Best mascara: our favorite formulas for the fluffiest, sexiest lashes yet

Finding the best mascara isn’t as simple as just picking the one with the prettiest packaging and hoping for the best. Of course, there are those that tend to impress most people, but with factors like short lashes and eye sensitivity to consider, as well as the different looks you might wish to achieve, it’s worth doing some research and considering all the options. 

We all know that the best mascaras should be able to make it through whatever challenges come your way—from sweaty midday errands to a 'where did that come from?' rainstorm or hormonal waterworks during a sentimental TV commercial.

To be sure that our favorites really did go the distance, we tested each for at least 12 hours a day. We also gave them a little smudge here and there to determine the real flake-free claims from the bogus ones and we might have even made it to the gym once or twice. 

And much like the best foundation, we found the best mascaras did a little bit of everything —and did it well. Too Faced Better Than Sex makes a great all-rounder, thanks to its multi-functional brush that delivers a naturally defined, lengthened flutter with the potential for dramatic layering when volume is desired. We also love the luxe look and feel of Chanel Le Volume Stretch, which comes with a fancy flexible 3D-printed brush. For those all about bang for their buck, Maybelline Lash Sensational does an amazing job at competing with the big guns, without breaking the bank.

How to choose the best mascara for you

The first thing to take into consideration is your lash type, as different formulas work better with certain types of lashes.

• Fine lashes: "If you have fine lashes, you want a volumizing, buildable formula that will give a fuller look that you can customize," says Bobbi Brown Senior Pro Artist, Warren Dowdall.
• Thick lashes: "If you have fuller, thicker lashes, go for a good all-rounder mascara, as going for heavier, false-lash formulas can weigh down the lashes and make them droop."
• Short lashes: "When lashes are shorter, using two mascara types can be beneficial sometimes. Apply a lengthening mascara first, then build up the volume and thickness with a coat or two of the best volumizing mascara."

It can also be beneficial to layer up your favorite formulas. If you find something that gives you the length you’ve spent years looking for, but that doesn’t pack on the volume (or vice versa), swipe on a coat of the best lengthening mascara you can find before loading them up with the more dramatic pick. Bonus points if the top layer is waterproof!

The best mascara formulas, as reviewed by our experts

When a product comes with endorsements like this attention-grabbing name—as well as its one-time position as the top-selling mascara in the world—you know Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara indeed boasts something special (and worth a test drive!). If the striking tube doesn’t convince you of the robust formula inside, perhaps the plump, curvy brush will give you an idea of just how remarkable this long-lasting, compliment-inducing formulation is.

Its multi-functioning but uncomplicated brush lets you create a lengthened, separated, and bedroom-worthy flutter with just one swipe, while each additional coat packs on a mega dose of volume, so you can create diverse looks with just one product. The long-lasting and non-budging formula also cares for lashes with its infusion of acacia senegal gum extract, leaving lashes soft and nourished after use. It definitely lives up to the name, no matter how thrilling your dalliances.

See our full Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara review

• View in the US at Ulta Beauty
• View in the UK at Boots

If there’s any premium brand sure to deliver the goods, it’s Chanel—and the Chanel Le Volume Stretch offering definitely doesn’t disappoint. With a super-luxe look and feel, thanks to the chic black matte tube with a silky thread-like woven texture, this mascara's packaging tells you that you’re using something special from the moment you pick it up.

A unique hollow convex 3D-printed brush catches all lashes—even the tricky corner areas—and has a flexibility that allows for seamless application without any mess.

What’s more, this best mascara contender does what it says when it comes to the formula: with jojoba extracts to nourish, it stretches lashes to the max. The sky-high hold doesn’t last all day, though, so a quick midday touch-up definitely helps extend the results a little bit longer.

• View in the US at Macy's
• View in the UK at Boots

Maybelline Lash Sensational is a budget mascara that has made its name as one of Amazon’s bestselling beauty products, so it's no wonder that it's among our roundup of the best drugstore mascaras.

