Best Curling Mascara of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 21, 2026

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Curling mascara is a must-have in every woman's makeup bag. This type of mascara is specially formulated to give your lashes a beautiful curl, making them look longer and more defined. The unique brush design allows for easy application, ensuring that every lash is coated evenly. Curling mascaras come in a variety of shades to suit every skin tone and personal preference. This product is perfect for those who want to achieve a natural look or those who want to make a bold statement with their lashes. Say goodbye to eyelash curlers and hello to beautiful, curled lashes with curling mascara.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Super Curling & Lifting Mascara Cover #TOP 1
Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Super Curling & Lifting Mascara
ftb score rating icon 9.8
essence | Lash Princess Curl & Volume Mascara Cover #TOP 2
essence | Lash Princess Curl & Volume Mascara
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Lancôme Curl Goddess Mascara Black Cover #TOP 3
Lancôme Curl Goddess Mascara Black
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Curling Mascara

Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Super Curling & Lifting Mascara

172480
Black
Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Super Curling & Lifting Mascara Cover
Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Super Curling & Lifting Mascara in Black 0.3 oz

Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Super Curling & Lifting Mascara in Black 0.3 oz is a water-resistant and easy-to-remove mascara that features an instant curve-setting formula that holds for 12 hours. It helps grab, separate, lift and curl up lashes. Customers have praised the mascara for its easy application and removal, as well as its ability to give great volume without causing the butterfly eyes. However, some customers have noted that the mascara smudges easily and have been disappointed with the quality of the product.

What We Like
No clumping
Easy to remove
Lifts and separates lashes
Long-lasting wear
Gentle on eyes
What We Don't Like
May dry out quickly
Does not curl lashes for everyone

essence | Lash Princess Curl & Volume Mascara

4059729327024
Black
essence | Lash Princess Curl & Volume Mascara Cover
essence | Lash Princess Curl & Volume Mascara | Vegan & Cruelty Free

The essence Lash Princess Curl & Volume Mascara is the newest addition to the Lash Princess family. It promises dramatic volume and curl without clumps or globs, and is formulated without animal byproducts, alcohol, parabens, or fragrance. This mascara is certified and acknowledged by PETA as a cruelty-free brand, and is made in Luxembourg. Customers who have tried the product note that it is non-irritating, that it provides great value and performance, and that it gives a dramatic lash look. Some customers have noted that it can be clumpy and that it is not waterproof.

What We Like
Affordable price
Long-lasting wear
Volume and curl boost
No clumping
Vegan and cruelty-free
What We Don't Like
May flake for some
Limited color options
#TOP 3

Lancôme Curl Goddess Mascara Black

0.4 Fl Oz
Lancôme Curl Goddess Mascara Black Cover
Lancôme Curl Goddess Mascara 01 Black – Volumizing & Curling Mascara for Dramatic Lashes, 1.5x Curl Boost, +800% Volume, 30H Hold, Clump-Free, Weightless, Fanned-Out Lashes, Full Size

The Lancôme Curl Goddess Mascara offers a powerful curl and volume boost, giving your lashes a dramatic lift and fullness. You don’t need a lash curler since it uses a unique technology inspired by hair styling to keep your curl locked in place all day. This mascara lasts up to 30 hours without weighing your lashes down, so you can enjoy long-lasting wear without discomfort. Its specially designed 40-degree twisted brush ensures even the shortest lashes get coated, making your eyes look fuller and more defined with every swipe.

