The 11 Best Mascaras, Tested by Real People

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People/Jessica Juliao

People/Jessica Juliao

Even naturally long lashes can use a littleoomphsometimes, and mascara brings the drama. Whether you’re looking for volume, length, or curl, mascara can make or break a look. “Formula is very important,” celebrity makeup artistDelina Medhintells PEOPLE. “I need something that I can build up. I love my lashes and my clients’ lashes to havea lotof mascara.” Some of those clients include actresses Issa Rae, Jessica Williams, and Ilana Glazer, as well as comedian Phoebe Robinson.We created an in-house makeup bar and tested 34 different mascaras in our PEOPLE Tested lab to see which ones were the easiest to apply, created false lash-level length and volume, and held up throughout the day (i.e. didn’t clump, smudge, or fade). During our testing, a handful of mascaras blew us away with their look and performance.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALECoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara at Amazon$14$10Jump to ReviewBest Clump-Proof:Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara at Amazon$27Jump to ReviewBest Shade Range:CoverGirl Lash Blast Mascara at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Curling:Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara at Amazon$28Jump to ReviewBest Volume:IT Cosmetics Volumizing Mascara at Amazon$27Jump to ReviewBest for a Natural Look:Glossier Lash Slick Mascara at Sephora$20Jump to ReviewBest False Lash Rival:Milk Makeup Kush Mascara at AmazonJump to ReviewBest with Keratin:Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to ReviewBest Tubing:Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara at Sephora$15Jump to Review

Even naturally long lashes can use a littleoomphsometimes, and mascara brings the drama. Whether you’re looking for volume, length, or curl, mascara can make or break a look. “Formula is very important,” celebrity makeup artistDelina Medhintells PEOPLE. “I need something that I can build up. I love my lashes and my clients’ lashes to havea lotof mascara.” Some of those clients include actresses Issa Rae, Jessica Williams, and Ilana Glazer, as well as comedian Phoebe Robinson.

We created an in-house makeup bar and tested 34 different mascaras in our PEOPLE Tested lab to see which ones were the easiest to apply, created false lash-level length and volume, and held up throughout the day (i.e. didn’t clump, smudge, or fade). During our testing, a handful of mascaras blew us away with their look and performance.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALECoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara at Amazon$14$10Jump to ReviewBest Clump-Proof:Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara at Amazon$27Jump to ReviewBest Shade Range:CoverGirl Lash Blast Mascara at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Curling:Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara at Amazon$28Jump to ReviewBest Volume:IT Cosmetics Volumizing Mascara at Amazon$27Jump to ReviewBest for a Natural Look:Glossier Lash Slick Mascara at Sephora$20Jump to ReviewBest False Lash Rival:Milk Makeup Kush Mascara at AmazonJump to ReviewBest with Keratin:Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to ReviewBest Tubing:Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara at Sephora$15Jump to Review

Best Overall:Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALECoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara at Amazon$14$10Jump to ReviewBest Clump-Proof:Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara at Amazon$27Jump to ReviewBest Shade Range:CoverGirl Lash Blast Mascara at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Curling:Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara at Amazon$28Jump to ReviewBest Volume:IT Cosmetics Volumizing Mascara at Amazon$27Jump to ReviewBest for a Natural Look:Glossier Lash Slick Mascara at Sephora$20Jump to ReviewBest False Lash Rival:Milk Makeup Kush Mascara at AmazonJump to ReviewBest with Keratin:Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to ReviewBest Tubing:Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara at Sephora$15Jump to Review

Best Overall:Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to Review

Best Overall:Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara at Amazon$29

Best Overall:

Best Budget:SALECoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara at Amazon$14$10Jump to Review

Best Budget:SALECoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara at Amazon$14$10

Best Budget:

SALE

Best Clump-Proof:Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara at Amazon$27Jump to Review

Best Clump-Proof:Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara at Amazon$27

Best Clump-Proof:

Best Shade Range:CoverGirl Lash Blast Mascara at AmazonJump to Review

Best Shade Range:CoverGirl Lash Blast Mascara at Amazon

Best Shade Range:

Best Curling:Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara at Amazon$28Jump to Review

Best Curling:Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara at Amazon$28

Best Curling:

Best Volume:IT Cosmetics Volumizing Mascara at Amazon$27Jump to Review

Best Volume:IT Cosmetics Volumizing Mascara at Amazon$27

Best Volume:

