Best Water Based Mascara of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 7, 2025

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Water-based mascara is a type of cosmetic product that is formulated with water as its base ingredient. It is a popular choice among individuals who prefer a natural look and want to avoid harsh chemicals found in traditional mascaras. Water-based mascaras are known for their easy application and ability to provide a subtle and natural appearance to eyelashes. They are also gentle on the eyes and easily removed with water or a mild cleanser. Overall, water-based mascaras are a great option for those seeking a more natural and gentle approach to enhancing their eyelashes.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Benefit Bad Gal Bang Volumizing Mascara Cover #TOP 1
Benefit Bad Gal Bang Volumizing Mascara
ftb score rating icon 9.9
L'Oreal Paris Waterproof Mascara Cover #TOP 2
L'Oreal Paris Waterproof Mascara
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Maybelline Define-A-Lash Lengthening Washable Mascara Cover #TOP 3
Maybelline Define-A-Lash Lengthening Washable Mascara
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 4 Water Based Mascara

Benefit Bad Gal Bang Volumizing Mascara

0602004087867
Black
Benefit Bad Gal Bang Volumizing Mascara Cover
Benefit Bad Gal Bang Volumizing Mascara, Regular Size, 0.3 Fl Oz, Black

Benefit Bad Gal Bang Volumizing Mascara is designed to give you voluminous and thick lashes. Its smudge-proof and water-resistant formula ensures that your lashes remain perfect all day long. The mascara contains provitamin B5 which helps to increase the strength and thickness of your lashes. The brush is designed to wiggle from the base to the tips of your lashes for maximum coverage. This is a regular-sized mascara with a volume of 0.3 Fl Oz in black.

What We Like
Lengthens lashes
Adds volume
Intense black color
Long-lasting wear
#TOP 2

L'Oreal Paris Waterproof Mascara

071249378052
Waterproof Black
L'Oreal Paris Waterproof Mascara Cover
L’Oréal Paris Makeup Voluminous Original Waterproof Mascara, Black, 0.28 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)

L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Volume Building Waterproof Mascara in black comes in a set of two. It is a bold, clump-resistant mascara that can build up to 4x fuller lashes. It separates and builds every lash, making your eyes look stunning. It is waterproof, so you don't have to worry about smudging or flaking throughout the day.

What We Like
Builds volume up to 4x fuller lashes
Separates and builds every lash
Clump-resistant and waterproof
#TOP 3

Maybelline Define-A-Lash Lengthening Washable Mascara

WASHABLE VERY BLACK
Maybelline Define-A-Lash Lengthening Washable Mascara Cover
Maybelline New York Define-A-Lash Lengthening Washable Mascara, Very Black. For Washable Definition and Shape in Longer-looking Lashes , 0.22 Fluid Ounce

Maybelline Define-A-Lash Lengthening Washable Mascara is a zero-clump mascara that creates stunning length with clean definition. The patented shaped-to-the-lash flexible brush elongates and accentuates lashes, delivering the perfect amount of formula to each lash for zero clumps. It is ophthalmologist tested and contact lens safe.

What We Like
Zero-clump mascara
Shaped-to-the-lash flexible brush for elongated and accentuated lashes
Ophthalmologist tested and contact lens safe
#TOP 4

GladGirl Lashe EnMasse Mascara

unknown
Black
GladGirl Lashe EnMasse Mascara Cover
GladGirl Lashe EnMasse Mascara for Eyelash Extensions, Oil Free Mascara with Dual-Brush Wand, Made in the USA, Vegan Mascara and Hypoallergenic

GladGirl Lashe EnMasse Mascara is a vegan and hypoallergenic mascara specially formulated to be safe for use with eyelash extensions. It comes with a dual-brush wand that has a thick brush to create a lush and fuller look and a brush comb to separate your lashes into finer details. It is made in the USA and can be washed off at the end of the day. It is perfect for enhancing volume, definition, color and appearance of length in a smooth, smudge-free finish.

