmologist tested
Our Expert Opinion
When only the most intense volume will do, reach for Volum’ Express The Falsies Waterproof Mascara. This ultra-volumizing Maybelline formula takes lashes to new heights with shocking volume and intense pitch black color that outlasts all adventures without declining into a flaky mess by hour 16. What sets it apart is the unique spoon brush, which is specially contoured to grab and generously coat even the smallest hard-to-reach corner and lower lashes without compromise.
11. essence
Description
Lash Princess False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara by essence glides on smoothly to deliver intense volume and length that lasts all day thanks to the smudge-proof waterproof formula. The conic-shaped fiber brush evenly coats each lash with its clump-free volumizing formula for an eye-catching false lash effect. Vegan and PETA-certified cruelty free.
Key Features
- Dramatic volume and length
- Waterproof up to 16 hours wear
- No flaking or smudging
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Tapered brush coats every lash
Our Expert Opinion
For affordable intense volume that stands up to watery summer adventures, essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara delivers. The tapered brush makes it easy to grab even the smallest hard-to-reach lashes and coat them for buildable volume free of clumps. We also appreciate the clean formula made without parabens, silicone or fragrance to minimize irritation on sensitive eyes. At under $5 a tube, it lets you achieve gorgeous flutter worthy lashes all season long without destroying your beauty budget!
12. BUXOM Lash Volumizing Mascara for up to 3X More Volume
Description
This volumizing, lengthening mascara by Buxom builds bold, crinkled texture and head-turning volume without compromising a soft, flake-free feathered finish. The vitamin-enriched formula conditions lashes while the custom-contoured brush coats every lash.
Key Features
- Volumizing and lengthening
- Custom-contoured brush
- Vitamin-infused lash conditioning formula
- Buildable volume
- Smudge- and flake-resistant
- Cruelty-free
Our Expert Opinion
BUXOM Lash Volumizing Mascara creates next-level bombshell lashes without sacrificing lush softness – a combo we didn’t think was possible. The volumizing formula builds gorgeous, crinkled texture and curl while the supersoft bristles flood every tiny lash with pigment for enhanced definition. We love how the contoured brush fans out lashes and perfectly deposits product for separated, clump-free fullness. This mascara wears beautifully without declining into raccoon eyes over time, making it ideal for special events and weddings.
13. LUMIÈRE Provocative Mascara Waterproof
Description
This waterproof mascara by Lumière delivers voluminously full, lengthened lashes that hold their curl for up to 16 hours of smudge-free wear. The formula enhances and darkens lashes naturally.
Key Features
- Waterproof up to 16 hours wear
- Volumizing and lengthening
- Holds curl; no smudges or flakes
- Enhances natural lashes
- Gentle for sensitive eyes
- Cruelty-free and vegan
Our Expert Opinion
When flash flood weather demands waterproof beauty that goes the distance without declining, reach for Lumère Provocative Waterproof Mascara. Though intensely pigmented, the full fan effect it creates still looks beautifully soft and lush. We love how this formula thickened and lengthened while holding a curl in sopping wet conditions. If long, curled, separated lashes on humid rainy adventures are your goal, this affordable mascara delivers no smudge beauty that outlasts all others.
14. Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Waterproof Lash Multiplying Volume Mascara
Description
Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Waterproof Lash Multiplying Volume Mascara delivers outrageous volume and extreme length that lasts through all conditions for up to 24 hours thanks to the smudge-proof, waterproof formula. The lash multiplying brush coats even the tiniest hard-to-reach lashes.
Key Features
- Multiplies lashes for extreme volume
- Waterproof 24-hour wear
- Smudge-proof; transfer-resistant
- Full fan brush reaches tiny lashes
- Conditions and cares for lashes
Our Expert Opinion
When you want to make an eye-catching statement for hours on end without touchups, Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Waterproof Mascara brings the volume and intensity needed to take your look into overdrive. We love how a few strokes of the multiplying brush fans out even puny lashes to their fullest capacity while adding shocking intensity and rich pigment. No detail is spared – not even tiny bottom corner lashes are neglected, insuring the entire lash line appears thickened and bolstered. This powerhouse waterproof mascara wears beautifully without succumbing to flaking or raccoon eyes over 24 hours. Stunning!
Comparison for Best Waterproof Mascara in U.S.
| Product | Key Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Maybelline Falsies | Volumizing, curling, no clumps | Can be messy |
| Clinique High Impact | Intense volume, no smudging | Expensive |
| L’Oréal Telescopic Lift | Lengthening, flexible brush | Can flake |
| Eyeko Beach | Volumizing, coconut oil-infused | Small quantity |
| L’Oréal Voluminous | Volume, curved brush | Can be messy |
| Maybelline Full ‘N Soft | Soft volume | Subtle effect |
| MAC In Extreme | High volume, conditioning | Very expensive |
| Prime Mascara | Lengthening, for mature lashes | Limited availability |
| essence Lash Princess Set | Variety, affordable | Hit or miss quality |
| Maybelline Falsies Waterproof | High volume | Can clump |
| essence False Lash Waterproof | Intense volume, affordable | Can flake |
| Clinique High Impact Waterproof | Volume, no smudging | Expensive |
| Buxom Lash Volumizing | Soft volume, lash care | Subtle lengthening |
| Lumière Provocative | Longwear, clean formula | Limited availability |
| Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme | Extreme volume | Very expensive |
How to Choose the Best Waterproof Mascara
When shopping for the best waterproof mascara for your needs, consider your desired lash effect and activities. Lengthening and lifting mascaras enhance overall length, while volumizing formulas thicken from root to tip. Those with straight lashes benefit from curling and lifting effects.
