The 9 best mascaras are the secret to long, full lashes in 2026
The best mascaras are, for me, the ultimate makeup non-negotiable. I’ve always been into mascara - I still remember sneaking a swipe of my mum’s trusty Lancôme Hypnôse when I was younger - and, honestly, it remains one of my favourites to this day.
Of course, mascara has come a long way since then. The best formulas now do far more than add length, lift and volume; they can condition, strengthen and support your lashes while you wear them. As makeup artist Paige Williams, founder and CEO of P.Louise, tells Glamour: “A good mascara doesn’t just give you flawless lashes today - it protects and supports them for the future.”
Still, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. From tubing mascaras to waterproof formulas and fluttery, lash-lifting wands, there’s a lot out there - so we’ve tested the ones that actually deliver: no flaking by 9am, no smudging, no clumping, just longer, fuller-looking lashes.
Featured in this article:
Meet the experts:
| Paige Williams | Makeup artist and founder and CEO of P.Louise. |
| Emmy Clayton | Expert lash and brow artist and founder of Emmy Creates. |
| Vincent Ford | Global Artist at NARS. |
How we test mascara:
Between myself and the rest of the Glamour beauty team, we’ve put more than 300 mascaras to the test – and trust me, not every wand makes the cut. Personally, I’m never loyal to just one tube at a time (perk of the job). I’ve worn mascara through sweaty gym classes, rainy commutes and nights out that end at 3am. If it flakes, smudges or leaves me looking like a panda, it won’t make the list.
“My own forever faves? UKLASH Tubing Mascara when I want natural, wispy lashes for daytime, and Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High when I’m after serious volume and don’t want to worry about smudging on a big night out. Long story short: we’ve done the legwork (and lash work) for you - these are the ones that actually deliver.” - Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer. Find out more about how we test at Glamour here.
Why you can trust me:
I’ve been a beauty journalist for six years now - five at The Mirror and one at Glamour - which basically means I’ve spent an alarming amount of time testing products, comparing formulas, and calling out the ones that overpromise and underdeliver. Mascara is one of the quickest ways to ruin a makeup look, so if it flakes, smears or causes sensitivity, I’m not recommending it.
Because mascara isn’t one-size-fits-all, I don’t just test on my own lashes and call it a day. I rope in the wider Glamour team to try formulas across different lash types, eye shapes and preferences – from the best tubing mascara and waterproof mascaras to ones promising next-level length and volume – and we wear them properly (think: long days, commutes and even the odd gym sessions), not just a quick swipe for a selfie. If it’s made this edit, it’s truly earned its place.
Shop Glamour’s edit of the best mascaras for long, fluttery lashes in 2026.
1. Best overall: UKLASH Tubing Mascara
.jpg)
- Effect: Lengthening and curling.
- Shades: Black and mocha.
- Waterproof? No.
- Tester: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
- Pros: Lash growth benefits with ingredients like Arginine and Shea Butter.
- Cons: Natural finish (espeically the mocha shade), so best for daily wear.
Why we love it: “When it comes to hair and eyelash growth - UKLASH is one of my favourite brands. Their hair serum and lash serum have worked wonders for me, so when their tubing mascara landed on my desk, I couldn’t wait to give it a try.
I’ve been using it for around a month now, and it’s basically taken over my trusty L’Oréal mascara at this point - so it’s safe to say I’m a fan. You can also tell that by my nearly empty tube (restocking as we speak). It’s available in both Black and Mocha - but I’ve been absolutely loving the natural brown shade - especially for work as it’s so much more natural. Like all UKLASH products, it has its growth benefits too thanks to ingredients like Arginine and Shea Butter to nourish every lash. Not only does it give me the best lift and volume, but it comes off with just warm water (yep, that’s the joy of a tubing mascara). Despite its easy removal, it stays put all day long, and I’ve had zero flaking - even on my busiest days running to events and meetings. 10/10 from me.”
2. Best smudge-proof mascara: Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-Eyes Volume Mascara
- Effect: Volumising
- Shades: Black.
- Waterproof? No.
- Tester: Camilla Kay, Glamour's former executive editor, and Sophie Cockett, Glamour's Senior European Commerce Editor.
