Whether you’re a fan of tear-jerker movies or you still want to look bright-eyed during spin class, using one of the best waterproof mascaras can help you avoid a makeup meltdown. And at under $20 a pop, you won't feel guilty tossing them after three months — which is how often you should throw out your mascara.
While high-end options have their perks, you really can get a great mascara for under $20. Despite the lower price, these waterproof mascaras have amazing staying power, and they even include enriching ingredients like argan oil, chamomile, and Vitamin E that condition your lashes and prevent flakiness. Of course, this is not to say that you shouldn’t be diligent about taking your mascara off before hitting the hay — and you'll need a great makeup remover that can tackle waterproof products (these makeup removers are some of our favorites).
Aside from being long-lasting, these mascaras also help straight lashes hold a curl better than traditional versions — mainly because anything waterproof generally contains more waxes for a stronger hold. And, if you have oily lids, you won't have to worry about those little black dots appearing by midday.
No matter what your day (or night) brings, these seven affordable waterproof mascaras are sure to keep up with you.
1
A Cult-Favorite Korean Curling Mascara With A Tiny, Clump-Free Wand
innisfree Skinny Waterproof Microcara Mascara, $8, Amazon
This cult-favorite Korean mascara curls every lash — even the itty, bitty hard to reach ones — without clumping. And that's all thanks to the tiny 1.5 millimeter wand that's beyond easy to run up your lashes and press them into a curl, all without applying to much product. The wand makes this mascara perfect for your lower lashes, too. One reviewer raved: "it’s hard to find a mascara that doesn't smudge to my bottom lids and cause panda eyes!" and that "[a]fter nine-plus hours, it had not smudged at all.”
2
A Fiber Mascara That Mimics The Look Of False Lashes
L'Oreal Paris Voluminous False Fiber Lashes Waterproof Mascara, $9, Amazon
Being waterproof isn’t the only great feature about this mascara. The formula contains little fibers that adhere to existing lashes, creating the look of falsies, but without all the hassle of gluing and removing them. And unlike some other fiber formulas, this one is suitable for those with sensitive peepers or contact wearers. Reviewers love how easy it is to apply and that it doesn’t require two steps like some other versions.
3
A Japanese Drugstore Staple That Lengthens Lashes By 120 Percent
Kiss Me Heroine Make Long and Curl Mascara, $10, Amazon
This award-winning Japanese mascara put a pin on the beauty map due to the fact that it lengthens lashes by 120 percent with the help of polymer fibers. The lightweight, long-lasting, and waterproof formula also contains camellia, argan, and rose oils to nourish and hydrate lashes, keeping them healthy under your makeup. One reviewer says: "If layered, I have been asked if I was wearing falsies." But the best part is, you finally don't have to go to a Japanese drugstore to find it.
4
A Hypoallergenic All-Natural Mineral Mascara That's Actually Waterproof
Mineral Fusion Waterproof Mascara, $13, Amazon
This all-natural mascara that relies on minerals for pigment almost doubles as a lash conditioner due to the inclusion of argan oil, panthenol, and aloe in the formula. Reviewers love how it defines their lashes, and the natural formula makes it a great option for sensitive eyes. Most natural mascaras don't exactly have a reputation for staying put, but reviews love the results this one provides. One happy reviewer exclaims: "FINALLY waterproof, natural mascara that works!" And, the formula is free of parabens, artificial colors, fragrance, phthalates, and gluten.
5
A Long-Lasting Mascara With A Unique Brush That Gives Fine Lashes Loads Of Volume
Etude House Lash Perm Curl Fix Mascara, $13, Amazon
This staying power of this mascara is so strong that reviewers recommend using an oil-based cleanser or makeup remover to take it off — in short, it’s not going to budge. The Korean formula from the beloved K-beauty brand, Etude House, gives fine or straight lashes an instant boost and curl. And, beyond the amazing formula, the dual-sided jelly brushes has two type of bristles — the larger bristle are ideal for your top lid, while the smaller ones will grab onto and maximize even tiny lashes.
6
A 10-Bristle Brush Mascara That Grabs Every Lash
Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara, $6, Amazon
This superstar drugstore mascara features a nifty patented fan-like brush comprised of 10 layers of bristles makes it impossible to miss any lash — even the baby fine ones. Even reviewers with sparse lashes claim this formula makes their eyes look like they have hundreds and hundreds of beautiful lashes that are long and thick. If you're skeptical about drugstore mascaras, the reviewer photos are proof that this mascara is a major find.
7
A Vegan Lengthening Mascara Formulated With Coconut Oil & Kelp Extract
Pacifica Aquarian Gaze Water Resistant Mascara, $12, Amazon
Pacifica is known for their extensive collection of natural makeup, something most natural skin care brands still fall short of. The secret to this impressive natural mascara is the brush, which makes lashes long and voluminous as it separates each lash, gradually building volume with clumping up. The nourishing and reparative formula is comprised of coconut oil, kelp extract, and Vitamin B to hydrate and strengthen each lash. This vegan mascara is also cruelty-free and doesn't contain parabens or phthalates. And, aside from black, it's also available in a deep blue shade that looks softer than black and has a brightening effect.
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