The 15 Best Mascaras for 2023, According to Experts and Real Users

Mascara is an incredibly personal beauty product, as numerous factors come into play when searching for the perfect one. Unlike eyeshadow, where you can test the color payoff and blend with a mini applicator, mascara selection involves considerations like your lash type, desired look, formulation, and more. Given the overwhelming variety of best mascaras on the market, finding the ideal option can be quite a challenge.

To assist in this quest, we conducted thorough research and scoured the market to identify the most popular and highly regarded mascaras. Our team tested over 15 best mascaras, assessing them for ease of application, wear duration, performance, overall appearance, and ease of removal. Each mascara received an expert evaluation in each category, and those that received the highest ratings, impressing us the most, have earned a place on this list.

All you have to do is keep reading since we rounded up the top tubes out there (several of them do much more than simply extend) (many of which do even more than just lengthen).

The Best Mascaras For Your Eyelashes

In your quest to find the perfect mascara, whether your goal is to achieve volume, definition, or length for your lashes, we’ve enlisted the expertise of makeup professionals who are sharing their top picks. Additionally, our Salon Quick Fix editors have thoroughly tested and reviewed a variety of options to provide you with even more choices.

1. Maybelline New York Sky High Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4.6 out of 5 stars

Maybelline’s Sky High Mascara is truly an exceptional product that goes above and beyond expectations. It utilizes the power of tiny bamboo fibers to deliver remarkable length and volume, even to the most delicate and sparse lashes. The mascara’s slender and flexible brush, featuring a tapered tip, streamlines the application process, ensuring it’s both swift and mess-free.

Each time I use this mascara, I am genuinely astounded by the incredible transformation it brings to my lashes with minimal effort. Notably, it’s worth mentioning that this mascara can be effortlessly removed with just warm water, adding to its allure.

Let’s explore the benefits it offers:

• Volumizes: It enhances the thickness and fullness of your lashes.
• Lengthens: This mascara significantly elongates your lashes, giving them an eye-catching appearance.
• Defines: It provides precise definitions, ensuring each lash stands out.
• Curls: Maybelline’s Sky High Mascara also imparts a lovely curl to your lashes, further enhancing their appeal.

Moreover, you have a choice of three shades to suit your preferences: blackest black, cosmic black, and very black.

In a recent review, one tester raved about the mascara’s performance, stating, “The brush is perfect for separating your lashes and preventing clumps.” Additionally, they praised its longevity, noting that it remains smudge-free until you decide to wash it off. It’s safe to say that Maybelline’s Sky High Mascara has earned its place as a beauty favorite for many.

2. Milk Makeup Kush High Volumizing Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Let’s have a look at the benefits and downsides to get a full picture:

Trusted Customer’s Review: “I was pleasantly surprised by this mascara. Typically, I’m cautious with large mascara brushes, as they can often deposit an excessive amount of product. However, this one proved to be different. It applies the perfect amount of mascara with each stroke. The formula feels incredibly smooth and allows for layering, instantly elongating and defining my lashes. What truly stood out was the natural-looking result it achieved, surpassing my expectations. As I mentioned, I truly loved it.” — Katy

“I’m usually not one for volumizing best mascaras, but this one left me in awe. It provided a significant boost in volume without any clumps, creating a lush lash effect that’s hard to resist.” — Elena

3. Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara is an impressive 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and Cons:

Here are our collective thoughts on this mascara:

Trusted Customer’s Review:

Daisy — “I typically have a preference for best mascaras with rubber brushes, so I was initially skeptical about this mascara. Bushier brushes like this often struggle to catch and coat even the tiniest lashes, which is a priority for me. So, imagine my delightful surprise when I discovered that this new refillable version of Dior’s Iconic Overcurl might be the exception to the rule. With just one or two quick coats, you can achieve the fluffiest, curliest lashes you’ve ever dreamed of. Unlike other curling best mascaras we tested, this one doesn’t lose its curl over time.”

Annie — “No, truly, you have no idea how obsessed I am.” My lashes appeared fluffy, full, and incredibly long. There’s nothing more to say; it’s that good.”

3. Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Perfect Strokes Universal Volumizing Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4.1 out of 5 stars

If you’ve grown weary of the best mascaras that leave your lashes feeling rigid and straw-like, then you should definitely give this volumizing and thickening formula from Rare Beauty a try. What sets it apart is the infusion of castor oil, which ensures that your lashes retain their natural flexibility and softness, preventing that uncomfortable stiff feeling, especially after multiple coats.

