Finding the perfect mascara sounds simple until you’re standing in front of dozens of formulas promising longer, fuller, lifted lashes. Some mascaras are made for dramatic volume, others are better for length and separation, and choosing between waterproof and regular formulas adds another decision to the mix.
We’re taking a closer look at five of the most popular mascaras from Maybelline, Too Faced, Essence, Lancôme and Benefit to see what makes each one different, who it works best for, and whether you should reach for the waterproof or non waterproof version.
Whether you have short lashes that need length, fine lashes that need volume, straight lashes that struggle to hold a curl, or you simply want an everyday mascara that doesn’t feel heavy, there’s something here for you.
Ahead, we break down what each mascara does best so you can find the formula that actually matches your lashes.
1. Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara
Best for: Length and definition
Price: $$
Rating: ★★★★★ 4.8/5
Maybelline Sky High is a great choice if you want noticeably longer lashes without a heavy finish. The flexible brush helps coat lashes from root to tip while keeping them separated and defined. The formula is buildable, so you can keep things natural with one coat or add more for extra length and volume. It also comes in 8 shades!
Who is it good for?
Short lashes, fine lashes, everyday makeup and anyone who loves long, separated lashes.
Waterproof or regular?
Choose regular for everyday wear and easier removal. Choose waterproof for weddings, humidity, watery eyes, vacations and long days.
Why we like it: It gives you impressive length while still keeping the lashes looking light and fluttery.
2. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
Best for: Dramatic volume
Price: $$$$
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.5/5
Better Than Sex is made for lashes that need volume. Its hourglass shaped brush helps create thicker, fuller looking lashes with a soft, dramatic finish. This is less about perfectly separated natural lashes and more about creating a noticeable, glamorous lash look.
Who is it good for?
Fine lashes, sparse lashes, evening makeup and anyone who loves bold volume.
Waterproof or regular?
Choose regular for everyday glam. Choose waterproof for weddings, humid weather, vacations or occasions where you need extra staying power.
Why we like it: It gives fine lashes noticeably more presence without needing false lashes.
3. Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara
Best for: Affordable volume and length
Price: $
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.4/5
Essence Lash Princess proves that you do not have to spend a lot to get dramatic lashes. The formula is designed to create both length and volume for a more noticeable, false lash inspired effect. It is especially appealing if you love experimenting with makeup but do not want to spend prestige prices on mascara.
Who is it good for?
Budget conscious beauty lovers, beginners and anyone who wants dramatic lashes at an affordable price.
Waterproof or regular?
Choose regular for everyday makeup. Choose waterproof if you deal with humidity, watery eyes, sweat or need your mascara to last through a long day.
Why we like it: The price makes it one of the easiest mascaras to try without a big commitment.
4. Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara
Best for: Lift and separation
Price: $$$$
Rating: ★★★★★ 4.7/5
Lancôme Lash Idôle is all about creating lifted, separated and fanned out lashes. Rather than loading the lashes with a heavy formula, it creates polished volume while helping the eyes appear more open. The curved brush makes it especially good for catching and defining individual lashes.
Who is it good for?
Straight lashes, lashes that need lift and anyone who prefers definition over extremely heavy volume.
Waterproof or regular?
Choose regular for everyday wear. Choose waterproof if your lashes tend to lose their curl or you need extra protection against humidity, water or long wear.
Why we like it: The combination of lift and separation creates a beautiful fanned out effect without making the lashes look overly heavy.
5. Benefit BADgal BANG! Mascara
Best for: Length and buildable volume
Price: $$$
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.6/5
Benefit BADgal BANG! gives you a little bit of everything. The lightweight formula can be layered for more volume while the narrow brush helps define and lengthen even smaller lashes. It is a great middle ground if you cannot decide between a lengthening mascara and a volumizing one.
Who is it good for?
Short, fine, sparse or straight lashes and anyone who wants both length and volume.
Waterproof or regular?
Choose regular for everyday makeup. Choose waterproof for sweat, humidity, watery eyes, vacations and long events.
Why we like it: You can control the intensity. One coat gives definition while additional coats create a much bolder lash.
Which Mascara Is Right for You?
Your perfect mascara really depends on what you want your lashes to do.
For length: Maybelline Sky High
For dramatic volume: Too Faced Better Than Sex
For an affordable option: Essence Lash Princess
For lift and separation: Lancôme Lash Idôle
For length plus volume: Benefit BADgal BANG!
For most everyday makeup, a regular mascara is perfectly suitable and easier to remove. Waterproof formulas make more sense when you need additional staying power for humidity, watery eyes, weddings, vacations or long events.
The best place to start is simple: decide whether your lashes need more length, volume, lift or definition, then choose the formula designed to give you exactly that.