We Tested 50 Waterproof Mascaras — These 11 Proved to Be the Best

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartOthers We TriedWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

Others We Tried

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Jhett Thompson

People / Jhett Thompson

Whether you’re a makeup minimalist or maximalist, we’re willing to bet that mascara is a staple in your daily routine. While the lengthening, lifting, and volumizing effects on your lashes are delightful, unwanted smudges and smears certainly are not.If you suspect you’re going to be around water, sweating a lot, or tearing up (we get it!), it’s a good idea to swap your standard tube for a waterproof version.To determine which ones live up to the hype, our testers tried 50 different options over the past year, assessing their waterproof claims. These are the 11 best waterproof mascaras, starting at just $5.Our Top PicksBest Overall:MAC Stack Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$28Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Essence Lash Princess Mascara at Amazon$15Jump to ReviewBest Drugstore:SALEMaybelline Lash Sensational Mascara at Amazon$13$9Jump to ReviewBest Longwear:Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to ReviewBest for Glam:Milk Makeup Rise Lifting + Lengthening Mascara at Sephora$28Jump to ReviewBest for Natural Makeup:Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara at Amazon$30Jump to ReviewBest Volumizing:Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara at Sephora$27Jump to ReviewBest Lengthening:Urban Decay Perversion Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$28Jump to ReviewBest Non-Clumping:Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$26Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara at Nordstrom$33Jump to Review

Whether you’re a makeup minimalist or maximalist, we’re willing to bet that mascara is a staple in your daily routine. While the lengthening, lifting, and volumizing effects on your lashes are delightful, unwanted smudges and smears certainly are not.

If you suspect you’re going to be around water, sweating a lot, or tearing up (we get it!), it’s a good idea to swap your standard tube for a waterproof version.

To determine which ones live up to the hype, our testers tried 50 different options over the past year, assessing their waterproof claims. These are the 11 best waterproof mascaras, starting at just $5.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:MAC Stack Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$28Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Essence Lash Princess Mascara at Amazon$15Jump to ReviewBest Drugstore:SALEMaybelline Lash Sensational Mascara at Amazon$13$9Jump to ReviewBest Longwear:Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to ReviewBest for Glam:Milk Makeup Rise Lifting + Lengthening Mascara at Sephora$28Jump to ReviewBest for Natural Makeup:Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara at Amazon$30Jump to ReviewBest Volumizing:Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara at Sephora$27Jump to ReviewBest Lengthening:Urban Decay Perversion Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$28Jump to ReviewBest Non-Clumping:Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$26Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara at Nordstrom$33Jump to Review

Best Overall:MAC Stack Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$28Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Essence Lash Princess Mascara at Amazon$15Jump to ReviewBest Drugstore:SALEMaybelline Lash Sensational Mascara at Amazon$13$9Jump to ReviewBest Longwear:Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to ReviewBest for Glam:Milk Makeup Rise Lifting + Lengthening Mascara at Sephora$28Jump to ReviewBest for Natural Makeup:Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara at Amazon$30Jump to ReviewBest Volumizing:Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara at Sephora$27Jump to ReviewBest Lengthening:Urban Decay Perversion Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$28Jump to ReviewBest Non-Clumping:Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$26Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara at Nordstrom$33Jump to Review

Best Overall:MAC Stack Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$28Jump to Review

Best Overall:MAC Stack Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$28

Best Overall:

Best Budget:Essence Lash Princess Mascara at Amazon$15Jump to Review

Best Budget:Essence Lash Princess Mascara at Amazon$15

Best Budget:

Best Drugstore:SALEMaybelline Lash Sensational Mascara at Amazon$13$9Jump to Review

Best Drugstore:SALEMaybelline Lash Sensational Mascara at Amazon$13$9

Best Drugstore:

SALE

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

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

Best Longwear:

Best for Glam:Milk Makeup Rise Lifting + Lengthening Mascara at Sephora$28Jump to Review

Best for Glam:Milk Makeup Rise Lifting + Lengthening Mascara at Sephora$28

Best for Glam:

Best for Natural Makeup:Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara at Amazon$30Jump to Review

Best for Natural Makeup:Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara at Amazon$30

Best for Natural Makeup:

Best Volumizing:Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara at Sephora$27Jump to Review

Best Volumizing:Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara at Sephora$27

Best Volumizing:

Best Lengthening:Urban Decay Perversion Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$28Jump to Review

Best Lengthening:Urban Decay Perversion Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$28

Best Lengthening:

Best Non-Clumping:Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$26Jump to Review

Best Non-Clumping:Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara at Amazon$26

Best Non-Clumping:

Best Investment:Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara at Nordstrom$33Jump to Review

Best Investment:Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara at Nordstrom$33

Best Investment:

