In my experience, waterproof mascaras are either absolutely amazing or can easily fall flat. The best ones don't smudge or flake by noon, and can actually stay put even if I've spent a full day in the pool or hot, humid weather. But if you've ever used a mascara that left your lashes dry, brittle, or clumped together, then you know how easy it is for a product to miss the mark. That said, once I found the best waterproof mascaras with formulas I trust, I never went back.
While they're great for summer, sweat, and unexpected rain showers, I also prefer them when I just want my eye makeup to stay put during an event or long workday. “Some people like waterproof mascara because it tends to stay on the lashes longer without having to worry about it coming off in water or humidity,” says makeup artist Lauren O’Leary. The one caveat? Because they are designed to resist water, it can be difficult to take your eye makeup off, says makeup artist Caitlyn Dominic.. The key? Gentle removal with a micellar- or oil-based cleanser.
And while staying power is often the main allure, waterproof mascaras also hold a curl really well—a great perk for stubborn or straight lashes, explains Dominic. "It typically lifts and locks them in place beautifully, more so than a traditional mascara," she says.
With expert insight from O’Leary and Dominic, plus fellow pro makeup artists Alexandria Gilleo and Kelli Anne Sewell, I've gathered the best waterproof mascaras to tackle whatever your needs may be. You'll find lengthening mascaras, volumizing mascaras, mascaras that leave behind long-lasting pigment, and even options from the drugstore that rival luxury brands, below.
The Best Waterproof Mascaras
- Best Overall Waterproof Mascara: Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara
- Best Value Waterproof Mascara: L'Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara
- Best Waterproof Mascara for Natural-Looking Lashes: Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara
- Best Volumizing Waterproof Mascara: Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara
- Best Buildable Waterproof Mascara: L'Oréal Paris Paradise Big Deal Waterproof Mascara
Our top pick happens to be a TikTok-viral—and not to mention, drugstore—formula, and I can attest, this affordable Maybelline mascara is absolutely worth the hype. Just one coat will have your lashes thanking you. Plus, it gets the professional seal of approval: "It never gets dry or clumpy," says Sewell. Aptly named, it does exactly what it suggests, so get ready for pretty, fluttery lashes that last all day—even through water, sweat, and whatever else life throws at you.
Shades: Very Black, Brownish Black
What I Love: Lengthening; Defining; Curling
What I Don't: The brush feels a little flimsy
Review for MC: "The non-waterproof edition of this mascara is one of my everyday go-tos, so I was excited to try the waterproof version. It's just like my trusty non-waterproof formula: It lengthens and separates my lashes, adds some drama, and never, ever clumps. I'm also happy to report it didn't smudge under my eyes the way so many other mascaras do." — Catharine Malzahn, Contributing Beauty Writer
Catharine Malzahn testing Maybelline's Sky High Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara.
Another drugstore mascara that shouldn't be slept on? This pick from L'Oréal Paris. This formula will give you the fluttery, fanned-out eyelashes of your dreams for just $13. Not one, but two, makeup artists recommend this bargain buy. "It gives great volume and length without clumping, and it holds a curl beautifully," says Dominic. O'Leary is also a fan of this and other L'Oréal Paris mascaras because, as she says, "they work, they keep lashes curled, they are long-lasting and they're very affordable so you can get a new one more often."
Shades: Blackest Black, Black
What I Love: Volumizing; Curling; Long-wearing; Clump-free
What I Don't: May dry out faster than others
Review for MC: "I'll be honest—I'm normally not a fan of big, fluffy mascara wands like this one. I usually go for thinner, stiffer wands, so I was curious how much I'd like this. The makeup artists proved they really are the pros: I fell in love with this mascara in just one swipe. It defines my lashes to make my eyes look bigger and more awake." — Catharine Malzahn, Contributing Beauty Writer
Catharine Malzahn testing L'Oréal Paris' Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara.
Any beauty lover has likely heard of this cult-favorite mascara. The fluffy, hourglass-shaped brush is unmatched thanks to its ability to hug the lashes for a volumized, curl effect—the latter, thanks to the top-tier waterproof formula. "It gives a natural look yet defines the lash line. This mascara is smudge-proof and flake-free," says Gilleo. Better Than Sex also visibly lengthens the lashes thanks to the pigment formulation that coats, defines, and volumizes each individual hair. And if I really want to bring the drama, I tend to apply a few extra coats, which never look clumpy thanks to its buildable formula.