With a lash-multiplying effect that hinges on its signature Layer-Reveal brush, this drugstore buy will give you lashes worthy of most high-end picks. It gives you a feathery, lengthened, and defined fanned-out look with a delicate curl, which could almost pass for a natural flutter from the very first swipe. And with each further coat adding a micro-dose of volume, that pretty look is cemented. 

This best mascara pick doesn’t have the most luxurious packaging (hence the low price) and you don’t get the biggest hit of drama but, if the latter is what you're aiming to achieve, you could always pair it with a volumizing lash primer—you’ll definitely have a winner on your hands then.

See our full Maybelline Lash Sensational review

• View in the US at Ulta Beauty
• View in the UK at Boots

We were expecting a lot from Bobbi Brown No Smudge Mascara, a high-end contender that claims to be a “raincoat for lashes”—and wow, did it deliver!

Not only did it define and lengthen lashes but—thanks to the impenetrable waterproof barrier—it was also one of the best mascara picks when it came to holding a curl in place. We saw no smudging or flaking even after a long day of wear—in fact, it was almost too resilient when it came to bedtime. It wasn’t the most volumizing, but would make a great top coat to layer over one of our more dramatic picks. Just make sure you know how to remove waterproof mascara properly, and you're golden.

• View in the US at Sephora
• View in the UK at Boots

This best mascara budget buy has famously been compared to our favorite Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara, and we can see why. L’Oréal Paris Lash Paradise not only looks the part but it also plays the part: easy application, staggering volume, and a fanned-out finish.

This purse-friendly option will give you it all—length, definition, volume, and sometimes a little bit of curl thrown in for good measure. It lifts lashes and holds curl relatively well, while giving you the kind of consistent definition you would expect to achieve with a comb wand, without having to actually endure using one.

We also love the thick, fanned-out look that you get without any clumping, no matter how many layers you slap on. It's definitely one of the best mascaras for sensitive eyes we've come across, as it imparts volume, definition, and feathering all in one gentler, sensitive formula.

See our full L’Oréal Paris Lash Paradise review

• View in the US at Ulta Beauty
• View in the UK at Boots

Not only does Benefit They’re Real! Magnet mascara boast fun packaging that stands out in any makeup bag, but it also has an almost excessively long-wearing formula that leaves lashes soft and springy without drying them out (and honestly, takes some serious elbow grease to remove).

This comes down to the ‘magnet’ formula, which Benefit says is enriched with magnetic minerals while the wand has a magnetically charged core to add volume and lengthen. We didn’t notice any real difference in terms of application and results in comparison to the original They’re Real mascara, but if it’s length, definition, and flutter you’re after, this mascara is a winner. It’s impactful, adding a good few millimeters to even the shortest and stubbiest of lashes—guaranteed to get friends asking you where you get your lashes done.

It’s not the most volumizing, even after applying a few layers, so probably not the one to choose if you’re looking for drama. It can also lead to smudging after a few hours' wear—which is why we’d recommend either avoiding or certainly applying less formula to your lower lashes to reduce the risk. 

Boasting a formula that contains super-light, aero-particles for mega volume with zero heaviness, Benefit BADgal Bang! is everything we love about cult favorite They’re Real! but with the volume turned way up.

Unlike many other mascaras that see lashes droop under the weight of a heavy formula, BADgal BANG!’s aero-particles give lashes truly gravity-defying powers with a lift to write home about.

This stretches every millimeter out of your natural lashes with a gravity-defying formula. Lashes are even, defined, and fanned out, with a fluttery look worthy of a Disney princess, with the length definitely giving the famous They’re Real! a run for its money. One thing, though, is that it doesn’t give the voluminous effect we were expecting, even after a few coats. So while it's great at lengthening, if it's volume you’re looking for, we would suggest applying this as a first layer underneath something a bit thicker, or just saving it for days when you want a sultry, bedroom-eye effect.

See our full Benefit BADgal Bang! review

• View in the US at Macy's
• View in the UK at Boots

Charlotte Tilbury's Pillow Talk range has become a cult favorite, so we were expecting big things from Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes!. We have to say, we weren't disappointed—it ended up being one of our favorite inclusions in the best mascara edit.

