Best Waterproof Mascara of 2026

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

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Waterproof mascara is a makeup staple for anyone who wants to avoid smudging or running due to sweat, tears, or water exposure. This type of mascara is designed to stay in place, even in the toughest conditions, without compromising on volume or length. Whether you're hitting the beach, going for a run, or attending a wedding, waterproof mascara can keep your lashes looking flawless all day long. Some popular brands of waterproof mascara include Maybelline New York's Great Lash Waterproof Mascara, L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Waterproof Mascara, and Covergirl Lashblast Volume Waterproof Mascara.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara Cover #TOP 1
essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara
ftb score rating icon 9.8
L’Oreal Paris Makeup Voluminous Original Volume Building Waterproof Mascara Cover #TOP 2
L’Oreal Paris Makeup Voluminous Original Volume Building Waterproof Mascara
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Maybelline Sky High Waterproof Mascara Cover #TOP 3
Maybelline Sky High Waterproof Mascara
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Waterproof Mascara

essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara

117065
Black
essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara Cover
essence | Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara | Vegan & Cruelty Free | For Length & Volume (Pack of 1)

The Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara from essence provides lashes with length and dramatic volume as well as a false-lash effect. This vegan and cruelty-free mascara is free from alcohol, parabens, fragrance, and microplastic particles, and is long-lasting and waterproof. It is easy to apply, and provides a voluminous, bold look with just one or two coats. However, it can be difficult to remove and may leave black flecks on the cheeks.

What We Like
Amazing length and volume
Waterproof and long-lasting
Affordable price
Easy to layer without clumping

L’Oreal Paris Makeup Voluminous Original Volume Building Waterproof Mascara

boi-opp-klo-uyi4078
Carbon Black
L’Oreal Paris Makeup Voluminous Original Volume Building Waterproof Mascara Cover
L’Oreal Paris Makeup Voluminous Original Volume Building Waterproof Mascara, Carbon Black, 0.23 Fl Oz

L’Oreal Paris Makeup Voluminous Original Volume Building Waterproof Mascara is a bold, volume-building mascara that provides up to 4x fuller lashes with intense black pigments. It is clump-resistant and waterproof, making it perfect for those with sensitive eyes or who need a long-lasting look. Customers love the full, thick, and healthy look it gives their lashes, and appreciate that it lasts all day without smudging or flaking.

What We Like
Full, thick, and healthy-looking lashes
Long-lasting and waterproof formula
Does not smudge or smear
#TOP 3

Maybelline Sky High Waterproof Mascara

041554590906
BROWNISH BLACK
Maybelline Sky High Waterproof Mascara Cover
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Lengthening, Defining, Curling, Multiplying, Buildable Formula, Brownish Black, 1 Count

Maybelline Sky High Waterproof Mascara is a volumizing and lengthening mascara that is infused with bamboo extract and fibers. It features a unique Flex Tower mascara brush that bends to volumize and extend every single lash from root to tip. Customers love the natural look it gives their lashes and the fact that it is smudge-proof and waterproof. However, some customers have complained that it is difficult to remove and that the wand is too flexible.

What We Like
Smudge-proof and waterproof
Unique Flex Tower mascara brush
Gives lashes a natural look
#TOP 4

L'Oreal Paris Extensionist Waterproof Mascara

0071249702796
BLACK WATERPROOF
L'Oreal Paris Extensionist Waterproof Mascara Cover
L'Oreal Paris Extensionist Waterproof Mascara, Lengthening, Volumizing, and Curling Formula For a Lash Extension Eye Makeup Look, Waterproof Black

The L'Oreal Extensionist Mascara is designed to give you lashes that look longer, fuller, and beautifully curled. Its unique formula lifts your lashes up to 5mm closer to your brows, creating a bold and eye-opening effect. You can enjoy your look all day long, as this mascara lasts for 24 hours without smudging or flaking. The specially designed brush with 300 bristles helps separate and curl each lash perfectly, so you get a clump-free finish every time. Plus, the magnetic formula with lengthening fibers works together to give you an extreme lash extension look, making your eyes stand out effortlessly.