Shades: Black
What I Love: Editor- and pro-approved; Volumizing; Long-wearing; Buildable
What I Don't: Product may come out clumpy during the first few uses
Review for MC: "I've long been a fan of the regular version of this mascara, and I'm thrilled that this waterproof one delivers the same volumizing, lengthening effects. Though it makes my lashes look fluffier and more defined, they still look natural and not overdone. With one coat, I get more of a 'no makeup-makeup' look, and with multiple coats, (it's super buildable!) my lashes will start to look more dramatic." — Catharine Malzahn, Contributing Beauty Writer
Catharine Malzahn testing Too Faced's Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara.
Lancôme is beloved for so many of its classic mascaras, but if you're looking for bold, super-pigmented lashes that stay put all day and all night, this is the one for you. It gives my lashes so much volume that I really only need a few swipes for a dramatic effect—a testament to its performance. Rest assured, when I apply this formula, I can count on it to last an entire night out without smudging and flaking—sweaty dancing included.
Shades: Black
What I Love: Super volumizing; Highly pigmented; Long-wearing
What I Don't: Can be difficult to remove
Review for MC: "This mascara brings the drama. It instantly volumizes and darkens my lashes, helping them show up way better in photos than if I had no mascara on. The proof that it stays put all night: It can be tough to remove, so make sure you have a good cleansing balm or micellar water with you." — Catharine Malzahn, Contributing Beauty Writer
Catharine Malzahn testing Lancôme's Monsieur Big Volumizing Mascara.
Have you ever applied multiple coats of mascara, only to put on one too many and end up with totally chunky, overloaded, and heavy lashes? It happens, but not with this one. The smooth, lightweight formula can handle as many layers as you want without getting those telltale clumps. Spider lashes, begone.
Shades: Black
What I Love: Super buildable; Doesn't make lashes look heavy
What I Don't: Might not leave lashes lifted all day
Review for MC: "I've definitely been the victim of just one too many layers of mascara more times than I'd like to count. It's one of the worst feelings at the end of a makeup routine. I haven't had an issue with it whatsoever with this mascara, and it goes onto my lashes super smoothly." — Catharine Malzahn, Contributing Beauty Writer
Catharine Malzahn testing L'Oréal Paris' Paradise Big Deal Waterproof Mascara.
Bring the luxury to your lashes with some designer mascara from YSL Beauty. This formula doesn't just come with a fancy name: It's makeup artist-approved and provides some serious curl-enhancing and definition benefits. "It gives bold volume without feeling heavy, and it stays put through heat and humidity and is long-wearing," says Dominic.
Shades: Black
What I Love: Makeup artist-approved; Very volumizing; Not heavy
What I Don't: Most expensive option on this list
Customer Review: "This is the best waterproof mascara I’ve ever used. A little difficult to remove, but worth it. This doesn’t come off even when I’m swimming, and it doesn’t hurt my eyes when it gets wet." — Nordstrom
While the original formula is a well-known favorite in the beauty community, the waterproof version deserves the same recognition. With 4.4 stars based and nearly 75,000 reviews on Amazon, it's hard to argue this one isn't as good, if not better, than its non-waterproof counterpart. For just $5, this formula gives short and stumpy lashes noticeable definition and length.
Shades: Black
What I Love: Great value; Buildable volume; Defining
What I Don't: May smudge and flake with wear
Customer Review: "I really like the waterproof mascara because it stays put all day, even when I get caught in the rain or sweat a lot. It doesn't smudge or flake, which is a big plus for me. Plus, it comes off easily with makeup remover without damaging my lashes. Overall, it's a reliable choice for long-lasting, waterproof eye makeup." — Amazon
Vetted by both O'Leary and Gilleo, this pro-approved mascara is a real winner. O'Leary says this is a mascara she always goes back to, adding, "It has this unique curved wand that really lifts the lashes and coats them without having to apply many coats." Meanwhile, Gilleo says this pick doesn't smudge even when wet and says it "has a great lengthening and volumizing formula and the wand applicator provides a precision application."
