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Best waterproof mascaras three mascaras on taupe background

Source images: Courtesy of brands; Collage: Laneen Wells forAllure

It’s easy onsensitive eyes, fends off flaking, and looks good all day.

“This is one of the few mascaras I can use without any irritation.

For less than $15, those results are hard to beat.

Lancôme Lash Idôle Lash-Lifting & Volumizing Waterproof Mascara in branded component on a light gray background

Allurecontributing editor Deanna Pai applying Lancôme’s Lash Idôle Waterproof Mascara

Better yet, the brand’s waterproof formula is just as beloved.

Ta swears by it for a mascara that lasts until the end of the day on set.

(We love optionscan you tell?)

Interim shopping director Deanna Pai before applying Lancôme’s Lash Idôle Waterproof Mascara

Pai before applying Lancôme’s Lash Idôle Waterproof Mascara

Your no makeup-makeup eye look deserves just as much smudge resistance as a face of full glam.

If you’re an athlete who spends a lot of time exercising outdoors, this formula is for you.

When applying this mascara to your lower lashes, hold the wand vertically for peak precision.

Pai after applying Lancôme’s Lash Idôle Waterproof Mascara

Pai after applying Lancôme’s Lash Idôle Waterproof Mascara

It builds nicely and imparts a volumized look to your lashes without flaking or running.

The brand calls it “a raincoat for your eyelashes,” and we’d have to agree.

And, BTW, people with short lashes andhooded eyelidssing the praises of this mascara for its elongating effect.

Tower 28 Beauty MakeWaves Mascara in Drift pink and orange squiggly tube of mascara on light gray background

Shopping director Shanna Shipin applying Tower 28 MakeWaves Mascara

This hypoallergenic formula is a smart choice for contact lens wearers.

We love how this formula is both super creamy and non-clumpinga combination you don’t find every day.

Key ingredients:panthenol |Number of shades:4

How are waterproof mascaras different from standard mascaras?

Shanna Shipin before using Tower 28 MakeWaves Mascara

Shipin before using Tower 28 MakeWaves Mascara

“They often contain ingredients polymers that adhere strongly to lashes and create a water-resistant film.”

Are waterproof mascaras safe for your lashes?

Dobos explains, Your usual micellar water might not cut it.

Shanna Shipin after using Tower 28 MakeWaves Mascara

Shipin after using Tower 28 MakeWaves Mascara

Rubbing and pulling at lashes can cause breakage or already loose lashes to come out.

Isohexadecane and silicones work to dissolve the tenacious polymer films, Dobos adds.

How should I choose a waterproof mascara?

Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara in soft pink packaging on light gray background

Sarah Han applying Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

As always, your perfect-match-mascara depends on what youre looking to get out of the product.

Do you want a waterproof mascara that prioritizes lengthening?

One that is especially heat-resistant?

Sarah Han before using Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

Han before using Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

One that can withstand a day of water-sport practice?

Look at the mascaras description and ingredients before you head to checkout.

Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones?

Sarah Han after using Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

Han after using Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses?

Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge?

Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Waterproof Mascara in black and gold packaging on light gray background

This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions.

We considered each products performance across four primary categories: formula, wear, longevity, and durability.

For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our completereviews process and methodology page.

MAC MacStack Waterproof Mascara in black packaging on light gray background

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase.

Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if its never been tested on curls?

Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara black and silver tube of brown mascara on light gray background

Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara in silver and soft mint colored tube on light gray background

Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara in purple and gold packaging on light gray background

Bobbi Brown Smudge-Proof Mascara silver mascara and applicator on light grey background

Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara in soft aqua green packaging on light gray background

CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Waterproof Mascara in orange tube packaging on light gray background

Chanel Inimitable Waterproof Mascara black mascara and applicator on light grey background

Spectator Sport Mascara in branded pink tube with black brush applicator on light gray background