The 20 Best Drugstore Waterproof Mascaras For Smudge-Free Lashes – 2024

Open up your beautiful eyes with only a few coats of these mascaras onto your lashes.

Reviewed by Cha Cha Woska, Certified Makeup Artist
Written by Baishali Bhattacharya, MA (English)
Edited by Srijani Roy Chowdhury, MA (Journalism & Mass Communication), Certified Style & Image Consultant
Fact-checked by Srijita De, MA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant  • 

Mascara makes your eyes look dramatic. But if your mascara spreads all over your face, it can ruin the entire look. This is why you need the best drugstore waterproof mascara. This mascara adds volume to your lashes, curls them, and intensifies your looks for enhanced beauty. Their bold color emphasizes your eyes, and the well-built brush separates each lash. Cha Cha, a certified professional makeup artist, says, “Be sure to remove waterproof mascara with an oil based cleanser in order to break down the product and safely remove it from your lashes. This will also help to keep your lashes hydrated and prevent breakage.”

Finding the perfect mascara can be a never-ending process. But you can achieve it through research. In this article, we bring you the best drugstore waterproof mascaras. Check them out below!

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Smudge-Proof:theBalm Mad Lash Voluminous Mascara
Price on Amazon
Best Dermatologist-Tested: Neutrogena Healthy Volume Waterproof Mascara
Price on Amazon
Best Pigmented:Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara
Price on Amazon
Best Long-Lasting:UIFCB Voluminous Lash Mascara
Price on Amazon
Best Vegan:Pacifica Aquarian Gaze Water-Resistant Long Lash Mineral Mascara
Price on Amazon
Best 4D Effect: Neenoxtub 4D Silk Fiber Eyelash MascaraPrice on Amazon
Best Creamy Texture: Rimmel Wonder'fully Real MascaraPrice on Amazon
Best For Everyday Wear:Lash Next Door Mascara
Price on Amazon
Best Easy-To-Remove:Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect MascaraPrice on Amazon
Best For Sensitive Eyes:Marcelle Ultimate Volume Mascara
Price on Amazon

20 Best Drugstore Waterproof Mascaras

1. Best Smudge-Proof:theBalm Mad Lash Voluminous Mascara

4.2
theBalm Mad Lash Voluminous Mascara Image: Thebalm

theBalm Mad Lash Voluminous Mascara comes with a molded wand that will help you transform your lashes. It gives great volume to your lashes and defines them. The mascara has an intense black color and is water-resistant and smudge-proof. Whether you are going for a natural look or a bold statement-making one, this mascara is a must-have in your beauty arsenal. It is cruelty-free and free from parabens too. The wand is ideal to separate, lengthen, and build volume.

Color: Black | Product Dimensions: 5.17 x 0.31 x 0.31 inches | Weight: 0.3 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Water-resistant
  • Smudge-proof
  • Voluminous
  • Lengthening
  • Easy to remove

Cons

None

2. Best Dermatologist-Tested: Neutrogena Healthy Volume Waterproof Mascara

4
Neutrogena Healthy Volume Waterproof Mascara Image: Neutrogena

The Neutrogena Healthy Volume Waterproof Mascara features a super-sized volume brush that coats your lashes with bold, volume-building color. It is a clump-free and flake-proof formula. It is infused with olive oil that hydrates your lashes. This mascara has been approved by dermatologists and ophthalmologists, making it completely safe for contact lens wearers and sensitive eyes. You can easily remove the mascara with a make-up remover.

Color: 08 / Black/Brown | Product Dimensions: 1.18 x 1.18 x 1.18 inches | Weight: 0.11 Ounces.

Pros

  • Ophthalmologist-tested
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Flake-resistant
  • Easy to remove
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Dries out easily

My Personal Experience

"I am a fan of this mascara because of its perfect-sized brush which is easy to use. The mascara does not make me teary or cause any other irritation. It is easy to remove, especially if you have short and thin lashes. I like it for casual outings."


Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 407 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.

3. Best Pigmented:Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara

4.3
Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara Image: Eyeko

The Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara lifts and curls your lashes perfectly. The mascara is highly pigmented and 100% waterproof. The curl-enhancing product is vegan and formulated with coconut oil and waterproof pigments. The applicator has dense bristles that coat lashes without forming any clumps.

