16 Best Waterproof Mascaras for a Mess-free Eye Makeup Look

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Feb 07, 2024
Best Waterproof Mascaras for a Mess-free Eye Makeup Look
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

Mascaras are the one-stop solution when it comes to making your eyes look wide awake, more youthful, and dramatic. Based on our expertise, we found out how some of them can also be game-changing products on sweaty summer days, beach days, or just when you want your mascara to stay a little longer than usual. To note, these best waterproof mascaras can be a foolproof answer to your makeup woes and the credit goes to its powerful formula that is masterfully created to withstand almost anything! Humidity? Check! Swim session? Check! Intense lashes? Double check!

Let us tell you, picking a mascara that ticks off all your requirements can be quite tricky, and so, we have gathered our best knowledge to help you find out the best one amongst a truckload of effective products that claim to be your holy grail! We have rounded off the most ideal mascaras that should make their way into your stash. They come with gentle formulas that hug your individual lashes without making them lumpy and stay all day long without weighing them down. Now, what are you waiting for? Unleash the drama already!

Scroll down to take a look at our top recommendations!

16 Best Waterproof Mascaras

Your makeup routine can never be complete without a generous amount of mascara. Whether you’re going to work, to the gym, or for grocery shopping, this premium-quality mascara by Eyeko is an absolute essential. Made with coconut oil and waterproof pigments, this mascara instantly lengthens your lashes by adding oodles of volume. The long-lasting formula can easily take you from AM to PM without having to re-apply it. Whether you have scanty hair or thicker strands, this mascara instantly adds glam to your ensemble.  

Pros
  • Suitable for hypo-allergic skin
  • Long-lasting waterproof pigments
  • No clumping
Cons
  • None
  • Best for Daily Wear

    MAYBELLINE NEW YORK LASH SENSATIONAL Mascara

    MAYBELLINE NEW YORK LASH SENSATIONAL Mascara
  • Maybelline roars in the beauty industry for its revolutionary mascaras that have been quite a rage among influencers and makeup artists! This Lash Sensational mascara is one of those products that have managed to stay in the stash of every beauty lover due to their incredibly effective formulas. With a curved brush and 10 layers of bristles, the mascara also promises to give you coveted fanned out volume along with an intense definition. Furthermore, the buildable yet clump-free formula allows you to get an iconic eye look in the most hassle-free way that you can rock all day long.

    Pros
    • Ophthalmologically-tested
    • Contact lens-safe
    • Smooth formula
    • Clump-free natural look
    • Highly pigmented
    Cons
    • Dries off quickly
  • Best for Instant Volume

    L'OREAL PARIS LASH PARADISE Mascara

    L'OREAL PARIS LASH PARADISE Mascara
  • With a sultry packaging, L'oreal Lash Paradise mascara offers you much more than just dreamy lashes. Along with a 20x fuller and 2x lengthy look, the brand ensures that the product’s formula stays in place without the need of reapplication for 16 hours. Plus, infused with caring floral oil, you can now rock the flake-free and clump-free look without stripping away the natural moisture of your lashes. What’s more is that the supremely pigmented formula of the mascara ensures a fade-proof finish that you can rock all day, everyday!

    Pros
    • Long-lasting
    • 20x volume
    • 2x length
    • Infuses moisture into lashes
    • Attractive packaging
    • Fade-proof
    Cons
    • Thick formula
  • Best Fibre-infused Formula

    MAYBELLINE NEW YORK The FALSE LASH LIFT Mascara

    MAYBELLINE NEW YORK The FALSE LASH LIFT Mascara
  • Here’s another Maybelline mascara that stands true to its claim — False Lash Lift Mascara! The product comes with a double-curved fan brush that ensures an ultimate lift while extending the lashes at the same time. It also beautifully coats each lash individually and locks the look for the entire day. Plus, the fiber-infused formula ensures flake-free, smear-free, and clump-free lashes for an ultimate voluminous appearance. Meanwhile, you can pair it with your favorite lipstick, and voila, you are all set to make a statement!