Here are the key benefits of this mascara:

• Volumizes: It significantly enhances the thickness and fullness of your lashes, creating a striking effect.
• Curls: This mascara not only adds volume but also imparts a lovely curl to your lashes, enhancing their overall appearance.
• Lengthens: It contributes to achieving impressive lash length.

It’s important to note that this mascara is available in one shade, which is black.

Now, let’s hear what one of our testers had to say about it:

“I have to say, this mascara is truly amazing—it excels in every way.” It delivers substantial thickness and volume to your lashes while also beautifully holding a curl. It’s a game-changer.”

In summary, Rare Beauty’s volumizing and thickening mascara with castor oil infusion addresses the common issue of stiff and uncomfortable lashes, leaving them feeling soft and natural. It offers a trio of benefits, including volumizing, curling, and lengthening, and has received high praise from testers for its impressive performance. If you’re seeking a mascara that combines these qualities, this product may be a fantastic addition to your beauty routine.

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4. Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4.5 out of 5 stars

Are you blessed with naturally long or curly lashes? If so, congratulations on hitting the lash jackpot! However, even if you’ve been fortunate in the lash department, you can still benefit from a dense mascara brush like the one featured in this cult-favorite Lancôme product. This mascara wand is equipped with tightly packed bristles, which work wonders by layering on rich pigments while simultaneously separating your lashes. The end result? An alluring, ultra-fluttery effect that accentuates your lashes to perfection.

Let’s take a closer look at the benefits and options this mascara offers:

• Benefits: It excels in both volumizing and lengthening your lashes, ensuring a striking and eye-catching appearance.
• Shades: This mascara is available in one shade, which is black.

Now, let’s hear what users have to say about it:

“I absolutely adore this mascara—it not only enhances the allure of my eyes but also imparts a strikingly long and thick appearance to my lashes,” exclaims one enthusiastic reviewer. Another user shares, “I’ve received numerous compliments, even from strangers, who’ve asked if I’m wearing false eyelashes when I use this mascara.”

In summary, this mascara is favored for its oversized brush that prevents clumping and its ability to create a fluttery lash effect, especially ideal for those with naturally long or curly lashes. Its dual benefits of volumizing and lengthening are further accentuated by its cult-favorite status, making it a standout choice for enhancing your eye makeup routine.

5. Grande Cosmetics GrandeMASCARA Conditioning Peptide Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4 out of 5 stars

The Grande Lash Mascara is made from natural waxes, both hard & soft, to give a perfect texture to keep eyelashes in shape. Other ingredients include Peptides and vitamin B5, etc., which make this Mascara great in terms of performance. In addition, this Mascara is waterproof and clump-free.

So you don’t need to worry about your eyes, just put on this Mascara, and you will have your beautiful eyes with a bold black color on eyelashes. In addition, the smudge-free Mascara will enhance the shape of the eyelashes.

Another good quality of the Lash Mascara is the accurately made applicator. The applicator is made from soft & stiff bristles to apply Mascara perfectly.

According to the company, 94% of customers saw Healthier-looking lashes, 94% saw Clump-free lashes, and 100% improved lashes length & results.

How to Apply?

Pull out the applicator from the bottle, and sweep the brush from the lash base to the lash tips in an upward motion. You can apply multiple coats for better volume & a bold look.

Final Verdict – We used the Mascara and found it pretty much working. It worked for a long time & it was good when it came in contact with water. However, the quality of the applicator was somewhat cheap, and yes, it will create a problem. But, overall, you can go for this product.

6. Nars Climax Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4.5 out of 5 stars

If you’re seeking super voluminous lashes minus the clumps, look no further than the Nars Climax Mascara. This mascara boasts a full, dense brush designed to deposit a generous amount of pigment, resulting in remarkable volume. What sets it apart is the tightly packed bristles, which effectively comb out any potential clumps before they can form. Moreover, the formulation is intentionally creamy, which serves the dual purpose of preventing smudges and clumps when layering. It’s almost like magic!

Here’s a breakdown of the key benefits and options provided by this mascara:

• Benefits: The primary benefit is volumizing, allowing you to achieve lush and voluminous lashes.
• Shades: This mascara is available in one shade, which is black.