Color: Black | Product Dimensions: 0.9 x 1.6 x 6.6 inches | Weight: 0.64 Ounces.

Pros

  • Clump-free
  • Vegan
  • Waterproof
  • Ophthalmologically-tested
  • Highly pigmented

Cons

  • Hard to remove

protip_icon Pro Tip
Add one or two drops of aloe vera gel into the mascara tube and shake it up for 2 minutes to liquify your dried-up mascara while providing nourishment to your eyelashes.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With 380 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.

theBalm Mad Lash Voluminous Mascara
Best Smudge-Proof
Neutrogena Healthy Volume Waterproof Mascara
Best Dermatologist-Tested
Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara
Best Pigmented
Color Black 08 / Black/Brown Black
Dimensions 5.17 x 0.31 x 0.31 inches 1.18 x 1.18 x 1.18 inches 0.9 x 1.6 x 6.6 inches
Weight 0.3 Ounces 0.11 Ounces. 0.64 Ounces.
Rating
Reviews1,818407380
Price$17.1$8.14$24

4. Best Long-Lasting:UIFCB Voluminous Lash Mascara

The UIFCB Voluminous Lash Mascara has a gentle yet powerful formula that is suitable for all-day wear. The mascara provides a voluminous and rich look. It also dramatically lengthens, thickens, separates, and curls each lash. The mascara is long-lasting, smudge-proof, and does not clump. It comes with a flexible spiral brush that is easy to use. The mascara is easy to remove with warm water.

Color: Black

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Clump-free
  • Smudge-proof
  • No flaking
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Dries up quickly

5. Best Vegan:Pacifica Aquarian Gaze Water-Resistant Long Lash Mineral Mascara

4.1
Pacifica Aquarian Gaze Water-Resistant Long Lash Mineral Mascara Image: Pacifica
Now 30% Off

The Pacifica’s Long Lash Mineral Mascara is specially formulated with plant waxes, fibers, and resins. An ideal cruelty-free choice, this water-resistant and long-lasting mascara has a vegan elongating brush that adds volume while making your lashes long and beautiful. The mascara also contains coconut oil, kelp extract, and vitamin B that hydrate your lashes.

Product Dimensions: 3 x 3 x 5 inches | Weight: 0.32 Ounces

Pros

  • Highly pigmented
  • Organic
  • Eco-friendly
  • Long-wearing
  • Cruelty-free
  • Carmine-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Petroleum-free
  • Silicon-free

Cons

  • Difficult to remove

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The overwhelming 440 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.

6. Best 4D Effect: Neenoxtub 4D Silk Fiber Eyelash Mascara

4.2
Neenoxtub 4D Silk Fiber Eyelash Mascara Image: Neenoxtub
Now 19% Off

Your eyelashes will stay amazingly long, thick, and voluminous throughout the day, thanks to the waterproof, long-lasting Neenoxtub 4D Silk Fiber Eyelash Mascara. This creamy formula does not get smeared easily. Its thickening texture gives your lashes a soft but fuller appearance. It does not harm sensitive eyes and works nicely with contact lenses. The mascara is user-friendly for beginners, does not dry out, and has a no-clumping formula.

Color: Black

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic
  • No-smearing formula
  • Long-lasting
  • Non-toxic
  • Easy to apply
  • Safe for sensitive eyes

Cons

  • May leave your lashes crispy

My Personal Experience

"This mascara gives length and volume to my lashes. It does not create clumps or make my lashes appear heavy. It stays for a long time and is easy to remove as well. It holds up throughout the day."


7. Best Creamy Texture: Rimmel Wonder’fully Real Mascara

4.3
Rimmel Wonder'fully Real Mascara Image: Rimmel

The Rimmel Wonderfully Real Mascara has a uniquely rich and creamy formula that contains keratin which helps you achieve luscious lashes. The mascara adds the perfect length and volume to your lashes, providing smooth, clump-free volume. It has a smudge-proof and flake-free formula that helps to hydrate your lashes. Additionally, the tapered, easy-to-use brush of this mascara fans out longer, fuller-looking lashes.