Best OverallMAC Stack Waterproof MascaraPHOTO: MAC$28 at Amazon$29 at Nordstrom$29 at TargetStar QualitiesThin wand hugged the curves of our lashesWithstood eye drops and spritzes of water without runningEasy to removeRed FlagsPricier than some others we’ve testedThere were many things that we loved about the Mac Stack Waterproof Mascara — in fact, so many that we gave it a nearly perfect five-star rating. This lash-defining jet-black mascara was the answer to all of our waterproof mascara prayers, making our lashes look full but not clumpy, defined yet not spiky, and voluminous without sticking our lashes together.Best of all: When we sprayed our faces with water and added eye drops into the mix,we still didn’t notice any smudging or running. It’s safe to say that we wouldn’t hesitate to throw this tube in our bags before heading on a beach vacation.While we do think the price is pretty high, we think it’s worth the small investment — especially because this formula was so easy to remove with standard makeup remover, which can be a struggle for most drugstore options. If you’re looking for a surefire solution to happy tears at your next wedding or raccoon eyes at the pool, this is the one to grab.Benefits:Volumizing, longwearing, clump-resistant |Size:0.40 oz. |Shades:1PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best OverallMAC Stack Waterproof MascaraPHOTO: MAC$28 at Amazon$29 at Nordstrom$29 at Target

Best OverallMAC Stack Waterproof Mascara

Best Overall

MAC Stack Waterproof Mascara

PHOTO: MAC

$28 at Amazon$29 at Nordstrom$29 at Target

Star QualitiesThin wand hugged the curves of our lashesWithstood eye drops and spritzes of water without runningEasy to removeRed FlagsPricier than some others we’ve tested

Star QualitiesThin wand hugged the curves of our lashesWithstood eye drops and spritzes of water without runningEasy to remove

Thin wand hugged the curves of our lashes

Withstood eye drops and spritzes of water without running

Easy to remove

Red FlagsPricier than some others we’ve tested

Pricier than some others we’ve tested

There were many things that we loved about the Mac Stack Waterproof Mascara — in fact, so many that we gave it a nearly perfect five-star rating. This lash-defining jet-black mascara was the answer to all of our waterproof mascara prayers, making our lashes look full but not clumpy, defined yet not spiky, and voluminous without sticking our lashes together.

Best of all: When we sprayed our faces with water and added eye drops into the mix,we still didn’t notice any smudging or running. It’s safe to say that we wouldn’t hesitate to throw this tube in our bags before heading on a beach vacation.

While we do think the price is pretty high, we think it’s worth the small investment — especially because this formula was so easy to remove with standard makeup remover, which can be a struggle for most drugstore options. If you’re looking for a surefire solution to happy tears at your next wedding or raccoon eyes at the pool, this is the one to grab.

Benefits:Volumizing, longwearing, clump-resistant |Size:0.40 oz. |Shades:1

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best BudgetEssence Lash Princess MascaraPHOTO: Ulta$15 at Amazon$5 at Target$5 at UltaStar QualitiesVolumizedour lashes with just one coatRepelled water when we sprayed our lashes and added eye dropsEasy to remove at the end of the dayRed FlagsTended to look a little clumpyVanderpump RulesstarLala KentandPEOPLE editors alikeare fans of the Essence Lash Princess in its original form, so you can guess how excited we were to try the waterproof version during this test — and thankfully, it didn’t disappoint. From the very first coat, this skinny-wand mascara was able to get into our inner corners and lightly coat our top and bottom lashes to give us an amped-up, voluminous look. Our lashes had more of afull-glam lookthan many of ourother favorite mascarasoffered, which some makeup-lovers may like, and others might not.We thought this output of immediate volume made our lashes look a little clumpy, but it wasn’t a total deterrent to us. The formula remained waterproof throughout our test, though we did notice a tiny bit of smudging after the initial water spray. The best part was that we found this product to bevery easy to remove, which was a stark contrast to our past experiences with drugstore waterproof mascaras.Benefits:Volumizing, lengthening |Size:0.42 oz. |Shades:1PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best BudgetEssence Lash Princess MascaraPHOTO: Ulta$15 at Amazon$5 at Target$5 at Ulta

Best BudgetEssence Lash Princess Mascara

Best Budget

Essence Lash Princess Mascara

PHOTO: Ulta

$15 at Amazon$5 at Target$5 at Ulta

Star QualitiesVolumizedour lashes with just one coatRepelled water when we sprayed our lashes and added eye dropsEasy to remove at the end of the dayRed FlagsTended to look a little clumpy

Star QualitiesVolumizedour lashes with just one coatRepelled water when we sprayed our lashes and added eye dropsEasy to remove at the end of the day

Volumizedour lashes with just one coat

Repelled water when we sprayed our lashes and added eye drops

Easy to remove at the end of the day

Red FlagsTended to look a little clumpy

Tended to look a little clumpy

Vanderpump RulesstarLala KentandPEOPLE editors alikeare fans of the Essence Lash Princess in its original form, so you can guess how excited we were to try the waterproof version during this test — and thankfully, it didn’t disappoint. From the very first coat, this skinny-wand mascara was able to get into our inner corners and lightly coat our top and bottom lashes to give us an amped-up, voluminous look. Our lashes had more of afull-glam lookthan many of ourother favorite mascarasoffered, which some makeup-lovers may like, and others might not.