Best for a Natural Look:Glossier Lash Slick Mascara at Sephora$20Jump to Review

Best for a Natural Look:Glossier Lash Slick Mascara at Sephora$20

Best for a Natural Look:

Best False Lash Rival:Milk Makeup Kush Mascara at AmazonJump to Review

Best False Lash Rival:Milk Makeup Kush Mascara at Amazon

Best False Lash Rival:

Best with Keratin:Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to Review

Best with Keratin:Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara at Amazon$29

Best with Keratin:

Best Tubing:Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara at Sephora$15Jump to Review

Best Tubing:Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara at Sephora$15

Best Tubing:

Best OverallToo Faced Better Than Sex MascaraPHOTO: Sephora$29 at Amazon$16 at Nordstrom$29$16 at SephoraStar QualitiesSeparated eyelashes without clumpingDoesn’t smudgeEasy to apply and removeEffectively volumizes, lengthens, and curlsRed FlagsPricier than others on our listIf you’re looking for a greatbeauty product, Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara is one of the most popular mascaras in the U.S. for a reason. “One of my absolute faves — it gives your lashes volume and length,” says Medhin. Our team agreed, granting it a perfect score and praising the mascara for its ease of application, performance, and appearance.We love the hourglass brush because it separated our eyelashes and combed through them without clumping. It has a great grip and application, and we noticed it didn’t smudge or flake. It emphasized our natural lashes, making them thicker and multidimensional without being too dramatic. Plus, despite being waterproof, this formula was easy to remove at the end of the day.Size:0.27 oz. / 8 mL |Mascara Type:Curling, lengthening |Key Ingredients:Acacia Senegal tree extract, peptides, film-forming polymer |Wand Type:HourglassPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best OverallToo Faced Better Than Sex MascaraPHOTO: Sephora$29 at Amazon$16 at Nordstrom$29$16 at Sephora

Best OverallToo Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

Best Overall

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

PHOTO: Sephora

$29 at Amazon$16 at Nordstrom$29$16 at Sephora

Star QualitiesSeparated eyelashes without clumpingDoesn’t smudgeEasy to apply and removeEffectively volumizes, lengthens, and curlsRed FlagsPricier than others on our list

Star QualitiesSeparated eyelashes without clumpingDoesn’t smudgeEasy to apply and removeEffectively volumizes, lengthens, and curls

Separated eyelashes without clumping

Doesn’t smudge

Easy to apply and remove

Effectively volumizes, lengthens, and curls

Red FlagsPricier than others on our list

Pricier than others on our list

If you’re looking for a greatbeauty product, Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara is one of the most popular mascaras in the U.S. for a reason. “One of my absolute faves — it gives your lashes volume and length,” says Medhin. Our team agreed, granting it a perfect score and praising the mascara for its ease of application, performance, and appearance.

We love the hourglass brush because it separated our eyelashes and combed through them without clumping. It has a great grip and application, and we noticed it didn’t smudge or flake. It emphasized our natural lashes, making them thicker and multidimensional without being too dramatic. Plus, despite being waterproof, this formula was easy to remove at the end of the day.

Size:0.27 oz. / 8 mL |Mascara Type:Curling, lengthening |Key Ingredients:Acacia Senegal tree extract, peptides, film-forming polymer |Wand Type:Hourglass

PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best BudgetCoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored MascaraPHOTO: Ulta$14$10 at Amazon$10 at Target$10 at WalmartStar QualitiesDoesn’t flake or smudgeVolumizes and lengthensIncredible value compared to other mascaras we testedRed FlagsNo cons detectedWe have a full list of incredible mascaras here, but not all of them are necessarily budget-friendly. We appreciate Covergirl for providing an affordable and effective mascara like the Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara. This mascara is very easy to use, and the shape of the brush makes it simple to apply to the upperandlower lashes.This mascara also received a perfect score in every test — use, wear, look, and performance. It didn’t smudge, flake, or transfer onto our skin, and it didn’t get that crunchy feel even after wearing it for hours. We loved the dark black color which created a definition among our lashes. It gave them a lift, curl, and plenty of volume and felt comfortable to wear. Plus, it came off with a makeup wipe without smearing or stinging.Size:0.30 oz. |Mascara Type:Curling, lengthening |Key Ingredients:Coconut oil, jojoba oil |Wand Type:ThickPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica Juliao

Best BudgetCoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored MascaraPHOTO: Ulta$14$10 at Amazon$10 at Target$10 at Walmart

