7 best waterproof mascaras I've tested for lashes that won't budge
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Waterproof mascaras have fully earned their place in my routine - and not just for the obvious tearjerker moments. In fact, waterproof mascara saw me though my wedding day, which also happened to fall on the hottest day in Spain on record, btw. Between the heat, the happy tears and the general emotional chaos, one thing that stayed completely intact were my lashes.
According to makeup artist Adeola Gboyega, “Unlike regular mascara, waterproof mascara is designed to resist moisture and stand up to water, sweat, and humidity, preventing smudging and running, while also providing excellent hold and curl.”
About the only downside is the removal process - but worry not. With the right cleansing balm or a gentle oil to hand, you won’t find yourself tugging at lashes or rubbing your eyelids raw.
That said, as with most beauty staples these days, finding the right formula can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Is it the size and curve of the wand that makes the difference? The depth of pigment? That’s where we come in. In true Glamour fashion, we’ve sifted through the noise to bring you the crème de la crème of waterproof mascaras - from TikTok-adored high-street heroes to indulgent luxury icons. Here’s everything you need to know.
- How we tested waterproof mascaras
- Our full reviews
- Do waterproof mascaras actually work?
- How are waterproof mascaras different from regular mascaras?
- What is the difference between waterproof and water-resistant mascara?
- How to apply waterproof mascara
- How to remove waterproof mascara
- Are tubing mascaras waterproof?
How I tested waterproof mascaras:
Testing beauty products is a huge part of my job - and no, that doesn’t mean trying something once and calling it a review. Products get tested over weeks, months and sometimes even years. While I don’t wear waterproof mascara every single day, it’s what I reach for when I need my lashes to seriously last - weddings, holidays, hot weather, long days that turn into late nights… you get the idea.
For this guide, I spoke to makeup artists for their expert picks, added my own tried-and-tested favourites, and roped in the Glamour team too - because not every mascara works the same on every lash type. We looked at the wand (thin or chunky? better for length or volume?), how long it actually lasted, whether it smudged, flaked or transferred, and most importantly - was it actually waterproof? We also judged how easy it was to remove, because no one wants to lose three lashes taking their mascara off. And yes, I have videos as proof.
Why you can trust me:
I’ve been a beauty writer for over six years now - five at The Mirror and this past year at Glamour - and mascara is the one product I rarely leave the house without. While I don’t wear waterproof mascara every single day (because, in all honesty, it is trickier to get off), I do keep a solid rotation of favourites for days when I need a bit more staying power. Over time, I’ve figured out which formulas actually hold up without flaking, smudging or leaving me with panda eyes by 2pm.
I’m also pretty fussy about what I put near my eyes. They can be quite sensitive, and I’ve found that certain formulas - whether it’s mascara or concealer - can set them off straight away and make them water nonstop, which obviously doesn’t pair well with normal mascara. The mascaras I’ve included in this guide are formulas I’ve personally tried and tested, and that I’ve found wear well on sensitive eyes, last all day, don’t completely ruin your lashes, and aren’t impossible to remove at the end of the day.
Shop my top waterproof mascaras, tried & tested…
L'Oréal Paris Telescopic Lengthening Waterproof Mascara
- Tested by: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
- Effect: Lengthening and separating.
- Wand type: Ultra-thin flexible wand
- Available shades: Black.
- 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.
Glamour tester review: “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 waterproof mascaras with these Amazon discount codes.
Lancôme Hypnôse Waterproof Mascara
- Tested by: Sophie Donovan, Glamour's Senior Commerce Writer.
- Effect: Adding definition, length and subtle volume.
- Wand type: Tapered fibre brush.
- Available shades: Black.
- Pros: Buildable formula that layers without clumping, delivers long-lasting wear.
- Cons: Expensive.
Why we love it: Lancôme Hypnôse Waterproof is a cult classic for a reason. The formula is easily buildable, meaning you can dial it up from a subtle daytime flutter to a fuller, more dramatic evening look - all without the lashes feeling stiff or heavy. Unlike many waterproof mascaras that can dry down too quickly, this one stays workable for long enough to add multiple coats, ensuring a customised finish that still feels comfortable. It resists smudging and flaking, even on oily lids or humid days, making it a true everyday staple.
