The 6 best Korean mascaras for lifted, curled and separated lashes that hold all day long
These tried-and-tested lightweight formulas are the key to fuller-looking, fluttery lashes in a swipe
With a reputation for being at the forefront of innovation, K-beauty has been the topic on everyone's lips in recent years – and the best Korean mascaras are no different.
While they're still somewhat under-the-radar on UK shores, some of the best mascaras are made in South Korea thanks to their clever formulas and impressive results, just like the best Korean skincare products. Whether you're looking to lengthen, curl, volumise or separate the lashes, there's a buy for you that will stand the test of time without succumbing to smudging.
Either way, you've come to the right place as our Beauty Editor has tried an assortment of different Korean mascaras and whittled it down to the top six that will enhance your lashes and eye shape in seconds.
The best Korean mascaras, reviewed by a beauty editor
Reviewed by: Emma Stoddart
RRP: £18 | Colours: Black, choco brown, rose brown | Waterproof version: Yes
By now, you’re probably noticing a theme with the best Korean mascaras. Most, if not all, focus on curling and lifting lashes for a fanned-out finish. This mascara from K-beauty brand CLIO is no exception. The skinny, curved brush grips onto lashes (even those hard-to-reach corner ones), teasing them upwards for a curled, lifted look. Available in three shades (two browns and one black), we recommend experimenting with brown for a slightly softer effect, especially if you're a fan of more natural-looking mascaras.
Alternatively, why not apply black to your top lashes and brown to your lower lashes for a touch of added drama? In terms of formula, it's water-resistant and smudge-proof, staying on our lashes for several hours without budging. As with many of the other mascaras listed here, it also has a gel coat that separates lashes and fixes them in place. Because it’s water-resistant, it takes a little longer to remove than other non-water-resistant mascaras. We suggest using a waterproof eye makeup remover or one of the best cleansing oils, specifically formulated for the delicate eye area, to take it off.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Smudge-proof
- Curls lashes
Cons
- Hard to remove
Reviewed by: Emma Stoddart
RRP: £9.72 | Colours: Black | Waterproof version: Yes
One of the best drugstore mascaras out there, this Collagen Curl Fix Mascara from Mizon combines inky black pigment with kind-to-lash ingredients to condition and define lashes, all for just under £10. A total steal, this purse-friendly pick is great for anyone who wants to boost their lash health while adding drama on a budget. Blended with hydrating marine collagen, the formula strengthens and hydrates lashes to help prevent breakage.
It's also sweat-, smudge- and water-resistant making it ideal for the summer months when temperatures are (usually) higher. The brush is small and slightly curved with flexible bristles that coat each lash with ease. Adding length and curl, we loved its softly-defined lash look, but if it’s full-on drama you’re after, we’d suggest opting for one of the others in our guide instead.
Pros
- Affordable
- Includes conditioning ingredients
- Good curl hold
Cons
- Doesn't build much volume
Reviewed by: Emma Stoddart
RRP: £9.95 | Colours: Black | Waterproof version: Yes
If you're looking for one of the best mascaras for short lashes and also want to add lots and lots of length, we suggest you invest in this Ink Black Mascara from Peripera. Specifically formulated to give short lashes a boost, the formula added enough length to rival our favourite false eyelashes. So, instead of learning how to apply false eyelashes (which, let's be honest, can be extremely fiddly), simply apply two coats of this mascara for a instant lengthening effect. The gel formula, which is both waterproof and smudge-proof, seals the lashes for long-lasting hold.
As well as next-level length and good staying power, we also noticed it delivered on the volume front, bulking up each hair for a fuller-looking flutter. We found that one coat was enough for an everyday natural lash look, while two-to-three coats gave us that voluminous dramatic look we reserve for going "out out". The downside? As with many waterproof mascaras, this one takes a little longer to remove than regular non-waterproof formulas (though our guide on how to remove waterproof mascara should help).
Pros
- Adds lots of length
- Waterproof
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Tricky to remove
Reviewed by: Emma Stoddart
RRP: £16.50 | Colours: Black | Waterproof version: No
It’s no secret that certain mascaras are more prone to transferring than others. If you’ve had an unlucky run with such a mascara (which left you with unwanted smudges, mimicking the appearance of dark circles), say hello to TONYMOLY Panda’s Dream Smudge Out Mascara. Specifically formulated to prevent those unwanted smudges, this mascara will stay put for hours.