Best BudgetCoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara

Best Budget

CoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara

PHOTO: Ulta

$14$10 at Amazon$10 at Target$10 at Walmart

Star QualitiesDoesn’t flake or smudgeVolumizes and lengthensIncredible value compared to other mascaras we testedRed FlagsNo cons detected

Star QualitiesDoesn’t flake or smudgeVolumizes and lengthensIncredible value compared to other mascaras we tested

Doesn’t flake or smudge

Volumizes and lengthens

Incredible value compared to other mascaras we tested

Red FlagsNo cons detected

No cons detected

We have a full list of incredible mascaras here, but not all of them are necessarily budget-friendly. We appreciate Covergirl for providing an affordable and effective mascara like the Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara. This mascara is very easy to use, and the shape of the brush makes it simple to apply to the upperandlower lashes.

This mascara also received a perfect score in every test — use, wear, look, and performance. It didn’t smudge, flake, or transfer onto our skin, and it didn’t get that crunchy feel even after wearing it for hours. We loved the dark black color which created a definition among our lashes. It gave them a lift, curl, and plenty of volume and felt comfortable to wear. Plus, it came off with a makeup wipe without smearing or stinging.

Size:0.30 oz. |Mascara Type:Curling, lengthening |Key Ingredients:Coconut oil, jojoba oil |Wand Type:Thick

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica Juliao

Best Clump-ProofBenefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening MascaraPHOTO: Target$27$24 at Amazon$16 at Nordstrom$29$16 at SephoraStar QualitiesNo smudging or transfer even after several hours of wearLength and volume mimic falsiesTip of the brush makes application easierRed FlagsDifficult to removeAs the name suggests, this mascara might have people questioning if your lashes are real because they will have the volume of agood falsie. This smooth formula and wand prevents clumps so your lashes stay separated and neat. The tip of the brush was helpful in grabbing the corner lashes and the lower lashes during our testing.The performance was stellar, with no smudging or transfer after several hours of wear. Our team appreciated that the mascara made our eyes look larger and lifted our lashes. It did take a few micellar water-soaked cotton rounds to remove it, but for the length and curl this mascara provides, we believe it’s worth the extra removal time.Size:0.3 oz. |Mascara Type:Lengthening |Key Ingredients:Beeswax |Wand Type:ThickPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica Juliao

Best Clump-ProofBenefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening MascaraPHOTO: Target$27$24 at Amazon$16 at Nordstrom$29$16 at Sephora

Best Clump-ProofBenefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara

Best Clump-Proof

Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara

PHOTO: Target

$27$24 at Amazon$16 at Nordstrom$29$16 at Sephora

Star QualitiesNo smudging or transfer even after several hours of wearLength and volume mimic falsiesTip of the brush makes application easierRed FlagsDifficult to remove

Star QualitiesNo smudging or transfer even after several hours of wearLength and volume mimic falsiesTip of the brush makes application easier

No smudging or transfer even after several hours of wear

Length and volume mimic falsies

Tip of the brush makes application easier

Red FlagsDifficult to remove

Difficult to remove

As the name suggests, this mascara might have people questioning if your lashes are real because they will have the volume of agood falsie. This smooth formula and wand prevents clumps so your lashes stay separated and neat. The tip of the brush was helpful in grabbing the corner lashes and the lower lashes during our testing.

The performance was stellar, with no smudging or transfer after several hours of wear. Our team appreciated that the mascara made our eyes look larger and lifted our lashes. It did take a few micellar water-soaked cotton rounds to remove it, but for the length and curl this mascara provides, we believe it’s worth the extra removal time.

Size:0.3 oz. |Mascara Type:Lengthening |Key Ingredients:Beeswax |Wand Type:Thick

Best Shade RangeCoverGirl Lash Blast MascaraPHOTO: UltaView on Amazon$10 at Target$10$9 at WalmartStar QualitiesVolumized even our bottom lashes in addition to our topDried quickly and lasted throughout the dayDidn’t clump, smudge, or flakeRed FlagsHard to grip the wandThis mascara offers maximum volume at a minimum price. With seven shades of black, brown, and blends of both, Lash Blast from Covergirl suits a range of eye colors and hair colors. Though some of our team weren’t fans of the wand shape, we had no issue applying this mascara. It grabbed all of our lashes very easily and coated them evenly. It worked well on our upper and lower lashes and was easily applied since the bristles are short and evenly spaced.For a drugstore mascara, it passed all of our tests beautifully. It did not smudge, flake, or transfer onto our upper lids or fingertips when we touched our lashes. And it definitely brought the volume. We noticed that our lower lashes looked especially full. Without clumping, Lash Blast dried quickly and remained intact throughout the day. And it came off easily with makeup remover. We didn’t love the strong scent but appreciated that our lashes remained soft when wearing the product.Size:0.44 oz. |Mascara Type:Volumizing, waterproof |Key Ingredients:Carnauba wax |Wand Type:ThickPeople / Jessica Juliao

