Most people pick a mascara based on the pretty packaging or a celebrity face on the box. That is a quick way to end up with drooping lashes by noon.
You need to match your specific lash type to the right brush shape and formula density. These best volumising mascaras are chosen because they actually deliver on their promises. Read on to see which ones will hold your curl through the longest days.
Key Takeaways
- Look for a brush with a tapered tip if you want to reach the tiny lashes in the inner corners of your eyes.
- Prioritize formulas that claim to be buildable if you prefer to layer your coats for a more dramatic, evening look.
- Check the ingredient list for conditioning agents like panthenol or jojoba oil to prevent your lashes from becoming brittle.
- Remember that wet, thin formulas are great for length, but thick, creamy formulas are the real secret to actual volume.
- Consider a smudge-resistant formula if your eyelids tend to get oily, as this prevents those dark circles under your eyes.
| Ultimate Soft Volume |  |
L'Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara | Soft feathery texture | Intense black pigment | No clumping | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Temperature Sensitive Formula |  |
Kanebo Volumising 38 Degrees Mascara | Unique thermal removal | Clean finish | Humidity resistant | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Infinite Length Booster |  |
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High | Flexible lengthening wand | Buildable volume | Defines every lash | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Budget Friendly Favorite |  |
Essence Lash Princess False Effect | Dramatic false lash effect | Conical brush shape | Highly pigmented | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Classic Thickening Power |  |
L'Oreal Voluminous Original Mascara | Builds density rapidly | Thickening formula | Classic reliable performance | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Precision Length Specialist |  |
L'Oreal Telescopic Original Mascara | Excellent lash separation | Precise thin brush | Great for lower lashes | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Iconic Hourglass Volume |  |
Too Faced Better Than Sex | Iconic hourglass brush | Dramatic volume | Vegan formula | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Wide Angle Definition |  |
L'Oreal Voluminous Panorama Mascara | Fanned out effect | Multi level bristles | Long wear formula | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Mega Volume Boost |  |
Maybelline Volum' Express Colossal Mascara | Maximum volume impact | Large brush size | Glamorous finish | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Surreal Length Extender |  |
Maybelline The Falsies Surreal Extensions | Hybrid fiber technology | Surreal length | Easy to remove | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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L'Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara
If you want lashes that feel as soft as feathers while still looking thick, this is your winner. It builds up intensity quickly without the stiffness that often comes with high-volume formulas.
The formula is incredibly smooth, which helps it glide over lashes without catching or creating those dreaded clumps. Just keep in mind that the voluptuous brush is quite large, so take your time to avoid getting marks on your eyelid.
- Brand Name:L'Oreal Paris
- Product Name:Voluminous Lash Paradise
- Volume Capacity:0.25 Fl Oz
- Primary Benefit:Voluptuous Volume
- Quantity Count:1 Pack
- Additional Feature:Intense length
- Additional Feature:Smudge resistant formula
- Additional Feature:Flake free wear
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Kanebo Volumising 38 Degrees Mascara
This unique mascara is designed to respond to your environment. It stays put through sweat and humidity, but it washes off easily when you use water that is exactly 38 degrees Celsius, or about 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
It creates a clean, sophisticated look rather than a dramatic, spiky finish. If you have sensitive eyes or struggle with raccoon eyes by the end of the day, this is a very reliable choice.
- Brand Name:Kanebo
- Product Name:Volumising 38 Degrees
- Primary Benefit:Thermal removal
- Additional Feature:Water resistant
- Additional Feature:Gentle for sensitive eyes
- Additional Feature:Sophisticated definition
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Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High
The flexible wand on this mascara is a total game changer for reaching those tiny inner corner lashes. It stretches the formula out to create a look that mimics professional extensions.
Because it is a buildable formula, you can layer it up for more intensity without it turning into a heavy, drooping mess. It works best if you apply one coat, let it set for a few seconds, then add your second.
- Brand Name:Maybelline
- Product Name:Lash Sensational Sky High
- Primary Benefit:Lengthening and defining
- Formula Type:Washable
- Quantity Count:1 Count
- Additional Feature:Curling effect
- Additional Feature:Multiplying lash look
- Additional Feature:Blackest black pigment
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Essence Lash Princess False Effect
You do not need to spend a fortune to get a dramatic false lash look. This mascara is famous for its conical fiber brush that grabs every single lash from root to tip.
It provides a significant amount of volume with just a few strokes. Just be careful not to over-apply, as the highly pigmented formula can get a little heavy if you use too many coats.
- Brand Name:Essence
- Product Name:Lash Princess
- Primary Benefit:False lash effect
- Quantity Count:1 Pack
- Additional Feature:Fiber brush applicator
- Additional Feature:Intense black finish
- Additional Feature:Easy application
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L'Oreal Voluminous Original Mascara
Sometimes you just need a reliable, no-nonsense mascara that gets the job done. This classic formula is beloved for its ability to build thickness quickly, making your lash line look much fuller.
It is particularly great for people with thin lashes who need a boost of density. While it excels at volume, it is not the best for extreme lengthening, so pair it with a lengthening primer if you want both.