- Pros:
- Cons:
Why we love it: “Kate Moss famously trialled this mascara by going out dancing, and found that it didn't smudge, flake or transfer," Camilla said. "And if it's good enough for Kate, it's good enough for us. This black mascara gives the ultimate fluttery, false lash effect, with volume, lift and curl in spades. Containing conditioning jojoba wax to keep lashes nourished, and with jet-black, budge-proof pigment, this high impact mascara will have your pals doing a double take - in the best way.”
After Camilla tested this mascara, Senior European Commerce Editor Sophie Cockett tested it too. “While I do love having a drugstore mascara in my makeup bag for when pricier formulations run out, if I had an unlimited bank balance, this is the only mascara I'd ever wear. I love drama when it comes to my lashes, and this stuff delivers. The curved brush makes it easy to coat every single lash, and the lasting power is incredible. I can't recommend it enough for bold lash-loving girlies.”
Save when shopping for the best mascara with these Sephora discount codes.
3. Best nourishing mascara: KIKO Milano Maxi Mod Volume & Definition Mascara
- Effect: Volumising.
- Shades: Black.
- Waterproof: No.
- Tested by: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
- Pros: Great curl and volume; reaches corners well and conditions lashes.
- Cons: Not the strongest mascara - two coats works best.
“I’ll admit, the elastomer brush threw me at first - it’s much shorter than I expected, almost like a regular mascara wand has been split in half. But once I started applying it, I really liked how precise it felt. It made it easy to catch the inner and outer corners, helping to fan my lashes out for a fuller, more lifted effect.
The formula feels lightweight and comfortable, and I love that it’s enriched with castor oil, so it has that added lash-conditioning benefit too. One coat was a little too subtle for me, and it’s not the most intense black mascara I’ve tried, but with a second coat it gave me pretty volume, curl and definition without flaking.”
Save when shopping for the best mascara with these KIKO discount codes.
4. Best drugstore mascara: Maybelline Sky High Mascara
- Effect: Volumising.
- Shades: Black, Black Waterproof and Brownish Black.
- Waterproof? No.
- Tester: Elle Turner, Glamour's Senior Beauty Editor.
- Pros: Adds great volume and length without going clumpy.
- Cons: The highly flexible "Flex Tower" silicone wand is a little flimsy.
Why we love it: This mascara became a trending TikTok sensation within hours of landing on e-shelves in 2023. People were astounded at how much length it can add to lashes (note: LOADS!). Lengthening, volumising and defining (and clump-free) - this mascara does it all!
“Of all the mascaras I've tried (and I've tried a lot) none beat Sky High for length, separation and definition. She's an absolute triple threat. Every time I come back round to this mascara, after testing a new formula for work, I remember why I love it. It gives phwoar show-stopper, XXL volume and you can get her on deals for under a tenner most of the time."
Save when shopping for the best mascara with these LookFantastic discount codes.
5. Best volumising mascara: Sephora Size Up Supersized Volume Mascara
- Effect: Volumising, lengthening and curling.
- Shades: Black, brown, blue and burgundy.
- Waterproof: No.
- Tested by: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
- Pros: Gives serious volume without clumping; separates lashes well; intense black finish.
- Cons: Nothing to note.
“When I first opened this mascara and saw the thick brush, I was convinced it was going to be clump central - but this is probably the mascara that surprised me the most. The hourglass-shaped wand is so well designed: the shorter fibres in the centre really load up the lashes with intense black pigment and volume, while the longer fibres at the ends help separate and fan everything out for that lifted, lash-lift effect. There's also four shades to choose from, so if you're experimental with your mascara - this one's for you.
It made my lashes look fuller and darker instantly, but still lifted and fluttery rather than thick or clumpy. Honestly, I don’t really have anything bad to say - and to top it off, it’s super affordable. A great mascara for day and night.”
6. Best brown mascara: Rimmel Thrill Seeker Extreme
- Effect: Bold, fluttery lashes.
- Shades: Brown and brown – or “Cappuccino”.
- Waterproof? No.
- Tester: Sophie Cockett, Glamour's Senior European Commerce Editor.
- Pros:
- Cons:
Why we love it: "The packaging is fun – I love the red – and the tapered, soft-bristle wand is exactly what I'd normally go for in a mascara. I always find I can achieve greater volume and oomph with soft bristles over plastic.