    Pros
    • Unique brush shape
    • Coats individual lashes
    • Fiber-infused formula
    • Clump-free
    • Smear-proof
    • Lasts all day
    Cons
    • Formula could be smoother
  • Best for Scanty Hair

    Bestidy TWINKLE STARLIGHT LONG CURL Mascara

    Bestidy TWINKLE STARLIGHT LONG CURL Mascara
  • The starry packaging is what will keep you hooked way before you even start using this product by Bestidy! With a hypoallergenic formula, the brand boasts of providing you the best-quality 4D silk mascara that gives a major eye-opening effect. You can use the waterproof mascara on any occasion to make your look stand out among the crowd! So, why wait? Get thick, lengthy, and gorgeous eyelashes without teasing your eyes at the end of the day for removal, all thanks to the gentle formula that the product offers.

    Pros
    • Makes eyelashes appear lengthy
    • Clump-free formula
    • Incredible volume
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Flake-free
    • Easy to remove
    Cons
    • Dries out rapidly
  • Best Collagen Formula

    MAYBELLINE NEW YORK VOLUM' EXPRESS COLOSSAL Mascara

    MAYBELLINE NEW YORK VOLUM' EXPRESS COLOSSAL Mascara
  • With a collagen-infused formula, the volumizing mascara gives you a long-lasting effect without any flakes, smears, or smudges. Also, the brand claims 9x volume with just one coat and 15x volume with two swipes over the lashes. Let us tell you, perfecting a seamless and clump-free eye makeup look couldn't be easier than this, thanks to the versatile mega brush of the mascara that bestows you with your desired look in a jiffy. Last but not least, the ophthalmologically-tested formula is a boon for contact lens wearers and people with sensitive eyes.

    Pros
    • Versatile brush
    • Contains collagen
    • 9x volume
    • Ophthalmologically-tested
    • Clump-free
    • Smudge-proof
    Cons
    • Dries up quickly
  • Cruelty-free Formula

    wet n wild MEGA LENGTH Mascara

    wet n wild MEGA LENGTH Mascara
  • The Mega Length mascara from Wet n Wild rose to fame for its cruelty-free, gluten-free, and sulfate-free formula that causes no harm to the most sensitive part of your face, eyes. Infused with vitamin E, the mascara further ensures that it leaves you with hydrated lashes along with the desired length and volume at the same time. On the other hand, the curvature of the wand ensures precise application from root to tip without making the lashes look clumpy. All in all, the super-pigmented formula is just what you need in your stash for a dramatic look!

    Pros
    • Lengthens lashes
    • Humidity-resistant
    • Smudge-resistant
    • Ophthalmologically-tested
    • Cruelty-free
    • Gluten-free
    Cons
    • Quantity could be more
  • Best non-fragrant Formula

    COVERGIRL PROFESSIONAL 3-in-1 WATERPROOF Mascara

     COVERGIRL PROFESSIONAL 3-in-1 WATERPROOF Mascara
  • Along with a vibrant packaging, you get magnified lashes thanks to the formula and the brush of this premium product. The brand claims the hypoallergenic formula of this mascara to suit even for the contact lens wearers. On the other hand, the professional mascara volumize your lashes while giving them a dramatic length for an intense look. Through our practical knowledge, it is one of the best smudge-proof mascaras that beautifully covers your individual lashes and sticks to them for the longest possible time. 

    Pros
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Coats individual lashes
    • No parabens
    • No fragrance
    • Perfect for sensitive eyes
    • Easy to use
    Cons
    • Packaging could be sturdier
  • ALMAY Multi-benefit Mascara

    ALMAY Multi-benefit Mascara
  • The Multi-benefit mascara boasts of providing you with an advanced formula that defines, lengthens, volumizes, and conditions your lashes at the same time. The product is also hypoallergenic and promises to suit even the most sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. Packed with nourishing keratin, the lash-loving ingredients present in the product are masterfully given a texture that further hugs your lashes for a long time without making them look clumpy. Still confused? Well, don’t be. Go and grab one!