Pros

  • Does not clump
  • Easy to apply
  • Hydrates the lashes
  • Tapered brush
  • Great coverage
  • Value for money

Cons

  • May down your lashes

protip_icon Quick Tip
If you are a beginner, place a business card or a plastic spoon beneath your eyelashes to prevent the mascara from transferring into the surroundings and to get a more precise look.

8. Best For Everyday Wear:Lash Next Door Mascara

The Lash Next Door Mascara will help you achieve fuller and longer lashes. It is formulated with clean ingredients that are safe for the eyes. The mascara is clump-free and makes your lashes look flawless and smooth. It is smudge-proof too. The product is formulated without parabens or sulfates. It works great for everyday wear and easily washes off with a makeup remover.

Color: Black

Pros

  • Clump-free
  • Smudge-free
  • Volumizing
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Suitable for everyday wear

Cons

None

9. Best Easy-To-Remove:Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara

4.3
Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara Image: Essence Cosmetics

The essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara is a statement-making waterproof mascara that gives a volumizing, false lash effect to your natural lashes. It stays on all day long without flaking or fading. It comes with a conic-shaped fiber brush that adds definition to lashes individually without causing any clumps or globs. This mascara is cruelty-free. You can use a gentle makeup remover, micellar water, or coconut oil to remove the formula. The product has also garnered positive reviews for its commendable lasting ability and ease of application.

Product Dimensions: 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches | Weight: 1.02 Ounces

Pros

  • Waterproof
  • No flaking or fading
  • Cruelty-free
  • False lash effect
  • Long-lasting
  • Easy to remove

Cons

None

10. Best For Sensitive Eyes:Marcelle Ultimate Volume Mascara

The Marcelle Ultimate Volume Mascara is long-lasting and waterproof. It makes the lashes appear thicker and fuller without clumping or flaking. The applicator that comes with this mascara is a unique brush that picks up the right amount of the product. The brush also grabs each lash perfectly and coats the mascara to give an eye-opening effect. Reviewers compare the product to high-end mascaras for delivering exceptional results by making the lashes more luscious.

Color: Black | Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 2 x 14.5 inches | Weight: 0.96 Ounces

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Clump-free
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • No flaking
  • Safe for sensitive eyes

Cons

  • May cause allergic reactions

protip_icon Pro Tip
Apply a coat of talcum powder with a Q-tip after the first layer of the mascara and before the second layer to achieve voluminous lashes.

11. Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara

4.4
Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Full Fan Effect Image: Maybeline New York
Now 46% Off

The Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara will perfectly define your lashes. The mascara comes with an exclusive fanning brush that has ten layers of bristles. This brush perfectly captures the lashes from root to tip to give a full-fan effect. The defining mascara has a buildable liquid ink formula that is waterproof and coats the lashes from all sides without clumping. It is ophthalmologist-tested and is safe for contact lens users.

Color: VERY BLACK | Product Dimensions: 0.85 x 2.75 x 5.63 inches | Weight: 1.12 Ounces

Pros

  • Buildable formula
  • Clump-free
  • Ophthalmologist-tested
  • Safe for contact lens users

Cons

  • Hard to remove

12. HerbiAR Mascara

The HerbiAR Mascara perfectly lengthens your lashes and gives them a natural appearance. The mascara is highly pigmented and waterproof. It is easy to use and can be removed as well. The product is long-lasting and does not get worn off easily. It is formulated without parabens and is free from artificial fragrances. The mascara is cruelty-free and is suitable for everyday use.

Color: Black

Pros

  • Highly pigmented
  • Easy to use
  • Paraben-free
  • No artificial fragrances
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

None

13. Wet n Wild Mega Length Mascara

4.1
Wet n Wild Mega Length Mascara Image: Wet N Wild
Now 13% Off

The highly pigmented formula of the Wet n Wild Mega Length Mascara is flattering to different eye shapes, colors, and sizes. The creamy pigment can make your lashes look gorgeous and help your beautiful eyes stand out. This formula is infused with vitamin E that hydrates, smooths, and shields your lashes from clumping and smudging. Additionally, the mascara is sweat-proof, humidity-resistant, and smudge-resistant. It also comes with a special precision comb brush that adds extra definition to your lashes.

