The 14 Best Drugstore Mascaras for 2024, Reviewed by Editors

Trust us—we found them all.

beautiful model applying mascara
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Beauty fans know that makeup can be an expensive hobby. The sheer number of skincare and beauty products on the market is enough to make your head spin, not to mention some brands can get pretty pricey. But take solace in knowing that not all beauty products will cost you a fortune. Case in point: mascara. It’s a well-known fact among editors and fans alike that some of the best mascaras can be found right at your local CVS. I personally don't stray from my drugstore faves, but take it from the pros: Celebrity makeup artist Shadi Malek is also a fan of affordable mascara. She tells Marie Claire, “In my makeup kit, I gravitate mainly towards drugstore mascaras because I find the formulas are some of the best out there!” 

If you’re still on the fence, we’ve rounded up the best drugstore mascaras for you to shop to your heart’s content. Maybe you’re hoping to achieve sky-high lashes with a lengthening mascara, or you're planning for a night out and need one of the best volumizing mascaras. Even if you're a diehard tubing mascara user or swear by waterproof formulas, we see you. Whatever your case may be, this list is sure to have your next favorite pick. 

Keep reading to shop the best of the best mascaras that won’t put a dent in your wallet. You’ll find favorites from familiar drugstore brands like CoverGirl, Maybelline, and L'Oréal Paris, plus a few viral TikTok picks. The best part is that each of these products retails for under $15—and some are even less than $10.

The Best Drugstore Mascaras

Meet the Expert

Portrait of Shadi Malek
Shadi Malek

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. 

Brooke Knappenberger
Associate Commerce Editor

Brooke Knappenberger is the Associate Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she writes across the board from fashion and beauty to books and celebrities. As a pop culture junkie, Brooke obsessively consumes and writes about the latest movie releases, streaming TV shows, and celebrity scandals. She has over three years of experience writing on fashion, beauty, and entertainment and her work has appeared on Looper, NickiSwift, The Sun US, and Vox Magazine of Columbia, Missouri. Brooke obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism with an emphasis on Magazine Editing and has a minor in Textile and Apparel Management.