The 10 Best Waterproof Mascaras That Will Stay Put All Day, According to Beauty Experts

You've probably tried every mascara under the sun, but still, your lashes fail to impress – until now. Imagine having luscious, voluminous lashes that withstand even the most emotional of moments (hello, tear-jerkers!). According to beauty experts, the secret to flawless, all-day lashes lies in waterproof mascaras that really deliver. From L'Oreal Paris to Maybelline, these top-rated formulas promise to transform your lashes, but which ones are truly worth the hype?

Key Takeaways

• Look for waterproof mascaras with conditioning ingredients like panthenol and ceramide to protect and condition lashes.

• A well-designed brush is essential for achieving the perfect lash look, with conic-shaped fibers and flexible bristles separating lashes effectively.

• Formulas infused with fibers, such as bamboo extract or keratin, help thicken and extend lashes for a voluminous look.

• Ophthalmologist-tested and hypoallergenic formulas are recommended for sensitive eyes, ensuring a gentle and safe application.

• Brands like L'Oreal Paris, essence, and Maybelline offer high-quality waterproof mascaras that stay put all day, according to beauty experts.

L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara

If you're looking for a mascara that provides bold, voluminous lashes without the hassle of clumping or flaking, L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara is our top pick.

We love that it builds lashes up to 4X their natural thickness, separating and building every lash for a full and luscious look.

The clump-resistant, waterproof formula is infused with Panthenol and Ceramide-R to protect and condition lashes, leaving them soft and supple.

The Volume Maximizing Brush is designed to quickly thicken and build lashes evenly, resisting clumping, flaking, and smudging.

We appreciate that it's easy to remove with a waterproof eye makeup remover, making it a convenient and reliable choice for everyday use.

Best For: Those looking for a long-lasting, waterproof mascara that provides volume and length without clumping or flaking, suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Pros:

• Provides volume and length without clumping or spiking lashes
• Long-lasting, waterproof formula that resists transfer and flaking
• Good value for the price compared to more expensive mascaras

Cons:

• Flammable until dry, so use with caution
• Must be removed with a waterproof eye makeup remover
• No specific shades mentioned for different skin tones or eye colors

essence Lash Princess False Lash Mascara

Those with short, sparse lashes will find the essence Lash Princess False Lash Mascara to be a game-changer, as its conic-shaped fiber brush and highly pigmented formula work together to create a dramatic volume and false-lash effect.

We love that it's waterproof, providing long-lasting performance that resists smudging and flaking.

Plus, it's vegan and cruelty-free, making it a great option for those who care about animal welfare and the environment.

While it can be a bit tricky to remove, we think it's worth the extra effort.

We've heard from many users that it's an affordable and effective alternative to expensive mascaras, and it works wonders for those with deep-set eyes or who live in humid climates.

Best For: Those with short, sparse lashes, deep-set eyes, or who live in humid climates.

Pros:

• Provides dramatic volume and false-lash effect with its conic-shaped fiber brush and highly pigmented formula
• Waterproof formula resists smudging and flaking, making it long-lasting and suitable for humid climates
• Affordable and effective alternative to expensive mascaras, making it a great value for the price

Cons:

• Can be difficult to remove, requiring makeup remover or coconut oil
• May not be suitable for those with oily eyelids, as it can be challenging to remove
• Requires some effort to remove, which may be a drawback for some users

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara

For individuals seeking a waterproof mascara that delivers both volume and length, Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara is an excellent choice, thanks to its unique flex tower mascara brush that bends to volumize and extend every single lash from root to tip.

We love that this mascara is infused with Bamboo Extract and fibers to give us long, full lashes that never get weighed down.

Plus, it's waterproof and stays put all day without flaking or smudging, even in humid weather.

We appreciate that it's easy to remove with makeup remover and is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Overall, this mascara provides dramatic, transformative results for our lashes, making it perfect for everyday wear.

Best For: Individuals seeking a waterproof mascara that provides both volume and length, suitable for everyday wear and ideal for those with sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Pros:

• Provides full volume and limitless length with its unique flex tower mascara brush that bends to volumize and extend every single lash from root to tip.
• Stays put all day without flaking or smudging, even in humid weather, and is easy to remove with makeup remover.
• Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive eyes.

Cons:

• May need to be reapplied more frequently for optimal results.
• No specific claims or guarantees are made about the longevity of the product.
• No additional benefits or features are mentioned beyond the mascara's core functionality.

Maybelline The Falsies Lash Lift Waterproof Mascara

When we're seeking a mascara that lifts, lengthens, and volumizes our lashes without the hassle of smudges or clumps, Maybelline The Falsies Lash Lift Waterproof Mascara is the perfect choice.