Let’s hear from a satisfied user:

“The two qualities I prioritize in a mascara are its ability to lengthen and thicken my lashes and its resistance to smudging throughout the day,” reads one review. “This mascara excels in both aspects, living up to its claims of being smudge-proof and clump-proof.”

In summary, the Nars Climax Mascara is lauded for its ability to create long and fluttery lashes while preventing smudging. Although achieving a dramatic lash effect may require a few coats, its innovative design and creamy formula make it a top choice for those who desire both volume and reliability in their mascara.

7. Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars

Let’s talk about this mascara; it’s likely the only Chanel item that won’t break the bank, and that’s something to celebrate. The mascara wand is generously sized and boasts densely packed bristles, allowing you to effortlessly work the formula into your lashes, achieving a volumized finish that rivals the look of falsies. Yes, it comes with a higher price tag, but the quality justifies the investment. In fact, I’d personally consider purchasing this mascara even if I weren’t a beauty editor.

Here’s a breakdown of the benefits and shades provided by this mascara:

• Benefits: It excels in lengthening, curling, and volumizing your lashes, delivering a well-rounded enhancement to your eye makeup.
• Shades: You have two color options to choose from: black and blue.

Now, let’s hear the enthusiastic words of a satisfied user:

“All I can say is that this is the BEST mascara I’ve ever used!” exclaims one reviewer. “It’s flawless in every way and consistently provides me with long, beautiful lashes. Don’t hesitate to buy it!”

In summary, this Chanel mascara stands out for its dense brush head that simplifies application and its ability to deliver exceptional length, curl, and volume. While it may be the priciest option on the list, its impressive performance and luxurious feel make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking top-tier mascara results.

8. L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 5.0 out of 5.0 stars

Now, let’s delve into the world of this mascara that has taken TikTok by storm and become a viral sensation in the beauty community. Regardless of whether you believe Mikayla wore false eyelashes on TikTok while raving about the incredible lengthening effects of this mascara, I’m here to confirm that this product genuinely lives up to the hype. There’s simply no other mascara that quite matches its ability to separate, hold, and lengthen my lashes.

The secret weapon of this mascara is its ultra-skinny and flexible rubber wand. This design allows the wand to bend and move effortlessly in any direction necessary, particularly when reaching the base of your lashes.

Here’s a concise summary of the benefits and shade options offered by this mascara:

• Benefits: Its standout feature is its impressive lengthening ability, making it the go-to choice for enhancing lash length.

• Shades: You have three color options to choose from blackest black, black, and black brown.

Now, let’s hear from a satisfied user:

“My natural lashes are extremely straight, and I’ve struggled to find a mascara that can keep them curled. This mascara has been a complete game-changer for me!” exclaims one reviewer. “I will undoubtedly repurchase it as soon as I run out.”

In conclusion, this TikTok-famous mascara has gained renown for its remarkable ability to provide length and lift, even for the shortest and stubbiest lashes. While there have been reports of smudging by the end of the day, its overall performance and curl-holding capabilities have earned it a dedicated following. With three available shades, it’s a top choice for those seeking extended lash length and separation.

9. Ilia Limitless Lash Lengthening Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4.8 out of 5.0 stars

If you’re in search of a mascara that excels in lifting, lengthening, holding a curl, and separating your lashes, then look no further. The mascara’s dual-sided wand boasts staggered bristles on one end, allowing you to generously coat your lashes, while the other end features long, comb-like teeth to easily brush out any clumps while defining each individual lash. Additionally, the formula, like all Ilia products, is clean, eco-friendly, cruelty-free, and free from potentially questionable ingredients.

• Benefits: Lifting, lengthening, curling, and separating.
• Available Shade: One (black)

THE REVIEW: One tester enthusiastically exclaims, “This is my holy grail mascara!” They praise its incredible volume and length, with no concerns about clumping or flaking.

10. Grande Cosmetics GrandeDRAMA Intense Thickening Mascara 

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4.3 out of 5.0 stars

The Grande Drama Mascara can be called a better product than Lash Mascara & that’s due to its formula, ingredients & obviously, its performance. The Mascara contains castor oil, and natural waxes, which provide the eyelashes, a bold, shiny look.

Moreover, the Grande Drama Mascara is Vegan & is an animal cruelty-free product. The best thing about this Mascara is the castor oil in it. The castor oil provides nourishment to eyelashes and also provides shine & boldness in its color.

Now with this Mascara, you can definitely treat your thin, wimpy eyelashes, and it will not disappoint you & will make your eyelashes more bold & shiny.