Best Shade RangeCoverGirl Lash Blast MascaraPHOTO: UltaView on Amazon$10 at Target$10$9 at Walmart

Best Shade RangeCoverGirl Lash Blast Mascara

Best Shade Range

CoverGirl Lash Blast Mascara

View on Amazon$10 at Target$10$9 at Walmart

Star QualitiesVolumized even our bottom lashes in addition to our topDried quickly and lasted throughout the dayDidn’t clump, smudge, or flakeRed FlagsHard to grip the wand

Star QualitiesVolumized even our bottom lashes in addition to our topDried quickly and lasted throughout the dayDidn’t clump, smudge, or flake

Volumized even our bottom lashes in addition to our top

Dried quickly and lasted throughout the day

Didn’t clump, smudge, or flake

Red FlagsHard to grip the wand

Hard to grip the wand

This mascara offers maximum volume at a minimum price. With seven shades of black, brown, and blends of both, Lash Blast from Covergirl suits a range of eye colors and hair colors. Though some of our team weren’t fans of the wand shape, we had no issue applying this mascara. It grabbed all of our lashes very easily and coated them evenly. It worked well on our upper and lower lashes and was easily applied since the bristles are short and evenly spaced.

For a drugstore mascara, it passed all of our tests beautifully. It did not smudge, flake, or transfer onto our upper lids or fingertips when we touched our lashes. And it definitely brought the volume. We noticed that our lower lashes looked especially full. Without clumping, Lash Blast dried quickly and remained intact throughout the day. And it came off easily with makeup remover. We didn’t love the strong scent but appreciated that our lashes remained soft when wearing the product.

Size:0.44 oz. |Mascara Type:Volumizing, waterproof |Key Ingredients:Carnauba wax |Wand Type:Thick

People / Jessica Juliao

Best CurlingCharlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes MascaraPHOTO: Charlotte Tilbury$28 at Amazon$15 at Nordstrom$29$15 at SephoraStar QualitiesBrush and wand offer precise applicationNon-clumping formula is easy to removeCreates darker and longer lashes for a “wispy” effectRed FlagsInconsistent appearance across the length of some lashes versus othersWith an angular brush and smooth formula, this Charlotte Tilbury mascara creates long, curled, dramatic lashes. It’s not clumpy or messy at all, so it was easy to not get product on our eyelids or below our eyes. We noticed it had precise application — even on the inner corners of our eyes where smaller lashes live.The look of the mascara was most impressive. Our lashes looked darker and longer — almost wispy. After using this mascara, our lashes curved up beautifully, giving us the longest lashes we’ve ever seen from mascara (though we noticed some inconsistency between how the mascara lengthened some lashes versus others).Size:0.33 oz. / 10 mL |Mascara Type:Curling |Key Ingredients:Carnauba wax |Wand Type:Narrow, angledPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica Juliao

Best CurlingCharlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes MascaraPHOTO: Charlotte Tilbury$28 at Amazon$15 at Nordstrom$29$15 at Sephora

Best CurlingCharlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara

Best Curling

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara

PHOTO: Charlotte Tilbury

$28 at Amazon$15 at Nordstrom$29$15 at Sephora

Star QualitiesBrush and wand offer precise applicationNon-clumping formula is easy to removeCreates darker and longer lashes for a “wispy” effectRed FlagsInconsistent appearance across the length of some lashes versus others

Star QualitiesBrush and wand offer precise applicationNon-clumping formula is easy to removeCreates darker and longer lashes for a “wispy” effect

Brush and wand offer precise application

Non-clumping formula is easy to remove

Creates darker and longer lashes for a “wispy” effect

Red FlagsInconsistent appearance across the length of some lashes versus others

Inconsistent appearance across the length of some lashes versus others

With an angular brush and smooth formula, this Charlotte Tilbury mascara creates long, curled, dramatic lashes. It’s not clumpy or messy at all, so it was easy to not get product on our eyelids or below our eyes. We noticed it had precise application — even on the inner corners of our eyes where smaller lashes live.