This waterproof mascara is designed to deliver dramatic volume, length, and lift to our lashes, thanks to its fiber-infused formula and double curved lifting brush.

We love that it grabs our lashes at the root to lift, thicken, and lengthen, without leaving any clumps, smears, or flakes behind.

Plus, it's ophthalmologist-tested and suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lenses, making it a great option for those with sensitive peepers.

With its long-lasting, smudge-proof formula, we can enjoy beautifully lifted and curled lashes all day, even in heat and water.

Best For: Those seeking a natural, volumized lash look that is waterproof and long-lasting.

Pros:

• Enhances natural lashes without being too heavy or bulky
• Lifts and curls lashes effectively, even for those with sensitive eyes and contact lenses
• Waterproof and long-lasting, even in heat and water

Cons:

• Brush may be too full for some users
• Limited color options, with only a brownish black color available
• Some users may wish for additional color options, such as dark brown, navy, and dark grey

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara

We opt for Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara when seeking a long-lasting, smudge-free formula that defines and volumizes our lashes without clumping.

This mascara boasts a unique formula that combines bamboo extract and fibers to give us long, full, and lightweight lashes.

The Flex Tower mascara brush makes it easy to apply the product precisely, allowing us to build up the formula for added length without excessive volume.

We appreciate that it's ophthalmologist and allergy tested, making it suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

With its affordable price point and long-lasting formula, it's no wonder this mascara has become a staple in our makeup routine.

Best For: Those with sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers who want a long-lasting, smudge-free mascara that defines and volumizes their lashes without clumping.

Pros:

• Precise wand for defining lashes and building up the formula for added length without excessive volume
• Long-lasting formula that stays on lashes without smudging or flaking
• Affordable price point and suitable for daily use

Cons:

• None mentioned in the user reviews

LOreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara

If you're after a mascara that delivers dramatic volume and length, LOreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara is the best choice, boasting a unique soft wavy bristle brush that holds maximum formula to catch every lash for a full fringe effect.

We love that it provides silky volume in just one coat, and its waterproof formula guarantees it lasts all day without smudging or running. In fact, 95% of users reported it stays on all day.

We're also impressed that it's easy to apply and separate lashes, with minimal clumps and no flakes. Plus, it's gentle on lashes, leaving them feeling feathery soft.

While it can be a bit tricky to remove, we think it's worth the extra effort for the stunning results it delivers.

Best For: Those looking for a waterproof mascara that provides dramatic volume and length, and is suitable for daily use.

Pros:

• Provides silky volume in just one coat with its unique soft wavy bristle brush
• Waterproof formula guarantees it lasts all day without smudging or running
• Gentle on lashes, leaving them feeling feathery soft

Cons:

• Can be a bit tricky to remove
• Requires some effort to apply and separate lashes
• May not be suitable for those who prefer a more natural, subtle look

Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara

For those of us with sensitive eyes, Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara is an excellent choice, offering a smudge-proof and cruelty-free formula that guarantees beautiful, natural-looking lashes without any irritation.

We love that it's long-lasting and waterproof, with no fear of smudging or running, making it perfect for hot and humid climates.

Plus, it's easy to remove with Clinique's makeup remover. While it may not add volume, it does make our lashes pop without any clumping or smearing.

We appreciate that it's suitable for sensitive eyes and doesn't leave our lashes feeling sticky or crunchy.

It's available at a discounted price on Amazon, making it an affordable and reliable option for our daily beauty routines.

Best For: Those with sensitive eyes and those looking for a long-lasting, waterproof, and smudge-proof mascara that provides natural-looking lashes.

Pros:

• Long-lasting and waterproof formula that resists smudging and running
• Suitable for sensitive eyes and does not cause irritation
• Easy to remove with Clinique's makeup remover

Cons:

• Does not add volume to lashes
• May experience some clumping with first application
• Not suitable for heavy or dramatic looks

Maybelline Full N Soft Waterproof Mascara, Very Black, 1 Count

Who needs a mascara that delivers on its promise of voluminous, curled lashes all day long, without the hassle of reapplication or smudging, making the Maybelline Full N Soft Waterproof Mascara in Very Black, 1 Count an ideal choice.

This advanced formula is enriched with Vitamin E, which helps to create fuller-looking lashes.

We appreciate that it's easy to remove and is suitable for contact lens wearers, making it a great option for those with sensitive eyes.

The mascara's waterproof formula guarantees that our lashes stay curled and voluminous all day, without smudging or running.

