I Tested Dozens of Waterproof Mascaras—Here’s What Stood Up to Long Days in the Sun
No matter where I'm traveling, I always pack a waterproof mascara in my makeup bag. Whether I'm headed on a beach vacation where I'll be swimming in the ocean or spending the weekend working up a sweat on hiking trails upstate, I don't want to worry about mascara running down my face.
Over the years, I've learned that simply subbing in the waterproof version of a mascara I love doesn't always mean I'll end up with the same results the original delivers. And on the flip side, as important as it is that the mascara I'm wearing is actually waterproof, I don't want to compromise on achieving the look of long, voluminous lashes.
In order to strike that balance and find the best waterproof mascaras out there, I tested well over a dozen mascaras, ranging from high-end formulas to drugstore classics. I compared staying power, curl, length, volume, clumping, and of course how each formula held up when faced with water. Below, you'll find my picks of the seven best waterproof mascaras that are actually worth a spot in your Dopp kit. Whether you're spending the day surfing, attending a workout class, or expecting to shed a few tears at a destination wedding, these waterproof mascaras have you covered.
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Too Faced Better Than Sex waterproof mascara
I've been a fan of the original Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara for years, but I was skeptical that the waterproof formula would lengthen and curl my lashes just as well. I was pleasantly surprised at the results: The wand's curved bristles allow you to get extra close to your lash line and maximize volume and length. I was impressed at how similarly the mascara worked compared to the original, and am happy to report there was no smudging or streaking after a day swimming and laying out poolside. Plus, this one's available in a travel-friendly size, making it an ideal mascara to keep in your beach bag or backpack.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High waterproof mascara
This Sky High waterproof option from Maybelline has officially kicked my favorite mascara to the curb. After just one coat, it gave my lashes a fuller, curled look. It's easy to build more volume with multiple coats since the formula doesn't make your lashes clump together. This one stayed on after a long beach day and I was never worried about mascara running down my face when I got out of the water. Plus, it's easy to remove with a little bit of eye-makeup remover or micellar water.
Diorshow waterproof mascara
The Diorshow is the ideal waterproof mascara for special events like weddings or parties where you'll be spending all night on the dance floor. This one gives your lash the perfect curl and fullness, giving the effect of false lashes. Even after hours of wear, this one stayed on without smudging or leaving any residue underneath your eyes, making it well worth the higher price point.
Lancôme Monsieur Big waterproof mascara
I had heard plenty of buzz surrounding this mascara—now I see why. The wand's wavy bristles add volume to my lashes while still letting them feel lightweight, as if I'm not wearing any mascara at all. It kept my lashes separated but still looking full, and definitely checks the box of a water-friendly option for lakeside trips or days sailing with friends.
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CoverGirl LashBlast Volume waterproof mascara
Behold my tried and true waterproof mascara. I've been using this CoverGirl formula since middle school and I always come back to it. Not only does it give my lashes plenty of volume without being clumpy, it stays on after hours of sweating through workout classes and never flakes. There will always be one of these iconic orange tubes in my Dopp kit—a task made easy as it's available at almost every drugstore.
L'Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise waterproof mascara
Lash Paradise from L'Oréal is popular for a reason. It's affordable, lengthening, and actually works. If you'll be shedding a few tears at a beach wedding and need to look put together all night long, this one won't let you down. The wavy bristles allow you to get plenty of volume in just a few coats and the mascara will stay put for hours without flaking or running.
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Clinique High Impact waterproof mascara
If you have sensitive skin or eyes, this waterproof formula's for you. Since the products are made with sensitive skin in mind, I've been using Clinique products for years and the High Impact waterproof mascara certainly doesn't disappoint. It's ophthalmologist tested and safe for contact lens wearers like myself who may be easily irritated by products around their eyes. This one didn't smudge even after hours spent sweating and swimming in the summer heat. And at the end of the night, it can be easily removed, so there's no need to rub harshly around the eyes—a common cause of irritation.