The look of the mascara was most impressive. Our lashes looked darker and longer — almost wispy. After using this mascara, our lashes curved up beautifully, giving us the longest lashes we’ve ever seen from mascara (though we noticed some inconsistency between how the mascara lengthened some lashes versus others).

Size:0.33 oz. / 10 mL |Mascara Type:Curling |Key Ingredients:Carnauba wax |Wand Type:Narrow, angled

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica Juliao

Best VolumeIT Cosmetics Volumizing MascaraPHOTO: Sephora$27 at Amazon$27 at Nordstrom$14 at Ulta

Best VolumeIT Cosmetics Volumizing Mascara

Best Volume

IT Cosmetics Volumizing Mascara

$27 at Amazon$27 at Nordstrom$14 at Ulta

Star QualitiesAdds tons of volume in just a few swipesNo smudging on top or bottom lash linesFormula includes biotin, which promotes eyelash health and growthRed FlagsNoticed some clumping upon application

Star QualitiesAdds tons of volume in just a few swipesNo smudging on top or bottom lash linesFormula includes biotin, which promotes eyelash health and growth

Adds tons of volume in just a few swipes

No smudging on top or bottom lash lines

Formula includes biotin, which promotes eyelash health and growth

Red FlagsNoticed some clumping upon application

Noticed some clumping upon application

If your lashes are a little sparse, this volumizing mascara from IT Cosmetics will restore some fullness back to your lash line. The rich formula impressed our team right away. We loved this mascara because it was super nice right out of the tube — not too wet or goopy. It applied easily and gave tons of volume and length in just a few swipes.

This mascara didn’t smudge, but it did clump slightly. We think that could be fixed with a slightly different application method. We also thought the barrel brush design was cute and spoke to the volumizing abilities but felt a little bulky when holding it.

Size:0.24 oz. / 7mL|Mascara Type:Volumizing |Key Ingredients:Biotin |Wand Type:Thick

The More You Know

Best for a Natural LookGlossier Lash Slick MascaraPHOTO: Glossier$20 at Sephora$20 at Glossier.comStar QualitiesLengthens lashes without creating a spidery lookEasy to applyCan be removed with warm waterFormula includes vegan biotinRed FlagsNot as volumizing compared to other mascaras we testedWish the black shade was darkerThis mascara is ideal if you want just a little extra length on your natural lashes. It won’t have that spidery effect of some mascaras, but it will look like you have naturally long eyelashes. We found it easy to apply, and the applicator fit our eyelashes very well. We also appreciated that the formula didn’t smudge or flake at all.As a tubing mascara, this formula wraps around each individual lash rather than painting it, so it won’t bring the volume that some mascaras have. It emphasized our natural lashes without being too dramatic, though some of our team prefers a more volumizing product. We think this mascara works well if you already have naturally dark and long lashes. Our team wished it was a darker black but liked that we could remove it with warm water instead of going at it with a makeup wipe.Size:8.5 g / 0.29 oz. |Mascara Type:Tubing |Key Ingredients:Japanese fiber, vegan biotin, polymers |Wand Type: NarrowPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica Juliao

Best for a Natural LookGlossier Lash Slick MascaraPHOTO: Glossier$20 at Sephora$20 at Glossier.com

Best for a Natural LookGlossier Lash Slick Mascara

Best for a Natural Look

Glossier Lash Slick Mascara

PHOTO: Glossier

$20 at Sephora$20 at Glossier.com

Star QualitiesLengthens lashes without creating a spidery lookEasy to applyCan be removed with warm waterFormula includes vegan biotinRed FlagsNot as volumizing compared to other mascaras we testedWish the black shade was darker

Star QualitiesLengthens lashes without creating a spidery lookEasy to applyCan be removed with warm waterFormula includes vegan biotin

Lengthens lashes without creating a spidery look

Easy to apply

Can be removed with warm water

Formula includes vegan biotin

Red FlagsNot as volumizing compared to other mascaras we testedWish the black shade was darker

Not as volumizing compared to other mascaras we tested

Wish the black shade was darker

This mascara is ideal if you want just a little extra length on your natural lashes. It won’t have that spidery effect of some mascaras, but it will look like you have naturally long eyelashes. We found it easy to apply, and the applicator fit our eyelashes very well. We also appreciated that the formula didn’t smudge or flake at all.

