A no-makeup look simply isn’t finished without a hint of mascara, which is why for many individuals, it’s an essential beauty product. Whether you lean towards a bold false-lash effect or a gentle hint of color, this lash-enhancing product is truly a game-changer in any makeup routine, instantly adding both length and color to your lashes.
With countless mascaras available, how do you choose the one that suits you best? The HELLO! Shopping Teamhas sampled and reviewed some of the most highly-rated options to identify the best mascara for every preference, whether you’re looking for value, volumizing, lengthening, and more.
What types of mascara are available?
To find the ideal mascara, start by identifying your main focus. If your lashes are shorter, you might want a lengthening mascara, while volumizing options can help your eyes stand out. Waterproof mascaras are popular for all-day wear, and tubing mascaras, which create a tube around each lash for lift and ease of removal, have also gained popularity.
Which mascara color should I consider?
Black mascara remains the top choice, especially with the rise of the ‘clean girl’ aesthetic trend prompting interest in brown mascara for a more subtle finish, particularly for those with lighter features. Bright colors like blue and white mascara also offer an eye-catching option for a standout look.
My selection criteria
Personal experience: All the mascaras listed have been personally tested by myself or others on the HELLO! Shopping Team, and only those that we genuinely adore made the cut.
Diversity: Whether you need a waterproof option or a lengthening mascara for a false-lash look, each product focuses on a specific feature, catering to various needs.
Affordability: Exceptional beauty products don’t have to be expensive, which is why I’ve included mascaras at various price points, from budget-friendly to high-end.
“The Lancôme mascara is my personal favorite. I often struggle with black smudges around my eyes by the day’s end, and this is the first one that stays put. The wand’s curvature took some getting used to, but the results are fantastic. It provides great length without clumping. I’ve also tried the waterproof version, which truly stays intact.” Sophie Bates, Commerce Writer
The Lancôme Lash Idôle mascara features a uniquely curved wand with 250 varying bristle sizes and 360 micro-bristles to create a voluminous effect. The gel emulsion formula minimizes clumping for a fanned-out finish that lasts up to 24 hours.
“This Maybelline mascara matches the luxury favorites I’ve tried. Right now, it’s the only mascara in my collection. It doesn’t irritate my sensitive eyes, applies smoothly, and feels like it’s nourishing my lashes while providing amazing volume and length. I also recommend the waterproof version – it withstands summer days and beach holidays without a smudge.” Karen Silas, Senior Lifestyle Editor
Maybelline’s Lash Sensational mascara has become a cult favorite, even earning endorsements from celebrities like Meghan Markle. The curved silicone brush comes with six different-sized bristles to maximize volume, creating a fan-like effect without smudging. The low wax formula ensures intense color without clumping the lashes together.
“Sometimes, you just need a deep black mascara, and this one enhances the darkness of my lashes while giving them a fanned-out appearance. The hourglass-shaped wand provides a unique application, making my lashes look fuller and longer. It’s become my go-to.” Leanne Bayley, Director of Lifestyle & Commerce
Described as a 5-in-1 mascara, Rabanne’s product offers deep black color, high volume, natural definition, length, and curl. This versatile black mascara is designed to enhance all lash lengths, making them appear longer and fuller while being waterproof, smudge-resistant, and easily removable.
“The L’Oreal Telescopic mascara is my go-to for achieving long, natural-looking lashes. The flexible wand extends the lashes without being overly dramatic, allowing me to apply several coats without clumping. Its thin brush enables precise application every time.” Sophie Bates, Commerce Writer
Designed for precision, L’Oreal’s Telescopic mascara features a flat multi-comb with delicate bristles to distribute the formula from root to tip. The buildable formula achieves an extended look without clumping, and it’s a favorite among celebrities like Zara Tindall for its lengthening effects.
“I’ve tried numerous Benefit mascaras, but this one stands out as my favorite. Its thin wand provides exceptional control, and I genuinely feel like I’m wearing false lashes after curling my lashes and applying this mascara. It’s perfect for vacations as it withstands water and can be layered for added drama at night.” Sophie Bates, Commerce Writer
Benefit’s BADgal mascara contains lightweight aero-particles that create the illusion of longer, fuller lashes. Its waterproof formula remains intact without smudging throughout the day, while the slimpact brush ensures each lash is separated for a defined and voluminous look.
“Pat McGrath is a beauty icon for a reason, and her line, Pat McGrath Labs, is phenomenal. However, one product I continuously reach for is the Dark Star Mascara. If you adore dramatic lashes with a clump-free finish, you’ll appreciate this wand. The volumizing formula adheres to each lash, delivering stunning results. I reserve this mascara exclusively for nights out and special occasions because it’s too impressive for everyday wear.” Leanne Bayley, Director of Lifestyle & Commerce
Developed with one of the leading makeup artists globally, it’s no surprise that the Pat McGrath Labs Dark Star Mascara is highly rated. This rich black formula effortlessly lifts and volumizes lashes while providing a weightless coat that lasts all day.
“Chanel’s mascara is the one I consistently receive compliments about; people often ask if I’m wearing false lashes. It excels at both lengthening and volumizing, and I adore the ‘ultra-noir’ shade for a deep black effect. The full brush effectively catches every lash, and I can build up the drama with additional coats. It rarely flakes, except in cases of rubbing my eyes, and it lasts remarkably long; sometimes it stays put even after I’ve attempted to remove it (a dedicated eye makeup remover is necessary for effective removal). Other mascaras simply don’t compare!” Carla Challis, Commerce Partnerships Editor
The Le Volume De Chanel mascara features a unique brush created exclusively for the brand, utilizing stacked disks to sculpt volume complemented by a fast-drying fluid formula. Its dramatic effect makes it a versatile option suitable for both daytime and nighttime use, and it is also available in a brown shade for a natural finish.
“I never imagined I’d prefer natural-looking lashes, but here we are. These days, my go-to mascara is Merit’s Clean Lash. This tubing mascara is ideal for daily wear as it provides length, lift, and color without any clumps or smudges. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to remove at the end of the day. Special mention goes to Benefit’s They’re Real for when I want a more dramatic effect.” Hollie Brotherton, Lifestyle & Commerce Senior Writer
Tubing mascara has gained popularity recently. This formula consists of polymers that wrap around each lash individually rather than layering on top. Merit’s tubing mascara enhances lashes’ length and separation while minimizing smudging and is easy to remove, while also being infused with vitamin B5 for added shine.
“Throughout the years, I’ve experimented with countless mascaras, but I always return to Benefit’s They’re Real Lengthening Mascara. I shy away from the fake lash look but still desire a boost for my lashes – this mascara delivers on both accounts. It lengthens without looking overdone, and the formula is not overly pigmented, allowing for a natural finish. The brush is fantastic; it never leaves clumps. I own it in both black for dramatic occasions and brown for daily wear.” Katherine Robinson, Senior Lifestyle Editor
Benefit’s renowned They’re Real mascara features a unique domed-tip brush that effectively coats each lash with black pigments through its staggered bristles. It is designed to minimize smudging and enhance wear, delivering full, fluttery lashes that last.