Brooke Knappenberger
I've spent more money than I care to admit on makeup—some of my favorite luxury moisturizers and serums can get pretty pricey (think: $200 and up). But, I take solace in knowing that not all beauty products will cost me a fortune. Case in point: the best drugstore mascaras.
It’s a well-known fact among editors and beauty fans alike that some of the best mascaras are incredibly affordable and available at CVS, Target, or Walgreens. I don't stray from my drugstore favorites (Maybelline Sky High Mascara for the win), but don't just trust me; take it from the pros. "I gravitate mainly towards drugstore mascaras because I find the formulas are some of the best out there," says celebrity makeup artist Shadi Malek.
Whether I'm hoping to achieve impossibly long lashes with a lengthening mascara or I'm planning a night out and need one of the best volumizing mascaras for a fluttery look, my collection has options. There are tubing mascaras, waterproof formulas, and wands narrow enough for my lower lash line—all under $15.
I've personally tested the best drugstore mascaras on the market, tapping drugstore brands like CoverGirl, Maybelline, and L'Oréal Paris, as well as few TikTok-made-me-buy-it picks. I've also spoken with Malek, along with makeup artist Natalie Dresher, to learn the best application tips (yes, there's a way to prevent smudging) and what to look for in a stellar formula and mascara wand.
The Best Drugstore Mascaras
- Best Overall Drugstore Mascara: MCoBeauty XtendLash Tubular Mascara
- Best Lengthening Drugstore Mascara: Maybelline Sky High Mascara
- Best Separating Drugstore Mascara: CoverGirl Simply Ageless Lash Plumping Mascara
- Best Feathering Drugstore Mascara: e.l.f. Lash Princess
This lash-extending formula from Mcobeauty is Dresher's go-to for both herself and clients, so you know it's good. She specializes in bridal makeup, so this waterproof formula has been tested during many tear-jerking ceremonies. This formula won't budge, flake, or smear until you want to swipe it away.
Shades: Black; Black/Brown; Clear
Wand Type: Tapered
Waterproof: Yes
What I Love: The buildable formula mimics the look of lash extensions; Safe for sensitive eyes
What I Don’t: Pretty dramatic for everyday wear
Review for MC: "I love the price point of this mascara and how much it really does lengthen the lashes. I also love that it's a tubing mascara, which is hard to find at the drugstore." — Natalie Dresher, Makeup Artist
Natalie Dresher wearing Mcobeauty Xtendlash Mascara
If you're on BeautyTok, you've seen/heard about/been convinced to buy this mascara. It's worth the hype; this drugstore mascara will have every lash reaching insane new heights. I swear my lashes suddenly touch my eyebrows when I use this fiber-infused formula.
Shades: Cosmic Black; Blue Mist; Burgundy Haze; Space Diamond; True Brown; Very Black
Wand Type: Tapered
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Instant; Visible lengthening with one coat; Available in many colors; The bendable brush gets close to the lash line
What I Don’t: Lashes can get clumpy over time
Review for MC: "Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High mascara is my go-to for my basic, everyday makeup. I love that it's both waterproof and doesn't smudge, which is amazing in the summer. The Flex Tower brush gives me just the right length and volume without looking too overdone. This mascara also does a great job at separating my lashes during application, which makes it easy to coat my lower lashes without making a mess." — Jamie Wilson, Contributing Beauty Writer
Jamie Wilson wearing Maybelline New York Sky High mascara
This Essence mascara does exactly what the name suggests: gives your lashes a falsie effect. In just a few swipes, lashes are volumized, lengthened, and fanned out. Plus, with over 198,000 five-star reviews, it’s safe to say that this affordable option is worth a try. Did I mention this mascara is probably cheaper than your Starbucks order?