With Maybelline's wide range of eye makeup products, we can create a variety of looks, from natural to dramatic.

Best For: Those who want a waterproof mascara that delivers voluminous, curled lashes all day long without smudging or running.

Pros:

• Enriched with Vitamin E to create fuller-looking lashes
• Easy to apply and remove, making it suitable for contact lens wearers
• Waterproof formula guarantees curled and voluminous lashes all day

Cons:

• None mentioned in the product description
• None mentioned in the product description
• None mentioned in the product description

L'Oréal Paris Voluminous Panorama Mascara

We opt for L'Oréal Paris Voluminous Panorama Mascara when seeking a waterproof, long-lasting formula that volumizes and lengthens lashes up to 1.4 times their natural size.

This mascara truly delivers, providing panoramic volume and a full, fanned-out lash look.

The 5% stretchflex complex formula and multi-level bristle brush work together to create a natural, separated lash look that lasts all day.

We appreciate that it's ophthalmologist-tested, making it suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

While some users may find the application a bit clumpy or require multiple layers, the overall performance and value of this mascara have earned it a spot in our top 10.

Best For: Sensitive eyes, contact lens wearers, and those seeking a waterproof, long-lasting, and volumizing mascara that provides a natural, separated lash look.

Pros:

• Provides panoramic volume and lengthens lashes up to 1.4 times their natural size
• Waterproof, long-lasting, and smudge-resistant formula that lasts all day
• Ophthalmologist-tested, making it suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers

Cons:

• Some users may experience clumpy application or need multiple layers for desired effect
• Waterproof version may be difficult to remove
• May not provide as much volume as other mascaras

COVERGIRL Clump Crusher Water Resistant Mascara

Those seeking a clump-free and mess-free mascara application will appreciate the COVERGIRL Clump Crusher Water Resistant Mascara, which boasts a unique two-sided brush that volumizes and intensifies lashes in one coat.

We love that this water-resistant formula guarantees a smudge-free finish all day long.

The thin nylon brush makes application a breeze, and we appreciate that it's cruelty-free and Leaping Bunny certified.

Many users rave about this mascara's ease of use and natural look, with some even preferring it over high-end alternatives.

While some users experienced flaking or difficulty achieving the desired effect, we think this is a great option for those seeking a daily, natural look without the drama.

Best For: Best for those who want a natural, clump-free, and mess-free mascara application for daily wear.

Pros:

• Easy to use and doesn't irritate eyes, even for contact lens wearers
• Provides a natural look without lengthening or thickening lashes
• Water-resistant formula guarantees a smudge-free finish all day long

Cons:

• Some users experienced flaking after a few hours
• Requires multiple applications to achieve desired effect
• Doesn't cover well and flakes off

Factors to Consider When Choosing Waterproof Mascara

When selecting the perfect waterproof mascara for your needs, you'll want to weigh a few key factors.

You'll need to think about the formula and ingredients, as well as any eye sensitivity concerns you may have.

Formula and Ingredients

To guarantee your waterproof mascara stays put, look for a formula that's resistant to smudging, flaking, and running, while also being gentle on your lashes and eyes.

You want a formula that's both effective and safe for your eyes.

When checking the ingredient list, look for mascaras that contain conditioning ingredients like panthenol, ceramide, and antioxidants.

These help to nourish and protect your lashes.

Some waterproof mascaras may also contain waxes like beeswax or carnauba wax, which help to repel water and add hold.

However, make sure the formula is free of harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate your eyes or skin.

A flexible, film-forming polymer can also help create a waterproof barrier on your lashes, making it easy to remove with makeup remover.

Eye Sensitivity Considerations

If you have sensitive eyes, choosing the right waterproof mascara is essential to avoid irritation, itchiness, or discomfort, so this is imperative to take certain factors into consideration.

When shopping for a waterproof mascara, look for products labeled as 'hypoallergenic' or 'ophthalmologist-tested' to minimize the risk of irritation.

It's also important to read the ingredient list carefully, as some waterproof mascaras may contain ingredients that can exacerbate eye sensitivity. Be cautious of ingredients like parabens and fragrances, which can be particularly irritating to sensitive eyes.

Opt for mascaras that are free from these ingredients to guarantee a comfortable wear. If you experience any adverse reactions, such as itchiness, redness, or tearing, discontinue use and consult with an eye care professional for advice.

Furthermore, if you wear contact lenses, choose a waterproof mascara specifically designed for contact lens wearers to minimize the risk of irritation or discomfort.

Water Resistance Testing

When it comes to water resistance testing, manufacturers use various methods to evaluate a product's ability to withstand moisture.