Shades: Black
What I Love: Pro-approved; Distinct wand shape; Smudge-proof
What I Don't: Can be more difficult to separate lashes than other options
Customer Review: "I've been using this waterproof mascara for 20+ years, and yes, I still have healthy, normal eyelashes. It's my go-to for lengthening and thickening. It holds a curl. It's buildable. It doesn't burn or irritate my eyes. It does not smudge easy, by any means. Even with heavy sweating and humidity." — Ulta
Another one of O'Leary's go-to waterproof picks is Benefit Cosmetics' Bad Gal Bang! mascara. She explains, "This is one I've used for years now, it has an angled silicone wand for great separation, provides dramatic lashes without applying too many coats, and is long-lasting." If you need another reason to try this pro-approved pick, it's been tested to last a whopping 36 hours.
Shades: Intense Pitch Black
What I Love: Angled wand; Defining; Separates lashes; Super black pigment
What I Don't: May deposit too much mascara on lashes during the first few uses.
Customer Review: "I used to never use this type of mascara wand, in fact, I disliked them a lot. But, I got a sample of the regular in one of my sample packs and tried it, holy cow! It lengthens my almost nonexistent eyelashes, separates them, and makes them look amazing!. So I tried the waterproof and love it even more—it is my new favorite mascara that I never leave home without, and I use every day." — Ulta
Finding natural, eco-friendly beauty products isn't always easy, but this vegan formula from Ere Perez saves the day. Packed with avocado and other natural oils, this mascara delivers its promise on voluminous, long-lasting lashes while moisturizing them at the same time. And because it's full of lash-loving ingredients, it creates an ideal environment for lash growth. After a full day of running errands in 85-degree weather, this mascara stayed flawless—no smudging or transferring in sight. It's now my everyday mascara for extra-defined, lengthy lashes.
Shades: Black
What I Love: Contains lash-loving ingredients to nourish; Eco-conscious packaging
What I Don't: Formula can dry out quickly
Customer Review: "I have been looking everywhere for a mascara that does not use harsh chemicals, stays on all day, and is completely waterproof. I have been using this one for months now and I love it. The one downside is the price, but it is so worth the money." — Ulta
How Do I Remove Waterproof Mascara?
Waterproof mascara is known for its staying power, and consequently, it can be a bit tough to remove. But don't fret—it can be removed without losing your lashes or irritating the sensitive skin around your eyes, granted it's done correctly.
Gilleo says that the best way to remove waterproof mascara is to turn to oil-based cleansers or cleansing balms. "Applying your cleanser straight to your face without wetting your face first really helps to break down any makeup product on your eyes and skin," she says. "Once fully rubbed in, then rinse with water." She also recommends micellar water, adding, "Applying your product on a clean, reusable cotton pad and sweeping it over your lashes is another effective way to remove your mascara." And, of course, be gentle—you'll want to avoid any harsh tugging or pulling to prevent any damage to your lashes and skin.
When Do I Toss Out Waterproof Mascara?
Sadly, good things can't last forever, including waterproof mascara. And when it comes to the area around your eyes, you don't want to take any chances with expired products. O'Leary recommends tossing out your waterproof mascara every three to six months, max. "If you notice it starting to smell weird, or getting extremely dry or clumpy, it's definitely time for a new one," she adds.
Is Smudge-Proof the Same as Waterproof?
Smudge-proof and waterproof are similar and sometimes end up being used interchangeably, but they're not technically the same thing. "A smudge-proof mascara is designed to resist transferring or smearing throughout the day, so it’s great for avoiding 'raccoon eyes,' but that doesn’t necessarily mean it can hold up to water or tears the way a waterproof formula can," says Dominic.
Waterproof mascaras go a step further than smudge-proof, and really can be worn if you're going swimming or tears might be involved. "They’re formulated to resist actual moisture. As a makeup artist, I think of smudge-proof as more everyday-friendly, while waterproof is what I reach for when I know a client might cry or sweat," Dominic adds.
What Should I Look for in a Waterproof Mascara?
- Ingredients
In most cases, a mascara will advertise whether it’s waterproof or not, but there is one ingredient that will let you know for sure. “Waterproof mascara contains a type of silicone called dimethicone copolol. This is the ingredient that helps water repel from the lashes or slide off without taking off the product,” explains O’Leary.