What We Like
Oil-free formula protects and enhances eyelash extensions
Dual-brush wand for a lush and fuller look
Vegan and safe for sensitive eyes
Buying Guide Image

Selecting the Right Water Based Mascara

Choosing the Right Water Based Mascara

Mascara is an essential part of many people's daily beauty routine, but with so many different options available, it can be overwhelming trying to choose the right one. Water based mascaras are a popular choice for many people, as they tend to be less drying and irritating to the eyes than other formulas. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right water based mascara for your needs.

Consider Your Lash Type

Not all mascaras are created equal, and different formulas are designed to work best with different lash types. If you have short, thin lashes, for example, you'll want to choose a mascara that is designed to add volume and length to your lashes. This will help you achieve a fuller, more dramatic look. On the other hand, if you have long, thick lashes, you'll want to choose a mascara that is designed to separate and define your lashes, rather than add volume.

Look for a Water-Resistant Formula

One of the key benefits of water based mascaras is that they are typically less drying and irritating to the eyes than other formulas. However, this doesn't mean that they are not water-resistant. In fact, many water based mascaras are specifically designed to be water-resistant, which means that they won't smudge or run if you get caught in the rain or if you accidentally rub your eyes. This is an important consideration, especially if you have sensitive eyes or if you live in a rainy climate.

Choose a High-Quality Brand

When it comes to choosing a water based mascara, it's important to choose a high-quality brand. Cheap mascaras may be tempting, but they are often made with lower-quality ingredients that can be drying and irritating to the eyes. In addition, they may not provide the same level of performance as more expensive mascaras. Instead, look for a reputable brand that has a good reputation for producing high-quality, long-lasting mascaras.

Read Reviews

Another great way to choose the right water based mascara is to read reviews from other customers. This will give you a good idea of what other people like and don't like about the product, and can help you make an informed decision. Keep in mind that everyone's experience with a mascara will be different, so it's important to read a range of reviews in order to get a well-rounded perspective.

Conclusion

Choosing the right water based mascara can be a challenge, but by considering your lash type, looking for a water-resistant formula, choosing a high-quality brand, and reading reviews, you can find the perfect mascara for your needs. With the right mascara, you'll be able to achieve beautiful, voluminous, and defined lashes that last all day long.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do you tell if makeup is silicone or water-based?

To determine if your makeup is silicone or water-based, check the ingredients list. Silicone-based products often contain ingredients ending in -cone, -methicone, and -siloxane as the second or third ingredient. However, just because the first ingredient is water doesn't necessarily mean the foundation is water-based.

2. Are all mascaras oil based?

Not all mascaras are oil-based. Oil-free mascaras, which are water-based, exist and are particularly suitable for those with sensitive eyes. Water-based mascaras dry faster and are easier to layer. They are also recommended for people with lash extensions and sensitive eyes.

3. What makeup to avoid with eyelash extensions?

When you have eyelash extensions, it's important to avoid oil-based and waterproof products. These can cause damage to the extensions. Additionally, it's recommended to avoid stubborn point makeup like lipstick, eyeliner, and eyeshadow. Deep-cleansing between the lashes and avoiding oil- or alcohol-based lotions, creams, and moisturizers near the lash line is also essential.

4. What products not to use with eyelash extensions?

When you have eyelash extensions, it's crucial to avoid using any products that are oil- or alcohol-based. This includes lotions, creams, and moisturizers that contain oils. These products can compromise the adhesive bond of the extensions and may lead to premature shedding or damage.

Editor's Notes

During our water based mascara research, we found 48 water based mascara products and shortlisted 4 quality products. We collected and analyzed 105,427 customer reviews through our big data system to write the water based mascara list. We found that most customers choose water based mascara with an average price of $6.54.

The water based mascara are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of water based mascara, including Benefit, MAYBELLINE, GladGirl. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 221 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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.