It delivered length, definition, curl, and a big dose of clump-free volume in just a couple of coats, thanks to its stretch formula that uses natural waxes to create layers of lightweight volume. We also love how it nourishes lashes with strengthening keratin during wear, and how the intense black color leaves you with something of an eyeliner-like effect.

The brush was slightly tricky to use, however. After a couple of uses (and digging out the instructions), you'll get the hang of it. With its “push-up” claims, we did expect this mascara to give a little more lift, but a midday eyelash curler touch-up managed to fix this. Wear it with your best eyeliner for an extra impactful look.

• View in the US at Sephora
• View in the UK at Cult Beauty

We almost can’t think of anything negative to say about Dior's Diorshow Iconic Overcurl. A pleasure to apply, it comes with a lovely soft brush that doesn’t scratch or hold awkwardly at all, and the pliable formula graces the wand with just the right amount to coat lashes without creating a big, goopy mess.

It lifted and lengthened lashes, holding the curl in place seamlessly, while depositing an enviable dose of volume on each lash. And, for extra drama, it layered smoothly without any clumps, leaving us with more than one excuse to take one too many selfies. Curl is just the icing on the cake with this all-around superstar.

• View in the US at Sephora
• View in the UK at Boots

For those of us with short lashes, it can feel like a bit of a challenge to find a quality mascara that gets right into the root of your lashes to give you the length you need, along with some drama. Enter: Kevyn Aucoin The Volume Mascara. This volumizing marvel comes with the tiniest brush that will give those with shorter lashes more control over their styling, while bestowing length and drama onto your peepers.

The glossy formula glides onto lashes right from the roots, without leaving any mess; just a couple of swipes will give all of your lashes a feathery, fanned-out look. We did notice a little bit of clumping between layers so we wouldn’t do apply many coats, but the formula is long-lasting and you won’t notice any smudging or flaking at the end of the day. But beware: don’t opt for any fancy cleansers when trying to remove this one, as it does scrape off in clumps when you try to dissolve it (not ideal for those crisp white pillowcases). All you need is a little bit of warm water—it should wash away painlessly. 

• View in the US at Nordstrom
• View in the UK at Cult Beauty

Anything released by Glossier is somehow immediately swept up and devoured by beauty fans—and it was no different with this Glossier Lash Slick. A product that keeps the makeup experts going back again and again, this sculpting mascara comes with a tapered wand that reaches even the most stubborn of roots on the lash line without leaving any mess behind.

In just one swipe, it gives a false-lash look; its stretched lash length, subtle curl, and gravity-defying lift actually does last all day. Rather than being waterproof, the formula is water-resistant, meaning that it can be easily washed off with a good cleanser, but still manages to make it through a full day without any flaking or smudging. It’s also infused with vegan biotin which helps strengthen lashes, making it like a serum and mascara in one.

It’s not one for anyone who wants volume but, whatever your lash type, this will give a gorgeous, natural-looking flutter.

• View in the US at Glossier
• View in the UK at Glossier

Need something to make you look more awake? This mascara is bound to help even the sleepiest faces feel alive. The wand has a beautiful curve, which means applying the product is easy and the result is a perfectly separated lash that fans out hairs and increases the length tenfold.

And you’d be hard-pressed to make a mess with the wand as its shape follows the line of your lashes, but if you do make any marks, they’re easy to remove as the product creates such a uniformed separated lash. The name goes heavy on the promise of volume, but we’d say you need to layer on three coats to achieve that. Some formulations would be unhappy with so much building and start to clog but this doesn’t bobble at the ends, and it is content with a few extra lashings. 

It does last all day, but the lift starts to diminish after about four hours, so if you need more staying power it might be worth opting for the waterproof version. The splashproof formula has the same effect on lash hair and managed to withstand a rainy run. One sad thing about it is that we found that we needed to buy a new one a little quicker than expected. However, we were using it a lot, so this could have been the cause. 