We thought this output of immediate volume made our lashes look a little clumpy, but it wasn’t a total deterrent to us. The formula remained waterproof throughout our test, though we did notice a tiny bit of smudging after the initial water spray. The best part was that we found this product to bevery easy to remove, which was a stark contrast to our past experiences with drugstore waterproof mascaras.

Benefits:Volumizing, lengthening |Size:0.42 oz. |Shades:1

PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best DrugstoreMaybelline Lash Sensational MascaraPHOTO: Ulta$13$9 at Amazon$10 at Target$9 at WalmartStar QualitiesLightweight formula didn’t make our lashes feel waxy or thickLashes separated beautifully with no flakingReminded us of the Benefit mascara we love — but at a more affordable priceRed FlagsNot very volumizingThere’s nothing worse than forgetting your waterproof mascara before heading on a beach vacation, but if you do, we’ve got you covered. The Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara is the one we’d pick up from the drugstore for a few reasons — itlengthened and defined our lashes,didn’t smudge, and wassuper easy to remove, despite our past experiences with lower-priced mascaras (i.e. standing in front of the mirror going through several makeup wipes to remove the clay-like substance).Our lashes felt super airy and light, but this may be because we weren’t able to apply too many layers of this product to boost its volume — one layer versus three didn’t seem to make a difference. However, we thought its pretty, lash-lengthening results reminded us of theBenefit Badgal Bang Volumizing Waterproof Mascarathat we also tried, just at a lower price, so we’d still recommend it for your next pool day.Benefits:Lengthening, volumizing, safe for sensitive eyes |Size:0.24 oz. |Shades:2

Best DrugstoreMaybelline Lash Sensational MascaraPHOTO: Ulta$13$9 at Amazon$10 at Target$9 at Walmart

Best DrugstoreMaybelline Lash Sensational Mascara

Best Drugstore

Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara

$13$9 at Amazon$10 at Target$9 at Walmart

Star QualitiesLightweight formula didn’t make our lashes feel waxy or thickLashes separated beautifully with no flakingReminded us of the Benefit mascara we love — but at a more affordable priceRed FlagsNot very volumizing

Star QualitiesLightweight formula didn’t make our lashes feel waxy or thickLashes separated beautifully with no flakingReminded us of the Benefit mascara we love — but at a more affordable price

Lightweight formula didn’t make our lashes feel waxy or thick

Lashes separated beautifully with no flaking

Reminded us of the Benefit mascara we love — but at a more affordable price

Red FlagsNot very volumizing

Not very volumizing

There’s nothing worse than forgetting your waterproof mascara before heading on a beach vacation, but if you do, we’ve got you covered. The Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara is the one we’d pick up from the drugstore for a few reasons — itlengthened and defined our lashes,didn’t smudge, and wassuper easy to remove, despite our past experiences with lower-priced mascaras (i.e. standing in front of the mirror going through several makeup wipes to remove the clay-like substance).

Our lashes felt super airy and light, but this may be because we weren’t able to apply too many layers of this product to boost its volume — one layer versus three didn’t seem to make a difference. However, we thought its pretty, lash-lengthening results reminded us of theBenefit Badgal Bang Volumizing Waterproof Mascarathat we also tried, just at a lower price, so we’d still recommend it for your next pool day.

Benefits:Lengthening, volumizing, safe for sensitive eyes |Size:0.24 oz. |Shades:2

Best LongwearToo Faced Better Than Sex MascaraPHOTO: Sephora$29 at Amazon$16 at Nordstrom$29$16 at SephoraStar QualitiesTruly waterproof, so we wore it at the pool, during workouts, and on the most humid daysEasy to wash off with micellar waterHolds a curl all dayRed FlagsWe couldn’t find any!Too Faced’sregular Better than Sex Mascarais a staple in so many beauty lovers’ makeup collections. In fact, it’s the verybest mascara that we testedin 2024. We had high hopes for its waterproof counterpart — and after several hours of testing this moisture-defiant formula in the NYC heat, sweating in the gym, and even taking a dip in the pool, we’re happy to say that this smudge-proof version lives up to its original formula.Writers Say"Its thick, curved brush gripped every strand of my fine lashes, coating each lash with a light layer of black mascara that boosted the volume of my fringe. My lashes held their curl all day long didn’t give me raccoon eyes, and best of all, this mascara was pretty easy to wash off at the end of the day with micellar water. When I know I have a particularly humid or active day ahead, I don’t hesitate to reach for this light blue tube to complete my look."—Alyssa Brascia, shopping writerBenefits:Volumizing, longwearing, curling |Size:0.27 oz. |Shades:1

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

Best LongwearToo Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

Best Longwear

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

PHOTO: Sephora

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

Star QualitiesTruly waterproof, so we wore it at the pool, during workouts, and on the most humid daysEasy to wash off with micellar waterHolds a curl all dayRed FlagsWe couldn’t find any!

Star QualitiesTruly waterproof, so we wore it at the pool, during workouts, and on the most humid daysEasy to wash off with micellar waterHolds a curl all day

Truly waterproof, so we wore it at the pool, during workouts, and on the most humid days

Easy to wash off with micellar water

Holds a curl all day

Red FlagsWe couldn’t find any!