As a tubing mascara, this formula wraps around each individual lash rather than painting it, so it won’t bring the volume that some mascaras have. It emphasized our natural lashes without being too dramatic, though some of our team prefers a more volumizing product. We think this mascara works well if you already have naturally dark and long lashes. Our team wished it was a darker black but liked that we could remove it with warm water instead of going at it with a makeup wipe.

Size:8.5 g / 0.29 oz. |Mascara Type:Tubing |Key Ingredients:Japanese fiber, vegan biotin, polymers |Wand Type: Narrow

Best False Lash RivalMilk Makeup Kush MascaraPHOTO: SephoraView on Amazon$28 at SephoraView on Milkmakeup.comStar QualitiesWand is super easy to control when applyingEasy to apply with a simple removalFully coated lashes with just one or two swipesRed FlagsSlight clumpingTook a bit longer to dry than others we testedIf you reach for falsies when you want extra volume, consider grabbing this mascara instead. Between its simple application and dramatic results, the High Volumizing Mascara from Milk Makeup proved a contender among our list of best mascaras. The wand was easy to control during application, and the brush coated the lashes in just a few swipes.We noticed a few clumps toward the ends of our lashes and that the mascara took a bit longer to dry, but one coat completely transformed our lashes. One of our teammates has light straight lashes, and this coated them completely and almost looked like they had applied false lashes. This mascara lived up to its claims, thickening lashes and creating volume, length, and curl.Size:0.13 oz. / 4 mL |Mascara Type:Volumizing |Key Ingredients:Hemp-derived cannabis seed oil, synthetic beeswax |Wand Type:ThickPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jessica Juliao

Best False Lash RivalMilk Makeup Kush MascaraPHOTO: SephoraView on Amazon$28 at SephoraView on Milkmakeup.com

Best False Lash RivalMilk Makeup Kush Mascara

Best False Lash Rival

Milk Makeup Kush Mascara

View on Amazon$28 at SephoraView on Milkmakeup.com

Star QualitiesWand is super easy to control when applyingEasy to apply with a simple removalFully coated lashes with just one or two swipesRed FlagsSlight clumpingTook a bit longer to dry than others we tested

Star QualitiesWand is super easy to control when applyingEasy to apply with a simple removalFully coated lashes with just one or two swipes

Wand is super easy to control when applying

Easy to apply with a simple removal

Fully coated lashes with just one or two swipes

Red FlagsSlight clumpingTook a bit longer to dry than others we tested

Slight clumping

Took a bit longer to dry than others we tested

If you reach for falsies when you want extra volume, consider grabbing this mascara instead. Between its simple application and dramatic results, the High Volumizing Mascara from Milk Makeup proved a contender among our list of best mascaras. The wand was easy to control during application, and the brush coated the lashes in just a few swipes.

We noticed a few clumps toward the ends of our lashes and that the mascara took a bit longer to dry, but one coat completely transformed our lashes. One of our teammates has light straight lashes, and this coated them completely and almost looked like they had applied false lashes. This mascara lived up to its claims, thickening lashes and creating volume, length, and curl.

Size:0.13 oz. / 4 mL |Mascara Type:Volumizing |Key Ingredients:Hemp-derived cannabis seed oil, synthetic beeswax |Wand Type:Thick

Best with KeratinIlia Limitless Lash MascaraPHOTO: Dermstore$29 at Amazon$16 at Nordstrom$29$16 at SephoraStar QualitiesLengthens, volumizes, and curls with a rich pigment that brings the dramaEasy to use, apply, and grip, and we had no issues removing itIngredients like shea butter and beeswax condition your lashes, while keratin strengthens themRed FlagsNoticed some clumpingIlia is one of the most popular “clean” beauty brands, and that label simply means that the products are made without common harmful ingredients. This formula uses naturally occurring ingredients like shea butter and beeswax to condition your lashes, as well as keratin to strengthen the hair follicle. The mascara was easy to use, apply, and grip, which also earned it the title ofbest mascara for older women.We loved how it darkened and lengthened our lashes without flaking. It did clump slightly at first, but the dual-sided wand helped separate the lashes to reduce that clumpiness. The short side provides curl and volume, and the longer bristles lift, lengthen, and separate the lashes. We had no issues removing it and appreciated the dark pigment and how it coated our lashes, adding volume and boldness to our gazes.Size:0.27 oz. / 8 g |Mascara Type:Lengthening |Key Ingredients:Keratin, shea butter, beeswax |Wand Type:Straight, dual-sidedPeople / Jessica Juliao