    Pros
    • Suits sensitive eyes
    • Dermatologically-tested
    • Ophthalmologically-tested
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Cruelty-free
    • Fragrance-free
    Cons
    • Hard to remove
  • Most Luxe Formula

    CLINIQUE high impact waterproof Mascara

    CLINIQUE high impact waterproof Mascara
  • One of the most-loved brands around the world, Clinique has come up with a premium formula to ensure you the lashes of your dreams – High Impact Mascara! Along with a classy packaging, the brand promises you a quality product backed by science. The mascara features a creamy formula that glides smoothly over your eyelashes for an intense look. Addedly, the dense bristles further ensure a clump-free look each time you opt for the product. What do you need more? C'mon get one!

    Pros
    • Premium formula
    • Clump-free
    • Creamy
    • Backed by science
    • Long-lasting
    • Easy to remove
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • Best OVERALL

    Too Faced BETTER THAN SEX Mascara

    Too Faced BETTER THAN SEX Mascara
  • All hail to the mascara that literally deserves all the attention in the world! Right after it was launched, the product has sneaked its way into the stash of millions of beauty enthusiasts for the right reasons. To begin with, it comes with iconic hourglass shaped bristles to ensure extreme volume and length that stays in place all day long. The cute packaging further needs special mention to say the least. For the best results, all you need is just two coats to achieve that dramatic volume, and luscious appearance.

    Pros
    • Extreme volume
    • Magnifying length
    • Curls your lashes
    • Thickening formula
    • Revolutionary wand
    • Easy to remove
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • e.l.f. Big Mood Waterproof Mascara

    e.l.f. Big Mood Waterproof Mascara
  • The voluminous mascara comes with an hourglass shaped brush to give you the coveted volume that you are looking for! Also, you can now easily witness a visible lift to your lashes as you apply the product and wiggle the wand towards the end. The credit goes to its intertwined bristles! They separate each lash and take the upper hand in distributing just the right amount of mascara throughout. Last but not least, the richly pigmented formula promises to not smudge, flake, or fade with time.

    Pros
    • Smudge-proof
    • Infused with jojoba wax
    • Skin-loving ingredients
    • Lifts the lashes
    • Intertwined bristles
    • Richly pigmented
    Cons
    • Quite dry formula
  • Neutrogena healthy volume waterproof Mascara

    Neutrogena healthy volume waterproof Mascara
  • Get 400% fuller and conditioned lashes with the help of this voluminous mascara that is backed by dermatologists and ophthalmologists. The brand boasts of not compromising on the quality to deliver you the most beautiful lashes. Its rich formula also claims to penetrate each individual lash to help them appear plumper, denser, and more dramatic than ever. Lastly, loaded with sweet almond oil, the product ensures no smears, flakes, or clumps even when you wear it all day.

    Pros
    • Ophthalmologically-tested
    • 400% fuller look
    • Suits sensitive eyes
    • Contains sweet almond oil
    • Plumps each lash
    • Flake-free
    Cons
    • Dry formula
  • MISTINE Waterproof Mascara

     MISTINE Waterproof Mascara
  • The water and smudge-resistant formula of the mascara can be a blessing to those who live in a humid climate! Ensuring 45° natural curl, the top-rated waterproof mascara stays on your lashes for more than 24 hours. Also, while the precise brush head glides over the lashes smoothly, the dense bristles promise a dramatic look for an eye-opening effect instantly. Last but not the least, blended with butterfly pea extracts and bee wax, the ultralight texture of the product doesn't weigh your lashes down in the long run.

    Pros
    • Vegan-friendly
    • Provides extraordinary length
    • Ophthalmologically-tested
    • Allergy-tested
    • Flexible bristles
    • Stays for a long time
    Cons
    • Not smudge-proof
  • BANGFENG FIBER DENSE Mascara

    BANGFENG FIBER DENSE Mascara
  • All set for instant volume with no clumps or smears? We have got your covered! Through our trial and error approach, we have discovered that this mascara by Bangfeng is an ideal option for mature and aging lashes to make them vibrantly pigmented without weighing them down. The product also boasts of reenergizing sparse lashes with its effective formula while the silicone brush helps in reaching every corner to give you the coveted look that you have been yearning for! Now, don’t wait any longer. Go ahead and buy one!