Shades: Black; Brown
Wand Type: Conic
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Under $5; Lengthening; Volumizing; Defining
What I Don’t: Takes a while to dry; May smudge and flake with wear
Review for MC: "Lash Princess is and always will be one of my all-time favorite mascaras. How it feathers, volumizes, and lengthens my lashes is unmatched for a $5 formula. I like to use it with the brand's lash primer and the two together work like a charm. Photos never quite do it justice!" — Shawna Hudson, Contributing Beauty Writer
Shawna Hudson wearing essence Lash Princess mascara
Clumping is a non-issue with Covergirl's Simply Ageless mascara. The curved brush separates lashes, and hyaluronic acid and bamboo in the formula actually help my lashes feel thicker and fuller over time. I know, I know: it sounds too good to be true. But once you try it, I promise you'll be hooked.
Shades: Black
Wand Type: Curved
Waterproof: Water-resistant version available
What I Love: Leaves lashes with a naturally defined; Clean look
What I Don’t: Multiple coats needed to add volume
Review for MC: "My lashes are dense but straight from regularly sleeping with an eye mask. This formula instantly curls and separates without much effort. I have to add a few coats to get the volume that I like, but on days when I want a super natural-looking lash extension effect, this is my top choice." — Nykia Spradley, Contributing Beauty Writer
Nykia Spradley wearing Covergirl Simply Ageless Plumping Mascara
Other Drugstore Mascaras I Love
If clumping is your number one concern, you'll love this pick. The brush bristles ensure every lash is fluttery, defined, and not too cakey. If I'm heading out to happy hour after work, I simply brush on an extra layer to add some wow-factor. Plus, it's not going to smudge or fade. "I absolutely love the lasting power, and it really does stay all day," Dresher says.
Shades: Black; Black Brown; Blackest Black; Latte; Brown; Mystic Black
Wand Type: Hourglass
Waterproof: Yes
What I Love: Comes in multiple colors; Doesn't flake; Can be layered beyond the initial application without clumping; Infused with conditioning oils; Available in four shades
What I Don’t: Dries out quickly
Customer Review: "This mascara is awesome! Does exactly as advertised, more length and volume. Does not flake or clump. The brush is the best and the reason the mascara goes on so effortlessly. Highly recommended!" — Ulta
The classic orange tube got a major upgrade. If you're already a Covergirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara fan, you will love this version even more, thanks to its vegan, beeswax-free formula. With the same brush as the original, lashes instantly become volumized and clump-free in one coat. Add three or four coats? Your lashes will make a statement. Argan and marula oils also condition your lashes while creating that perfectly curled shape.
Shades: Black Brown; Pitch Black; Very Black
Wand Type: Tapered
Waterproof: Comes in waterproof black brown and waterproof very black
What I Love: Clean formula; Has argan and marula oils to condition lashes; Silicone bristles really separate lashes
What I Don’t: Can flake while wearing; May need multiple coats for lift.
Customer Review: "I was a long-time Maybelline Great Lash girl, but I wanted to switch to something better for sensitive eyes. This clean mascara is actually better than Great Lash and I am pleasantly surprised. Does not smudge at all, even after long sweaty work day. Comes off with makeup balm remover and water, easy-peasy. Worth the switch!" — Amazon
Wondering what this mascara does? It's all in the name. Thanks to its fiber brush and innovative thickening complex, this pick will take your lashes to a volume you never thought possible. Bonus: the lash-loving ingredients like vitamin E (tocopherol) and vitamin B5 (panthenol) will keep the hairs in good condition. Reviewers also say the pigmentation is extra intense.
Shades: Black
Wand Type: Curved and tapered
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Noticeably thicker lashes with just one swipe; Doesn't clump; Highly pigmented
What I Don’t: It is not as lifting as other mascaras; Formula is thick
Customer Review: "Perfect blend of adding color and volume to my lashes. Goes on easily and smoothly, no clumps. Cleans up easily at the end of the night as well." — Ulta
There is a very good chance that your mom and/or grandma loved this green and pink tube from Maybelline. Launched in 1971, it has stood the test of time because of its incredible quality. With its classic bristle brush, the formula goes on smoothly, evenly, and clump-free, too. According to Maybelline, this mascara is so well-loved that one tube is sold every five seconds.
Shades: Blackest Black; Brownish Black; Very Black
Wand Type: Defining
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Buildable volume; Under $10; Goes on smoothly; Clump-free; Conditioning formula; Comes in three shades.
