It goes without saying that I take selecting the best mascaras pretty seriously on Martinis and Mascara. This is not only something I’ve researched in a professional capacity for multiple publications, but it’s a quest I’ve endeavored as a beauty enthusiast who just really wants to know. I’ve used them all, trust me, and these are the absolute best mascaras for volume, length, and whatever other lash magic you’re seeking.
Best Mascara Overall
Truthfully, it was a close call because all of Benefit’s mascara’s are pretty iconic. Benefit’s Roller Lash is my all-time favorite, but the Bad Gal Bang and They’re Real Mascaras trail just slightly behind my first pick for the best mascara. (Benefit also sells a set of all three in a value pack if you want to try them all!) The Roller Lash Mascara wins in my book because it literally does it all. It lengthens, thickens and volumizes, all while wrapping each lash in a formula that doesn’t fade, smudge, or clump. The mascara features a rubberized bristle brush that helps to lift, separate and curl lashes effortlessly. It’s also water-resistant and holds for up to 12 hours. Trust me when I say this is the best mascara out there.
Best Drugstore Mascara
Officially the most affordable on the list (and Amazon’s bestseller in the mascara category), the Essence Princess Lash Mascara is truly the best bang for your buck. If my favorite Roller Lash is out of your price range, you might like the $4.99 price tag on the Princess Lash Mascara. The product itself is pretty impressive for such a low-priced lash decoration. It definitely thickens and adds drama instantly. It’s not quite as good in the length and separation department, but overall it’s still a solid pick and a total deal.
Best Luxury Mascara
Yves Saint Laurent Volume Effet Faux Cils Luxurious Mascara
If budget is not a concern, this luxurious lash treat from YSL is the one for you. Two coats of this stuff and you’ll literally look like you’re wearing falsies. It’s also paired with serious staying power. Truly, the only reason this one isn’t my overall favorite is the price tag. But if you’re down to splurge, get this one.
Best Volumizing Mascara
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
This cult-favorite mascara features a unique hourglass brush that helps gives lashes some serious oomph. The formula really works well to fatten up those lashes if volume is your main goal. Out of your price range? Try the L’Oreal Lash Paradise Mascara. It’s extremely similar and a great dupe for a lower price.
Best Lengthening Mascara
Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara
Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara is another cult-classic loved by many (including over 100,000 reviewers on Amazon!) and the best for lengthening those lashes. It’s infused with bamboo extract and fibers for long, full lashes that don’t flake or smudge. This one is approved by celebs like Meghan Markle, too.
Best Thickening Mascara
Urban Decay Perversion Mascara
If you have super thin lashes and want something that’s going to plump them up and make them appear fuller, this mascara from Urban Decay is your best bet. In addition to creating that full look, this mascara features a unique formula with hairdensyl, a blend of proteins and amino acids known to stimulate lash growth. So, your lashes will look good instantly in addition to looking fuller over time (even sans mascara). It’s a win-win.
Best Tubing Mascara
Blinc Amplified Tubing Mascara
Remember when tube mascara was all the rage? Blinc is the OG tubing mascara and TBH, I’ve never met another one I’ve liked better. Just don’t be alarmed when you wash your face… it’ll look like all of your lashes are falling out. Just the tubes sliding off! Blinc’s tubing mascara is one of those bucket-list products you should try at least once to see if you like the look and formula.
Best Colored Mascara
L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Mascara
I love a statement-making lash. Not ready to go in on cobalt blue like I am? There are other more subtle options you’ll love. I know some people shy away from overly trendy and unnatural looks, but hear me out. Wearing a colored mascara can truly enhance your eyes, regardless of whether or not you’ve seen that shade on the runway. Have blue or green eyes? Try purple mascara to really make them pop. Blue mascara makes brown or honey-colored eyes look incredible. And hazel eyes intensify in the best way with green mascara. Try it!
Best Waterproof Mascara
Covergirl Lash Blast Volume Waterproof Mascara
It’s true: COVERGIRL beat out the pricey options for best waterproof mascara. The brand’s Lash Blast Mascara is a classic and the waterproof version is a solid choice to wear to your next beach vacation, wedding, sad movie, and beyond.
Best Clean Mascara
MILK Makeup KUSH Volumizing Mascara
Milk Makeup’s Kush mascara is incredible and it also happens to be completely vegan, clean, cruelty-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and gluten-free, so you can feel good layering it on your lashes. The mascara is designed to thicken, moisturize, and condition with effective ingredients like conditioning hemp-derived cannabis seed oil, providing softer, healthier-looking lashes.
Best Mascara Primer
Lancôme Cils Booster XL Enhancing Lash Primer
The best way to make literally any mascara the best mascara is to start with a great mascara primer. Lancome’s primer is hands-down the best one out there. It makes lashes look instantly thicker thanks to the fibers in the formula and it’ll also improve the condition of the lashes over time thanks to vitamin B5 and vitamin E. This mascara primer ain’t cheap, but it’s truly worth every penny.