    Pros
    • Has a neutral pH
    • Goes on smoothly
    • Hypoallergenic formula
    • 100% cruelty-free
    • Clump-free formula
    • Easy to remove
    Cons
    • Overpriced
  • ESTEE LAUDER Sumptuous Extreme Waterproof Lash Multiplying Mascara

    ESTEE LAUDER Sumptuous Extreme Waterproof Lash Multiplying Mascara
  • The Sumptuous Extreme waterproof mascara is loaded with conditioning lash-advancing vitamin complex that ensures your lashes stay moisturized all day long while looking plumper and more dramatic. Its exclusive multiplying fibers further act as an extension that lift, volumize, and lengthen your lashes at the same time. To note, the package also contains an oversized brush that combs your lashes and separates them at the same time for a clump-free look. Furthermore, it stays on your lashes for more than 10 hours to give you a magnifying and majestic look.

    Pros
    • Clump-free lashes
    • Stays for 10 hours
    • Provides intense volume to your lashes
    • Lifts the lashes
    • Clump-free formula
    • Conditions the lashes
    Cons
    • Expensive

    Now that you are aware of the top waterproof mascaras in the market, take a look at how you can pick the best one for yourself :

    How to Choose the Best Waterproof Mascara?

    Here are a few aspects to consider while vouching for the best waterproof mascara :

    a) Formula: The waterproof formula may not be smudge-proof all the time! Look for a smudge-proof formula that won't transfer to your lids, otherwise, it will nullify the whole point of opting for a waterproof mascara! Other than that, if you are a mindful makeup lover, opting for cruelty-free and vegan-friendly mascaras can be extremely beneficial.

    b) Wand: The wand of your mascara should be ergonomically designed to give you the coveted elongated effect without making the application harder for you!

    c) Bristles: Mascaras come with different kinds of bristles! Dense bristles ensure voluminous appearance while long and separated bristles give your lashes an elongated effect. Pick the one that suits your needs the most.

    d) Ingredients: Some of the mascaras have more to offer than just beauty! If you have dry lashes, look for a conditioning formula loaded with hyaluronic acid, nourishing oils, and peptides to make the best out of it!

    Conclusion

    And, there you go! You have got the list of the best waterproof mascaras and the tips on how you can pick one without any trial and error. Our research indicates that these products come with more benefits than average mascaras that just make your lashes lengthy and voluminous for a short period. You can rock the waterproof ones not only on a hot and humid day but also on special events when you are not ready for frequent reapplication. So, what are you waiting for? Grab them already!

    FAQ's

    Is a smudge-proof mascara the same as waterproof?
    Well, to bust the myth, they are not the same! Smudge-proof mascaras prevent the transfer of the product on your eyelid while waterproof mascaras prevent any water-based liquid removing the product.
    Why does my mascara keep smudging under my eyes?
    There can be many reasons! One of them can be your mascara not having a smudge-proof formula, while the other one can be you having an oily eyelid!
    Is it OK to wear waterproof mascara everyday?
    Yes, it is absolutely okay to wear waterproof mascaras everyday. Especially, if you live in a hotter and humid climate, this can be a savior!
    What are the cons of waterproof mascaras?
    The only con of waterproof mascara is that they are a bit hard to remove. However, you can apply some baby oil thoroughly over your lashes and keep it for 10 minutes before removing with a wipe.
    Will waterproof mascara stay on in the shower?
    Yes, waterproof mascaras are carefully curated to withstand a bathing session.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    As a makeup expert and beauty writer, Sayantani is well aware of the several faux pas of makeup, one of which is dripping mascara goop around the eyes. And while there’s no way to prevent sweat, humidity, rain, or even one’s tears from flowing, she recommends keeping your eye makeup intact by investing in the best waterproof mascaras. When picking suitable products for the same, she looked for formulations infused with carnauba wax, candellila wax, silicones, etc. that not only resist water but also make the mascara glide more smoothly. While she already had used the Maybelline New York Lash Sensational mascara, the Maybelline New York Colossal Volume Express mascara, and the Almay Multi-benefit mascara, she tested and evaluated the other ones too to review them well. Moreover, she took insights from customers who had already used them.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Sayantani Deb
    Makeup & Beauty Writer

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More