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12 Best Waterproof Mascaras for Long-Lasting Lashes

No smudges or streaks!

Headshot of Macie ReynoldsBy Macie Reynolds
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L'Oréal / Too Faced

As we look ahead to the summery days quickly approaching, it's time to start gathering all of those warm-weather essentials to carry you through the months. Items like high-waisted shorts and beach-worthy swimsuits are certainly needed in your closet. But while you're working towards that seasonal reset, don't forget to include your cosmetics cabinet, too! Along with very necessary face sunscreen, an item we recommend putting near the top of your list: waterproof mascara. You never know when you'll be invited to an impromptu dive at your local pool, get caught in a rainstorm, or just need to let out some tears (we totally understand)! And lucky for you, the best waterproof mascaras are up for the task.

Our Top Picks

  • 1
    CoverGirl Clump Crusher Waterproof Mascara

    Best Overall

    CoverGirl Clump Crusher Waterproof Mascara

    $13 at Ulta Beauty
    Read more
  • 2
    MAC In Extreme Dimension Waterproof Mascara

    Worth the Splurge

    MAC In Extreme Dimension Waterproof Mascara

    Read more
  • 3
    Neutrogena Hydro Boost Waterproof Plumping Mascara

    Plumping Pick

    Neutrogena Hydro Boost Waterproof Plumping Mascara

    Read more
  • 4
    L'Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara

    Bestseller

    L'Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara

    Read more
  • 5
    Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara

    114,000+ Reviews

    Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara

    Read more

All of the picks here maintain that lash volume, lift, and length you know and love with the added advantage of a smudge-proof formula that doesn't run or flake. You'll find drugstore mascaras at an affordable price as well as a few luxury brands that we promise are worth the splurge. Many of these mascaras even come formulated with beneficial ingredients to maintain soft, healthy lashes—plus, plenty of different brush shapes.

After you've browsed all of these mascaras, be sure to continue your summer upgrade with waterproof foundations, a tinted lip balm, or a drugstore bronzer for that sun-kissed look. And if one of these mascaras sticks with you beyond the summer months and becomes your everyday lash product–that's a win in our book!

1
Best Overall

CoverGirl Clump Crusher Waterproof Mascara

CoverGirl Clump Crusher Waterproof Mascara
1
Best Overall

CoverGirl Clump Crusher Waterproof Mascara

$13 at Ulta Beauty
Credit: Ulta
Pros
  • Brush holds perfect amount of product
  • Natural looking
Cons
  • Can be tough to remove
  • May take a few coats

This waterproof mascara is made to stay and look good while doing it. It's formulated with a buildable fiber-stretch formula that's said to give 200% more volume and length to your lashes. Better yet, a curved brush with a straight bristle edge will fit to the shape of your eye and keeps each hair separated upon application for an evenly distributed, non-clumping look. That means it's perfect for a trip to the beach or everyday use!

2
Worth the Splurge

MAC In Extreme Dimension Waterproof Mascara

MAC In Extreme Dimension Waterproof Mascara
2
Worth the Splurge

MAC In Extreme Dimension Waterproof Mascara

Credit: Ulta
Pros
  • Easy grip brush handle
  • Buildable formula
Cons
  • Messy removal
  • Could provide better lift

Waterworks are no match for this smudge-proof and flake-proof formula. Along with staying put to the extreme, the mascara will also create curl and enhance the volume and length of your lashes without clumping. It comes in a lightweight carbon black formula that saturates from root to tip and looks oh-so-bold once on.

3
Plumping Pick

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Waterproof Plumping Mascara

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Waterproof Plumping Mascara
3
Plumping Pick

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Waterproof Plumping Mascara

Credit: Walmart
Pros
  • Takes one coat
  • Nourishes lashes
Cons
  • Some find it clumpy
  • Not super buildable

Waterproof mascara can wear on your lashes—but this pick is enriched with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and keratin to not only hydrate and replenish lashes but to also give them a healthy and glossy look. This will in turn make them look fuller and longer. It's also designed to be non-smudging and non-flaking so you can enjoy the look of your lashes throughout the day.

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4
Bestseller

L'Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara

L'Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara
4
Bestseller

L'Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara

Credit: Ulta
Pros
  • Applies evenly
  • Defines and seperates lashes
Cons
  • Difficult to remove
  • Formula can have sticky texture

Let this mascara pick take your lashes to paradise! It's earned 2,500 reviews, of which 86% of customers recommend the product. You'll get a dramatic full fringe effect complete with lasting length, intense volume, and silky softness–oh, and all it takes is one coat thanks to a soft wavy brush with 200+ bristles that catch every lash with a smooth-glide design.