Typically, they apply the mascara to a model lash or human lash, then submerge it in water for a specified period, usually 15 minutes. The level of smudging, running, or flaking that occurs is assessed to determine the product's water resistance.

Some testing methods involve a splash test, where the lashes are subjected to a gentle stream of water to simulate real-life scenarios, such as crying or swimming.

The water resistance of a mascara is often measured by the amount of time it takes for the product to start smudging or running. Higher-quality mascaras typically last longer than 8 hours.

To confirm accurate results, testing is conducted in a controlled environment with standardized conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and light exposure, to minimize external factors that could influence the outcome.

Brush Design and Application

When choosing a waterproof mascara, a well-designed brush is essential, as it can make all the difference in achieving the perfect lash look.

You'll want to look for a brush that's designed to separate your lashes and prevent clumping. Conic-shaped fibers and flexible bristles can help with this.

The shape and size of the brush head also matter – smaller brushes are better for lower lashes, while larger brushes are better for upper lashes.

The material of the brush is also important, as some materials are gentler on your lashes than others. A flexible brush will give you more precise control and reduce the likelihood of clumping.

Finally, consider the number of bristles and their density – more bristles and higher density can result in more voluminous lashes.

Volume and Length Expectations

With a well-designed brush in hand, you're ready to focus on the formula itself, which should deliver on your volume and length expectations.

When choosing a waterproof mascara, look for formulas infused with fibers, such as bamboo extract or keratin, which help to thicken and extend lashes.

A unique brush design, like a conic-shaped or double-curved brush, can also help to volumize and lengthen lashes more effectively.

For a thick, voluminous lash look that lasts all day, opt for formulas with a high concentration of film-forming agents, such as polymers.

If you're after maximum length and volume, consider a mascara with a lightweight, whipped formula that won't weigh lashes down, allowing for a more dramatic look.

Some waterproof mascaras may require multiple coats to achieve the desired level of volume and length, so choose a formula that builds easily without clumping or flaking.

Brand Reputation and Price

A brand's reputation can be a significant factor in choosing a waterproof mascara, as it can indicate the quality and effectiveness of the product. High-end brands may offer more premium ingredients and advanced formulas, but they often come at a higher price point.

On the other hand, drugstore brands can offer affordable options with similar quality to high-end brands, making them a great option for those on a budget.

The price of a waterproof mascara can vary greatly, ranging from under $10 to over $30, depending on the brand, formula, and features.

When considering price, it's vital to weigh the cost against the product's performance, durability, and overall value.

You might find that a mid-range option offers the best balance of quality and affordability.

Ultimately, the key is to set a budget and prioritize your needs to find a waterproof mascara that meets your expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Waterproof Mascara With Eyelash Extensions?

You're wondering if you can use waterproof mascara with eyelash extensions.

The short answer is, it's not recommended.

Waterproof mascara can be difficult to remove, and using it with eyelash extensions can cause damage or even pull them off.

Instead, opt for a gentle, oil-based mascara remover and a regular mascara that's easy to remove.

This will help you avoid damaging your extensions and keep your lashes looking great.

Is It Safe to Wear Waterproof Mascara Every Day?

You're wondering if wearing waterproof mascara daily is like wearing your favorite cozy sweater – comfortable and harmless.

But, you must be cautious. Daily use can lead to lash damage and dryness, just like how over-wearing that sweater can make it lose its softness.

To minimize risks, remove your mascara properly, and give your lashes a break from the waterproof formula occasionally.

How Do I Remove Waterproof Mascara Without Damaging Lashes?

When removing waterproof mascara, you'll want to be gentle to avoid damaging your lashes.

Start by soaking a cotton pad with a gentle eye makeup remover, then hold it over your lashes for a few seconds to loosen the mascara.

Gently wipe from base to tip, repeating as needed. Be patient, as waterproof mascara can be stubborn.

Don't rub or pull, as this can cause lash loss or damage.

Can I Use Waterproof Mascara With Sensitive Eyes?

Imagine yourself as a delicate flower, thriving in a garden of gentle care.

But what if you introduce a strong, bold element – waterproof mascara – into this sensitive ecosystem?

If you have sensitive eyes, it's essential to tread carefully.

You can still use waterproof mascara, but choose a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula and apply it lightly to avoid irritation.

Remove it gently with a cleansing oil to keep your lashes and eyes happy and healthy.

Does Waterproof Mascara Expire After a Certain Period?

You're wondering if your trusty waterproof mascara has an expiration date.

The answer is yes, it does! Typically, waterproof mascara lasts for 3 to 6 months after opening.

After that, the formula can break down, causing clumping, flaking, or even irritation.