The formula is also incredibly lightweight and doesn’t weigh lashes down – in fact, we’d go so far to say that wearing it feels as though you’re not wearing any mascara at all. Super comfortable, it’s a great pick for everyday wear. As for ingredients, the formula is laced with bamboo sap and extracts that nourish eyelashes and strengthen them (big tick). It is worth noting, however, that we found it clumped at times when applying lots of layers. To that end, we’d suggest sticking to three, max.
Pros
- Doesn’t smudge
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Strengthens lashes
Cons
- Can clump
Reviewed by: Emma Stoddart
RRP: £16.99 | Colours: Black, brown, pink, burgundy | Waterproof version: Yes
If your lashes are naturally straight or short, give this Curl Fix Mascara from Etude House a whirl. A best-seller in Asia, this award-winning mascara features something called a ‘C Curl’ brush – which is essentially a curved, tapered brush – that expertly lifts and curls the lashes from the roots for a fanned-out flutter. So impressed by the finished look, we’d say that this mascara is even more effective than using a lash curler. Easily one of the best mascaras for straight lashes.
As for the formula, we found it delivered on its waterproof, smudge-proof and sweat-resistant claims, and lasted really well through the day (we’re talking eight hours or more) without transferring or clumping. This did also mean, however, that we found it a bit tricky to remove – you'll need one of the best makeup removers to gently take it off. But overall, we think it's a great pick for anyone after a good curl hold (and there’s also a choice of four shades).
Pros
- Lifts and curls
- Long-lasting
- Water- and sweat-resistant
Cons
- A bit difficult to remove
Reviewed by: Emma Stoddart
RRP: £12 | Colours: Black | Waterproof version: No
Curl is the aim of the game with this Smudge Stop Mascara from Heimish. The soft, C-Curl wand is designed to separate the hairs while also lifting them upwards for a pushed-up effect. While we were impressed with the resulting curl, we also appreciated how much volume this mascara imparted on our lashes. Expect a full fringe of sooty black lashes that will instantly add drama to any natural makeup look.
If you want to elongate the natural shape of your eyes, we recommend focusing this mascara on the outer corner lashes. Use the curved brush to really shape and pull the lashes outwards. Pair it with your best eyeliner to create the ultimate feline look. Curl asides, this formula is also water-resistant and smudge-proof – we also found it didn’t clump or flake throughout the day. Our only gripe is that it feels slightly heavier (and, therefore, more noticeable) than other mascaras we tried.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Great curl
Cons
- Can weigh lashes down
How we tested the best Korean mascaras
Three of the best Korean mascaras we tested for this guide
To whittle down an edit of the very best Korean mascaras, we tested several different formulas delivering various lash looks. Each of the mascaras featured in this guide was assessed on the following factors.
- Performance: From lengthening to volumizing, we marked each mascara on how well it performed and if it lived up to its lash-boosting promises.
- Formulas: We also took note of the formulations, awarding marks for any added conditioning or strengthening ingredients.
- Lasting power: How well did the mascaras fare after a full day of wear? Were our lashes still long and fluttery at the end of the day?
- Additional features: We looked at the colourways and sizes on offer, as well as whether or not the mascaras came in a waterproof version.
All the mascaras featured here delivered a fuller-looking flutter, with some adding enough length to rival even the best false eyelashes.
How to choose the best Korean mascara for you
The criteria you’d use to choose the right Korean mascara are the same as any other mascara. Below are some things to consider when shopping for one.
- Wand: Think about the mascara brush type that suits your lash need. Looking for volumized lashes? You’ll want a fluffy brush. Curved lashes are best for lift, while hourglass wands catch every lash
- Formula: The consistency of a mascara can make or break it, but just like choosing the right want, the formula you opt for will depend on your own needs. If you have hooded eyes or oily eyelids, you’ll want a drier formula, while dry eyelids will want something wetter and more movable.
- Longevity: There’s nothing worse than your mascara smudging or flaking away throughout the day. If you find this happens very easily and regularly, you may want to opt for a tubing or waterproof formula.
- Your lashes: Having your natural lashes and desired end look is important. If you have straight lashes, you'll want to pick a product that has been specifically created to curl your lashes, for example. Or, if you have short lashes, you'll be after one that uses a formula and wand designed to lengthen them.
Our expert panel
Emma Stoddart is a freelance beauty journalist who has worked for some of the UK’s top titles including NET-A-PORTER, Stylist and Grazia. Her experience covers both online and print, including producing editorial shoots with some of the industry’s biggest artists. Having tested dozens, if not hundreds of mascaras over the years, she was well-placed to put these Korean formulas through their paces.