5 Best Waterproof Mascaras Out of the 74 We Tested

Before and after applying Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof Mascara.

Before and after applying Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara.

Before and after applying CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara.

Before and after applying CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Waterproof Mascara.

The Good Housekeeping Beauty Lab has evaluated more than 74 waterproof mascaras over the past decade using a combination of Lab and consumer testing.

First, Beauty Lab experts evaluated each mascara’s waterproof claims using a water-resistance test. In the Lab, testers applied a controlled amount of mascara, allowed it to dry for a set period, then splashed their lashes with a set amount of warm water before assessing how well the formula resisted smudging and running.

Then, more than 130 testers were recruited to use their assigned waterproof mascara at least three times before completing a standardized questionnaire. They rated each mascara on ease of use, performance, and overall satisfaction, evaluating everything from application (including smoothness and brush design) to the finished look (such as volume, curl, definition, and thickness), wear throughout the day (including whether it flaked, ran, or smudged), and ease of removal.

Based on more than a decade of testing, including more than 2,000 consumer data points, we identified the top-performing waterproof mascaras featured in this article.

We recommend considering the following when searching for waterproof mascaras:

✔️ Look for the term “waterproof” on the label: It is common to find the same mascara in both waterproof and non-waterproof versions. If you are looking for a waterproof mascara, make sure the product you select says “waterproof.” You can often find this either next to the name of the product or in the shade name.

✔️ Color preference: Most of these mascaras come in traditional black, but some are also available in a brown-black or brown. If you prefer a more natural-looking mascara, check the website or store for these more subtle options.

✔️ Benefits: If you are looking for fuller lashes, look for the claims such as “volumizing” or “thickening” on the product packaging. “Lengthening” claims are great for making lashes look longer, while “curling” claims help provide lift.

✔️ You may need additional tools:

• Lash Curler: If you are looking for an enhanced curl effect, we suggest curling lashes with a lash curler before application. We recommend the Tweezerman Promaster Lash Curler, a Good Housekeeping Beauty Award winner.
• Makeup remover: Waterproof mascaras are known to be harder to wash off so you will need a good makeup remover. See our tips below for an easier removal process.

"Waterproof mascaras are typically superior in keeping lashes lifted and curled," says Good Housekeeping Beauty Lab Director Sabina Wizemann. While "they are usually a bit stickier [and] require more time to dry, once set, they're designed to not smudge," she says.

That's because "waterproof mascara contains ingredients like synthetic waxes, silicone, and film-forming agents that create a water-resistant barrier [which] help the mascara adhere better to the lashes and resist being washed away by water, sweat, or tears." These robust additions may feel heavier on the lashes, yet keep lift and curl better.

Nope, stick to special occasions only. "Because waterproof mascaras have stronger adherence to the lashes, they can sometimes lead to more lash breakage or loss during removal if not done carefully," explains Wizemann. Waterproof formulas require harsher solvents to remove; the pulling and rubbing required to remove can cause lashes to fall out and irritate the skin around the eyes over time.

Because of this, Wizemann suggests reserving waterproof mascara for special events only, or for regular wearers, up to three times a week. "Use regular or go mascara-free on other days to give your lashes a break."

Because waterproof mascaras are designed to withstand pretty much anything, you should rely on a gentle eye makeup remover formulated for waterproof cosmetics, like Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover, for end of the day removal. Our experts also recommend wearing waterproof mascara sparingly, since the removal can be irritating to skin and eyes.

"Always make sure to saturate lashes thoroughly with eye makeup remover before removing the mascara," says Wizemann. Hold a cotton pad soaked with remover on the eye for a few seconds before swiping downward and away. Wizemann suggests using a Q-tip saturated in makeup remover to gently clean mascara in between lashes to avoid smudges the next morning.

Good Housekeeping Senior Chemist Danusia Wnek led the Beauty Lab's two most recent waterproof mascara tests and wrote this article based on those findings and more than a decade of Beauty Lab testing.

Beauty Lab Director Sabina Wizemann contributed her expertise on waterproof mascara formulations, performance, and best practices for application and removal.