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Finding a mascara that produces lush, clump-free lashes is hard enough—and if you need it to hold up through a sweaty spin class, a beach day or an episode of Queer Eye, the search gets even tougher. These formulas actually deliver on their smudge- and flake-free promises, so you don’t have to live in fear of the dreaded panda eyes.
Additional reporting by Jenny Jin.
The Facts:
Classic for a reason, this drugstore favorite was the first mascara we ever tried and it’s one that we come back to over and over again. The soft, fluffy brush deposits jet black pigments onto each hair and really makes our skimpy lashes pop. The only caveat is that it can be a tad gloopy if you don’t wipe off the excess before wiggling it through your lashes. Do that and you’re golden.
The Facts:
We’re honestly amazed that this mascara doesn’t have more reviews than it does (though 300+ is nothing to scoff at either). For five dollars, it outperforms many fancier formulas we’ve tried that are several times the cost. The cone-shaped brush is easy to maneuver, and the smooth, inky color defines our lashes just so. Best of all, it’s able to withstand heat, sweat and tears (as proven whenever we watch an episode of This is Us).
The Facts:
One of waterproof mascara’s notable perks—besides staying put in a downpour—is its ability to hold a curl, thanks to a higher wax content. Beauty director Jenny Jin recommends this fiber-enhanced formula, which gives even wispy, straight lashes “major pizzazz and a long-lasting curl.”
The Facts:
This bright orange tube earns high marks for its volumizing, buildable formula, a rubberized wand that makes applying and separating a snap, and the fact that it does. Not. Budge. (Seriously, you’re gonna need a good makeup remover.) If you’re after extra definition, we also love Clump Crusher from the same line.
The Facts:
The original “tube” mascara is still a crowd favorite for its innovative formulation that encases each lash in its own little waterproof sleeve. Contact lens wearers, swimmers and those with sensitive eyes all swear by it, and some even believe the tubes allow your lashes to grow healthier than they would with a traditional mascara. Best of all, it comes off easily with warm water and a little pressure.