The company claims that 91% of customers find it flake-less, 91% find it providing intense effect, 94% see thicker lashes & 97% see improved eyelash volume. Overall, this Grande Drama Mascara is impressive in terms of performance.

How to Apply?

Pull out the applicator from the bottle, and sweep the brush from the lash base to the lash tips in an upward motion. You can apply multiple coats for better volume & a bold look.

Final Verdict – Overall, this Mascara from Grande is really impressive in terms of performance & also holds onto the eyelashes for a long time. The waterproof quality is also real and does not come off even after washing the face. According to us, this Mascara is better than the Mascara of other companies, available in this range.

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11. Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4.2 out of 5.0 stars

If you struggle with sparse lashes, look no further than this beloved formula. Its hourglass-shaped wand expertly separates and curls each lash, providing even the sparsest lashes with added volume and length. The end result? A striking and wide-eyed finish. What’s more, the waterproof formula ensures long-lasting wear throughout the day, yet it remains gentle and easy to remove. In other words, you won’t find yourself vigorously scrubbing your lashes with soap come evening.

• Benefits: Provides volume and definition.
• Available Shade: One (black)

THE REVIEW: A reviewer who wears contact lenses and deals with allergies and runny eyes exclaims, “If you’re like me, you know that most mascaras don’t stay in place, but this one really does. It’s completely waterproof!”

12. Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4.1 out of 5.0 stars

FYI: Tubing best mascaras use tube-like polymers to envelop each lash, providing extra thickness and length while maintaining a natural appearance. It may sound unusual, but trust me, it works exceptionally well and holds up better than traditional best mascaras. Simply glide the wand through your curled lashes, but be sure to work swiftly as it dries rapidly to prevent any flaking.

• Benefits: Adds volume, lengthens, and curls.
• Available Shade: One (black)

THE REVIEW: “I made this purchase on a whim after watching some videos on Instagram and YouTube, but I can confidently say that I have no regrets,” shares one tester, further stating, “It delivers on all its promises—lengthening, volumizing, separating, and defining my lashes without any flaking.”

13. Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Full Frontal Volume, Lift & Curl Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4.4 out of 5.0 stars

This mascara features a wand applicator with one flat side (for curling your lashes) and another fluffy side (for adding volume), offering you the versatility to achieve multiple lash looks with a single product. If you’ve experienced skepticism about mascara due to past disappointments with promises of thick and elongated eyelashes, this formula could be the one to help you regain your confidence.

• Benefits: Enhances curl and adds volume.
• Available Shade: One (black)

THE REVIEW: “I was contemplating getting lash extensions, and then I discovered this!” notes one reviewer. “It’s amazing and adds length and separation, so I can once again enjoy long, lush eyelashes.”

14. Wander Beauty Mile High Volume Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4.3 out of 5.0 stars

Although a squeeze-tube mascara might seem unconventional, it’s actually fantastic for ensuring you get every last drop of formula, especially when you’re nearing the end of the tube. Just give the tube a gentle squeeze and knead it to fully saturate the wand with mascara before each application. This method will leave you with consistently long and well-defined lashes, reminiscent of when you first opened the mascara.

• Benefits: Adds volume and length.
• Available Shade: One (black)

THE REVIEW: “This mascara!!!” exclaims one reviewer. “It’s the only mascara I’ve ever used that doesn’t flake, smudge, or smear, and it’s not even labeled as waterproof! Plus, it’s not a hassle to remove! I absolutely love this!!”

15. Mented Cosmetics Long Live The Lash Mascara

Our collective rating for this mascara stands at an impressive 4.3 out of 5.0 stars

If you dread the idea of flaky and clumpy mascara, then you absolutely must give this creamy formula from Mented Cosmetics a try. Not only does it provide significant lift and definition to your lashes, but it also glides on smoothly and maintains its flexibility without flaking for hours. All credit goes to its moisturizing formula, which includes almond oil and plant-based waxes.

• Benefits: Hydrates, lengthens, separates.
• Available Shade: One (black)

THE REVIEW: “This mascara applied smoothly and gave my lashes a darker, longer, and more separated look,” shares one reviewer. “It didn’t cause any irritation or make my eyes watery either.”