And because waterproof mascara has such staying power, it can be a bit harsher on lashes, so it may be a good idea to prioritize mascaras with nourishing skincare ingredients. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and peptides will help to keep eyelashes conditioned. Gilleo also recommends looking for “natural yet effective ingredients, such as beeswax or coconut oil, as these ingredients can help nourish lashes while providing a waterproof barrier.”
- Brush Type
The brush or wand of a mascara plays a huge role in how your mascara comes out, says Gilleo. “Different mascaras can have brushes that are of all different shapes, sizes, and designs that impact the volume, length, curl, separation, and definition of lashes."
To find the right mascara for you and your needs, you certainly need to take a look at the brush. O’Leary recommends a small brush for smaller eyes or short lashes to get the most definition, whereas if you have big eyes or longer lashes, a larger brush will work better. The brushes’ bristles also come into play, affecting lash definition, volume, and how much product comes out. "A more defined wand is great for separation and length, while a fluffier brush can give more volume," says Dominic.
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Meet the Experts
Lauren is a New York City/Minneapolis based makeup artist, men's groomer, and beauty expert. She grew up in Minnesota but had her heart set on living in New York City since she was very young. As a lifelong artist, she was always on top of the latest beauty trends. Lauren specializes in beauty, editorial, celebrity, commercial/print, film & TV work. A few of her clients include Guess, Maybelline, Saks Fifth Ave, Samsung, Conde Nast, and celebrities Niki Taylor, Kaia Gerber, Joey Fatone, Shaq, Charlotte Mckinney, Hannah Brown, James Van der Beek, and more.
Alexandria has always been captivated and inspired by the beauty that each individual possesses. Her goal is to make her clients look good and feel beautiful, and it is instantly identifiable in her signature makeup style: gorgeous, radiant faces that seem to glow from within. Whether the task is a commercial, advertising, video, interview, press, or print, she will adjust her technique to answer the demands of different lighting set ups, scenarios, and pressure-packed situations. Alexandria has appeared on the Tyra Banks show, has won several awards for her freelance work, and has raised over $35,000 for charities including St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Her work can be seen in Ulta, Sephora, Kohl’s, and Philosophy stores globally, and has been seen on faces including Ali Krieger, Ashlyn Harris, Adriana Lima, Alexander Wang, Charlie Sheen, Camila Coelho, and Paul Rudd, to name a few.
With an inspiring vision and a rapidly growing following, Kelli Anne Sewell is solidifying her status as one of the most influential celebrity makeup artists. Celebrated for her ability to enhance natural beauty while making makeup feel fun and accessible, Kelli’s impressive client roster includes notables such as Camila Coehlo, Kelsea Ballerini, Alix Earle, Alex Cooper, Brooks Nader, Paige DeSorbo, Leone Hanne, Camille Kostek, Kristin Juszczyk, and Xandra Pohl. It's no surprise that her unique approach has earned her recognition as a trusted authority in beauty.
Originally from Texas, Kelli took a bold leap in 2021 by moving to New York City to pursue her dreams in makeup after years of balancing her passion for beauty with a corporate tech sales job. Within weeks of her move, she transformed her side hustle into Makeup by Kelli Anne (MXKA), an influential brand and member-based digital platform dedicated to education and celebrating self-expression through beauty.
Kelli Anne’s mission goes beyond crafting stunning makeup looks; she's deeply committed to educating, entertaining, and empowering individuals on how to embrace their unique features. Through engaging video content and candid product reviews, Makeup by Kelli Anne fosters an inclusive space where everyone can learn the tips and tricks necessary to elevate their beauty routines.
Caitlyn Dominic is a professional makeup artist and beauty content creator. She is the owner of Makeup by Caitlyn Michelle, based in Charlotte, NC, with 13 years of makeup artistry experience. She specializes in bridal, high profile, and editorial makeup and is passionate about blending artistry and education in everything she does.
Caitlyn is known for her signature soft-glam style, attention to detail, and ability to create looks that photograph beautifully and wear flawlessly throughout the day.
In addition to her client work, Caitlyn teaches virtual and in-person makeup lessons, coaches fellow makeup artists on growing their businesses, and creates beauty content for brands and her engaged social audience. Her work and expert advice have been featured in numerous publications, including Marie Claire, making her a trusted voice in both artistry and beauty education.