5
114,000+ Reviews

Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara

Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara
5
114,000+ Reviews

Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara

Now 25% Off
Credit: Amazon
Pros
  • Long lasting
  • Two shade options
Cons
  • Messy application
  • Difficult removal

For a mascara that offers the lasting volume you need without the clumps–add this to your cart! The Maybelline exclusive brush has ten layers of bristles for a full-fan effect. Users also love that it captures each lash from root to tip for supple and separated lashes that don't feel weighed down by product.

6
13,000+ Reviews

Max Factor False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara

Max Factor False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara
6
13,000+ Reviews

Max Factor False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara

Credit: Amazon
Pros
  • Strong color
  • Separates lashes well
Cons
  • Can grow clumpy
  • Not easy to remove

Pro tip: Include a waterproof mascara in your daily makeup routine so you're always ready for whatever life throws at you! The good news? That's exactly what this product is recommended for. It's made to evenly coat and lengthen from root to tip without the mess. That means no flaking or smudging as it holds a volumized and curled look throughout the day.

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7
Budget Buy

Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof Mascara

Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof Mascara
7
Budget Buy

Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof Mascara

Credit: Maybelline
Pros
  • Tried-and-true formula
  • Very pigmented
Cons
  • Can smear slightly
  • Difficult to remove

Great Lash is an all-time favorite that just gets better with time. The lash-doubling formula that goes on easily then conditions and thickens, makes it simply effortless to get a full-lash look that lasts. It's also super buildable (though your lashes will remain separated) with an easy-to-use brush so you can achieve your desired appearance.

8
5,000+ Reviews

Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara

Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara
8
5,000+ Reviews

Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara

Credit: Ulta
Pros
  • Lightweight feel
  • Even application
Cons
  • Slight flaking
  • Large brush takes getting used to

If you're a makeup lover, you've probably heard of this cult-classic mascara. Now, imagine that formula redesigned to be waterproof and smudge proof! Sounds pretty great, right? It is! This product thickens and lengthens lashes for an all-day look using curl-locking polymers and the same beloved hourglass-shaped brush that separates and coats to perfection. Unique peptides will also condition your lashes.

9
Best for Everyday

Glossier Lash Slick

Glossier Lash Slick
9
Best for Everyday

Glossier Lash Slick

Credit: Glossier
Pros
  • Available in multiple shades
  • Nourishing ingredients
Cons
  • Water-resistant not waterproof
  • Dry for some reviewers

It's a fan favorite for a reason! The Glossier Lash Slick with pro-vitamins lengthens and lifts to enhance the look of your natural lashes. It's water-resistant, not waterproof–which means it will stay all day (12 hours to be exact) without smudging or flaking but removes easily without damage. Teeny-tiny fibers coat each individual hair for maximum definition while the formula works to support health and shine.

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10
Cruelty-Free Formula

Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara

Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara
10
Cruelty-Free Formula

Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara

Credit: Sephora
Pros
  • Made with mineral pigments
  • Doesn't budge
Cons
  • Formula can be dry
  • Needs multiple applications

It doesn't get much better than a 4-in-1 formula, right? Well, with this waterproof mascara–that's exactly what you get. Lengthening, curling, volumizing, and conditioning all in a single product that will stay put through rain, sweat or tears! You'll also enjoy Skinvigorating ingredients that sooth and soften your lashes while defining them with a dramatic lift.

11
Award-Winning Formula

Thrive Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara

Thrive Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara
11
Award-Winning Formula

Thrive Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara

Credit: Thrive Cosmetics
Pros
  • Effortless removal
  • Multiple shades available
Cons
  • Water-resistant not waterproof
  • Flaky for some users

This mascara is an internet sensation that really lives up to its hype! Thrive uses orchid stem cells and tubing technology–that means the formula wraps around each individual lash for a no clump, flake or smudge look that lengthens from root to tip all while supporting the health of your lashes. It's said to stay-all-day and remains lightweight layer after layer.

12
Editor's Pick

Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara

Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara
12
Editor's Pick

Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara

Credit: Sephora
Pros
  • Long lasting
  • Easy removal
Cons
  • Prone to clumping
  • Can look heavy

We know it's a bit of a splurge, but this mascara is definitely worth it! The unique brush has a large shape with soft, wavy fibers to deliver the perfect amount of its sweat and smudge proof formula. Supple waxes and polymers will adhere to your lashes immediately for buildable volume and length that won't need any touching up for up to 24 hours of wear.

Headshot of Macie Reynolds
Macie Reynolds
Assistant Editor

Macie Reynolds is the assistant editor of E-Commerce and SEO for The Pioneer Woman.

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