What We Like
Ergonomic curved tube design
Clump-free and defined lashes
Long-lasting, all-day wear
Easy removal process
Volumizing and curling effect
What We Don't Like
Minor smudging on lower lashes
Modest curl without curler
#TOP 4

Maybelline Volum' Express Colossal Curl Bounce Washable Curling Mascara

041554069556
VERY BLACK
Maybelline Volum' Express Colossal Curl Bounce Washable Curling Mascara Cover
Maybelline Volum' Express Colossal Curl Bounce Washable Curling Mascara, Very Black, 1 Count

Maybelline Volum' Express Colossal Curl Bounce Washable Mascara is a great choice for those who want to add volume and curl to their lashes. It features a Curl N'Bounce brush that separates and curls lashes while its Memory Curl formula keeps lashes curled up for big, bouncy, long lasting volume that lasts all day. Customers have found it to be smudge and flake resistant, and it is easy to remove with micellar water. However, some have found it to be a bit dry and clumpy when freshly opened.

What We Like
Long-lasting wear
Enhances lash volume
Curls and separates lashes
Easy to apply
Suitable for sensitive users
What We Don't Like
Difficult to remove
Occasional clumping or dryness

L'Oreal Paris Extensionist Mascara

0071249702819
BLACKEST BLACK
L'Oreal Paris Extensionist Mascara Cover
L'Oreal Paris Extensionist Mascara, Lengthening, Volumizing, and Curling Formula For a Lash Extension Eye Makeup Look, Washable Blackest Black

The L'Oreal Extensionist Mascara is designed to give you longer, fuller, and more curled lashes. It lifts your lashes up to 5 millimeters closer to your brows, making your eyes look bigger and more awake. The formula lasts all day without smudging or flaking, so you don’t have to worry about touch-ups. Its special brush has 300 bristles that separate and define each lash, giving you a clump-free and natural look. Plus, the magnetic formula with tiny fibers sticks to your lashes, creating the effect of lash extensions without the salon visit.

What We Like
Lengthens short lashes
No clumping or flakes
Easy removal
Holds curl well
Great for sensitive eyes
What We Don't Like
Wet formula takes practice
Can clump with heavy coats

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Lengthening, Defining

041554590517
BLACKEST BLACK
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Lengthening, Defining Cover
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Lengthening, Defining, Curling, Multiplying, Buildable Formula, Blackest Black, 1 Count

Maybelline Sky High Washable Mascara Makeup is a volumizing, lengthening, defining, curling, and multiplying mascara that is designed to transform your look. It is infused with bamboo extract and fibers for long, full and lightweight lashes that don't flake or smudge. The exclusive Flex Tower mascara brush bends to volumize and extend every single lash from root to tip. It is ophthalmologist and allergy tested, suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. Customers have found that it is a great mascara for Asian lashes, providing the right amount of volume and able to keep lashes up throughout the day. It is also easy to remove with any face wash that is formulated to dissolve makeup.

What We Like
Long, defined lashes
No clumping or flaking
Easy removal
Affordable price
Stays on all day
What We Don't Like
Mild eye irritation for some
Brush takes adjustment

e.l.f. Lash 'N Roll Mascara

83071
Black
e.l.f. Lash 'N Roll Mascara Cover
e.l.f. Lash 'N Roll Mascara, Curling Mascara For Visibly Lifted Lashes, Lifts & Separates Lashes. Long-Lasting Formula, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, Black

The e.l.f. Lash 'N Roll Mascara, also known as the e.l.f. Curling Mascara, is the ultimate solution for maximum curl and unbeatable lift. With this mascara, you can achieve your most lifted lashes ever without the need for a lash curler. The shorter bristles of the double-sided and curved silicone brush hold onto the formula, while the longer bristles separate, lift, and evenly coat each lash. The long-lasting formula is smudge- and flake-resistant, ensuring that your curl stays in place all day long. Made with skin-loving ingredients, this mascara is not only effective but also cruelty-free and vegan. Experience visibly lifted lashes with the e.l.f. Curling Mascara.

