10 Best Mascaras 2024 in the US

When it comes to eye makeup, mascara is a must-have.  However, there are so many beauty products on the market today and that can make shopping for makeup very stressful. It is important to be familiar with all the different types of mascara options in order to buy a product that will suit you best and make you feel even better.

• Waterproof vs. Regular

  • Waterproof mascara will stay on regardless of the type of water you come in contact with—rain, tears, chlorine, you name it. This stuff is staying put. It oftentimes will not come off with makeup remover, unless the remover is specifically designed for this. Waterproof mascara is good for outdoor activities or emotional events, such as a wedding. The formula that makes up waterproof mascara means a longer drying time once on the lashes.

  • Regular mascara, meanwhile, dries quickly and washes off very easily with water and makeup remover. However, it wears away faster than waterproof mascara. Regular mascara is available in more variations as well.

• Colors

  • Black. This is the most common color and looks great on most skin tones. Black mascara also goes with any other makeup that you choose to put on, such as eyeliner and eye shadow.

  • Brown. Brown mascara is best for women with very light complexions, as well as for those that want a more natural look.

  • Clear. Great for women who do not want to add any color to their eyelashes, and looks even more natural than brown mascara. Since there is no color, the brush can be used to tame eyebrows.

• Lash Shape: Besides color, the type of way you would like your lashes to look needs to be taken into account. Different formulas are combined with different applicator brushes to create differing effects.

  • Lengthening. Great for those with shorter eyelashes.  This mascara will appear to add length and make lashes look more luscious and defined.

  • Volumizing. This type of mascara will thicken the lashes instead of adding length. Your eyelashes will look more bold and defined.  The brushes that come with these types of mascaras are mostly curved.

  • Defining. The formula for this mascara helps keep eyelashes from clumping together during application.

  • Curling. Curled eyelashes can be achieved through this type of mascara. This is great for people who have lashes that stick straight out and want to make them appear naturally curled.

• Brush Type

  • For short lashes: The wand should be short and spiral shaped, as well as thick bristled.

  • For lengthening and defining: Long, comb-like wands with bristles that are spaced evenly are the best for this type of style.

  • For thickening: Large, round wands with densely packed bristles.

Consistency. Customer reviews often contain information regarding the consistency of the mascara itself. A lot of users have been happier with a mascara that is not a goopy, clumpy mess when put on, as well as one that doesn’t dry too fast to allow for more coats for even fuller lashes.

Drugstore mascaras are often just as efficient and reliable as the higher-end brands.

Ingredients. If you are a very health-conscious person it is good to know the ingredients used in your mascara’s formula. Some mascaras can have unhealthy substances and may want to be avoided. If you have sensitive eyes you may want to avoid mascaras that contain parabens, aluminum powder, propylene glycol, or vitamin A acetate.

• Color matters. As stated above, the type of mascara color used will need to be in accordance with your other makeup. People with light complexions and hair shouldn’t use dark black mascara unless they are going for an intense look. Specialty colors, such as pink and blue, are best used for special events and are not as good for everyday looks.

• Some mascaras should not be worn with contact lenses, so be sure to ask if you are questioning it.

• Mascara should be thrown out after 3-4 months of use, even if all the product is not gone. Bacteria can grow in there and cause eye irritations—to minimize this risk, avoid pushing air into the tube when using.

L’Oreal Paris: This is the biggest beauty brand in the world and creates high-quality products at an affordable price.

COVERGIRL: Has won multiple awards for their great makeup products.

Bella Eleganze: Relatively new in the market, but is known for its 3D Fiber Lash Mascara which has gotten amazing reviews from customers.