- Brand Name:L'Oreal Paris
- Product Name:Voluminous Original
- Volume Capacity:0.26 Fl Oz
- Primary Benefit:Thickening volume
- Formula Type:Carbon Black
- Additional Feature:Smudge resistant
- Additional Feature:Clump resistant
- Additional Feature:Intense carbon pigment
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L'Oreal Telescopic Original Mascara
If you are tired of your lashes clumping together, this is the solution you need. The thin, comb-like wand is perfect for separating lashes while adding surprising length.
It creates a very clean, defined aesthetic that works well for everyday wear. Because the wand is so thin, it is excellent for lower lashes where larger brushes usually cause a mess.
- Brand Name:L'Oreal Paris
- Product Name:Telescopic Original
- Volume Capacity:0.27 Fl Oz
- Primary Benefit:Separation and length
- Formula Type:Washable
- Quantity Count:1 Count
- Additional Feature:Lengthening formula
- Additional Feature:Defines lashes
- Additional Feature:Clean finish
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Too Faced Better Than Sex
This mascara is known for its hourglass-shaped brush which is specifically crafted to coat lashes from root to tip. It delivers an intense, dramatic volume that creates a wide-eyed appearance.
The formula is enriched with ingredients that help it stay flexible throughout the day. Since it gives such heavy volume, keep a lash comb handy to brush through any potential clumps after your second coat.
- Brand Name:Too Faced
- Product Name:Better Than Sex
- Volume Capacity:0.27 Fl Oz
- Primary Benefit:Dramatic volume
- Formula Type:Vegan
- Additional Feature:Lengthening effect
- Additional Feature:False lash finish
- Additional Feature:Cruelty free
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L'Oreal Voluminous Panorama Mascara
The Panorama brush is unique because it features multi-level bristles that catch every lash, even the short ones on the corners. This creates a fanned-out effect that makes your eyes look significantly wider.
It is designed to be long-wearing and stays put well through a busy day. If you want a clean, fanned-out look rather than just clumped-up thickness, you will enjoy how this spreads your lashes out.
- Brand Name:L'Oreal Paris
- Product Name:Voluminous Panorama
- Volume Capacity:0.33 Fl Oz
- Primary Benefit:Lengthening and volumizing
- Formula Type:Washable
- Additional Feature:Smudge resistant
- Additional Feature:Wide angle look
- Additional Feature:All night wear
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Maybelline Volum' Express Colossal Mascara
When you want big, bold lashes, this is the go-to choice. The colossal brush is designed to load up plenty of formula, giving you maximum impact with very little effort.
It is a fantastic choice for a glamorous night out where you want your lashes to command attention. Because it deposits so much product, it can be a bit heavy, so use a light hand if you prefer a more natural look.
- Brand Name:Maybelline
- Product Name:Volum' Express Colossal
- Primary Benefit:Volumizing
- Formula Type:Washable
- Quantity Count:1 Count
- Additional Feature:Glam black pigment
- Additional Feature:Quick application
- Additional Feature:Bold look
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Maybelline The Falsies Surreal Extensions
This mascara uses hybrid fiber technology to build length that looks almost impossible. It is designed to extend your lashes beyond their natural tips, giving you a surreal, extended look.
The brush features twisted bristles that help push the formula into the lash base. It is a great choice if you want the length of extensions without having to visit a salon or deal with glue.
- Brand Name:Maybelline
- Product Name:The Falsies Surreal Extensions
- Primary Benefit:Volumizing and lengthening
- Formula Type:Washable
- Quantity Count:1 Count
- Additional Feature:Twisted bristle brush
- Additional Feature:Blackest black pigment
- Additional Feature:Surreal extension effect
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I stop my mascara from clumping?
Clumping usually happens when there is too much product on the brush. Wipe the excess mascara off on a clean tissue or the edge of the tube before you bring the wand to your eyes. Applying too many layers while the first coat is still wet also causes spider-leg lashes. Let each coat dry for thirty seconds before adding another layer to keep things looking smooth.
Should I use a lash primer?
A lash primer acts like a base coat for your paint, providing a smooth surface for the mascara to grip. It adds an extra layer of thickness, which is a massive help if your natural lashes are thin or sparse. If you want extra drama for a night out, a white or tinted primer is a great way to boost your volume. Just make sure to cover the primer completely with your black mascara.
How often should I replace my mascara?
You should replace your mascara every three months at the absolute latest. Because the tube is a dark, moist environment, it can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria. If you notice the formula starting to smell strange or getting unusually dry and flaky, toss it immediately. Your eyes are sensitive, so it is better to play it safe.
Can I use volumizing mascara on bottom lashes?
You certainly can, but it is often easier to use a smaller brush to avoid smudging. Because bottom lashes are usually shorter and finer, a large, thick wand might leave you with dots of mascara on your skin. Try holding your wand vertically to use only the very tip of the brush. This gives you more control and helps you define those tiny hairs without making a mess.
What is the best way to remove waterproof mascara?
Waterproof formulas are designed to resist water, so your standard face wash will not do the trick. You need an oil-based cleanser or a dedicated eye makeup remover to break down the wax. Soak a cotton pad in the remover and hold it against your closed eyelid for ten to fifteen seconds. This allows the oil to soften the mascara, so you can wipe it away gently without pulling out your lashes.