What We Like
Long-lasting curl hold
No clumping or flaking
Gentle for sensitive eyes
Easy removal
Natural, defined lash look
What We Don't Like
Brush may be too firm for some
Not highly volumizing
#TOP 8

e.l.f. Incredi-Curl Volumizing Mascara

609332851719
Pitch Black
e.l.f. Incredi-Curl Volumizing Mascara Cover
e.l.f. Incredi-Curl Mascara, Volumizing Mascara For A Bold, Lasting, Lifted Curl, Smudge-Resistant Formula, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, Pitch Black

The e.l.f. Incredi-Curl Mascara is designed to give your lashes a bold and lasting lift with added volume. Its buildable formula helps you achieve a curl that stays all day, making your eyes stand out. The unique curved, double-sided brush makes it easy to grab every lash, lifting and volumizing them perfectly. Plus, you won’t have to worry about smudges or flakes, as this mascara resists smearing and transfer, keeping your look fresh no matter what. This mascara is a great choice for anyone wanting dramatic lashes without the mess.

What We Like
Noticeable lash curl
No smudging or flaking
Easy application
Volume and length
Gentle removal
What We Don't Like
Some clumping
Inconsistent color pricing
#TOP 9

Trish McEvoy Lash Curling Mascara

95943
Jet Black
Trish McEvoy Lash Curling Mascara Cover
Trish McEvoy Lash Curling Mascara, Jet Black, .18 oz/5 g

This mascara features a polymer-based tubular formula that helps amplify and curl your lashes. It is a bestselling product that can help you achieve the perfect look for any occasion.

What We Like
Easy warm water removal
No raccoon eyes
Long-lasting wear
Good lash separation
Gentle for sensitive eyes
What We Don't Like
Clumping in tube
Expensive price

KISSME HEROINE MAKE Long UP Mascara

Black
KISSME HEROINE MAKE Long UP Mascara Cover
HEROINE MAKE by KISSME Waterproof Mascara Black | Tubing Mascara Volume and Length by Defining Fiber for Long and Curl Eye Makeup for Women, Made in Japan, Black, 1 EA

This mascara is made with super lengthening fiber that entangles and lengthens eyelashes, creating a beautiful and separated look. Its curl-locking ingredients and memory-shape polymer hold lashes upward all day long. The ultra-strong waterproof formula resists tears, sweat, water, oils, and abrasions without smudging. Additionally, it contains six kinds of eyelash serum ingredients that protect sensitive lashes from damage while wearing makeup. Made in Japan, this mascara has reliable quality standards.

What We Like
Long-lasting curl hold
Waterproof and smudge-proof
Lengthening and volumizing effect
No flaking or clumping
Separates and defines lashes
What We Don't Like
Difficult removal process
Small tube size
Buying Guide Image

Why We Recommend Curling Mascara

Understanding Your Needs

Before choosing a curling mascara, it's important to understand your specific needs and preferences. Are you looking for a mascara that will provide intense curl, or one that will simply add a subtle lift to your lashes? Do you have sensitive eyes or allergies that you need to consider? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and choose a mascara that will work well for you.

Testing the Formula

Once you have a good idea of what you're looking for, it's time to start testing out different formulas. The best way to do this is to visit a cosmetics counter and ask for samples. Many makeup counters will be happy to give you small samples of their mascaras so that you can try them out at home. This will allow you to test the formula and see how well it curls your lashes without committing to a full-sized tube.

Looking at the Brush

The brush is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a curling mascara. A brush with a curved shape will help to lift and curl your lashes, while a brush with short, dense bristles will help to separate and define your lashes. Experiment with different brush shapes and sizes to find one that works well for your lashes.

Considering the Ingredients

It's also important to pay attention to the ingredients in your mascara. Some ingredients, such as panthenol and vitamin E, can help to nourish and protect your lashes. Other ingredients, such as alcohol, can be drying and damaging to your lashes. Take a look at the ingredient list and choose a mascara that contains nourishing, gentle ingredients.

Applying the Mascara

Once you've chosen the perfect mascara, it's time to apply it. Start by curling your lashes with an eyelash curler to create a base for the mascara to cling to. Then, apply a thin layer of mascara to your upper lashes, starting at the base and wiggling the brush back and forth as you move upward. Use a zig-zag motion to coat each individual lash and avoid clumps. Repeat on your lower lashes, if desired.

