Best Mascaras

Start your mascara search with the result you want: separated definition, extra length, or a waterproof finish. This shortlist makes those differences explicit and keeps washable, film-forming, and waterproof versions separate.

Research-led selections, not hands-on test results. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Compare the shortlist

The selection order follows this guide’s criteria. Mention counts describe the archive; they are not performance scores.

Compare products, finishes, and people who mentioned them
ProductFormat & finishWho mentioned it
GlossierLash SlickFilm-form mascaraDefined, length-focusedView all 15 mentions
HourglassUnlocked Instant Extensions MascaraTubing mascaraLength and definitionView the mention
MaybellineLash Sensational Sky High MascaraWashable mascaraLength and volumeView all 3 mentions
ChanelLe Volume de Chanel Waterproof MascaraWaterproof mascaraVolume-focusedView the mention

The selections, with their sources

Glossier

Lash Slick

Choose this for a more defined, less heavily built lash look.

15 people mentioned this product in the archive

Selected historical mentions below. A formula-level mention does not establish a shade match or use of a later reformulation.

Glossier’s film-form mascara is positioned around definition and length, with a water-resistant formula that the brand says removes with warm water. It is a different choice from a dense waterproof volume mascara.

Before you choose. Water-resistant does not mean waterproof. Choose a specifically waterproof formula when that is the requirement.

Manufacturer details

Hourglass

Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

Compare a clearly identified tubing formula when easy film-form removal is part of the appeal.

1 person mentioned this product in the archive

Selected historical mentions below. A formula-level mention does not establish a shade match or use of a later reformulation.

Hourglass explicitly identifies Unlocked as a tubing mascara. That makes it a clear product to compare when you want a film-forming formula rather than simply a mascara with a smudge-resistance claim.

Before you choose. Follow its removal instructions. Tubing is a formula category, not a guarantee that it will suit every eye or lash type.

Manufacturer details

Maybelline

Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

Consider the washable drugstore option for a length-and-volume brief.

3 people mentioned this product in the archive

Selected historical mentions below. A formula-level mention does not establish a shade match or use of a later reformulation.

The washable Sky High is the drugstore length-and-volume option in this group. Compare its flexible brush and washable label with the separate waterproof version before deciding which belongs in your routine.

Before you choose. The two Sky High versions are separate catalog records here. A recommendation for one does not establish a recommendation for the other.

Manufacturer details

Chanel

Le Volume de Chanel Waterproof Mascara

Choose the volume-focused waterproof direction when water resistance matters.

1 person mentioned this product in the archive

Selected historical mentions below. A formula-level mention does not establish a shade match or use of a later reformulation.

Chanel positions Le Volume Waterproof around volume and intense color. It gives this shortlist a volume-focused alternative to a mascara chosen chiefly for length.

Before you choose. The waterproof and standard Le Volume formulas are different. Check the full name rather than relying on the tube color.

Manufacturer details

How to choose

The formula label matters

A brand may sell washable and waterproof versions with very similar names. Water-resistant is also different from waterproof. Match the exact label to your use case before choosing on the strength of someone else’s recommendation.

Think about removal before application

Your ideal lash look should fit your evening routine too. Tubing and waterproof formulas may need different removal methods. Read the instructions rather than using more friction when the mascara does not come away.

Length versus volume: make the difference explicit

For a more separated, length-focused look, start by comparing Lash Slick or the explicitly tubing Unlocked. For a conventional length-and-volume brief, compare washable Sky High. For waterproof volume, use the separately named Chanel formula. Those are manufacturer-positioned roles, not our comparative wear or length measurements; application amount and brush control also affect the final look.

Your questions, answered

Is tubing mascara waterproof?

Tubing describes how the formula forms around lashes. Waterproof is a separate claim; check the exact product label.

Which mascara gives a natural look?

A definition-focused formula is a useful starting point, but brush technique and the amount applied also affect the result.

How we chose

Glisserati’s selections combine the criteria explained in this guide with current manufacturer information and documented historical product mentions. We compare the product’s stated role, format, finish, and practical limitations. We have not performed a comparative hands-on test, and manufacturer performance claims are not our test results.

We count distinct people with linked mentions, not the number of times a product appears. Source links retain the recorded publisher, context, and commercial disclosures where known. A person’s mention is a discovery lead, not proof of suitability for a skin type, shade, age, or background. Named variants are kept separate; source links may describe an earlier formula or shade.

Our organization is responsible for these guides; no individual testing or expert-review byline is implied. Prices and availability are not tracked. Retailer links may earn a commission. Read our approach or send a correction.