We couldn’t find any!

Too Faced’sregular Better than Sex Mascarais a staple in so many beauty lovers’ makeup collections. In fact, it’s the verybest mascara that we testedin 2024. We had high hopes for its waterproof counterpart — and after several hours of testing this moisture-defiant formula in the NYC heat, sweating in the gym, and even taking a dip in the pool, we’re happy to say that this smudge-proof version lives up to its original formula.

Writers Say"Its thick, curved brush gripped every strand of my fine lashes, coating each lash with a light layer of black mascara that boosted the volume of my fringe. My lashes held their curl all day long didn’t give me raccoon eyes, and best of all, this mascara was pretty easy to wash off at the end of the day with micellar water. When I know I have a particularly humid or active day ahead, I don’t hesitate to reach for this light blue tube to complete my look."—Alyssa Brascia, shopping writer

Writers Say

“Its thick, curved brush gripped every strand of my fine lashes, coating each lash with a light layer of black mascara that boosted the volume of my fringe. My lashes held their curl all day long didn’t give me raccoon eyes, and best of all, this mascara was pretty easy to wash off at the end of the day with micellar water. When I know I have a particularly humid or active day ahead, I don’t hesitate to reach for this light blue tube to complete my look."—Alyssa Brascia, shopping writer

Benefits:Volumizing, longwearing, curling |Size:0.27 oz. |Shades:1

Best for GlamMilk Makeup Rise Lifting + Lengthening MascaraPHOTO: Sephora$28 at SephoraView on Spacenk.com$28 at Kohls.comStar QualitiesGave us the thickest, fullest, and most dramatic lashes out of all of the formulas we testedCurved wand makes for easy applicationSilicone tube allowed us to grip and use the wand easilyRed FlagsToo many layers made our lashes look a bit spideryWhile waterproof mascaras have a track record for defining lashes rather than thickening them up, this formula was able to deliver the more voluminous look for when we want our lashes to pack a bit more of a punch. This mascara was great forseparating lashes while also lengthening and thickeningeach one with its curved brush, which was able to get into the typically hard-to-reach inner and outer corners of our eyes.When we tried to build it up, we noticed that it was pretty easy for our lashes to look a little spidery (but this is also a testament to how minimal product you need to get a full effect). We discovered that two coats, maybe three at most, was the sweet spot for optimal volume and full-glam eyes — the perfect addition to wedding glam or summer events.Benefits:Volumizing, lengthening |Size:0.23 oz. |Shades:1PHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best for GlamMilk Makeup Rise Lifting + Lengthening MascaraPHOTO: Sephora$28 at SephoraView on Spacenk.com$28 at Kohls.com

Best for GlamMilk Makeup Rise Lifting + Lengthening Mascara

Best for Glam

Milk Makeup Rise Lifting + Lengthening Mascara

$28 at SephoraView on Spacenk.com$28 at Kohls.com

Star QualitiesGave us the thickest, fullest, and most dramatic lashes out of all of the formulas we testedCurved wand makes for easy applicationSilicone tube allowed us to grip and use the wand easilyRed FlagsToo many layers made our lashes look a bit spidery

Star QualitiesGave us the thickest, fullest, and most dramatic lashes out of all of the formulas we testedCurved wand makes for easy applicationSilicone tube allowed us to grip and use the wand easily

Gave us the thickest, fullest, and most dramatic lashes out of all of the formulas we tested

Curved wand makes for easy application

Silicone tube allowed us to grip and use the wand easily

Red FlagsToo many layers made our lashes look a bit spidery

Too many layers made our lashes look a bit spidery

While waterproof mascaras have a track record for defining lashes rather than thickening them up, this formula was able to deliver the more voluminous look for when we want our lashes to pack a bit more of a punch. This mascara was great forseparating lashes while also lengthening and thickeningeach one with its curved brush, which was able to get into the typically hard-to-reach inner and outer corners of our eyes.

When we tried to build it up, we noticed that it was pretty easy for our lashes to look a little spidery (but this is also a testament to how minimal product you need to get a full effect). We discovered that two coats, maybe three at most, was the sweet spot for optimal volume and full-glam eyes — the perfect addition to wedding glam or summer events.

Benefits:Volumizing, lengthening |Size:0.23 oz. |Shades:1

PHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best for Natural MakeupLancôme Monsieur Big MascaraPHOTO: Sephora$30 at Amazon$30 at Nordstrom$30 at SephoraStar QualitiesImmovable after spritzing our faces with water and rubbing our eyesGreat definitionVery lightweightRed FlagsDifficult to removeIf all you’re after is a light stroke of color and a little definition on your lash line before jumping in the pool or running places in the rain, then the Lancome Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara will be your new best friend. This formula wasnon-flaky, lightweight, lash-defining,andtrulywater-proofduring our tests, giving us lengthy, separated lashes while holding up to water and eye-rubs, too.This mascara remained flake-free and kept our lashes looking supple throughout the wear time. We will say that because this mascara was so unshakeable during our spritz and eye drop tests, it was pretty hard to take off at the end of the day. But if you want a mascara that you know will really last you throughout even the most humid of days or hold up during a swim, then this is the formula to dive into.Benefits:Volumizing, lengthening, sulfate- and paraben-free |Size:0.33 oz. |Shades:1PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best for Natural MakeupLancôme Monsieur Big MascaraPHOTO: Sephora$30 at Amazon$30 at Nordstrom$30 at Sephora

