Best Waterproof Mascara: Top 5 Products According To Beauty Experts

There’s a reason why people say that the eyes are the windows to the soul. But for those who are unfamiliar with this quote, this phrase suggests that you can perceive a person’s emotions and perhaps even their thoughts through their eyes. Whether it is feeling a spark when locking eyes with a potential romantic partner across a crowded room, or attempting to discern whether a smile is real or fake by analyzing their eyes, peering into a person’s eyes can tell us a lot. Therefore, it is natural that many of us consider the eyes the most important facial feature and why women choose various methods to enhance them. Something to consider, though, is to find a product that prevents smudging and running so your beautiful makeup look lasts all day. That being said, some of the best waterproof mascaras ensure your eye makeup is locked in and stays looking “eye-catching”. 

Speaking of the importance of our lovely lashes, in a recent survey, a stunning 71 percent believe that their eyelashes are crucial to their overall look, with a third of women opting to highlight their eyes, eyelashes, or eyebrows when wearing makeup. When it comes to enhancing one’s natural beauty, having the perfect mascara is on top of the list. 

Mascara has become an essential part of many women’s makeup routine. The best mascara enhances the eyes by darkening the eyelashes while adding length and volume to them as well. “The top ten make-up products, which include the perfect nude lipstick, a long-lasting foundation and a trusted lash-lengthening mascara, were the most searched for products worldwide,” reports Harpers Bazaar

When it comes to finding the right product for you, some key qualities to look for include easy application, a formula that does not clump, prevents your lashes from sticking together, and most of all, is waterproof. A waterproof formula will ensure that your lashes last all day, does not smear, smudge, or budge, and is resilient against tears, sweat, and water. Continue reading to find some of the best waterproof mascaras on the market today!

woman with blue eyes wearing mascara
Woman wearing mascara (Photo by TOMMY VAN KESSEL on Unsplash)

The List: Best Waterproof Mascara, Per Makeup Pros

 

1. COVERGIRL Clump Crusher Waterproof Mascara

Covergirl has become a household name when it comes to affordable drugstore makeup products, and they certainly do not disappoint with their Clump Crusher. Both Byrdie and People have the Covergirl Clump Crusher rated as their best overall waterproof mascara. 

COVERGIRL Clump Crusher Waterproof Mascara
COVERGIRL Clump Crusher Waterproof Mascara

“Covergirl is known for some iconic mascaras, and if you ask us, this should be one of them,” raves Byrdie, while People gushes, “We gave it a perfect five out of five in every category, noting that the curved brush deposited the perfect amount of product, that it didn’t smudge at all when we ‘cried’ (a.k.a. placed saline drops in our eyes), and that it made our lashes look both fuller and longer.” Both publications rated the mascara a five out of five in all three of the following categories: ease of use, wear, and performance. 

According to InStyle, “This cult-favorite drugstore mascara is our number-one pick for a few reasons: In addition to being very easy to use thanks to the scooped brush that olds just enough mascara, the product lives up to its claims — ensuring voluminous, separated lashes with every stroke.”

The Clump Crusher features a curved brush, made up of fine bristles, that help coat each lash evenly, and as its name suggests, does not clump. With four different shades to choose from, and an affordable price, it is easy to see why this waterproof mascara has become a fan favorite

2. MAC In Extreme Dimension Waterproof Mascara

For those who are newer to the makeup game, and have a bit of trouble when applying mascara, this may be the one for you. The applicator has short bristles, which can help prevent a messy application, and the curved handle can help the user keep a steady hand. Plus, thanks to the mascara’s unique formula, it is easily buildable and has a strong hold. “It enhances volume, length, and curl and creates a super-bold lash. Because it is waterproof it also does not move at all,” reports CNN

MAC In Extreme Dimension Waterproof Mascara
MAC In Extreme Dimension Waterproof Mascara

 

Cosmopolitan writes, “This long-wear mascara will give you the ultra-voluminous lashes of your ~dreams~, thanks to its 3D brush, which is completely covered in microfiber bristles (even on the tip). The result? A wand that can coat all your lashes — even the baby ones — in rich, volumizing, sky-high pigments.”