Best with KeratinIlia Limitless Lash MascaraPHOTO: Dermstore$29 at Amazon$16 at Nordstrom$29$16 at Sephora

Best with KeratinIlia Limitless Lash Mascara

Best with Keratin

Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara

PHOTO: Dermstore

Star QualitiesLengthens, volumizes, and curls with a rich pigment that brings the dramaEasy to use, apply, and grip, and we had no issues removing itIngredients like shea butter and beeswax condition your lashes, while keratin strengthens themRed FlagsNoticed some clumping

Star QualitiesLengthens, volumizes, and curls with a rich pigment that brings the dramaEasy to use, apply, and grip, and we had no issues removing itIngredients like shea butter and beeswax condition your lashes, while keratin strengthens them

Lengthens, volumizes, and curls with a rich pigment that brings the drama

Easy to use, apply, and grip, and we had no issues removing it

Ingredients like shea butter and beeswax condition your lashes, while keratin strengthens them

Red FlagsNoticed some clumping

Noticed some clumping

Ilia is one of the most popular “clean” beauty brands, and that label simply means that the products are made without common harmful ingredients. This formula uses naturally occurring ingredients like shea butter and beeswax to condition your lashes, as well as keratin to strengthen the hair follicle. The mascara was easy to use, apply, and grip, which also earned it the title ofbest mascara for older women.

We loved how it darkened and lengthened our lashes without flaking. It did clump slightly at first, but the dual-sided wand helped separate the lashes to reduce that clumpiness. The short side provides curl and volume, and the longer bristles lift, lengthen, and separate the lashes. We had no issues removing it and appreciated the dark pigment and how it coated our lashes, adding volume and boldness to our gazes.

Size:0.27 oz. / 8 g |Mascara Type:Lengthening |Key Ingredients:Keratin, shea butter, beeswax |Wand Type:Straight, dual-sided

Best TubingTarte Tartelette Tubing MascaraPHOTO: Sephora$15 at Sephora$27 at Target$27 at Ulta

Best TubingTarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara

Best Tubing

Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara

$15 at Sephora$27 at Target$27 at Ulta

Star QualitiesWand makes it easy to coat each lashCan be removed with warm waterDries quickly without flaking, smudging, or clumpingRed FlagsNot as volumizing as others we tested

Star QualitiesWand makes it easy to coat each lashCan be removed with warm waterDries quickly without flaking, smudging, or clumping

Wand makes it easy to coat each lash

Dries quickly without flaking, smudging, or clumping

Red FlagsNot as volumizing as others we tested

Not as volumizing as others we tested

Size:0.27 ounce / 8 mL |Mascara Type:Tubing |Key Ingredients:Shea butter, castor oil, carnauba wax |Wand Type:Narrow

The More You KnowTubing mascara is a type of formula that uses polymers to create tiny tubes around each lash rather than painting them like a traditional mascara. These tubes dry instantly and are water-resistant, and they’re not subject to clumping, smudging, running, and other forms of transfer. “Tubing mascara is great for people who tend to get a lot of transfer because of long lashes, eye shape, or general watery eyes,” says Medhin.

Tubing mascara is a type of formula that uses polymers to create tiny tubes around each lash rather than painting them like a traditional mascara. These tubes dry instantly and are water-resistant, and they’re not subject to clumping, smudging, running, and other forms of transfer. “Tubing mascara is great for people who tend to get a lot of transfer because of long lashes, eye shape, or general watery eyes,” says Medhin.

Best Longwear

$22$12 at SephoraView on Rarebeauty.com$12 at Kohls.com

Star QualitiesThick formula, so you don’t need a lot to get volumizing effectCastor oil hydrates lashes like a primerRemoves easily with micellar waterRed FlagsSlight clumping and smudging with extra coats

Star QualitiesThick formula, so you don’t need a lot to get volumizing effectCastor oil hydrates lashes like a primerRemoves easily with micellar water

Thick formula, so you don’t need a lot to get volumizing effect

Castor oil hydrates lashes like a primer

Removes easily with micellar water

Red FlagsSlight clumping and smudging with extra coats

Slight clumping and smudging with extra coats

From Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty comes this enduring mascara, a volumizing wonder that lasts throughout the day. Less is more here, considering the thick formula. We applied three coats and saw some clumping and smudges on our lower lashes which we attribute to the thick wand. But we loved the results.