Color: Mega Length Waterproof mascara

Pros

  • Flake-resistant
  • Ophthalmologist-tested
  • Cruelty-free
  • Sweat-proof
  • Humidity-resistant
  • Gluten-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Comes with a precision comb brush

Cons

  • Difficult to remove

14. Heimish Dailism Smudge Stop Mascara

4.1
Heimish Dailism Smudge Stop Mascara Image: Heimish
Now 11% Off

The Heimish Dailism Smudge Stop Mascara comes with a micro, curvy wand that helps define your eyelashes. It coats each lash with water-resistant vegetable wax polymers that keep them in place without smudging. It curls lashes to prevent smudging. It will also not flake, or clump easily, even if you rub your eyes. It’s waterproof and long-lasting. Additionally, it is a film-type product that is easy to remove with lukewarm water without irritating your eyes.

Color: Black | Product Dimensions: 4.8 x 0.7 x 0.7 inches | Weight: 0.63 Ounces

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Easy to remove
  • Flake-resistant
  • Easy to apply

Cons

  • May not hold the curl effect for long

My Personal Experience

"I like this mascara because it does not smudge or cause irritation in my eyes. It does not stain or create messes. It has a pretty easy removal process. I remove it with some warm water and cotton balls. Definitely my reliable daily option."


15. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

4.3

The Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara helps achieve natural-looking lashes. It has buildable coverage. It comes with an easy twist off applicator wand that makes it easy to use. The mascara is waterproof and suitable for all skin types.

Color: Black

Pros

  • Buildable coverage
  • Ophthalmologist-tested
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Easy to apply

Cons

  • Dries quickly

[ Read – Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara Review ]

16. Revlon So Fierce Big Bad Lash Mascara

4.2
Revlon So Fierce Big Bad Lash Mascara Image: Revlon
Now 28% Off

The Revlon So Fierce Big Bad Lash Mascara is infused with natural castor, sunflower, and soybean oils for ultra-creamy, glossy volume. It comes with a one-of-a-kind double-sided brush that fans out lashes for a panoramic effect and volumizes them. It’s highly pigmented, provides an intense color, and lasts for about 24 hours. It is flake-proof and does not clump or smudge due to its hydrating formula. The mascara is water-resistant and the perfect choice for you, if you don’t wish to have panda eyes!

Color: Blackest Black | Product Dimensions: 2.38 x 0.87 x 5.75 inches | Weight: 1.09 Ounces.

Pros

  • Clump-free
  • Flake-proof
  • Water-resistant
  • Double sided-brush
  • Highly pigmented
  • Long-lasting
  • Easy to remove
  • Comes with a double-sided brush

Cons

None

17. L’Oreal Paris Bambi Eye Mascara

4.2

The L’Oreal Paris Bambi Eye Mascara is all you need to achieve dramatic lashes. It will open your eyes instantly and volumize and curl the lashes effectively. The applicator of the mascara coats lashes individually to fit the shape of your eyes. The lash-separating brush has long and short bristles that separate and coat each lash for definition. The mascara is easy to remove with the help of a makeup remover. It is ophthalmologist- and allergy-tested. It is suitable for sensitive eyes.

Color: Waterproof Black | Product Dimensions: 1 x 2.75 x 7.06 inches | Weight: 1.03 Ounces.

Pros

  • Ophthalmologist-tested
  • Allergy-tested
  • Clump-free
  • Smudge-proof
  • No flaking
  • Safe for sensitive eyes
  • Easy to remove

Cons

  • Dries quickly

18. Bestidy Lash Mascara

4.1

The Bestidy Lash Mascara will give instant volume and length to your lashes. It is ideal for everyday use and gives you gorgeously long lashes. The mascara is hypoallergenic and gentle for sensitive skin. It also is suitable for contact lens wearers. The mascara is easy to use.

Color: Black

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic
  • Long-lasting
  • Safe for sensitive skin
  • Suitable for contact lens wearers
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Strong fragrance

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has received 10,625 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.

