Best Mascara for 2026
Discover comprehensive mascara reviews featuring expert analysis of volumizing, lengthening, and waterproof formulas from top beauty brands. Our in-depth comparisons help you find the perfect mascara to enhance your lashes and elevate your everyday makeup routine.
Updated January 2026 • 17 Products Analyzed
The Good
- Dramatic lengthening and volumizing without clumping
- Superior waterproof and smudge-proof performance all day
- Lightweight formula feels comfortable and buildable
- Easy removal without irritation or dryness
Thrive Mascara Liquid Lash Extensions
Thrive Mascara delivers impressive lengthening and volumizing effects with a lightweight formula that mimics lash extensions without clumping. Its waterproof, smudge-proof performance holds strong throughout the day, even through rain and tears, while remaining easy to apply and remove with gentle cleansing.
The Bad
- Limited information on shade variety options
- Small review sample size
The Good
- Jet-black, dramatic volumizing formula delivers intense color
- Smudge-proof and flake-resistant for all-day wear
- Precision brush separates and defines lashes beautifully
- Builds length, curl, and intensity effortlessly
Dark Star Mascara - Xtreme Black
Dark Star Mascara by Pat McGrath Labs delivers jet-black, volumizing color with dramatic results and exceptional precision. This smudge-proof, flake-resistant formula builds length, curl, and intensity while separating and defining lashes with a precision brush. Ideal for both day and night wear, it combines luxury brand quality with versatile, long-lasting performance.
The Bad
- Premium price point may exceed some budgets
- Limited sample size of reviews available
The Good
- Exceptional length and volumizing effect with one coat
- Smooth application, no clumping or flaking
- Long-lasting wear and smudge-proof performance
- Custom brush reaches corners and roots effectively
Benefit Bad Gal Bang Volumizing Mascara
Benefit's Bad Gal Bang delivers impressive volume and length with a custom brush designed for 360-degree coverage. The smudge-proof, water-resistant formula is praised by users for smooth application and long-lasting wear, though some report inconsistent formula texture and minimal thickening power.
The Bad
- Inconsistent formula texture, sometimes too wet
- Limited thickening, primarily focuses on length
The Good
- Zero smudging or flaking for most users
- Effortless removal with warm water only
- Lengthens and defines without clumping
- Vegan and cruelty-free formula
Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara
Tarte's tubing mascara delivers impressive length and volume while remaining completely smudge-proof and easy to remove—a premium choice for those seeking reliable, flake-free wear. The silicone brush applies smoothly without clumping, though some users report minor flaking and quick drying time with daily use. At its current price point, it's an investment piece that justifies its cost for most, earning strong approval across age groups and skin types.
The Bad
- Can dry out quickly with daily use
- Occasional minor flaking reported by some users
The Good
- Delivers volume and length without clumping
- Exceptional waterproof staying power through workouts and humidity
- Outstanding value for affordable drugstore price
- Cruelty-free and Leaping Bunny certified
Covergirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara
Covergirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara delivers exceptional value with impressive volume and length at an affordable drugstore price point. Users consistently praise its clump-free formula, all-day wear, and waterproof performance, though removal requires dedicated makeup remover. This cruelty-free mascara proves that premium results don't require a premium price tag.
The Bad
- Waterproof formula requires special remover to remove
- May need multiple coats for maximum volume
The Good
- Excellent smudge-proof wear that lasts all day
- Lightweight formula that doesn't clump or flake
- Gentle on sensitive eyes and easy water removal
- Outstanding value at budget-friendly price point
CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara
CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara delivers impressive volume and definition with a clean, vegan formula that's gentle on sensitive eyes. Users consistently praise its smudge-proof performance, easy removal with water, and excellent value at an affordable price point. The non-clumping formula with lightweight texture and FSC-certified sustainable packaging makes this a standout drugstore mascara choice.
The Bad
- Applicator may come overloaded with product initially
- Curl may diminish quickly throughout the day
The Good
- Excellent lengthening and volumizing without clumping
- Stays put all day with no smudging or flaking
- Washes off easily with makeup remover
- Outperforms premium brands at a fraction of the cost
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara
Maybelline's Lash Sensational Sky High delivers impressive lengthening and volumizing results at an unbeatable price point, with a buildable formula that resists smudging throughout the day. While the majority of users praise its performance and easy removal, some users report occasional clumping and eye irritation with prolonged wear.
The Bad
- Can cause eye irritation or dryness with sensitive eyes
- May clump if applied too heavily
The Good
- Exceptional volume and length with minimal clumping
- Buildable formula with smooth, even application
- Promotes natural lash growth with regular use
- Easy to remove without harsh rubbing
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
Too Faced Better Than Sex is a highly-rated volumizing mascara that delivers impressive length and thickness without clumping. Praised for buildable coverage and a tapered lash effect, this cruelty-free formula is a cult favorite among users who report visible lash growth over time. However, longevity issues and occasional smudging prevent it from being flawless.
The Bad
- Dries out quickly, reducing product lifespan
- Minor undereye smudging after 6+ hours of wear
The Good
- Delivers falsies-level volume and length with one coat
- Smooth, clump-free formula that's buildable for any look
- Excellent staying power and easy removal without smudging
- Affordable at under $10 with multiple shade options
L'Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara
L'Oréal's Voluminous Lash Paradise delivers dramatic volume and length at an affordable drugstore price point. The creamy formula applies smoothly without clumping and provides buildable coverage that rivals high-end mascaras. While occasional flaking can occur depending on undertones and humidity, most users praise its versatility and reusability across multiple applications.