The mascara was smooth, and our lashes looked thicker and darker and stayed curled. The castor oil in this formula also helps hydrate your lashes almost like a primer to keep the mascara looking fresh for longer throughout the day. When it was finally time to wipe off the product, we appreciated the short removal time: The mascara came off quickly with micellar water, and it didn’t make a mess around our eyes.

Size:0.45 oz. / 13.5 mL |Mascara Type:Volumizing |Key Ingredients:Castor oil |Wand Type:Thick

Tweezerman ProMaster Eyelash Curler$33 at Amazon$24 at Nordstrom$24 at SephoraLilly Lashes Persuasive Sheer Band False Lashes$18 at Amazon$18 at Sephora$20 at UltaMary Kay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover$24$21 at AmazonView on Marykay.comFenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer$22 at Kohls.comView on Fentybeauty.com

Tweezerman ProMaster Eyelash Curler$33 at Amazon$24 at Nordstrom$24 at Sephora

Tweezerman ProMaster Eyelash Curler

$33 at Amazon$24 at Nordstrom$24 at Sephora

Lilly Lashes Persuasive Sheer Band False Lashes$18 at Amazon$18 at Sephora$20 at Ulta

Lilly Lashes Persuasive Sheer Band False Lashes

$18 at Amazon$18 at Sephora$20 at Ulta

Mary Kay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover$24$21 at AmazonView on Marykay.com

Mary Kay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

$24$21 at AmazonView on Marykay.com

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer$22 at Kohls.comView on Fentybeauty.com

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer

$22 at Kohls.comView on Fentybeauty.com

What to Know About Mascara

Formula

When choosing a mascara, note that the formula will affect the results, giving you more length, volume, curl, or all three. Thicker formulas definitely volumize but can be subject to clumping and smudging if you’re not careful during application. Thinner formulas are better for precision and a more natural look but might not bring the drama the same way. If you’re a more experienced mascara user and want big, show-stopping lashes, go for a thick formula. Those who just want a little extra definition without hiding their natural lashes should consider a thinner formula with a narrow wand.

Wand Type

Alternatively, narrow wands may not bring the drama, but they do help with precision, length, and bottom lashes. The third type of wand is an hourglass shape — like the wands found withToo Faced Better Than Sex Mascara. These can help with curling, length, and volume but can also help you control the stroke a bit better to coat larger and smaller lashes without too much worry about smudging or clumping.

Shades

Another thing to take into consideration is the mascara’s shade. You might think all mascaras are black, but some come in several shades of black as well as other colors like brown, blue, pink, and white. Your application technique will stay the same regardless of what color you choose, but with lighter shades, you might have to layer with a few coats to see the pigment come through. If you have lighter hair (like blonde, gray, or white), you might consider brown mascara for a more natural look, as it will still define your lashes but not as intensely as a jet-black shade. That being said, “I love black mascara on everyone,” says Medhin.

Providing our team with the ultimate makeover day, we tested 34 mascaras to see which were easiest to use, performed and looked the best, lasted the longest, and could be removed without hassle.

After weighing these considerations, our team selected the 15 best mascaras that aced our tests and created unforgettable lashes.

Madison Yaugeris an editor at PEOPLE who’s tested hundreds of lifestyle products across all categories. In addition to finding the best mascaras on the market, she has shared thebest tinted moisturizers, thebest eye makeup removers, and more. For this story, she spoke to celebrity makeup artist Delina Medhin, as well as Too Faced’s executive director of global beauty Elyse Reneau, and consulted testing insights from our beauty lab in New York City, looking at longevity, performance, and overall look. Using all of this data, she created this list of the best mascaras of 2024.

Our Expert PanelElyse Reneauis Too Faced’s executive director of global beauty.Delina Medhinis a celebrity makeup artist who has worked with actresses Issa Rae, Jessica Williams, and Ilana Glazer, as well as comedian Phoebe Robinson.

Our Expert Panel

Elyse Reneauis Too Faced’s executive director of global beauty.Delina Medhinis a celebrity makeup artist who has worked with actresses Issa Rae, Jessica Williams, and Ilana Glazer, as well as comedian Phoebe Robinson.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com