Here’s Our Guide To The Best Waterproof Mascaras

Waterproof mascaras might not be recommended for every day use, but that doesn’t mean we don’t all need a tube (or five) on hand at all times. Check out our guide to waterproofing your lashes, plus seven of our favourite waterproof mascaras, to get you through all your sweaty summers, glamorous gym sessions, and repeated viewings of Titanic after a tough break-up.

Dermatologist Dr Dendy Engelman cautions that waterproof mascara has a drying effect on eyelashes. “The ingredients that are used to cause the formula to be waterproof can have the effect of drying out lashes, which can lead to them falling out,” Dr Engelman told Self.com. This doesn’t mean you have to stop wearing your beloved mascaras, but you should practise proper care when wearing waterproof makeup. Makeup.com’s Alanna Martine Kilkeary recommends a conditioning primer to prevent lash damage, while makeup artist Suzy Martin has a tip for regular mascara wearers: “as an alternative, apply one coat of water-resistant mascara to act as a buffer, and top it with a coat of waterproof mascara to help seal the deal.” Don’t forget to take great care when removing your makeup, by using an oil based cleanser or makeup remover to break down the mascara and avoid harsh rubbing. Keep these hacks in mind when trying out our favourite waterproof mascaras, for healthy lashes you can flutter all day long!

1. Covergirl Lash Blast Volume Waterproof Mascara

This ultra cheap waterproof mascara is seriously effective, giving you afforable voluminous lashes that hold up in all situations. Pair with truNaked Waterproof Eyeliner Duo for an even fuller lash line that will last you all summer long.

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2. L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara

For the best waterproof makeup hacks, turn to the professionals. Zoe Hay, makeup artist and head of makeup on tearjerker This Is Us, told The Cut that L’Oreal’s Voluminous Mascara is her fave to use on set. “This is my go-to mascara on the show for all my leading ladies, because we know at some point throughout the day we will inevitably be shooting an emotional scene,” she says.

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3. Maybelline Great Lash Volumizing Waterproof Mascara

The OG mascara that is still going strong 40 years later, Maybelline Great Lash Mascara also comes in a waterproof formula. The infamous green and pink tube is an absolute must-have in your arsenal of waterproof mascaras.

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4. NYX Worth The Hype Waterproof Mascara

This budget-friendly pro makeup brand is loved by beauty bloggers and vloggers the whole world over. Founder Toni Ko realised there was an untapped market in affordable, quality drugstore makeup, and launched NYX cosmetics in an effort to gift the makeup world with department store beauty at drugstore prices. Check out this waterproof mascara and see how she lived up to the hype!

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5. Maybelline Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara

For colossal lashes in a single coat, turn to Maybelline’s Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara. This clump-free formula is another cost effective waterproof mascara that will leave you with flirty lashes all day, for a fraction of the price of falsies!

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6. Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara

Too Faced’s Better Than Sex mascara is the number one selling prestige mascara in America! Both the original and waterproof formulas are available in a miniature size if, like me, you love luscious, dramatic lashes but can never seem to make it through a full sized tube. Try Better Than Sex Waterproof for mind-blowing lashes that last all day long.

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7. Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara

Clinique’s lengthening and volumising waterproof mascara stands up to heat and humidity for lush lashes that will last in all conditions. This formula is totally safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, so you can flutter your lashes all day without fear.

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