The Bad
- Can flake slightly after extended wear, especially in humid conditions
- Occasional product consistency issues with online retailers
The Good
- Dramatic volume and length without clumping
- Incredible value
- Long-lasting wear and easy makeup removal
- Cruelty-free and paraben-free formula
Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara
Essence Lash Princess delivers exceptional volume and length at its current price point, winning over thousands of loyal customers. The lightweight formula applies smoothly without clumping and offers cruelty-free, clean beauty credentials. While occasional minor smudging and clumping with heavy application are noted, the overall performance and value make this a standout budget mascara.
The Bad
- Can smudge or flake if over-applied
- Takes longer to dry than some alternatives
The Good
- Lifts, lengthens, and volumizes without heavy clumping
- Precision brush separates every lash individually
- Smudge-proof and waterproof formula lasts 24 hours
- Easy removal with makeup remover
Lancôme Lash Idôle Lash-Lifting & Volumizing Mascara
Lancôme's Lash Idôle delivers impressive lift, length, and volume with a lightweight formula that resists clumping and smudging throughout the day. The precision brush separates lashes effectively and creates a polished look with excellent staying power. While most users rave about its performance, some report occasional clumping issues that require careful application technique.
The Bad
- Can clump if applied too heavily or generously
- Slightly difficult to remove due to long-wearing formula
The Good
- Lightweight formula with excellent length and separation
- Clean, non-toxic ingredients safe for sensitive eyes
- Dual-sided brush prevents clumping and ensures precision
- Easy removal without harsh rubbing or makeup remover
ILIA Limitless Lash Mascara
ILIA's award-winning clean mascara delivers exceptional length and lift with its dual-sided wand while remaining lightweight and nourishing. The ophthalmologist-tested formula resists flaking and smudging for most users, though durability in high-moisture conditions varies. A standout choice for those prioritizing clean, non-toxic ingredients without sacrificing performance.
The Bad
- Not waterproof; smudges with tears or eye rubbing
- Strong chemical smell that some find unpleasant
The Good
- Affordable price with impressive volume and definition
- Non-irritating formula that doesn't cause watery, itchy eyes
- Smooth application with flexible wand that separates lashes well
- Skin-loving vegan and cruelty-free ingredients
e.l.f. Lash It Loud Mascara
The e.l.f. Lash It Loud Mascara delivers impressive volume and definition at an unbeatable price point, with a flexible silicone wand that coats every lash smoothly. Reviewers consistently praise its non-irritating formula, lack of clumping, and ability to enhance natural lashes, though some note challenges with removal and occasional flaking. This vegan, cruelty-free mascara is an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers seeking quality volumizing results.
The Bad
- Waterproof version can be difficult to remove
- Can occasionally flake throughout the day
The Good
- No clumping, smooth application with quality wand
- Long-lasting waterproof and smudge-proof throughout the day
- Excellent for sensitive eyes and natural lash health
- Great volume and length for thinning lashes
Milk Makeup KUSH High Roll Tubing Mascara
A tubing mascara that delivers impressive length and definition with a smooth, non-clumping application. Users consistently praise its waterproof, smudge-proof formula and 24-hour wear. However, performance may vary for those with oily skin or hooded eyelids.
The Bad
- Can become goopy or not last on very oily skin
- Quality control issue: arrived dried out in some cases
The Good
- Exceptional waterproof staying power through sweat and rain
- Buildable layers create dramatic false lash effect
- Easy application with smooth, non-flaking formula
- Separates and defines lashes beautifully
MAC Stack Superstack Mega Brush Waterproof Mascara
The MAC Stack Superstack Mega Brush is a highly buildable waterproof mascara that delivers impressive volume and length with its mega brush design. While many users praise its long-lasting wear and false lash effect, some report clumping issues and difficulty with product consistency when purchased online.
The Bad
- Can clump and appear goopy when applied heavily
- Difficult to remove; requires specific removers
The Good
- Precision applicator delivers smooth, clump-free application
- Lightweight formula lifts and lengthens without weighing lashes
- Gentle on sensitive skin and hypoallergenic
- Beautiful, unique color with compliment-worthy results
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara
Charlotte Tilbury's Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara delivers impressive lifting and lengthening with a smooth, clump-free application that appeals to a wide range of users, including those with sensitive skin and thinning lashes. While most reviewers praise its precision applicator, unique shade, and lightweight formula, some find the product lacks durability and value for the premium price. The mascara earns strong marks for performance and aesthetics, though longevity concerns prevent it from being universally recommended.
The Bad
- Not long-wearing; washes off easily throughout day
- Premium price lacks value compared to durability
The Good
- Exceptional volume and dramatic curl with one sweep
- Long-lasting formula that doesn't smudge for 24 hours
- Curved brush design opens eyes and lengthens lashes
- Enriched with cotton nectar for healthier-looking lashes
Christian Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara
Christian Dior's Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara delivers impressive volume and curl with its innovative curved brush, enriched with cotton nectar for stronger-looking lashes. While users praise its non-smudging formula and dramatic results, some report clumping and diminished quality compared to previous versions, making it a polarizing choice despite its premium price point.
The Bad
- Tends to clump, especially with application
- Quality decline noted; expensive for the performance