The ultimate faux pas? Runny mascara, of course. Whether caught in the rain or under the scalding sun, take our word for it, your mascara will be the first to give way. And you’d rather not emulate Taylor Swift’s chic breakdown in Blank Space – even if you’re a Swiftie – correct? So, we thought it’d be best to list waterproof mascaras that have stood the test of time, delivering a budge-free finish. But before we get to it, let us tell you exactly how waterproof mascaras manage to stay put.
How Do Waterproof Mascaras Actually Work?
Waterproof mascaras form a film on the lashes that won’t run with water, tears or sweat. Conversely, formulations that don’t claim to be waterproof run easily, smudging all over, since they fail to bond with your lashes as they should.
Get rom-com movie marathon ready with our edit of the best waterproof mascaras in the biz. We’re crying happy, smudge-proof tears.
Rimmel London 100% Waterproof Mascara
Why You’ll Love It: Lock your lash look with Rimmel’s Waterproof Mascara that’s 100% run-resistant. Lengthening, volumising, and fast-drying, this long-lasting formula won’t let you down, come rain or shine.
Urban Decay Perversion Waterproof Mascara
Why You’ll Love It: If you want your lashes to look fire, don’t hesitate to shell out bucks for this hard-working formula. UD’s super-intense, blacker-than-black mascara won’t quit on you during your worst moments. Besides, its nourishing concoction of proteins, amino acids, and honey extract prompts healthy eyelash growth.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara
Why You’ll Love It: A budget-friendly, customer-favourite with over 23k reviews, Maybelline’s smudge-proof formula hangs on for dear life for up to 24 hours, boasting bamboo extract and fibres and promising high pigment pay-off. Trust the flex tower brush to coat every single lash.
M.A.CStack Waterproof Mascara
Why You’ll Love It: Non-flaking and clump-resistant, this no-nasties waterproof mascara by M.A.C Cosmetics delivers gravity-defying volume and lash lift and length, according to 95% of consumers. Waterproof, smudge-proof, pool-proof, and tear-proof for up to 24 hours.
Nykaa Cosmetics Curl Power Waterproof Curling Mascara
Why You’ll Love It: Sky-high 45°-curl lashes from root to tip. Waterproof, smudge-proof, zero clumping – and we’re sold. Ditch falsies for this feathery-soft, long-lasting formula that won’t disappoint. A 4.2 rating and over 23k reviews speak for themselves.
Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara
Why You’ll Love It: A cult classic that has made it onto every beauty top shelf, Too Faced’s Better Than Sex Mascara lends voluptuous lashes in a single swipe. The cruelty-free formula boasts peptides and porcelain flower extract to condition your lashes, leveraged by the hourglass-shaped bristles.
SUGAR POP Waterproof Mascara
Why You’ll Love It: Another affordable, albeit efficacious option for those on a tight budget, SUGAR POP’s vegan, clump-free, and waterproof formula is imbued with nourishing oils to take your lash game to the next level.
Bobbi Brown No Smudge Waterproof Mascara
Why You’ll Love It: The ultimate raincoat for your lashes, Bobbi Brown’s buildable mascara layers each lash separately to give you a long-wearing set that won’t budge for hours. Trust us, the superior formulation justifies the price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
• How is a waterproof mascara different from any standard mascara?
A waterproof mascara ensures the product doesn’t run in the face of rain, tears or sweat while offering lengthening and volumising properties. It forms a protective film on the lashes that makes the mascara run-resistant.
• Are waterproof mascaras safe for the lashes?
Yes, a waterproof mascara is safe for the lashes. Although, it may be a bit more difficult to remove, causing potential distress to the hair. Use an oil-based makeup remover and avoid rubbing or tugging at the lashes to minimise breakage.
• Can you sleep with waterproof mascara on?
Certainly not. As a rule of thumb, remove all makeup and thoroughly cleanse your skin before hitting the hay. Sleeping with mascara on – waterproof or not – can cause eye irritation and make the lashes brittle and more prone to breakage.