What I Don’t: Takes a while to dry
Customer Review: "I’ve use this mascara since I was allowed to wear makeup in the eighth grade. It’s the one I always use that someone I always will use. I hope they never change the container. It’s just the nostalgia and I love it. I it works very well. The mascara is easy to use goes on easily. It’s just perfect works just like it should." — Amazon
Not everyone is a fan of super thick, dramatic lashes. If soft and natural is more your vibe, you'll love this pick from Neutrogena. Reviewers say this mascara gives off the perfect amount of subtle glam for an everyday look and is particularly great for sensitive eyes. Lashes are wrapped in a nourishing formula made of rice protein, vitamin E, and olive oil, which create an extra lengthened look. This mascara also comes in a brown shade if black is a bit too intense for you.
Shades: Black; Blackest Brown
Wand Type: Tapered
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Lengthening; Great for subtle looks; Smudge-proof; Available in two shades; Dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested
What I Don’t: May need extra coats for volume
Customer Review: "I tend to have sensitive eyes and have always had trouble wearing mascara. I Purchased this and I’ve been wearing it daily for months. I find that it doesn’t bother me at all. It washes off nicely and goes on smoothly. It is not real clumpy and doesn’t make your eyes look like you have fake lashes. It looks very natural. This will be my go to mascara from here on out." — Amazon
E.l.f. has come out with plenty of holy grail beauty products over the years (I personally use their cleansing balm every single night, for one), so don't sleep on the brand if you want a great affordable mascara. This $8 formula has the beauty world talking for all of the right reasons. The thick curved brush adds some major drama to your lashes by volumizing and lifting like no other. It even adds a touch of length, plus holds your curl in place with its hero ingredient, jojoba wax.
Shades: Black; Deep Brown; Pitch Black
Wand Type: Fluffy hourglass
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Volumizing; Lifting; Curling; Smudge and flake-resistant; Vegan and cruelty-free; Comes in three shades
What I Don't: Some shades are sold out; May smudge with wear
Customer Review: "My friend brought me this mascara for Christmas, and I LOVE it. My lashes don't seem to clump up and they look so long now, you don't even need to curl them full the full effect! (I mean it defiantly doesn't hurt) I feel so confident with this one!!!" — Ulta
You’ll forever want diamond dust in your mascara after trying this pick from Physicians Formula. You'll get a subtle shine from root to tip that makes eyes (literally) sparkle. Plus, the formula is 100 percent vegan and contains boosting peptides, mineral water, and vitamin E to make your lashes stronger than ever. For days when you're going for the no-makeup look, this mascara also comes in a clear version.
Shades: Clear Diamond; Black Diamond
Wand Type: Curved and chunky
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Strengthening formula; Buildable volume; Leaves a subtle shiny finish; Lengthening; Ideal for sensitive skin
What I Don’t: Brush can get clumpy
Customer Review: "I bought this for myself, and it is the perfect Black Mascara. If there was a way to describe the perfect mascara formula, Physican’s Formula nailed it. It has the perfect consistency when coating onto the lashes. It lasted all day, and I didn’t have any trouble when washing off. Pretty simple. Buy it!" — Amazon
L'Oréal Paris’ Voluminous Volume Building Waterproof Mascara has a very deserving cult-favorite status. This was the first mascara I tried as a pre-teen and I still find myself reaching for it when I want clump-free thick lashes. While the waterproof formula only comes in black and brown, the original washable formula comes in a whopping seven shades, including a cool violet and cobalt. I prefer the Carbon Black version for super dark and intense lashes. Malek says this is one of her favorite drugstore formulas, too.
Shades: Black; Blackest Black; Black Brown; Cobalt Blue; Deep Burgundy; Deep Violet; Deep Green
Wand Type: Tapered
Waterproof: Black and Brown waterproof versions available
What I Love: Lot of color options; Doesn't clump; Clean finish; Buildable; Doesn't smudge; Pro- and editor-approved; Highly pigmented; Volumizing; Defining; Buildable; Clump-free.