Glamour tester review: “My lashes are quite straight and fine, so I usually struggle to find a mascara that gives me lift without weighing everything down. What stood out to me with Hypnôse was how polished it made my lashes look - really separated, defined and lifted, rather than overly thick or clumpy mainly thanks to the thin wand. I also found it lasted really well throughout the day without smudging onto my lids, which is rare for me. My only complaint is that it's pretty pricey - but I'd say it's 100% worth it if you're a waterproof mascara fan.”
Lancôme Lash Idôle Waterproof Mascara
- Tested by: Rebecca Fearn, Glamour's Beauty Contributor.
- Effect: Lengthening & lifting with featherlight separation.
- Wand type: Curved silicone brush.
- Available shades: Black.
- Pros: Lightweight formula, holds curl impressively, separates lashes without clumping.
- Cons: Not the most volumising, expensive.
Why we love it: In our opinion, Lancôme does some of the very best mascaras on the market - and its waterproof versions live up to the same gold standard. This formula is impressively smudge-resistant, holds a curl beautifully and, crucially, doesn’t flake or crumble by the end of the day. It’s the kind of mascara you can rely on whether you’re heading to the office, caught in the rain, or dancing until the early hours.
Glamour tester review: Beauty Contributor Rebecca Fearn calls it one of her all-time favourites, saying: “This lifts and volumises my lashes like no other. I love the curved brush with its tiny bristles, that manages to reach every single lash, even the tiny ones!” The end result is lashes that look fuller, longer and defined, without the heavy feel or a drying finish.
Save when shopping for waterproof mascaras with these LookFantastic discount codes.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara
- Tested by: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
- Effect: Lengthening and volumising.
- Wand type: Slim, tapered elastomer (rubber) brush.
- Available shades: Black.
- Pros: Offers a lightweight feel, builds impressive length, reasonably priced.
- Cons: Not the best for lifting and curling.
Why we love it: Created specifically to help extend every single lash from root to tip, the waterproof Sky High mascara offers maximum impact and a formula that doesn't flake. Infused with bamboo extract and lengthening fibres, its long-wearing formula also doesn't weigh down your lashes and is perfectly viable for people with sensitive eyes.
Glamour tester review: “Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara has been a constant in my makeup bag for years now, and it’s a favourite amongst Glamour editors too, so I was really interested to try the waterproof version. The brush is a great middle ground - not too thick, not too thin - and because it’s flexible and bendy, it reaches even the smaller corner lashes really well.
I liked how cleanly it applied and didn’t go clumpy on me, but I wouldn’t say it was the best for adding loads of length or curl. On me, it gave more of a natural, everyday lash look rather than anything super dramatic. It’s also pretty hard to get off, so if long wear is your priority, you’ll probably love that - but I definitely needed a good cleansing balm and a bit of patience.”
Yves Saint Laurent Lash Clash Waterproof Mascara
- Tested by: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
- Effect: Volumising and lengthening.
- Wand type: Oversized double-conical brush.
- Available shades: Black.
- Pros: Intense black pigment, long-lasting wear, adds instant drama.
- Cons: Can become clumpy if over-layered, thicker wand may not suit everyone.
Why we love it: For bold, dramatic lashes, YSL Lash Clash Waterproof really delivers. The ultra-black pigment gives instant definition, while the formula builds volume quickly without lashes feeling too stiff or dry. It’s also infused with iris florentina extract, which helps keep lashes feeling softer and more conditioned than some waterproof mascaras can. The finish is definitely more full-glam than subtle - think statement lashes rather than your everyday natural look.
Glamour tester review: “YSL is one of my favourite beauty brands, so I had high hopes for this mascara. It definitely gives bold pigment and plenty of drama, but I did find it went a little clumpy - especially after a second coat. I think that comes down to the thicker wand, as I personally prefer a slimmer brush because I find it gives better coverage and more control. That said, once it was on, it lasted all day without flaking or smudging. For me, it’s more of a nights-out mascara than an everyday one.”