Best for Natural MakeupLancôme Monsieur Big Mascara

Best for Natural Makeup

Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara

$30 at Amazon$30 at Nordstrom$30 at Sephora

Star QualitiesImmovable after spritzing our faces with water and rubbing our eyesGreat definitionVery lightweightRed FlagsDifficult to remove

Star QualitiesImmovable after spritzing our faces with water and rubbing our eyesGreat definitionVery lightweight

Immovable after spritzing our faces with water and rubbing our eyes

Great definition

Very lightweight

Red FlagsDifficult to remove

Difficult to remove

If all you’re after is a light stroke of color and a little definition on your lash line before jumping in the pool or running places in the rain, then the Lancome Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara will be your new best friend. This formula wasnon-flaky, lightweight, lash-defining,andtrulywater-proofduring our tests, giving us lengthy, separated lashes while holding up to water and eye-rubs, too.

This mascara remained flake-free and kept our lashes looking supple throughout the wear time. We will say that because this mascara was so unshakeable during our spritz and eye drop tests, it was pretty hard to take off at the end of the day. But if you want a mascara that you know will really last you throughout even the most humid of days or hold up during a swim, then this is the formula to dive into.

Benefits:Volumizing, lengthening, sulfate- and paraben-free |Size:0.33 oz. |Shades:1

PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best VolumizingTarte Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof MascaraPHOTO: Tarte$27 at Sephora$27 at Target$24 at Ulta

Best VolumizingTarte Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara

Best Volumizing

Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara

PHOTO: Tarte

$27 at Sephora$27 at Target$24 at Ulta

Star QualitiesAchieved luscious and thick lashes that didn’t turn spidery or clumpyFormula didn’t smudge when we spritzed our faces or touched our lashesRed FlagsDifficult to remove

Star QualitiesAchieved luscious and thick lashes that didn’t turn spidery or clumpyFormula didn’t smudge when we spritzed our faces or touched our lashes

Achieved luscious and thick lashes that didn’t turn spidery or clumpy

Formula didn’t smudge when we spritzed our faces or touched our lashes

With just a few swipes of the Tarte mascara, we were able to achievehigh-volume, lengthy lashes without the clumpsand spidery look that other mascaras come with. Instead, our fringes were fanned out and separated, making this a great everyday or high-glam look, depending on how many coats we swiped on.

Benefits:Volumizing, lifting, curling, safe for contacts, free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates |Size:0.24 oz. |Shades:1

PHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best LengtheningUrban Decay Perversion Waterproof MascaraPHOTO: Urban Decay$28 at Amazon$28 at Sephora$28 at TargetStar QualitiesMade our lashes look super longIncredibly lightweight yet volumizingNo transfer or smudging, even when wetRed FlagsDifficult to removeTwo to three layers of this mascara were enough to make ourlashes look voluminous and full without feeling heavy. We loved the dense mascara brush, which was great for both building volume and making our lashes look ultra-long without needing to reapply. Plus, theformula is packed with lash-growing nutrients, such as proteins, amino acids, and honey extract, which work their magic with continuous use.We’ll admit that while it wasn’t uncomfortable to remove at the end of the day, it did take a while — which seems to be the mark of a good waterproof mascara because this formula didn’t budge, smudge, or transfer when we wet our skin or ran our fingertips across our lashes (a pretty impressive feat, if you ask us). The Urban Decay Perversion Mascara line continues to be PEOPLE-approved.Benefits:Lengthening, volumizing, growth-enhancing |Size:0.34 oz. |Shades:1PHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best LengtheningUrban Decay Perversion Waterproof MascaraPHOTO: Urban Decay$28 at Amazon$28 at Sephora$28 at Target

Best LengtheningUrban Decay Perversion Waterproof Mascara

Best Lengthening

Urban Decay Perversion Waterproof Mascara

PHOTO: Urban Decay

$28 at Amazon$28 at Sephora$28 at Target

Star QualitiesMade our lashes look super longIncredibly lightweight yet volumizingNo transfer or smudging, even when wetRed FlagsDifficult to remove

Star QualitiesMade our lashes look super longIncredibly lightweight yet volumizingNo transfer or smudging, even when wet

Made our lashes look super long

Incredibly lightweight yet volumizing

No transfer or smudging, even when wet

Two to three layers of this mascara were enough to make ourlashes look voluminous and full without feeling heavy. We loved the dense mascara brush, which was great for both building volume and making our lashes look ultra-long without needing to reapply. Plus, theformula is packed with lash-growing nutrients, such as proteins, amino acids, and honey extract, which work their magic with continuous use.