What I Don’t: Only Black and Brown are waterproof; Colored versions are as vibrant as they appear; May smudge with wear
Customer Review: "This is my holy grail! I've tried SO many mascaras, but none have been able to hold the curl in my lashes like this one. It also adds great volume!" — Ulta
Revlon’s latest mascara gives off an unbelievable amount of volume without weighing down your lashes. Its molded, tapered wand has 252 layered bristles of varying lengths, so each one of your lashes is generously coated. Think of the brush as a comb for your lashes that lifts them up and away. One Amazon reviewer even said it works just as well as high-end, pricier options.
Shades: Blackest Black; Black Brown
Wand Type: Tapered
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Volumizing; Glossy finish; Lifts lashes; Dries fast
What I Don’t: Not as lengthening; May flake with all-day wear
Customer Review: "This is truly the best mascara. It doesn't clump or leave spidery lashes, and it doesn't smudge. It stays put, but comes of easily with micellar water. It's great for making your lashes thicker and longer. I just wish they'd make a waterproof version!" — Amazon
Rounding out the list is another tubing mascara that glides on just as easily as it comes off. There's shea butter and castor oil in the formula that helps condition lashes and keep them from becoming brittle and dry. The moisturizers can make the mascara a bit heavy, but thanks to rich pigments, you'll only need one of two coats to get defined, voluminous lashes.
Shades: Black
Wand Type: Tapered with a precision tip
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Conditions; Precision tip brush coats tiny bottom lashes; Flake free; Comes off easily with warm water
What I Don’t: Can weigh down lashes
Customer Review: "I have tried probably upwards of 50 mascaras and I can say 100% that for length and separation this is one of if not the best mascara I've ever tried. And because it is a tubing mascara it does not smudge when wearing for a long period of time !! I highly recommend!!!" — Ulta
What Do I Look for in a Drugstore Mascara?
- Formula
Start your search for the best drugstore mascara by deciding how you want your lashes to look like. If you're after volume, a mascara formula with added fibers will help build out your lashes in fewer swipes. You can also restore brittle lashes with a conditioning formula with nourishing oils and peptides. For a smudge-free formula, seek out a tubing mascara.
- Brush Type
The magic in a mascara is often found in the brush head. There's a reason why mascara wands come in such a wide range of shapes, densities, and materials. Chunkier brushes will help stack on the volume, curved ones will help lift straighter lashes, and skinny or tapered wands are where you'll get maximum definition.
- Waterproof
Maybe you're wearing makeup in a sweaty climate or to the beach and want it to stay put. Or perhaps you just prefer a formula that won't budge no matter what the day throws at you. Either way, a waterproof formula will deliver smudge, tear, and general wear resistance until you're ready to wash it off with a face cleanser.
But that doesn't mean waterproof is always best. If you want an option that's easy to remove, look for a non-waterproof formula.
How Do I Apply Drugstore Mascara?
Just because a mascara is from the drugstore doesn't change how it's applied. Always start with clean, makeup-free lashes. Start from the underside of your lash line and glide the wand through your lash hairs from root to tip. Depending on the formula, you may only need one coat. If you want more volume or definition, give it another swipe from root to tip. Don't forget to do the same on your bottom lashes.
Meet the Experts
With just under a decade of experience in the makeup industry, Shadi Malek's extensive list of clients goes far and wide. From brides and models to your favorite celebs and social media stars, Shadi tailors her glam to match every client's unique visage. She first started honing her craft in Vancouver, Canada, and is now based in Los Angeles, one of the world's largest makeup hubs. Shadi often lends her expertise to publications such as WhoWhatWear, Bustle, Byrdie, Popsugar, and more.
Natalie Dresher is a highly sought-after makeup artist based in Miami and NYC, with over 10 years of experience in makeup artistry. Her impressive client roster includes notable names such as Remi Bader, Serena Kerrigan, Dylan Mulvaney, Jess Vestal, Gia Guidice, and more.Natalie's expertise has been recognized by leading makeup brands where she has served as the lead artist for influencer and editor-focused events and activations. In addition to her work with influencers and celebrities, Natalie has showcased her talent backstage at NYFW and Miami Swim Week for prestigious high-fashion brands.
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