19. CovergirlLashexact Mascara

4.4

The CovergirlLashexact Mascara is a highly pigmented, ultra-black, waterproof mascara. The mascara is hypoallergenic and safe for contact lens users. It is clump-free too. The mascara comes with a brush that has a patented technology that helps you achieve the look you want.

Color: VERY BLACK | Product Dimensions: 0.86 x 0.86 x 5.63 inches | Weight: 0.13 Ounces

Pros

  • Clump-free
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Safe for contact lens users

Cons

None

My Personal Experience

"This Covergirl mascara helps me evenly coat my lashes. It stays on my lashes for a long time without clumping. I like that it also helps me define my delicate lower lashes. The best part is that I can easily remove it with a basic cleanser."

20. Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara

4.4
Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara–Black Image: Clinique

The Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara instantly adds volume and length to your lashes. It is a waterproof, non-flaking mascara that doesn’t smudge easily. It imparts a pure, deep color with a strong visual impact on your lashes. The lash-building formula of this product will help you get lusher, noticeably thicker, and bolder lashes. It is also ophthalmologist tested, making it suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Color: Brown,Black | Product Dimensions: 4 x 2 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 0.28 Ounces

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Easy to apply
  • Easy to remove
  • Value for money
  • Ophthalmologist-tested
  • Suitable for contact lens wearers
  • Suitable for sensitive eyes

Cons

  • Can get clumpy

The Bottom Line

Mascara is our go-to product even on no-makeup days. Whether you want your eyes to look more awakened or want to create an all-glam look for a special occasion, the best drugstore waterproof mascaras will be your staple product. The best part about these mascaras is that they will not smudge and ruin your entire look after a while. Instead, they volumize and elongate your lashes while intensifying your eye makeup. For a paraben and cruelty-free option, theBalm Mad Lash Voluminous Mascara is a top pick. Opt for the Neutrogena Healthy Volume Waterproof Mascara for a lightweight, flake-resistant formula. If you have sensitive eyes, the Neenoxtub 4D Silk Fiber Eyelash Mascara is perfect with its non-toxic, hypoallergenic qualities.The products mentioned above are free from synthetic chemicals and fragrances. They are smudge-proof, long-wearing, and clump-resistant. We recommend you to go for a volumizing mascara if you want the “falsies effect,” a lengthening mascara for short lashes, and a curling one for long, straight lashes.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Baishali Bhattacharya, the author of this article, is certified in makeup artistry. She is an expert in reviewing makeup tools and products, and her expertise in makeup helps her choose the best drugstore waterproof mascaras for her readers. So, after some in-depth research and reviewing, she has carefully curated a list of the best waterproof mascaras. They are water-resistant, easy to remove, and impart the perfect dramatic look you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is waterproof mascara?

Waterproof mascara can withstand water and sweat. They are difficult to wash off and are usually smudge-proof and pool-proof.

Is waterproof mascara better for your eyes?

Yes. Waterproof mascara stays on your eyes for a long period. Therefore, they are better if you want a smudge-proof eye look. However, excessive use of these mascaras can dry out your lashes and make them fall out.

What is waterproof mascara for?

Waterproof mascaras keep your lashes lifted and enhance your eye makeup. They retain the fuller lash look for many hours and do not smudge easily.

Why does my waterproof mascara smudge?

Waterproof mascaras do not usually smudge. But if they are still smudging, it is due to your oily eyelids. The oils and sebum transfer the mascara pigment on the lids. So, set your eyelids with powder before applying the mascara to prevent it from smudging. You can also use a waterproof lash primer on your lashes before the mascara application for no running or smudging of the product. Doing so will also provide a lash-lifting effect.

Is it hard to remove waterproof mascara?

Yes. It is hard to remove waterproof mascara with a regular makeup cleanser. Instead, use micellar water for waterproof makeup to clean your lashes. You may also use olive, coconut, or almond oils to break down waterproof mascara. Make sure to be gentle on your lashes while applying any of these products on them.

How do I get waterproof mascara off?

•  Pour a few drops of waterproof makeup cleanser on a clean cotton pad.
•  Press the pad on your lashes.
•  Gently move the pad along the lashes to get off the maximum mascara.
•  Rinse your face with warm water.


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