• View in the US at Ulta Beauty
• View in the UK at Boots

If you’re after a failsafe mascara that you can whip out and whack on, then this is it. The formula glides onto the lashes and separates the hairs so they stand to attention, plus the pigment is dark enough without being overtly strong. However, we must note that this product is a bit too much with its ‘mega volume’ claims. And the finished effect is quite natural yet enhanced. But to be honest, we don’t always want our eyes to be so ‘look at me’ and its toned-down effect is precisely why we like it.

Unless you have a very full and voluminous lash line, then you’ll want to apply at least two coats (three if you want to amp things up a little). The formula doesn’t splatter or clump, meaning there are no issues brushing it on. And once dry the hairs are soft to touch, so the lashes feel lightweight and in no way overloaded.  Wondering if it lasts? We had no issues, and our lashes stayed in place without flaking until we were ready for bed. If your hairs sit on the straighter side, we’d suggest using a curler first as this really compliments the look, but if your long lashes tend to touch the skin above your eyes, then we’d leave this step out as the definition will be enough. 

• View in the UK at Superdrug

Like most beauty products, what mascara you like can be down to a personal preference. However, we all agree that this one will be a winner for most. Possibly not for those with smaller eyes, as the brush is relatively large, but if you can handle a bigger wand, the effect you receive is deliciously fluttery and full. 

We must admit the brush itself set us on the back foot as it was overloaded with product, and we immediately thought it would cake and overcoat the lashes. But with a little swish at the top of the tube, we removed the excess and were pleasantly proved wrong. Many mascaras like to claim that they increase volume, but this one actually does it, and lashes look instantly maximized. It’s also a reliable tool to have when you’re in a hurry as it manages to lift and support straighter lashes, meaning you don’t have to reach for your curlers. 

There was also no clumping, spitting, flaking, or smudging. We even applied another layer later in the day, and our lashes were effortlessly transformed from day to night. To be honest, there’s not much we can fault with this mascara other than the excess of formula that needs to be wiped away (which could cause the opening to clog up in time), but all in all, it’s secured a top spot with us.   

• View in the US at LookFantastic
• View in the UK at Superdrug

Want to achieve a false lash effect without stepping anywhere near a tube of fiddly glue? Then this mascara is for you. 

Perfect for evening events, the rich pigment instantly adds drama to your lash line. Even with one coat your eyes are immediately defined and lashes appear thicker, darker and fuller. A second application is all you need and it lifts the hairs like nothing else we’ve seen. The brush isn’t the most elegant we’ve used and there’s quite a lot of product that either splatters on the skin or needs scraping off before you apply it. But if you’re saving it for dinner dates, parties, or whatever you get up to at night, then we’d say the payoff is worth the time you need to put in for a clear up. 

It’s a powerful product, so go steady when applying and be careful with your coatings, as too many could cause your lashes to look spidery and start to stick together. We’d also advise that the little splattering of black does mean it’s worth popping this mascara on before your base. That way, you’re not smudging black spots into perfectly concealed skin.

• View in the US at Ulta Beauty
• View in the UK at Boots

This innovative mascara was made for those of us who have a lot of lashes but are lacking in length. The formula somehow sticks to your original hairs, extending them up and out. Its unique texture is almost glue-like, which admittedly takes some getting used to, but once you’re au fait with it, then you’ll understand its purpose. And boy, oh boy, does it do what it promises.  

If you get in a panic because you’ve overloaded on product, the spiky wand really grips to the lashes and separates any clumping with the tiniest of wiggles. We love the tapered brush as it is brilliant at getting into every corner. But you do have to be careful when applying as the formula is quite wet and has a tendency to splatter.   We must say this mascara had our testing team completely divided on opinion. Some found the effect too spidery and sharp for their liking, but those who already had a fair number of hairs were obsessed with the result. So, the decision lies with you. 

• View in the US at Target
• View in the UK at Boots

We'd like to think we're immune to viral hype, but this latest offering from Ilia has us eating our words. Fullest Volumizing Mascara provides that perfect amount of fluffy separation and flirty flutter that easily made us want to rethink any pending lash extension appointments for the near future.

