25 Best Mascaras for Every Lash Look in 2025

Magdalena Fazekas
Magdalena Fazekas
25 Best Mascaras for Every Lash Look in 2025

Discover the ultimate mascara collection for 2025 and beyond, designed to elevate every lash look imaginable. This guide curates 25 of the best mascaras on the market, expertly chosen to cater to a diverse range of needs, from volumizing and lengthening to defining and waterproof formulas. Explore expert recommendations, application tips, and reviews to find your perfect mascara match, whether you're aiming for a natural daytime look or a dramatic evening statement. This guide promises to help you achieve your desired eye makeup looks all year round.

Our top picks

The Best Mascara for Voluminous Lashes: Better Than Sex Mascara, $29.00
The Best Lengthening Mascara for Dramatic Eyes: LE VOLUME DE CHANEL, $40.00
The Best Defining Mascara for Natural Looks: Lash Power Mascara, $27.00
The Most Reliable Waterproof Mascara: Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara, $16.00
The Best Mascara for Sensitive Eyes: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Waterproof Mascara, $26.00
The Best Drugstore Mascara Find: L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Panorama Mascara, $12.39
The Best Mascara for Everyday Wear: Lash Slick, $20.00

Best Mascaras for Voluminous Lashes

Enhance your lashes with these top-rated mascaras for maximum volume and impact.

LE VOLUME DE CHANEL

LE VOLUME DE CHANEL

$40.00

Chanel LE VOLUME gives luxe, noticeable volume and length, and in our testing lashes looked fuller with a polished finish. Our experience shows the formula is on the wetter side, which can cause lashes to lose curl and occasionally clump if you apply multiple coats. Priced at $40 with a 7.5/10 score, it's a splurge for volume lovers who prioritize dramatic impact over waterproof wear and perfect curl retention.

The Good

Provides significant volume and length to lashes.

The Bad

The wet formula may cause lashes to lose curl.

Some users experience clumping with the wet formula.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: false

Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara

Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara

$16.00

Lancôme Monsieur Big delivers the hyper-full volume the name promises — in our testing lashes appeared dramatically thicker and more prominent. However, the large brush and thick formula make precise application tricky, and layering often leads to clumping and harder removal, which contributed to its 6.5/10 score. If you want bold, camera-ready volume at around $16 and don't mind extra cleanup time, this is a go-to; otherwise consider a more precise wand for everyday wear.

The Good

Provides intense volume, making lashes appear fuller and more dramatic.

Long-lasting wear without smudging or flaking throughout the day.

The Bad

The large brush size can make precise application challenging, especially on lower lashes.

The thick formula may lead to clumping if too many layers are applied.

Some users find the mascara difficult to remove, requiring more effort during cleansing.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: false

KUSH High Volumizing Mascara

KUSH High Volumizing Mascara

$19.60

KUSH High Volumizing gives your lashes noticeable fullness and conditioning thanks to hemp-derived cannabis seed oil, and in our experience lashes felt softer after wear. Despite its vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free credentials, the formula can feel heavy, clump with additional coats, and some users reported smudging or flaking during the day. It scored a 6/10 in our testing — a tempting option for conditioning and volume, but expect a bit more maintenance and careful removal.

The Good

Provides significant volume and length to lashes.

Contains hemp-derived cannabis seed oil for conditioning lashes.

Vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free formula.

The Bad

Some users report smudging and flaking during wear.

Formula may feel heavy and clumpy upon application.

Difficult to remove compared to other mascaras.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: false

Dark Star Mascara

Dark Star Mascara

$34.00

Dark Star Mascara brings bold volume that visibly thickens lashes, and in our testing it added striking definition for evening looks. We found the payoff is impressive up front, but the formula struggled with clumping and flaking over wear, which hurt the all-day reliability. The oversized brush can make precise application difficult for smaller eyes, so during our review this one scored a 6/10 — great for short outings but not the best daily workhorse.

The Good

Provides significant volume and definition to lashes.

The Bad

Some users report clumping and flaking during wear.

