Finding a brilliant mascara is a beauty undertaking that’s easier said than done. There are so many variables to consider: pigment, brush, longevity… Do you want a clean finish or something fluffy? Long-lasting curl or amazing length? It’s a task that can take years and cost a bomb, which is why we’re here with a curated list of 11 best mascara formulas that are tried and tested by us.
If you’re still looking for the one, look no further — your perfect mascara is sure to be found in the following edit.
M.A.C COSMETICS MACSTACK MASCARA
Because this formula is super lightweight, it layers well for buildable results. The brush is plastic, so it combs through lashes to prevent clumping, too.
NARS CLIMAX MASCARA
What’s unique about this formula is the brush: a wirey, ribbed format that separates each and every lash for a fanned-out effect. It’s also smudge-resistant and packed with soft waxes, so it’s comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
MECCA MAX EYE MAX MEGA VOLUME MASCARA
If you want full, fat lashes, look no further than this wallet-friendly buy from Mecca Max. The soft brush picks up heaps of product for impressive volume without clumps.
CHARLOTTE TILBURY LEGENDARY LASHES
Another iconic pick, the plush hourglass shape of this brush is great for volume, length and curl. It’s water, sweat and humidity resistant, while the inky-black pigment has a glossy finish that’s perfect with a smudge of black liner.
BYREDO ASTRONOMICAL VOLUME MASCARA IN DEEP BLACK
Aside from the chic packaging, the silicone brush found on this Byredo mascara is unmatched when it comes to creating clean definition. It’s light so layers well, but dries down quickly for a smudge-free finish.
HOURGLASS UNLOCKED INSTANT EXTENSIONS MASCARA
Hourglass Unlocked is a fibre-packed formula, so it builds on your existing lash for incredible lift and length. Another bonus is the easy removal — simply wash your face and while you’re mid-cleanse, press down on lashes gently and the product should melt away.
ILIA FULLEST VOLUMISING MASCARA
Fragile or brittle lashes? Ilia’s Volumising Mascara is formulated with panthenol and arginine to strengthen and condition, while the soft brush gently deposits product. The finished effect is natural, so it’s a great pick for makeup minimalists.
TOO FACED BETTER THAN SEX MASCARA
Perhaps one of the most iconic formulas out there, Better Than Sex is unmatched when it comes to fullness, lift and length. It’s quite a wet formula, so takes a bit of time to build up, but the finished product is worth it.
MAYBELLINE SKY HIGH MASCARA
With a long, flexible brush and bamboo-infused formula, it’s easy to see why this drugstore pick from Maybelline went viral on TikTok. Because of its flexibility and the slender applicator wand, it does a stellar job at building out brow-skimming length. The finish is pretty dramatic, so it’s a top choice if you want strangers commenting on your lashes.
DIORSHOW ICONIC OVERCURL MASCARA
As far as luxury mascaras go, it doesn’t get much better than Diorshow Iconic Overcurl. The spoon-shaped brush pushes lashes upwards and out, before it dries down and locks in the curl. It layers nicely, so feel free to apply coat after coat for amplified results.
LANCOME GRANDIOSE MASCARA
If you favour bold, dramatic lashes, Grandiose is the formula for you. Pigment-wise, it’s incredibly black, while the short bristle brush deposits lots of product for a rich finish. The swan neck makes getting every lash a breeze — just be sure to twist it slowly out of the tube of you’ll risk breaking it (i.e. no yanking).
This story originally appeared on GRAZIA International.