“Flake-proof, waterproof, and smudge-proof, this is perfect for giving your lashes the appearance of being longer and fuller. It’s also formulated without fragrance, oil, or coal tar, which makes it gentler on the environment than many products,” writes Travel + Leisure.

3. Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara

If you are looking for a sort of “set it and forget it” kind of mascara, this could be it! The Monsieur Big is known to be incredibly long-lasting, so there is no need for reapplication throughout the day. “It’s totally waterproof and stays put for up to 24 hours,” writes InStyle.

Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara
Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara

Additionally, this mascara gave plenty of volume and definition but still felt lightweight. “This waterproof mascara will give your lashes more drama than Jordyn Woods on an average day. The fat brush is made up of densely packed bristles that deliver an opaque—but never clumpy—layer of mascara with each swipe. The creamy formula is also full of lightweight waxes that give your lashes buildable volume and length,” describes Cosmopolitan.

According to Travel + Leisure, “If you want a waterproof mascara that doesn’t take forever in front of the mirror to remove, this is the choice for you. After a long day at the water park or a chill day in the mountains, being able to take off your makeup and relax is essential. Formulated without parabens, sulfates, or phthalates, Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara is a tried-and-true option for buildable lashes.”

“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,” writes Conde Nast Traveler.

This Lancôme mascara is also smudge-proof and sweat-proof, so if you’re constantly on the go, you can easily go from work to a night out, or even the gym without having to worry if your mascara is going to stay in place. 

4. Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Mascara

Waterproof mascara is great for hot weather and humidity but what if you live in a colder climate? Well, Travel + Leisure has rated the Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Mascara to be best for winter: “Waterproof and smudge-proof, the beloved brand’s formula is perfect for keeping your lashes tidy against rain, sleet, snow, or the brutal winter air. Essential vitamins also help keep your lashes moisturized and soft. This mascara is ideal for all of your winter activities. From skiing and ice-skating to even taking a dip in a hot tub, your lashes will remain fabulous.”

Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Mascara
Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Mascara

When it comes to Chanel, you know you are getting luxury. Not only does this mascara have a formula that is budge-free and long-wear that helps you maintain your beautiful lashes throughout the day, but it is also mindful of the health of your lashes as well. This mascara is formulated with antioxidant vitamins B5 and E to help condition your lashes during wear.  

CNN shared, “Chanel’s volumizing mascara fans out lashes and makes them appear thicker,” while Allure writes, “Chanel for less than $50? We’ll gladly stock up on the luxury label’s Le Volume de Chanel Waterproof Mascara, a luxurious formula that’s worth every penny.”

5. Byredo Tears in Rain Waterproof Mascara 

The Hollywood Reporter has the Byredo Tears in Rain listed as their best vegan waterproof mascara: “If you’re looking for a new vegan option, Byredo’s waterproof Tears in Rain mascara (which is made with 89 percent natural ingredients) delivers buildable coverage ranging from natural to full volume lashes.”

Byredo Tears in Rain Waterproof Mascara 
Byredo Tears in Rain Waterproof Mascara (byredo.com)

This vegan mascara features a short brush that can easily target each individual lash. And with a buildable formula, you can use this versatile mascara for any occasion, whether it calls for a natural look or a glamorous one. This mascara is great for humidity as well. “This formula is spiked with emollient rice bran wax for a soft, fluttery look. But no matter how humid the weather gets, your lashes aren’t budging,” shares Allure

And for those who love nice packaging, you’ll come to appreciate the Byredo. “Coming in sleek and stylish packaging, this mascara is the perfect waterproof accessory to add to your toiletry bag,” states Travel + Leisure.

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Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.