Fans of the brand's best-selling Limitless Lash might find it a bit tricky to adjust to the new, decidedly heftier brush in Fullest Volumizing ("violin-shaped," they say), and admittedly it took us a few tries to make sure we didn't smudge on the bottom lashes as we were coating the top ones; it's a bit wider than we're used to. The formula is also silkier than your run-of-the-mill volumizing mascara, which, on the upside, means less flaking, but also needs a bit of dry time in between coats to avoid any smudging (oh, and try not to sneeze in between!) Removal is also a breeze with a makeup remover or cleanser.

For a clean mascara, this is one of our favorites on the market as it doesn't compromise results. And by results, we mean longer, thicker, clean-looking lashes that, yes ok, live up to the hype. 

• View in the US at Sephora
• View in the UK at Cosmeterie

After reading countless rave reviews, we were a little (ok, a lot) excited to give this mascara a whirl. Leaving out ingredients that damage lashes including animal derivatives, alcohol, fragrance, palm oil, parabens and more, the ‘clean’ formula opts for nourishing ingredients instead. We’re talking shea butter for conditioning, niacinamide to reduce breakage and panthenol to hydrate. After a week’s use, lashes feel softer and look healthier. 

Asides from impressive ingredients, the formula lengthens, lifts and separates lashes for a fluttery, full finish that’s perfect for everyday wear. And while it doesn’t add heaps of volume, we found that if you keep wiggling the curved brush at the root you can gradually build it up. Finally, what impressed us most was the fact it’s so easy to remove thanks to it being a tubing mascara with water-activated Instant Removal Technology. You simply use warm water to wash your face and the tubes of mascara gently slip off. Genius!

• View in the US at Victoria Beckham Beauty
• View in the UK at Cult Beauty

If you’re after extension-like length and incredible volume, this is the wand for you. Featuring an arch-curved brush with a whopping 125 different bristle sizes, this magical mascara catches every single lash (including those hard-to-reach corner ones) pulling them upwards and outwards for lifted, fanned out volume.  

As for the formula, it’s a gel emulsion mascara that has a feather-light feel. Seriously, it doesn’t feel like you’re wearing mascara and we all agreed that it’s one of the lightest mascaras we’ve ever tried. You can also build it up from soft and subtle to mega volume without having to worry about clumps or smudges. The only downside? It can be tricky to remove—we recommend using one of the best micellar waters first before cleansing. 

Housed in a recyclable glass tube, this eco-friendly mascara is one of the best vegan options around. At first, we were a little put off by the pear-shaped spiral brush that looks heavy and hard to use. But, after testing it, we were seriously impressed. The wide base adds fluffy volume from root to tip, while the narrow tip is great for catching those outer and inner corner hairs for a very full and fluttery look. 

The lash-friendly formula contains vegan collagen to condition the hair cuticle as well as plant fibers to add fluttery volume and length. We love the nod to lash condition in the long term as well as making them look great in the short term. If you’re prone to sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses, this is the mascara for you—it’s gentle, nourishing, and Ophthalmologist tested. Triple tick!

• View in the US at Ulta
• View in the UK at Cult Beauty
  

Expensive, yes. But worth it? Absolutely. From the chic pastel-pink packaging to the inky black smudge-proof formula, there’s so much to love about this voluminous mascara. For starters, the plastic brush is bursting with short, spiky bristles, which means it manages to cling onto every lash—adding lift, length, and volume. Next, there’s the formula. It claims to be smudge-and flake-proof, lasting up to 12 hours, which sounds like a tall order but after testing it during a particularly long workday involving a warm and sticky commute, we can safely say it delivers on all three. 

The best part? You can really build it up, coating lashes from root to tip until you reach your desired volume, without a clump in sight. This is very unusual, as normally we have to choose between mega volume and definition, but here you really do get what you pay for. Add it to your wish list immediately. 

woman&home thanks Warren Dowdall of Bobbi Brown for his time and expertise.