"After curling my eyelashes with my favourite eyelash curler from Tweezerman, I wiggled the Rimmel wand from root to tip. I found that the bristles did a great job at grabbing onto – and therefore coating – all of my lashes, and the fan effect was almost immediate. The formula did feel quite thin in comparison to some admittedly clumpy mascaras I've used in the past, so the first few coats didn't deliver much drama. But, I found this to be a positive – the thin formulation means you can layer coat-after-coat of Thrill Seeker to achieve the desired level of pizzaz. It'd be great for a no-makeup-makeup day.
“As you can see in my video, a few coats and I was very quickly able to achieve lifted, curled and fanned-out lashes – and contrary to my first impressions, plenty of drama.”
7. Best waterproof mascara: L'Oréal Paris Telescopic Lengthening Waterproof Mascara
- Effect: Lengthening and separating.
- Shades: Black
- Waterproof: Yes
- Tested by: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
- Pros: Affordable, adds both volume and length, separates lashes well.
- Cons: Can dry out quicker than other formulas, so not the most buildable.
Why we love it: If you love a mascara that really separates and defines, L’Oréal’s Telescopic is such a good one. The formula is all about length, helping to stretch and coat each lash from root to tip without feeling too heavy. What really makes it stand out, though, is the ultra-thin flexible wand, which grabs even the tiniest lashes and fans everything out beautifully.
“This was my favourite out of all the mascaras I tried, and the one I keep coming back to. In fact, I loved it so much that I wore it on my own wedding day because I had that much trust in its staying power. I’m obsessed with the ultra-thin wand - it seems to fan out every single lash, even the tiny ones right in the corners, and it gives almost that lash-lift effect with just one coat. I also found the smaller brush brilliant for my bottom lashes, because it separates them so well and gives them the same lifted look as the top ones. To apply, I brushed through my lashes from root to tip in a zig-zag motion as advised.
The only thing I would say is that it dries very quickly, so if you try to go in with a second coat, it can get a little clumpy and harder to work with. For me though, one coat was more than enough. Since adding this into my routine, I’ve had so many compliments on my lashes."
Save when shopping for the best mascara with these Amazon discount codes.
8. Best lifting mascara: REFY Lash Sculpt
- Effect: Lifting.
- Shades: Black & brown.
- Waterproof: No.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Glamour's Commerce Writer.
- Pros: Great for curling thanks to the curved shape brush.
- Cons: Not super dramatic - better for a natural daytime look.
Why we love it: "I’ve always struggled to find a mascara that actually works for my very stubborn, straight lashes, which are notoriously hard to curl and keep lifted. Finding a mascara that separates, lifts and lengthens without instantly dropping the curl is such a challenge, but the REFY sculpt mascara has genuinely impressed me for everyday wear. The one-motion application makes it really easy to coat the lashes evenly without clumping, and it gives a clean, fluttery look that feels natural.
What I especially love is the wand – the curved shape helps get right to the root of the lashes, lifting them from the base better than any mascara I’ve tried before. While the lift isn’t super dramatic on its own, it still gives a slight enhancement and lifts my lashes nicely. I’d say it’s perfect for a more natural, everyday makeup look, and if you pair it with a lash curler first, the results are even better."
9. Best for thinning lashes: Victoria Beckham Vast Lash
- Effect: Length and volume.
- Shades: Black.
- Waterproof: No.
- Tested by: Micaela English, Glamour US beauty contributor.
- Pros: Adds major volume and doesn't flake.
- Cons: Applies wet so let it dry completely before using setting spray.
Whether your lashes are thinning with age or you’ve cut ties with damaging lash extensions, this high-end black mascara is a capital V volume play. It delivers a high-drama, jet-black finish that makes even the sparsest lashes look bigger. One swipe of this buttery formula is all you need for instant thickness and length. It’s infused with panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) to keep your lashes hydrated and flexible, a.k.a., no crunchy, “my lashes are stuck together” feeling. As a heads-up: The formula goes on wet, so give it a minute to set before heading out and you might need to use a Q-tip right after applying.
“This has become my ‘night out’ mascara, or if I want to dial up the glamour. Victoria Beckham claims the formula is ‘Miami-proof,’ and as an unseasonably warm New York City spring collides with the humidity of the subway, I can attest: It didn’t budge on me all day. It’s unapologetically posh, and gave my lashes length, volume, and the blackest of black hues. It’s a sexy mascara that’s worth the price.”
FAQ's
How do I choose a good mascara?