What We Like
5MM lash lift effect
24-hour long wear
Precision sculpting brush
Magnetic lash extension formula

Maybelline Sky High Waterproof Mascara

041554590913
VERY BLACK
Maybelline Sky High Waterproof Mascara Cover
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Lengthening, Defining, Curling, Multiplying, Buildable Formula, Very Black, 1 Count

Maybelline Sky High Waterproof Mascara Makeup is a volumizing, lengthening, defining, and curling mascara that is infused with bamboo extract and fibers. Its exclusive Flex Tower mascara brush bends to volumize and extend every single lash from root to tip. Customers have praised its ability to make their lashes look longer and fuller, and its waterproof formula that stays put even in the pool.

What We Like
Infused with bamboo extract and fibers for long, full and lightweight lashes
Exclusive Flex Tower mascara brush bends to volumize and extend every single lash
Waterproof formula that stays put even in the pool

CLINIQUE High Impact Waterproof Mascara

V16K010000
AA Black
CLINIQUE High Impact Waterproof Mascara Cover
Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara | Volume, Length, Smudge-Proof + Safe For Sensitive Eyes, Black, 0.28 Fl Oz

CLINIQUE High Impact Waterproof Mascara is perfect for those who want to create a bold and voluminous eye look. This mascara is waterproof, non-flaking, non-clumping, and non-smudging. It has been ophthalmologist-tested and is safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. With a deep black color, it provides high impact to the eyes by adding instant volume and length to every single lash. The result is a lusher, plusher, and bolder eye look.

What We Like
Long-lasting wear
True waterproof formula
No clumping or flaking
Lightweight and comfortable
Easy application and removal
#TOP 7

Maybelline The Falsies Waterproof Mascara

K0689700
VERY BLACK
Maybelline The Falsies Waterproof Mascara Cover
Maybelline Volum' Express The Falsies Waterproof Mascara, Volumizing and Separating Make Up Formula, Very Black, 1 Count

Maybelline Falsies Mascara offers an impressive waterproof formula that enhances your lashes, giving them a fuller appearance. With its unique wand and spoon brush design, it effectively lifts and separates your lashes, ensuring you have a voluminous look without any gaps. This mascara is designed to provide longer-lasting wear, giving you 300% more visible lashes from corner to corner. Plus, it's ophthalmologist tested and safe for contact lens wearers, making it a convenient choice for anyone seeking a dramatic eye look without compromising comfort.

What We Like
Waterproof formula
Volume building
Flexible wand design
Suitable for contact lens wearers
#TOP 8

L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara

LO-LR336
L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara Cover
L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara, Blackest Black, 0.25 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) Packaging May Vary

L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara is a volumizing and lengthening liquid mascara that provides 20x more volume and up to 2x more length. It has a soft texture that doesn't stick hairs together, and is long-lasting and fade-proof. Customers report that it is easy to apply and remove, and that it gives a natural, voluminous look. However, some customers have reported that it is difficult to remove.

What We Like
Provides 20x more volume and up to 2x more length
Soft texture that doesn't stick hairs together
Long-lasting and fade-proof
Easy to apply and remove
Gives a natural, voluminous look
#TOP 9

L'Oreal Paris Telescopic Lengthening Mascara

071249390740
Waterproof Black
L'Oreal Paris Telescopic Lengthening Mascara Cover
L’Oreal Paris Makeup Original Telescopic Mascara, Separating Mascara Volume and Length Formula, Waterproof, Black, 0.27 Fl Oz., 1 Count

L'Oreal Paris Makeup Original Telescopic Lengthening Mascara is a lengthening mascara that enhances your lashes with intense length and unique lash-by-lash separation. The patented flexible Precision Brush lengthens lashes up to 60 percent, while the comb side of the brush precisely separates lashes for a clump-free result. Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, this mascara is ophthalmologist tested and allergy tested. It is also fragrance-free.