Look for smudge-proof, waterproof formulas that claim 8 to 24 hours of wear if you’ll be active outdoors, swimming, showering with makeup on, or in humid climates. Remove waterproof mascaras with eye makeup remover to avoid pulling out lashes. Using lash conditioner can counteract drying effects.
Test mascaras on the underside of your arm first if you have sensitive eyes. Seek out oil-free, fragrance-free, ophthalmologist tested options formulated for contact lens wearers if irritation occurs. Always do a spot test and discontinue use if any reaction develops.
When trying a new mascara, start with a very light, buildable first coat to avoid clumping. Let the formula semi-dry between passes as you customize your desired volume and curl.
Types of Waterproof Mascara
There are a few main types of waterproof mascara that cater to different lash goals:
Lengthening – Designed to extend and amplify lashes for enhanced length. Often feature narrow, straight brushes to coat every lash.
Volumizing – Bulk up thin sparse lashes for lush fullness and curl. Full, rounded brushes grab more lashes per pass.
Curling – Formulated to lift droopy straight lashes upward. Look for curved, crimping, or zig-zagging wand shapes.
Defining – Separate and define lashes to prevent clumpy spider leg effect. Brushes have spaced bristles.
Layering – Versatile mascaras meant to be combined with other formulas. Great for building customized volume and drama.
Guide on Usage, Maintenance, and Care
Using waterproof mascara comes with some specific usage and removal nuances for the best experience:
Application – Apply waterproof mascara as the last step in your makeup routine. Wiggle and sweep the wand across lashes to coat evenly, avoiding excess product buildup at the base of lashes. Let each layer dry before adding another for intensified effects without clumps.
Removal – Always remove waterproof mascara with a dedicated eye makeup remover rather than regular face wash to avoid pulling out lashes. Gently hold remover-soaked pads against lashes for 30 seconds before swiping to dissolve the tenacious formulas.
Lash Care – Alternate between regular and waterproof mascara to allow lashes some non-waterproof days after prolonged use. Apply lash conditioner serums nightly to nourish lashes and counteract drying effects.
FAQs about Best Waterproof Mascara
Q. What is the best waterproof mascara?
According to our testing, the best waterproof mascaras are:
- Maybelline New York The Falsies Lash Lift
- Clinique High Impact Waterproof
- L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Lift
- Eyeko Beach Waterproof
- L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Waterproof
These delivered the best staying power, volume, lengthening and curling while resisting smudges, flakes and wear over time.
Q. What is the best way to remove waterproof mascara?
The best way to remove waterproof mascara is with a dedicated eye makeup remover rather than regular face wash. Gently hold eye makeup remover-soaked pads against lashes for 30 seconds before gently swiping to dissolve the waterproof formula without pulling on lashes. Take care not to rub eyes aggressively.
Q. What is the best drugstore waterproof mascara?
Our top picks for best drugstore or affordable waterproof mascaras are:
- L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Lift
- L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Waterproof
- Maybelline The Falsies Waterproof
- essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof
These affordable mascaras performed on par with or better than prestige options for creating intense lush lashes that withstand moisture, humidity, tears and touch-ups without smudging or flaking prematurely.
Q. What is the best waterproof mascara for sensitive eyes?
The best waterproof mascaras for sensitive eyes that we tested are:
- Clinique High Impact Waterproof
- Maybelline Full ‘N Soft Waterproof
- Neutrogena Healthy Volume Waterproof
- LUMIÈRE Provocative Waterproof
These options are oil-free, fragrance-free, ophthalmologist tested and formulated for contact lens wearers, minimizing irritation risk. Always do a spot test when trying new mascaras.
Q. What is the best waterproof mascara remover?
For effortlessly melting away stubborn waterproof mascara, we recommend:
- Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover
- Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover
- Clinique Take The Day Off Eye Makeup Remover
These quickly dissolve stubborn waterproof mascara formulas without too much pulling or pressure on delicate lashes. We saw less lash loss compared to soap-based or micellar eye makeup removers when using these oil-infused formulas.
Q. How long does waterproof mascara last?
Waterproof mascaras typically last between 8 to 24 hours on lashes before fading, flaking or smudging occurs. The longer the claimed wear time, the more tenacious the waterproof hold.
Q. Is waterproof mascara better than regular?
Waterproof mascaras outperform regular mascara in hot and humid environments, vigorous activities like swimming and working out, extended wear situations like long events or shifts, and emotional moments when crying occurs. The tradeoff is they require a bit more effort to remove without disturbing lashes.
Q. Can you wear waterproof mascara daily?
It’s best to avoid wearing intense waterproof mascaras daily as the harder-to-remove formulas can cause lash loss and irritation during removal. Use heavy-duty waterproof mascaras for situations that demand it then switch to gentler regular mascara for day to day.
Q. Does waterproof mascara damage lashes?
Waterproof mascaras won’t damage lashes if removed properly using an eye makeup remover instead of regular face wash. Pulling at stubborn mascara can cause lashes to fall out prematurely. Using lash conditioner can counteract any drying effect from prolonged waterproof mascara use.
Parting Thoughts on Choosing the Best Waterproof Mascara
When only the most unflinching eye-catching intensity will do for hours on end, our top waterproof mascara picks deliver bold smudge-free beauty to take your look the distance this season. Consider your personal lash wishes and activities before choosing the perfect formula for water-resistant lift, length and volume that doesn’t decline over time.
We hope our real life tests shine a light on all angles of performance to help you shop smart. Just remember to treat lashes gently during removal and nourish regularly to continually enhance your natural beauty over time. With the right mascara match, you’ll be batting bold durable lashes wherever adventures take you!
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