We’ll admit that while it wasn’t uncomfortable to remove at the end of the day, it did take a while — which seems to be the mark of a good waterproof mascara because this formula didn’t budge, smudge, or transfer when we wet our skin or ran our fingertips across our lashes (a pretty impressive feat, if you ask us). The Urban Decay Perversion Mascara line continues to be PEOPLE-approved.

Benefits:Lengthening, volumizing, growth-enhancing |Size:0.34 oz. |Shades:1

Best Non-ClumpingClinique High Impact Waterproof MascaraPHOTO: Ulta$26 at Amazon$26 at Nordstrom$26 at UltaStar QualitiesSeparated and defined our lashes beautifullyOnly took one or two coats for our desired effectMascara didn’t bleed, flake, or smudge, even when wetRed FlagsSlightly difficult to removeIf you want defined lashes that look just as good freshly applied as they do once you finish a sweaty workout, then we’ve got the product for you. Enter: Clinique’s High Impact Waterproof Mascara. This formula wassmudge-proofand didn’t bleed even after taking water to our lashes and rubbing our eyes. Its thin brush picked up just enough product toevenly coat our lashes and create definition. It only took two coats to get the luscious look we were after and just one layer on the bottom for a little bit of definition.It was slightly hard to remove this product (we went through a wipe and liquid makeup remover to get the product completely off), but itdidn’t irritate our eyesor pull our eyelashes out, so we were okay with putting in a little extra work at the end of the day for the long-wearing, gorgeous results that we could wear during.Benefits:Volumizing, lengthening |Size:0.28 oz. |Shades:2PHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best Non-ClumpingClinique High Impact Waterproof MascaraPHOTO: Ulta$26 at Amazon$26 at Nordstrom$26 at Ulta

Best Non-ClumpingClinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara

Best Non-Clumping

Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara

$26 at Amazon$26 at Nordstrom$26 at Ulta

Star QualitiesSeparated and defined our lashes beautifullyOnly took one or two coats for our desired effectMascara didn’t bleed, flake, or smudge, even when wetRed FlagsSlightly difficult to remove

Star QualitiesSeparated and defined our lashes beautifullyOnly took one or two coats for our desired effectMascara didn’t bleed, flake, or smudge, even when wet

Separated and defined our lashes beautifully

Only took one or two coats for our desired effect

Mascara didn’t bleed, flake, or smudge, even when wet

Red FlagsSlightly difficult to remove

Slightly difficult to remove

If you want defined lashes that look just as good freshly applied as they do once you finish a sweaty workout, then we’ve got the product for you. Enter: Clinique’s High Impact Waterproof Mascara. This formula wassmudge-proofand didn’t bleed even after taking water to our lashes and rubbing our eyes. Its thin brush picked up just enough product toevenly coat our lashes and create definition. It only took two coats to get the luscious look we were after and just one layer on the bottom for a little bit of definition.

It was slightly hard to remove this product (we went through a wipe and liquid makeup remover to get the product completely off), but itdidn’t irritate our eyesor pull our eyelashes out, so we were okay with putting in a little extra work at the end of the day for the long-wearing, gorgeous results that we could wear during.

Benefits:Volumizing, lengthening |Size:0.28 oz. |Shades:2

PHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best InvestmentDior Diorshow Waterproof MascaraPHOTO: Sephora$33 at Nordstrom$33 at Sephora$33 at UltaStar QualitiesThicker mascara wand made our lashes look fanned out and naturalLashes didn’t clump together, even when spritzed with waterNo smudging or transferringEasy to removeRed FlagsThick wand makes coating lower lashes difficultWhile this waterproof Dior mascara is at the top of the price spectrum, it also reaches the top of this list for its remarkable quality, performance, and ease of removal. Dior likens the length and volume of this formula to that of lash-extensions, mirroring “the effect of professional lash extensions used backstage,” according to the brand. After a bit of testing, it was made very clear to us that this mascara wand and formula combination achieves just that.The mascara was bothlightweight and volumizing, delivering the standout lashes we were going for with just one coat. One light coat fanned out our lashes and kept them from clumping, even after we spritzed our faces with water and rubbed our eyes with our fingers. There wasno streakiness, no raccoon eyes, and not even a bit of dark pigment left anywhere but on our lashes — so if we had to tell you to invest in one pricey waterproof product, it’s gonna be this one.Benefits:Volumizing |Size:0.39 oz. |Shades:3PHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best InvestmentDior Diorshow Waterproof MascaraPHOTO: Sephora$33 at Nordstrom$33 at Sephora$33 at Ulta

Best InvestmentDior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara

Best Investment

Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara

$33 at Nordstrom$33 at Sephora$33 at Ulta

Star QualitiesThicker mascara wand made our lashes look fanned out and naturalLashes didn’t clump together, even when spritzed with waterNo smudging or transferringEasy to removeRed FlagsThick wand makes coating lower lashes difficult

Star QualitiesThicker mascara wand made our lashes look fanned out and naturalLashes didn’t clump together, even when spritzed with waterNo smudging or transferringEasy to remove

Thicker mascara wand made our lashes look fanned out and natural

Lashes didn’t clump together, even when spritzed with water

No smudging or transferring

Red FlagsThick wand makes coating lower lashes difficult

Thick wand makes coating lower lashes difficult

While this waterproof Dior mascara is at the top of the price spectrum, it also reaches the top of this list for its remarkable quality, performance, and ease of removal. Dior likens the length and volume of this formula to that of lash-extensions, mirroring “the effect of professional lash extensions used backstage,” according to the brand. After a bit of testing, it was made very clear to us that this mascara wand and formula combination achieves just that.