Touching Up Throughout the Day

To keep your lashes looking curled and beautiful throughout the day, you may need to touch up your mascara. Carry a small tube of mascara with you and use it to reapply as needed. This will help to maintain the curl and keep your lashes looking fabulous.

Choosing a curling mascara can seem daunting, but with a little bit of experimentation and knowledge, you can find the perfect mascara for your needs. Consider your specific needs and preferences, test out different formulas, pay attention to the brush and ingredients, and apply the mascara carefully. With the right mascara, you can achieve beautiful, curled lashes that will enhance your natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does curling mascara really work?

Yes, curling mascara does work. It acts like hair mousse for your lashes, holding them up and making them appear bigger. As you apply the mascara and push your lashes out and up, the curling formula helps them stay curled, giving your eyes a more open and lifted look.

2. What makes a mascara curling?

Curling mascaras contain polymers that form a synthetic tube around the base of each lash. These polymers act as a support system, preventing the lashes from falling and helping them stay curled as you brush them upwards.

3. What mascara doesn't weigh down lashes?

Clear mascara is a great option for those who don't want their lashes to be weighed down by heavy, dark product. Unlike traditional black or brown mascaras, clear mascara adds natural definition, separation, and a glossy effect to bare lashes without adding extra weight.

4. How do I get my mascara to hold a curl?

To help your mascara hold a curl, try curling your lashes three times instead of just once. Avoid using mascara primers and opt for waterproof mascara formulas. Keep your mascara application light and consider trying a lash lift for a longer-lasting curl.

5. Can you train your eyelashes to curl?

Yes, you can train your eyelashes to curl with daily use of an eyelash curler. Initially, lashes may be resistant to curling, so you may need to hold down the curler longer for the first few weeks to achieve the desired curl.

6. What can I use to keep my eyelashes curled all day?

After curling your lashes, you can use a heated eyelash curler to set the curl. The heat helps shape the lash hair for a longer-lasting hold. Just like a curling iron, a bit of heat can make a difference in maintaining the curl throughout the day.

7. How do I keep my mascara from weighing down my curls?

To prevent mascara from weighing down your curls, look up as you apply it. Place the wand against the base of your lashes and wiggle it back and forth to add lift and curl. Pull the wand out towards the tips of your lashes in a zig-zag motion to ensure every lash is coated.

Editor's Notes

During our curling mascara research, we found 48 curling mascara products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 902,591 customer reviews through our big data system to write the curling mascara list. We found that most customers choose curling mascara with an average price of $12.01.

The curling mascara are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of curling mascara, including Benefit, essence, MAYBELLINE, L'Oreal Paris, e.l.f.. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 93 consumers with an average rating of 4.1.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Curling Mascara Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Benefit essence Lancôme MAYBELLINE L'Oreal Paris MAYBELLINE e.l.f. e.l.f. Trish McEvoy Heroine Make
Item Form Cream Cream Stick Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Cream Liquid Liquid
Color Black Black - VERY BLACK BLACKEST BLACK BLACKEST BLACK Black Pitch Black Jet Black Black
Product Benefits Thickening Curling, Lifting, Separating, Volumizing - Lengthening, Volumizing, Curling, Lifting, Lash Enhancing, Washable Curling, Lengthening, Separating, Volumizing Defining, Lengthening, Volumizing, Washable Lifting, separating, long-lasting, smudge-resistant, flake-resistant Lifting, Long Lasting, Volumizing Wears beyond compare, putting an end to tear tracks, raccoon eyes, and streaky removal. Lengthening
Special Feature Water Resistant Not Tested On Animals - Smudge-Proof - High Pigment Density Non-Flaking, Smudge-Proof Lightweight, Long-Wearing Waterproof Non-Clumping, Smudge-Proof, Waterproof
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
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