What to Look for in the Best Mascaras for Your Makeup Routine

Choosing the right mascara can elevate your makeup look and enhance your lashes with every swipe. Here are key factors to consider when shopping for mascara.

1. Desired Lash Effect

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Decide if you want lengthening, volumizing, curling, or defining effects. Some mascaras specialize in one feature, while others offer multi-benefit formulas for a dramatic or natural finish.

2. Brush Type

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The shape and size of the mascara wand impact application and results. Thick, fluffy brushes add volume, while thin, curved wands help separate and lengthen lashes.

3. Formula Type

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Consider whether you prefer waterproof or washable formulas. Waterproof mascaras resist smudging and are ideal for long wear or humid conditions, while washable formulas are easier to remove.

4. Ingredients and Sensitivity

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If you have sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses, look for hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested mascaras. Conditioning ingredients like vitamin E or panthenol can help nourish lashes during wear.

  1. 1
    High Impact Extreme Volume Mascara
    600 REVIEWS
    Over-the-top brush wraps your lashes in instant, jaw-dropping drama.
  2. 2
    So Stretch Mascara

    Sisley-Paris

    27 REVIEWS
    Instant visible length and definition for the appearance of longer, thicker and more beautiful lashes day after day.
  3. 3
    So Curl Mascara

    Sisley-Paris

    18 REVIEWS
    Instantly coats lashes, creating a visibly curled and thickened lash look.
  4. 4
    So Volume Mascara

    Sisley-Paris

    15 REVIEWS
    Provides volume, curls and defines the lashes, from the root to the tip.
  5. 5
    Glamolash Mascara XXL Black
    6 REVIEWS
    Achieve showstopping volume to the eyelashes with the intense black color concentration in XXL Mascara. 
  6. 6
    Noir Lash Tint

    Surratt

    4 REVIEWS
    Precisely defined, denser-looking lashes that last all day - with just one sweep.
  7. 7
    Double-Ended Mascara Primer
    2 REVIEWS
    Award-winning RevitaLash Cosmetics Volumizing Primer and Volumizing Mascara come together in this convenient, 2-in-1 lash primer and mascara duo designed to prep lashes and enhance volume, creating gorgeous, richly pigmented, luxurious lashes.
  8. 8
    Pointilliste Mascara
    1 REVIEWS
    The sleek, exacting brush of this breakthrough mascara reaches lower lashes and outer corners without leaving a trace behind.
  9. 9
    XXL Mascara Waterproof
    1 REVIEWS
    Lashes are coated and defined without smudging or flaking

What to Look for in the Best Mascaras for Your Makeup Routine

Choosing the right mascara can elevate your makeup look and enhance your lashes with every swipe. Here are key factors to consider when shopping for mascara.

1. Desired Lash Effect

Citrus catapult arrow

Decide if you want lengthening, volumizing, curling, or defining effects. Some mascaras specialize in one feature, while others offer multi-benefit formulas for a dramatic or natural finish.

2. Brush Type

Citrus catapult arrow

The shape and size of the mascara wand impact application and results. Thick, fluffy brushes add volume, while thin, curved wands help separate and lengthen lashes.

3. Formula Type

Citrus catapult arrow

Consider whether you prefer waterproof or washable formulas. Waterproof mascaras resist smudging and are ideal for long wear or humid conditions, while washable formulas are easier to remove.

4. Ingredients and Sensitivity

Citrus catapult arrow

If you have sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses, look for hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested mascaras. Conditioning ingredients like vitamin E or panthenol can help nourish lashes during wear.