More categories
More categories

Smart Shopper is reader supported. When you shop our picks, we may receive a commission.

The 10 best waterproof mascaras for full, smudge-free lashes

These are the best waterproof mascaras that not only withstand tears but also add volume, length and curl.

Published Dec 08, 2023
4 min. reading time
a selection of the best mascaras including Dior, Lancome, Maybelline and Covergirl

Whether you're heading to a movie, taking a swim or attending a special event, the right waterproof mascara can make a world of difference. 

So, if you’re yet to find your perfect pair, we can help.

From the best drugstore waterproof mascara picks to luxurious high-end options, we’ve rounded up the best waterproof mascaras that make sure your lashes always look their best.

Ready to say goodbye to clumpy and smudge lashes and hello to wispy, full and sensational eye looks? Keep scrolling through!

Read more: Top drugstore mascaras for women

Top waterproof mascaras 

CoverGirl Clump Crusher Waterproof Mascara in a green packet
Best for volume
CoverGirl Clump Crusher Waterproof Mascara
$8.90 at Amazon
Lancome Monsieur Big Volumizing Mascara in a black tube
For a dramatic look
Lancome Monsieur Big Volumizing Mascara
$15 at Ulta
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Waterproof Plumping Mascara in baby blue tube
To enhance lashes
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Waterproof Plumping Mascara
$8.99 at Amazon
Too Faced Better Than Sex Volumizing & Lengthening Waterproof Mascara in a light green tube
For an intense look
Too Faced Better Than Sex Volumizing & Lengthening Waterproof Mascara
$24.65 at Macy’s

The mascara is a game-changer in the beauty industry with its volumizing and lengthening formulation. 

It's designed to create the most stunning and enchanting eyes by targeting every single lash, extending their length, thickening them and elevating them for hours.

Through a tireless 24-hour waterproof wear, it ensures your lashes stay voluminous and lifted in any weather or emotional circumstance. And since it’s made with a lightweight formula, it also offers a comfortable experience throughout the day, preventing the feeling of heaviness on your lashes.

For a dramatic look

This mascara is your ticket to achieving the most dramatic lashes you've ever had, sans the need for false lashes or eyelash extensions. 

It promises up to 12 times more volume, giving you a false lash effect that stands out. This mascara not only volumizes but also lengthens your lashes, and with a wear time of up to 24 hours, it's perfect for long days out or events that go into the night. 

Plus, it’s smudge-proof and doesn't flake, ensuring your look remains flawless, clean and clump-free.

To enhance lashes

Looking for a mascara that does more than just coat your lashes? This pick just might be it.

This mascara, enriched with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and keratin, does more than just enhance your lashes. It nourishes them, replenishing dry, brittle strands for a healthier and fuller look. 

But that’s not all.  

It’s got a waterproof formulation that won't smudge or flake, even during a dip in the pool.

Wishing for sexy, full and wispy lashes? This pick from Too Faced can give you just that.

Designed with an hourglass-shaped brush and intensely black colorway, this mascara offers supple, separated and fully fanned lashes with just one coat.

The best part? It’s also infused with firm-forming polymers, acacia extra and collagen to lock your curls, increase volume and plump your lashes to perfection.

With the ability to lengthen lashes by up to 60%, this mascara is a game-changer.

Its formula is smooth, easy to apply, and sits comfortably on your lashes all day long, making it ideal for long office hours or a night out. An added advantage is that it's fragrance-free, making it suitable for those with sensitive noses. The best part? Its Flexible Precision Elastomer Brush!

This brush ensures every lash is coated evenly, separating them for a clump-free result. Say goodbye to the fear of your lashes sticking together and hello to defined and voluminous lashes.

This mascara delivers full volume and limitless length, ensuring sky-high lash impact from every angle. Its exclusive Flex Tower mascara brush bends to volumize and extend every single lash from root to tip. Meanwhile, its waterproof formula is infused with bamboo extract and fibers, providing long, full lashes that never get weighed down.

Plus, it's also allergy and ophthalmologist-tested, making it suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Dreaming of lashes straight out of a fairytale? The Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara is your magic wand. 

Designed for those who are always on the go, this waterproof mascara is perfect for diving into the day without worrying about smudging or flaking. 

The unique, conical-shaped fiber brush is also specially designed to provide the length and volume you crave, giving your lashes a stunning, false lash effect.

If you’re looking to upgrade your beauty routine, let this mascara be your next purchase.

Promising up to 24 hours of waterproof wear, it's designed to push up lashes for an eye-opening effect, creating fully fanned-out volume without any flakes.

Plus, its lightweight formula ensures it doesn't weigh down on your lashes, providing comfortable wear all day long.

A party-ready look

On the hunt for a runway-worthy addition to your makeup arsenal? This pick just might be it.

With its ultra-glamorous formula, it promises to lengthen, thicken and curve your lashes to the nth degree, transforming your eyes into a catwalk-ready spectacle with each application. It's not just about looks, though. 

This mascara is a practical choice for those who lead active lifestyles or find themselves with watering eyes. It's resistant to swimming, splashing, and even a few tears, ensuring that your lashes remain stunningly voluminous and beautifully curved, no matter what.

Great for everyday

The Big Mood Waterproof Mascara is a must-have for those who covet big, bold lashes. 

With its waterproof formula, you can confidently face whatever the day throws at you without worrying about smudges or flakes. 

But its most impressive feature is its hourglass-shaped brush head which is designed to separate and define each lash, giving you an impressive, voluminous look.

As a bonus, it’s also infused with jojoba wax, a natural ingredient known for its conditioning properties. It gives the mascara a smooth texture, making application a breeze.

What are the best waterproof mascaras?

While all of these picks deserve a rightful spot in your makeup bag, there are a few that stand out:


Did you like this article? For more great deals and shopping ideas, find us now on your favorite social networks: Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest!


Prices updated on 12/08/2023. We are not responsible for any changes to the prices mentioned above.

Lauren Pascal Professional Headshot
Written by
Lauren Pascal

A self-proclaimed ‘obsessed TikTok user,’ Lauren Pascal uses her knowledge to help readers shop for trendy new products. Lauren is also an experienced travel writer and recently wrote informative pieces for travellers during the pandemic.