"Picking the right mascara is all about knowing what you want to achieve and what type of formula works for you," says Paige Williams, founder and CEO of TikTok's No.1 Shop, P.Louise. “If you're after that dreamy, fluttery look, choose a lengthening formula. Or if you want big, bold volume, go for a volumising mascara," she says.
“I like long, defined lashes with zero clumps, so I created the P.Louise Tearproof Mascara to be just that,” she continues. "It has a dual-action brush that lifts and separates on one side, while the other side grabs those little lashes on the bottom lash line and inner corners."
Emmy Clayton, expert lash and brow artist, adds that you also need to consider the mascara wand, as different shapes create different looks. “For example, if you have thin, straight lashes, opt for more of a curved wand to add lift and curl. For those with short lashes, a skinnier wand that delivers more of a precise coat to each lash is best! If you’re lucky to have long, fuller lashes then a classic cylindrical wand is perfect. Lastly, if you find your lashes are quite thin and sparse, try a thicker wand to add more fullness,” she advises.
It’s also important to consider what colour you are choosing. “If you're after a natural look, brown mascaras are a great option, especially for fair skin tones,” says Emmy. “Black and blue mascaras are great for more of an impact! I really love a blue mascara on blondes at the moment. A friend of mine wore this in Ibiza and it made her eyes so mesmerising in the sun - I think this will be a great look for summer.”
What is the best mascara for achieving a natural look?
A strengthening serum like the Hairburst Lash & Brow Enhancing Serum can help your lashes to become naturally thicker, longer and healthier, thanks to its nourishing blend of castor oil, peptides and a derivative of hyaluronic acid.
Emmy loves the Glossier Lash Slick, which is her daily go-to for a natural look. “It separates the lashes perfectly, and wears really well without smudging, but it's easy to remove. It really gives that no makeup makeup look,” she says.
Paige agrees, advising to choose a mascara that defines without adding too much drama. “A lightweight formula in a soft brown or rich brown shade is perfect for that natural, ‘your lashes but better’ effect. And opt for a wand that separates and lengthens, making every lash pop in a subtle, stunning way," she comments.
What is the best mascara for sensitive eyes?
“If your eyes need a little extra love, go for a hypoallergenic mascara,” says Paige. “These have gentle formulas and are typically fragrance-free to avoid irritation.”
“The P.Louise Tiny Tears Mascara has been formulated with non-irritating, mild ingredients and is free from harsh chemicals, parabens and sulphates, making it perfect for anyone that struggles with sensitivity around the eye area, or contact lens wearers," she adds.
What is tubing mascara?
The best tubing mascara works a bit differently to regular mascara. Instead of coating lashes with traditional pigment, it wraps each lash in tiny, water-resistant ‘tubes’. This means zero smudging, flaking or panda eyes, and when you’re ready to take it off, warm water is enough. The tubes slip right off without rubbing or remover which is ideal for sensitive eyes.
How can you prevent mascara from smudging and flaking?
There are a few tricks to keep panda eyes at bay. Make sure your lashes are clean and oil-free before you apply (leftover eye cream is a big smudge culprit). Go easy on your lower lashes - a light coat or skip them altogether if you have sensitive or watery eyes. Waterproof or tubing formulas are your best bet when it comes to staying power, and finally, don't overload the brush - too much product can flake as it dries. Less is more for all-day lashes that don't budge.
How to apply mascara:
Vincent Ford, Global Artist at NARS, believes that the best way to apply mascara depends on what "story" you want your eyes to tell. "For a natural look, focus on pulling the mascara wand through the lashes from root to tip as if you were combing the lashes for length. Then remove any excess with a lash comb or fingertips for a separated, born with it appearance," he reveals.
"For a more dramatic look, I like to build the mascara up at the root of the lashes by moving the wand side to side at the base of the lashes, without applying any to the tips," says Vincent. “This will give a feathery full lash look that looks great on everyone.” As for some more tips?
- Take care not to over-pump (it'll dry the formula out – fast).
- If you find a wand you love, clean it and keep it to use on your next mascara.
- Layer your mascara with a lash-plumping primer. Sweep on a few layers before your mascara and you'll reap bigger, thicker lashes.
- Don't forget to use an eyelash curler to really lengthen and open up the eyes.
- Consider investing in an eyelash serum, or if you have sensitive eyes, a mascara for sensitive eyes.
- For lower lashes, we recommend trying the viral Selena Gomez hack, which includes pinching your lashes with a pair of tweezers to achieve that doll-like look.