What We Like
Lengthens lashes up to 60 percent
Patented flexible Precision Brush
Ophthalmologist tested and allergy tested
Fragrance-free
Clump-free result
#TOP 10

Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara

SG_B00PFCT02W_US
BROWNISH BLACK
Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara Cover
Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara, Lengthening and Volumizing for a Full Fan Effect, Brownish Black, 1 Count

Get sensational lashes with Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara. The exclusive fanning brush with ten layers of bristles creates a full-fan effect, revealing layers of lashes for a dramatic look. This mascara adds length and volume without clumping, giving you the perfect fluttery lashes. It is ophthalmologist tested and safe for contact lens wearers. Whether you want a natural or dramatic eye look, Maybelline has got you covered with their range of eye makeup products. From highly pigmented eyeshadows to iconic mascaras, Maybelline helps you create the perfect eye look. Amp up the drama and define your eyes with Maybelline Waterproof Mascara.

What We Like
Dramatic full-fan effect
No clumping
Ophthalmologist tested
Buying Guide Image

Selecting the Right Waterproof Mascara

What is Waterproof Mascara?

Waterproof mascara is a type of mascara designed to be more resistant to the effects of sweat, tears, and water. It's formulated with special ingredients that are designed to make the mascara last longer, even in the most extreme conditions. The result is a more lasting, smudge-proof look that won't run or fade.

How to Choose Waterproof Mascara

When shopping for waterproof mascara, there are a few factors to consider. The first is the type of formula you want. There are two main types of waterproof mascara: water-resistant and water-proof. Water-resistant formulas are designed to be more resistant to water, but not completely waterproof. Water-proof formulas are designed to last all day and are completely waterproof.

Next, consider the type of brush you want. Waterproof mascaras come in a variety of brush styles, from traditional bristles to curved or conical shapes. Each type of brush provides a different result, so it's important to find one that works well with your eyelashes. You can also look for mascaras with special ingredients that help lock in moisture and keep the mascara looking fresh.

Lastly, consider the type of color you want. Waterproof mascaras come in a variety of colors, from black to brown to blue. Choose a color that works with your eye color and skin tone to get the best look.

Tips for Using Waterproof Mascara

When applying waterproof mascara, it's important to start with clean, dry lashes. If you have oily eyelids, use an oil-free eye makeup remover to clean your lashes before applying mascara. You should also curl your lashes before applying mascara to ensure the best results.

When applying the mascara, start at the base of the lashes and wiggle the wand up to the tips. This will help coat each lash and make sure that the product is evenly distributed. You can also use the wand to separate and define each lash for a more natural look.

Finally, make sure to apply a few extra coats of mascara to the tips of your lashes. This will help create a more dramatic look and make sure that your mascara stays in place all day.

Conclusion

Finding the right waterproof mascara can take some trial and error, but with a bit of research and experimentation, you can find a formula and brush that works for you. Remember to start with clean, dry lashes and apply a few extra coats to the tips for the best results. With the right waterproof mascara, you can create a beautiful and long-lasting look that won't budge, no matter what the day throws at you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why shouldnt you wear waterproof mascara?

The ingredients used in mainstream brand waterproof mascara are much stronger and even harsher than those in regular mascara. These ingredients damage your eyelashes and cause them to become very dry and very brittle. And this leads to fallout and loss of some of your beautiful eyelashes.

2. Does waterproof mascara actually work?

Plus, "waterproof mascaras are typically superior in keeping lashes lifted and curled," says Sabina Wizemann, senior chemist in the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab. While "they are usually a bit stickier [and] require more time to dry, once set, they usually do not smudge," she says.

3. Can you use waterproof mascara every day?

Not everyday is a waterproof day Waterproof mascara is ideal for summer months or when you know you're going to be sweaty, but using it everyday isn't advisable. Since it can't easily be removed, the continuous tugging at the lashes can cause them to become weaker and eventually make them fall out.

Editor's Notes

During our waterproof mascara research, we found 48 waterproof mascara products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,396,739 customer reviews through our big data system to write the waterproof mascara list. We found that most customers choose waterproof mascara with an average price of $10.50.

The waterproof mascara are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of waterproof mascara, including essence, L'Oreal Paris, MAYBELLINE, Clinique. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 4,874 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.