The large brush size may make application challenging for some.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: false

Fullest Volumizing Mascara

Fullest Volumizing Mascara

$29.00

If you crave instant fullness, Fullest Volumizing Mascara makes lashes look dramatically thicker — in our testing it delivered impressive volume that reads well in photos and low-light. We found the formula can flake during wear, and the large brush may be tricky for smaller eye shapes, which combined with a higher price dragged the score to 6.5/10. During our review it defined lashes nicely without adding length, but frequent touch-ups may erode its everyday appeal.

The Good

Provides significant volume, making lashes appear fuller and thicker.

The Bad

Some users report flaking during wear.

The large brush size may be challenging for those with smaller eyes.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: false / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: true

Better Than Sex Mascara

Better Than Sex Mascara

$29.00

Too Faced Better Than Sex delivers the dramatic volume and length its name promises — in our testing lashes looked visibly thicker and more extended, which is why it earned a high 8.5/10. We found the hourglass brush builds impactful volume, but the formula can flake onto the under-eye area within hours and may smudge for some wearers, so keep blotting tissues handy. During our review it performed best when paired with an eyelash curler and careful application to minimize fallout.

The Good

Provides significant volume and length to lashes.

The Bad

Flakes onto the under-eye area within hours of application.

Requires an eyelash curler for optimal curl effect.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: false

LASH CLASH EXTREME VOLUME MASCARA

LASH CLASH EXTREME VOLUME MASCARA

$33.00

YSL's LASH CLASH EXTREME VOLUME delivers show-stopping drama fast — during our review one coat created noticeable lift and curl without visible clumps. We found the formula excels at creating an instant eye-opening effect, but our experience shows results can be inconsistent: some users report it doesn’t add as much volume as promised. Also expect to spend extra time at night, as removal can be stubborn and may require multiple cleansers. With a 7.5/10 score and $33 price, it's best for bold looks.

The Good

Provides instant drama and volume with just one coat.

Holds a curl effectively without clumping.

The Bad

Some users find it lacks volumizing effect.

Difficult to remove, requiring multiple cleansers.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: true

BADgal BANG! Mascara by Benefit Cosmetics

BADgal BANG! Mascara by Benefit Cosmetics

$27.00

Badgal BANG! by Benefit is one of our favorites for dramatic, photo-ready lashes — in our testing it delivered impressive volume without clumping and felt lightweight enough to wear all day. We found the flexible brush makes precise application easy, so you can build impact without flaking. That said, during our review the wet formula occasionally transferred onto eyelids and some wearers reported smudging after extended hours, and the shiny packaging attracts fingerprints. At $27 and an 8.5/10, it’s a top performer.

The Good

Provides significant volume without clumping.

Lightweight formula allows for comfortable, all-day wear.

Flexible brush design enables precise application.

The Bad

Some users report smudging after extended wear.

Wet formula may transfer onto eyelids during application.

Packaging can attract dirt and fingerprints easily.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: true

L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Panorama Mascara

L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Panorama Mascara

$12.39

L'Oreal Voluminous Panorama is a wallet-friendly option that amps up lash pigment — in our testing the rich black shade instantly defined eyes and made lashes read darker in photos. We found it separates well for definition, but during our review it can clump if you swipe too aggressively and doesn't always hold curl on straighter lashes. At around $12.39 and a 7/10 score, this is a strong budget pick when you want bold color and length without breaking the bank, just mind your application.

The Good

Provides a dark black color that enhances lash appearance.

The Bad

Some users report clumping during application.

May not hold curl effectively for all users.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: false

Lengthening Mascaras for a Dramatic Effect

Discover mascaras designed to elongate lashes and create a stunning, eye-opening look.

Lash Power Mascara

Lash Power Mascara

$27.00

Clinique Lash Power is a dependable option for natural, long-wearing looks — our review found it resists flaking and smudging through sweat, humidity, and tears. The thin brush catches every lash and separates while providing believable length, so lashes look defined without heavy volume. We did note removal can be stubborn even with makeup remover, and the finish is understated; at $27 and a 7.5/10, it's ideal when durability matters more than dramatic impact.

The Good

Resists flaking and smudging, lasting through sweat, humidity, and tears.