The mascara was bothlightweight and volumizing, delivering the standout lashes we were going for with just one coat. One light coat fanned out our lashes and kept them from clumping, even after we spritzed our faces with water and rubbed our eyes with our fingers. There wasno streakiness, no raccoon eyes, and not even a bit of dark pigment left anywhere but on our lashes — so if we had to tell you to invest in one pricey waterproof product, it’s gonna be this one.

Benefits:Volumizing |Size:0.39 oz. |Shades:3

Best NourishingNeutrogena Hydro Boost Plumping MascaraPHOTO: Walgreens$10 at TargetView on Neutrogena.comStar QualitiesHydrates and strengthens lashesDelivered a lot of volume with just one coatTapered wand made it easy to reach the inner and outer cornersRed FlagsSome found it a bit challenging to removeThe very ingredients that make waterproof mascaras waterproof can also take a toll on your lashes, leaving them dry and brittle. “Waterproof mascaras are formulated with higher amounts of waxes and silicones and can tend to dry out your lashes, especially if you’re using them every day,” explains celebrity makeup artistBryan Cantor. That makes the addition of hydrating hyaluronic acid, nourishing vitamin E, and strengthening keratin in this pick all the more noteworthy.We gave it top scores for performance, highlighting thevoluminous effectit gave our lashes with just one coat. The tapered wand was another selling point, making it easy to reach the inner and outer lashes. It also proved to bevery waterproof— it was challenging to take off, but when we wore the mascara on a day it rained, it didn’t run at all.Benefits:Volumizing |Size:0.21 oz. |Shades:2How It’s Held UpWe first started testing this mascara last year, and after six months of use, we find ourselves reaching for this mascara every once in a while rather than daily. As a waterproof mascara, it’s still a bit waxy (regardless of chemical makeup) and can be a lot to have on your lashes day in and day out. However, we continually find ourselves liking the even distribution of product, the ease of use when it came to the wand’s design, and the longevity of its formula through rain or shine.PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best NourishingNeutrogena Hydro Boost Plumping MascaraPHOTO: Walgreens$10 at TargetView on Neutrogena.com

Best NourishingNeutrogena Hydro Boost Plumping Mascara

Best Nourishing

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Plumping Mascara

PHOTO: Walgreens

$10 at TargetView on Neutrogena.com

Star QualitiesHydrates and strengthens lashesDelivered a lot of volume with just one coatTapered wand made it easy to reach the inner and outer cornersRed FlagsSome found it a bit challenging to remove

Star QualitiesHydrates and strengthens lashesDelivered a lot of volume with just one coatTapered wand made it easy to reach the inner and outer corners

Hydrates and strengthens lashes

Delivered a lot of volume with just one coat

Tapered wand made it easy to reach the inner and outer corners

Red FlagsSome found it a bit challenging to remove

Some found it a bit challenging to remove

The very ingredients that make waterproof mascaras waterproof can also take a toll on your lashes, leaving them dry and brittle. “Waterproof mascaras are formulated with higher amounts of waxes and silicones and can tend to dry out your lashes, especially if you’re using them every day,” explains celebrity makeup artistBryan Cantor. That makes the addition of hydrating hyaluronic acid, nourishing vitamin E, and strengthening keratin in this pick all the more noteworthy.

We gave it top scores for performance, highlighting thevoluminous effectit gave our lashes with just one coat. The tapered wand was another selling point, making it easy to reach the inner and outer lashes. It also proved to bevery waterproof— it was challenging to take off, but when we wore the mascara on a day it rained, it didn’t run at all.

Benefits:Volumizing |Size:0.21 oz. |Shades:2

How It’s Held UpWe first started testing this mascara last year, and after six months of use, we find ourselves reaching for this mascara every once in a while rather than daily. As a waterproof mascara, it’s still a bit waxy (regardless of chemical makeup) and can be a lot to have on your lashes day in and day out. However, we continually find ourselves liking the even distribution of product, the ease of use when it came to the wand’s design, and the longevity of its formula through rain or shine.

How It’s Held Up

We first started testing this mascara last year, and after six months of use, we find ourselves reaching for this mascara every once in a while rather than daily. As a waterproof mascara, it’s still a bit waxy (regardless of chemical makeup) and can be a lot to have on your lashes day in and day out. However, we continually find ourselves liking the even distribution of product, the ease of use when it came to the wand’s design, and the longevity of its formula through rain or shine.

PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

After deciding on your next favorite waterproof mascara, take a look at these other PEOPLE-Tested makeup must-haves. Our team has thoroughly tested every product featured so you don’t have to do any guesswork.

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer$22 at Kohls.comView on Fentybeauty.comCoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara$14$10 at Amazon$10 at Target$10 at WalmartMary Kay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover$24$21 at AmazonView on Marykay.comAnastasia Beverly Hills Tweezers$28 at Nordstrom$28 at Sephora$28 at Ulta

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

CoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara$14$10 at Amazon$10 at Target$10 at Walmart

CoverGirl Exhibitionist Uncensored Mascara

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

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

Anastasia Beverly Hills Tweezers$28 at Nordstrom$28 at Sephora$28 at Ulta

Anastasia Beverly Hills Tweezers

$28 at Nordstrom$28 at Sephora$28 at Ulta

What to Know About Waterproof Mascara

Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof

It can be easy to mix up the two, but there is a notable difference, points out celebrity makeup artistJamie Greenberg, whose clients include Kaley Cuoco and Rashida Jones. Basically, water-resistant formulas have the potential to run, while waterproof formulas are designed not to. Given that waterproof mascaras can be a bit harsh and drying on lashes (not to mention require more elbow grease to remove — more on that point in a moment… ), she recommends sticking with water-resistant mascaras for most days, and reserving waterproofformulas only for occasions when you know you’ll definitely need them.

The Intended Result

Just like when you’re choosing regular mascara, determine what you want your mascara to do for you. “If you want longer lashes, go for a lengthening waterproof mascara,” says Cantor. “If you want fuller lashes, choose a volumizing waterproof mascara. If you want natural separation, look for a defining waterproof mascara.” Top tip: Manygood mascarascome in both regular and waterproof versions, so if you find one whose effects you love, just pick up the waterproof iteration.

People / Tamara Staples

We’ve tested 50 waterproof mascaras total in both the real world and the PEOPLE lab. Each tester started makeup-free eyes to avoid a buildup of product or pre-existing residue that could affect the test results.

Our testers in the lab then chose two products, one for each eye, to judge one against the other in real time. The real-world testers took one product home to try out for two weeks to see how they hold up to rainy commutes, workouts, humidity, and all the other watery elements one may run into in a day. Each person evaluated their products based on the same criteria:

We then ranked each mascara on a scale from one to five based on these qualities, and the average of these scores were found to determine their final performances. We analyzed both the real-world feedback in tandem with the lab results to deem the 10 mascaras above (and four honorable mentions) worthy of your next beach vacation or pool day.

Frequently Asked Questions

The drawback: The inclusion of these ingredients also means waterproof formulas are heavier and generally harsher and more drying to lashes. That is, unless you opt for something likeNeutrogena’s Hydro Boost PlumpingMascara, which is designed to pump hydration back into your lashes instead of drying them out.

Both experts we spoke with say that it’s not ideal, again, given those potentially drying effects. “It’s best to avoid using these daily if you can,” says Greenberg.If youdowant to use one on the regular, Cantor recommends layering a conditioning lash primer underneath the waterproof mascara. It won’t necessarily increase staying power, like aneyeshadow primerwould for the makeup on your lids, but it helps mitigate the likelihood that the mascara will dry out your lashes, he explains.Otherwise, reserve waterproof mascaras for special occasions and/or long days when you know you won’t have an opportunity for touch-ups, suggests Greenberg.

Both experts we spoke with say that it’s not ideal, again, given those potentially drying effects. “It’s best to avoid using these daily if you can,” says Greenberg.

If youdowant to use one on the regular, Cantor recommends layering a conditioning lash primer underneath the waterproof mascara. It won’t necessarily increase staying power, like aneyeshadow primerwould for the makeup on your lids, but it helps mitigate the likelihood that the mascara will dry out your lashes, he explains.

Otherwise, reserve waterproof mascaras for special occasions and/or long days when you know you won’t have an opportunity for touch-ups, suggests Greenberg.

As seen during our testing, the removal process can be the biggest drawback to using a waterproof mascara. The last thing you want to do is aggressively rub and scrub, as that can damage both your lashes and the delicate skin around your eyes.

Melanie Rudis a beauty writer, editor, and contributor to both PEOPLE and Byrdie. She has previously held editorial positions at Shape, Good Housekeeping, and Health, covering topics from skincare to makeup in the shopping space. For this article, Rud consulted with celebrity makeup artists to get real, red carpet-approved advice and expertise on the qualifications and appropriate applications of a good waterproof mascara.

Our Expert PanelBryan Cantoris a celebrity makeup artist who has previously worked with Meghan Markle.Jamie Greenbergis also a celebrity makeup artist, boasting clients like Rashida Jones and Chelsea Handler, while also owning and operating her namesake cosmetics company, Jamie Makeup.

Our Expert Panel

Bryan Cantoris a celebrity makeup artist who has previously worked with Meghan Markle.Jamie Greenbergis also a celebrity makeup artist, boasting clients like Rashida Jones and Chelsea Handler, while also owning and operating her namesake cosmetics company, Jamie Makeup.

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