Expert Tips to choose the best mascara

Finding the perfect mascara can be a bit of a journey, especially for those of us who rarely find one we truly like. In this guide, we’ll help you navigate the world of best mascaras with tips from makeup artists. By following these steps, you’ll be able to narrow down your choices and find the mascara that’s just right for you. Here’s what to consider when evaluating a mascara before making your purchase:

Choose the Formula Type

First, decide whether you’re looking for a mascara that provides volume, thickness, curl, or length. While some mascaras offer a combination of these benefits, most can be categorized into one of these groups. According to expert, the primary difference between these formulas lies in their pigment and wax content. However, the crucial factor influencing the final result on your lashes is the brush. This leads us to the next essential step:

Evaluate the Brush Size and Shape

Sometimes, a mascara formula can be excellent, but an ineffective brush can prevent you from achieving your desired look. Experts emphasize that the wand applicator plays a significant role in determining whether your lashes appear lengthened, curled, or voluminous. Mascara brushes come in a variety of sizes, shapes, bristle lengths, and materials, and each design is geared toward achieving different results.

Consider Wearability 

The type of formula you choose will dictate how long your mascara lasts and how well it holds up throughout the day. If you anticipate activities that involve sweating, swimming, or shedding tears, waterproof mascara is your best bet. These formulas are long-lasting and resistant to smudging, but they can be challenging to remove. If you’re seeking a mascara that offers smudge-proof or budge-proof performance without the staying power of a waterproof formula, consider a tubing mascara. Tubing best mascaras coats your lashes in polymers and can be easily removed with water and gentle friction. 

Lastly, there’s regular mascara, which is the most prone to flaking, running, and smearing. However, they are also comfortable to wear, flexible on your lashes, and easy to remove, making them a versatile choice with both pros and cons.

Determine Your Ideal Color

While black mascara is a timeless choice, it’s not the only option available. Don’t miss the chance to enhance your eye makeup by trying colored mascara. Our experts recommend experimenting with shades like midnight blue or deep plum when creating a smokey eye to elevate your look and make your eyes stand out. Opting for brown instead of the deepest black will give your eyes a softer, less dramatic appearance, ideal for low-key days.

Read More About What Kind of Eyelash Extension Chair a Salon Owner Should Have.

Keep your mascara clean, but how?

While there are rare exceptions, most mascara has a three-month shelf life. Check the expiration date on your mascara’s container to be sure! Using expired mascara puts you at risk of bacterial eye infections.

Also, Another hygienic practice is not sharing mascara. Giving your mascara to your closest friend or mother may seem harmless, but it is not.

In fact, too much eye makeup can cause serious eye infections if not properly cleaned.

Basically, replenish your mascara as required, and don’t share it with others.

Moreover, Invest in a washable mascara brush and apply mascara with that (and wash it after every use). This is a hassle for the average cosmetics user (who uses a bottle of mascara every three months!) but is perfect for cosmetic artists who wish to utilize one tube on several customers.

Things to consider before buying mascara

Keep an eye out for phrases like ‘lengthening’ on the label.

• Make use of the best mascaras that contain fibers that extend the lashes.
• Choose a lengthening mascara that comes with a primer to save time and effort.
• Keep the best mascaras free of parabens, sulfates, and other harsh chemicals on your face.
• Make sure you choose a mascara that is waterproof and smudge-proof.

Bottom line 

False lashes and lash extensions undoubtedly offer a striking and glamorous look. However, it’s important to recognize that they may not be the ideal choice for everyone. These options can be high-maintenance, costly, and require regular upkeep. Moreover, some individuals may find them uncomfortable or experience allergic reactions to the adhesives used.

This is where lengthening best mascaras come into play as versatile and convenient alternatives. These best mascaras are true multitaskers, capable of providing numerous benefits to your lashes.

FAQs

How do I choose the right mascara for my eyelashes?

To choose the right mascara, consider factors like your desired look (lengthening, volumizing, or curling), your lash type (straight, short, sparse, etc.), and any sensitivity or allergies you may have. Waterproof mascaras are great for longevity, while non-waterproof formulas are easier to remove.

Can you recommend a mascara for sensitive eyes?

If you have sensitive eyes, look for mascaras labeled as hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested. Clinique Lash Power Mascara and Almay Thickening Mascara are good options for sensitive eyes.

What’s the best mascara for adding volume to my lashes?

For adding volume, consider mascaras like Too Faced Better Than Sex, Lancôme Monsieur Big, or Dior Diorshow Mascara. These are known for their volumizing effects.