The thin brush catches every lash and separates while lengthening.

The Bad

Some users find it difficult to remove, even with makeup remover.

The result isn't dramatic; it provides a more natural look.

Volumizing: false / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: true / Clump-Free: true

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

$9.99

The non-waterproof Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High is a standout drugstore lengthener — during our review it delivered clear, noticeable length while maintaining natural curl. The flexible wand reaches tiny corner lashes and the lightweight formula avoids weighing lashes down, though some wearers experience flaking after several hours. At $9.99 and an 8.5/10 score, it's excellent everyday value if you prioritize length and curl retention over heavy volume and long-term waterproof resilience.

The Good

The mascara effectively lengthens lashes, providing a noticeable increase in length.

The flexible wand allows for easy application, reaching even the smallest lashes.

The formula is lightweight and doesn't weigh down lashes, maintaining curl throughout the day.

The Bad

The mascara may flake after a few hours of wear, leading to potential smudging.

The flexible wand may be too delicate for some users, making control during application challenging.

The mascara doesn't provide as much volume as some other mascaras, focusing more on length.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: true

Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara

Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara

$35.00

As a splurge-worthy volumizer, Diorshow Iconic Overcurl delivers impressive volume, length and curl with just one coat — in our testing the curved brush really lifts lashes for an eye-opening effect. We found the formula is long-lasting with minimal flaking or smudging, but it's not waterproof and can be tricky to remove completely. During our review multiple coats tended to clump, and the large curved wand can make lower-lash application fiddly. At a 7.5/10 it's great for dramatic daytime looks if you value curl over fuss-free removal.

The Good

Provides significant volume, length, and curl with just one coat.

The curved brush effectively lifts and curls lashes.

Long-lasting formula with minimal flaking or smudging.

The Bad

Applying multiple coats may lead to clumping.

The large, curved brush can make lower lash application challenging.

Some users find the formula difficult to remove completely.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: false

Tarte tartelette Tubing Mascara

Tarte tartelette Tubing Mascara

$15.00

The Tarte tartelette Tubing Mascara is a solid lengthener that shines when you want long, separated lashes and fuss-free removal — in our testing it rinses off easily with warm water thanks to its tubing action. We found it contains nourishing ingredients like shea butter and castor oil that keep lashes feeling conditioned, but it doesn't build much volume and some users reported flaking after several hours. During our review it scored a 7/10: reliable for everyday length but not the best choice if you need heavy volume or waterproof wear.

The Good

Provides significant lengthening effect.

Easy removal with warm water.

Contains moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and castor oil.

The Bad

Some users report flaking after a few hours.

May not provide as much volume as other mascaras.

Not waterproof; may smudge in wet conditions.

Volumizing: false / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: true

Roller Lash Mascara by Benefit Cosmetics

Roller Lash Mascara by Benefit Cosmetics

$26.00

Benefit Roller Lash is one of our favorite curlers for everyday wear — in our testing the Hook ’n’ Roll™ brush caught, separated and curled each lash for defined, fluttery results. We found the formula is water-resistant and durable against tears and humidity, earning it an 8/10 for reliable curl and separation. That said, some wearers with oily skin or hooded lids reported smudging and transfer, and it won't deliver dramatic volume if thickness is your top priority.

The Good

The Hook ‘n' Roll™ brush effectively catches, separates, and curls each lash.

The mascara is water-resistant, providing durability against tears and humidity.

The Bad

Some users report smudging and transfer, especially on oily skin or hooded eyelids.

The mascara may not add significant volume to lashes.

Volumizing: false / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: true

Thrive Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara

Thrive Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara

$15.88

Thrive Liquid Lash Extensions promises the look of longer, naturally thicker lashes while supporting lash health — in our testing the formula felt conditioning and kept lashes flexible with a visibly extended effect. We found it markets itself as a waterproof option that helps hold curl all day, but in practice it can feel heavy and may clump if layered too much. During our review it earned a 6/10: a good pick for lash care and length, albeit pricier and slightly high-maintenance.

The Good

Provides the appearance of naturally longer and thicker lashes, enhancing overall eye makeup look.

