If you've been burned by waterproof mascaras, you're not alone. When I tried my first waterproof mascara, I lost dozens of lashes as I gently tried to sweep away the crumbly, strangely tenacious pigment with oil-soaked cotton balls. And that's without even mentioning how the mascara actually worked, which was, um, not well. Dry, brittle, gunky, next. But since then, waterproof formulations have come a long way. In fact, some of the best mascaras out there are waterproof versions.
In some ways, "waterproof mascara" is a bit of a misnomer. While these formulations will stand up to rain showers and a dip in the pool, they'll also stay put during the everyday business of daily life—like touching your face, eating, and living. On a molecular level, waterproof mascaras are formulated without water-soluble polymers, but those polymers also hang on better when faced with any adversity—not just hydration. Which is why a waterproof formula might be your best bet for everyday wear.
Just like regular mascara, waterproof formulations can address other lash needs. Ahead, we've gathered the best waterproof mascaras to tackle whatever your needs may be. You'll find lengthening mascaras, volumizing mascara, mascaras that leave behind long-lasting pigment, and even ones that do little more than just add definition, albeit perfectly. Ahead, are the best waterproof mascaras to shop right now.
This sexy, fuzzy, hourglass-shaped brush is indeed better than sex, and so is the waterproof formula, which hugs the curves of your lashes in all the right ways and creates lush bedroom lashes—we recommend two coats.
This mascara will leave you with a flattering, extension-level finish, thanks to its inverted fanning wand, which lifts and coats each lash in rich, long-lasting pigment.
With a brush densely packed with short and long bristles, this mascara provides an instant lash lift while volumizing at the same time, but the benefits don't stop there. This mascara also conditions and nourishes thanks to lash-loving ingredients like beeswax and mineral pigments.
This pick from Maybelline went viral on TikTok, which led to it being sold out for months. If you can get your hands on it, your lashes will thank you. This mascara does exactly what the name suggests: makes your lashes sky high. Plus, it's a breeze to take off.
Lancôme is beloved for its classic mascaras, but if you're looking for bold, bad lashes that stay put all day and all night, this is the one for you. It has the effect of false lashes and will never, ever smudge.
The waterproof sister of Dior's classic, fast-dry formula will keep your lashes separated and full. For insane shapes that truly last all day and night, use a lash curler first, then immediately swipe on two coats of mascara.
Revlon has a handful of waterproof mascaras but this stout tube is the fan favorite, and for good reason—over the course of seven days, the formula leaves behind a darkening tint, for a semipermanent dye job, gratis.
When it comes to Perversion, IYKYK. Creamy, lengthening, and volumizing, it's spiked with proteins and honey extract, meaning that your lashes get nourished as you serve face.
Almay's humble little offering isn't demure at all. Inside the clinical-looking package is actually a silky, va-va-voom mascara that won't irritate even the most sensitive peepers.
This sporty little tube has made waves on the internet for its elegant results—lashes are defined and sophisticated, not clownish. And while the formula is A+ for Bikram or Peloton, it's also ideal for long days and hot nights alike.
Drugstore mascaras should not be slept on. Case in point: this pick from L'Oreal Paris. This mascara will give you the fluttery, fanned-out eyelashes of your dreams for just $13.
Finding clean beauty products isn't always easy, but this vegan formula from Ere Perez saves the day. Packed with avocado and other natural oils (and free of chemicals!), this mascara promises voluminous, long-lasting lashes and promotes growth in just a few swipes.
While the original formula is a well-known favorite, the waterproof version is just as good, if not better! This mascara boasts over 36,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, and it's not hard to see why. This formula creates sky-high, smudge-proof lashes for just $5.
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