Owning a reliable waterproof mascara is a must if you want to look pristine at all times. The best waterproof mascaras we’ve seen won’t irritate your skin and they use hard-wearing formula to keep you covered; whatever you’re doing. Our experts have picked out some of the most popular waterproof mascaras for you to choose from.
We’ve worked our way through pages upon pages of make-up to pick out some bargains. In fact, our team has spotted top products from trusted skincare brands including Maybelline, Poppy Austin and L’Oreal Paris. All of the waterproof mascaras we’ve highlighted in our guide are affordable, so you won’t need to spend loads to treat your skin.
At a glance: our top 3 waterproof mascaras
Cheap
Technic Mega Lash Waterproof Mascara
- Hard-wearing formula that survives a splash
- Suitable for all skin types
- Mega wand provides mega volume
Popular
- Curved brush with multi-sized bristles
- No clumping and no smudging
- Extra black volume on thin lashes
Vegan
- Gives your lashes a lift for 24 hours at a time
- Created using all-natural ingredients
- For Thicker and fuller-looking lashes
What is waterproof mascara?
Waterproof mascara is a type of mascara that is designed to resist water, sweat, and tears. This handy product is specifically designed to stay on your lush lashes even when exposed to moisture, making it an ideal choice for those who want their mascara to last longer, or those who engage in activities that might cause regular mascara to smudge or run.
Best waterproof mascara to buy for 2023
Technic Mega Lash Waterproof Mascara (£2.72)
- Size: 12ml
This is one of the most popular waterproof mascaras that you’ll find on Amazon and, to make the deal even sweeter, you can grab this stick for less than £5. Technic’s volumizing mascara comes in a 12ml container and is designed for all skin types. It uses a hard-wearing formula to keep you looking better for longer. Note that this waterproof mascara is marketed as ‘suitable for vegans’.
Click here to buy the Technic Mega Lash Waterproof Mascara, or search deals on eBay.
Maybelline Lash Sensational (£6.70)
- Size: 10ml
- Brand store: Maybelline
Maybelline has a selection of waterproof mascaras for you to browse through. Lash Sensational is a black volume mascara bundled with a curved silicone brush – it has six multi-sized bristles for an enhanced look and is designed to prevent clumping. The brand says that its low-wax mascara offers up intense colour without sticking lashes together.
Click here to buy the Maybelline Lash Sensational, or search deals on eBay.
L’Oréal Paris Paradise (£9.32)
- Size: 6.4ml
- Brand store: L’Oreal Paris
A sub-£100 waterproof mascara that ensures your lashes will look lusher than ever. L’Oréal Paris Paradise is flake-free and suitable for folk that wear contact lenses. Brush through your lashes from root to tip, and consider layering multiple coats if you want even more volume throughout the dash.
Click here to buy the L’Oréal Paris Paradise, or search deals on eBay.
Rimmel 100% Waterproof Long-lasting Mascara (£4.94)
- Size: 8ml
- Brand store: Rimmel
Rimmel’s popular waterproof mascara is a great pick if you’re trying to keep costs low. It comes in a 8ml container and provides long-lasting coverage, with a fast-drying formula. This is a deep black colour, so consider how you’ll style it to make your make-up really pop. Note that you can also pick this waterproof mascara up in a brown shade from Rimmel’s online store.
Click here to buy the Rimmel 100% Waterproof Long-lasting Mascara, or search deals on eBay.
Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara (£8.60)
- Size: 7ml
- Brand store: Maybelline
Maybelline’s waterproof mascara is suitable for all lashes and features nourishing bamboo extract and fibres for fuller and longer lashes. This stick serves up richly-pigmented colour without flakes. For best results, the brand recommends curling your lashes, applying a primer and then using the mascara at the bottom of your lash with with sweeping motions from root to tip.
Click here to buy the Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara, or search deals on eBay.
Maybelline Colossal Masc Black Waterproof (£5.30)
- Size: 10ml
- Brand store: Maybelline
This eye-catching waterproof mascara from Maybelline comes in a 10ml container. It’s said to offer ‘up to 7x more volume’ when applied and uses a collagen-enriched formula for top results. We recommend giving this mascara a try if you want to avoid clumping.
Click here to buy the Maybelline Colossal Masc Black Waterproof, or search deals on eBay.
If you need a stylish mirror to apply your makeup, check out our handy guide on the best makeup mirrors with lights.
Waterproof mascaras: common questions
How is waterproof mascara different from regular mascara?
As the name tells you, waterproof mascara is formulated to resist water, while regular mascara is not. Regular mascara can potentially smudge or run when it comes into contact with water, but waterproof alternatives are designed to stay on your lashes even when exposed to moisture.
How long does waterproof mascara last?
Waterproof mascara can last up to 24 hours, depending on the specific brand and formula that you’re using. However, make sure you remove it before going to bed to prevent damage to your lovely lashes.
Can I use waterproof mascara on my lower lashes?
You can use waterproof mascara on your lower lashes, although some find waterproof mascara can be too harsh for their lower lashes, causing them to become dry and brittle. If you have sensitive skin or eyes, it might be best to avoid using waterproof mascara on your lower lashes.
How do I apply waterproof mascara without clumping?
Start by wiping off excess mascara from your wand using a tissue or the edge of the mascara tube. Then, apply the mascara in a zig-zag motion, starting at the base of your lashes and working your way up to the tips.
How much is waterproof mascara?
If you’re shopping for effective waterproof mascaras, expect to spend around £5-20 on a decent option. For that price, you can get a mascara that maintains its hold through a full day.
Can waterproof mascara damage my lashes?
Waterproof mascara can be more difficult to remove than regular mascara, which can cause damage to the lashes if it is not removed properly. It is important to use a good makeup remover specifically designed for waterproof mascara and to be gentle when removing it.
Where to buy waterproof mascara
| Amazon | Loads of brilliant options from a range of well-known skincare brands. |
| Boots | This retailer stocks plenty of waterproof mascaras from brands including Maybelline, No7, Rimmel and Max Factor. |
| eBay | Has a selection of waterproof mascaras that are regularly discounted. |
Featured image courtesy of L’Oreal Store.