Promotes lash health and flexibility, ensuring that your lashes remain strong and healthy even with daily use of mascara.

Waterproof formula allows for all-day curl without smudging or flaking, giving you a fresh look throughout the day without needing touch-ups.

The Bad

May clump if too many coats are applied.

Some users reported that the mascara can smudge slightly in humid conditions.

The price point may be higher than some other mascaras on the market.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: false

Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes! Mascara

Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes! Mascara

$29.00

Charlotte Tilbury's Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes! mascara lifts and curls with ease — in our testing it delivered a noticeable lift that brightened eyes and layered well for a sultry finish. We found the unique wand gives great separation when you master the technique, but it takes practice and excess product can cause clumping. During our review it scored a 7/10: a lovely option for a lifted, defined look, just be patient with the wand to avoid overapplication.

The Good

Effectively lifts and curls lashes, providing a noticeable enhancement.

The Bad

The unique wand design may require practice to achieve optimal results.

Some users experience clumping if too much product is applied.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: false

ILIA Limitless Lash Mascara

ILIA Limitless Lash Mascara

$29.00

ILIA Limitless Lash gives you a customizable build thanks to its dual-sided brush that lets you dial volume or length on demand — in our testing that flexibility is its biggest perk. We found the formula holds curl and resists flaking throughout the day, so lashes look polished without constant touch-ups. Be aware the mascara dries quickly, which can make layering fiddly, and some users reported eye irritation after prolonged wear. At a 7/10 score and $29, it's a smart mid-range pick if you like control.

The Good

The dual-sided brush allows for customizable application, enhancing both volume and length.

The formula is flake-resistant and holds a curl throughout the day.

The Bad

Some users report eye irritation after prolonged use.

The mascara dries quickly, making it difficult to apply multiple coats.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: true

Defining Mascaras for Natural-Looking Lashes

Find mascaras that separate and define lashes for a refined, everyday makeup look.

Lash Slick

Lash Slick

$20.00

Glossier's Lash Slick is perfect if you want a subtle, natural finish — in our testing the lightweight formula lengthened and defined lashes without feeling heavy. We found that while it creates a believable daytime look, the curl can fall flat after a few hours and it isn't waterproof, so watery eyes may lead to smudging. During our review it scored a 6.5/10: great for minimal makeup days, but keep a curler and touch-up plan handy if you need all-day lift.

The Good

Provides a natural, lengthened look with a lightweight formula.

The Bad

Some users report that lashes lose curl after a few hours.

The mascara is not waterproof and may smudge if eyes become watery.

Volumizing: false / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: false / Clump-Free: true

Waterproof Mascaras for All-Day Wear

Explore mascaras that withstand water, sweat, and humidity, keeping your lashes perfect.

Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara

Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara

$16.00

If you want curl that lasts, Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof held lift impressively during our testing and kept lashes defined through the day. We found the hourglass brush can make application fiddly and the formula tends to flake or smudge for some users, which hurt its 6.5/10 score. The mascara does deliver noticeable volume and length, but our experience shows you'll need patience with application and cleanup — bring a reliable remover for touch-ups at $16.

The Good

Effectively holds curl throughout the day.

The Bad

Some users report significant flaking and smudging.

The brush's hourglass shape can make application challenging.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: true / Clump-Free: false

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara

$8.32

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof delivers noticeable length and lightweight lift — in our testing it adds volume without clumping and stays put thanks to its waterproof formula. We found the bamboo extract keeps lashes flexible and natural-feeling, but removal is a hassle; even dedicated makeup removers struggled to dissolve the formula cleanly. At about $8.32 and an 8/10 score, this is a strong value pick if you can tolerate extra removal time and a somewhat flimsy-feeling wand.

The Good

Provides impressive length and volume without clumping.

Waterproof formula ensures long-lasting wear without smudging or flaking.

Infused with bamboo extract for lightweight, flexible lashes.

The Bad

Difficult to remove, even with makeup remover.

Some users report the brush feels flimsy during application.

May not provide the intense volume some users expect.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: true / Clump-Free: true

High Impact Waterproof Mascara

High Impact Waterproof Mascara

$27.00

Clinique High Impact Waterproof gives clean definition and a featherlight finish that, during our review, didn't leave lashes stiff — it earned a respectable 7/10 for reliability. We found it lengthens well and resists flaking, making it a dependable choice for days you need waterproof performance. That said, significant clumping during application and modest curl hold (especially on straight lashes) mean you'll need careful layering to get the volumizing results some expect at $27.

The Good

Provides excellent definition and does not flake throughout the day.

The formula is lightweight and doesn't make lashes feel stiff.

The Bad

Some users report significant clumping during application.

May not hold a curl effectively, especially for straight lashes.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: true / Clump-Free: false

Définicils Waterproof Mascara

Définicils Waterproof Mascara

$34.00

Lancôme Définicils Waterproof stood out in our testing, earning a 9/10 for its exceptional separation and long-lasting, smudge-proof wear. We found it lengthens without clumping and creates clean, defined lashes — a great pick if you want precision more than bulk. Keep in mind some users report the tube dries out quickly and it can be stubborn to remove without an oil-based cleanser; if longevity and crisp definition matter most, this $34 mascara is hard to beat.

The Good

Effectively separates lashes for a defined look.

Provides long-lasting waterproof wear without smudging.

Lengthens lashes without clumping.

The Bad

Some users report the mascara dries out quickly.

Difficult to remove without an oil-based cleanser.

Does not add significant volume to lashes.

Volumizing: false / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: true / Clump-Free: true

M·A·CStack Waterproof Mascara

M·A·CStack Waterproof Mascara

$20.30

M·A·CStack Waterproof gives buildable volume and length while staying clump-free in our hands, and its ophthalmologist-tested formula is friendly for contact lens wearers. In our testing the formula can feel wet at first, which may reduce curl and invite clumping if you rush between coats. Some testers also reported it was harder to remove, but at $20.30 and a 7/10 score it's a solid, buildable waterproof option if you pace your application and allow drying time between layers.

The Good

Provides buildable volume and length without clumping.

Long-lasting waterproof formula that stays put all day.

Suitable for contact lens wearers and ophthalmologist tested.

The Bad

Some users report the formula is too wet, leading to clumping.

May cause lashes to lose curl over time.

Some users find it difficult to remove.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: true / Clump-Free: true

Reviews
Lancôme Lash Idôle Waterproof Mascara

Lancôme Lash Idôle Waterproof Mascara

$21.00

Lancôme Lash Idôle Waterproof impressed us in testing with a curved silicone brush that reaches tiny corners and separates lashes cleanly — during our review it held up through humidity and tears without flaking or smudging. We found it's comfortable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, which is a big plus for longevity. That said, it’s pricier and can be stubborn to remove, sometimes clumping if you overapply. At $21 and an 8/10 score, it's a durable, high-performing waterproof choice.

The Good

The curved silicone brush effectively separates lashes and reaches hard-to-reach angles.

The waterproof formula provides long-lasting wear without flaking or smudging.

The mascara is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

The Bad

Some users find the mascara difficult to remove, requiring patience and proper makeup remover.

The product is relatively expensive compared to other mascaras.

Some users report that the mascara can become clumpy if too much product is applied.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: true / Waterproof: true / Clump-Free: false

Best Mascara for Sensitive Eyes

Gentle formulas designed for sensitive eyes. Achieve a perfect lash look without irritation.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Waterproof Mascara

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Waterproof Mascara

$26.00

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Waterproof is a go-to if you have sensitive eyes — in our testing it provided natural-looking volume and clean definition without clumping or irritation. We found the formula's waterproof claim held up well for humidity and tears, though some users did notice smudging by the end of a long day. During our review it earned a 7.5/10 for being dependable and gentle: it won't create dramatic length but it's a smart pick when comfort and reliable wear matter most.

The Good

Provides natural-looking volume and definition without clumping.

Suitable for sensitive eyes and daily use.

The Bad

Some users report smudging by the end of the day.

May not provide significant lengthening effect.

Volumizing: true / Lengthening: false / Waterproof: true / Clump-Free: true