- Tested by: Neamh Randall, Glamour's Commerce Photo Editor.
- Effect: Volumising and lengthening with a natural finish.
- Wand type: Traditional synthetic bristle brush for even coating.
- Available shades: Black and dark chocolate.
- Pros: Ophthalmologist-tested, suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, delivers clump-free definition.
- Cons: Can feel slightly dry after a few hours.
Why we love it: This long-wearing waterproof mascara provides instant volume and length. The smudge-proof, clump-free formula resists running with smooth, black-brown pigment and can withstand both heat and humidity, allowing you to wear your sensational lashes for much longer. The best part? It's also safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
Glamour tester review: Brown mascara has been my go to recently, having previously been a lash extensions girl for 8 years. The only issue is, I never found one that wasn’t clumpy, was easy to take off and didn’t smudge across my face after hours of wear. Clinique's mascara is exactly what I was after. It’s lightweight, enhances my eyes and matches into my natural lashes without an overpowering look.
Save when shopping for waterproof mascaras with these Sephora discount codes.
Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Waterproof Mascara
- Tested by: Robyn Eugene, Glamour's Social Media Manager.
- Effect: Intense volumising.
- Wand type: Thick rubber brush for even, dense application.
- Available shades: Black, brown.
- Pros: Delivers bold, dramatic volume in just one coat, long-lasting finish, and luxe packaging.
- Cons: Expensive.
Why we love it: Chanel’s mascara is unbeatable if you’re after dramatic lashes that instantly deliver that ‘wow’ false-lash effect. This bestselling formula is famed for its ability to add volume, length and definition in just a single coat - and the waterproof version means you get all of that impact, only with the reassurance that it will stay put through rain, humidity or sweat.
Glamour tester review: “I tested the brown shade and really ended up loving it. I’d normally always go for a black mascara, but this felt a little softer and more wearable while still giving my lashes loads of volume and definition. It still had that fuller, more dramatic effect, just without looking too harsh. I also liked how buildable it was - one coat looked polished enough for daytime, but I could add more for a bit more glam without it going clumpy. The only real downside is the price, but if you’re after a luxe mascara that feels special and performs, it really delivers.”
More waterproof mascaras I'm currently testing:
Your waterproof mascara questions, answered:
Meet the experts:
| Adeola Gboyega | Professional makeup artist & content creator |
| Ruby Hammer MBE | Makeup artist and founder of Ruby Hammer Beauty. |
Do waterproof mascaras actually work?
In short: yes, the best waterproof mascaras do exactly what they promise. Unlike regular mascaras, which can start to smudge, flake, or run at the first sign of moisture, waterproof formulas are designed with long-lasting polymers and waxes that form a seal around your lashes. This means they won’t budge through rain, teary moments, sweaty spin classes, or humid holidays. The result? Smudge-free, defined lashes that look freshly applied even after hours of wear.
That said, not all waterproof mascaras perform equally well. Some formulas prioritise hold and curl (making them a lifesaver if your lashes are naturally straight), while others lean more volumising or lengthening. The key is finding one that balances staying power with comfort, since certain waterproof formulas can feel drying or stiff if worn daily.
How are waterproof mascaras different from regular mascaras?
At first glance, waterproof and regular mascaras might look and apply the same — both give you that satisfying lash lift, definition and colour payoff. But the difference lies in the ingredients. Waterproof mascaras contain special film-forming agents, waxes and polymers that literally coat each lash in a water-repellent layer. This creates a barrier that prevents moisture from breaking down the formula, meaning it won’t smudge or transfer even in the face of sweat, tears or rain.
What is the difference between waterproof and water-resistant mascara?
The difference comes down to how much water exposure a formula can handle. Waterproof mascaras are built to withstand it all — full-on tears, swimming, intense humidity — with polymers and waxes that lock onto lashes and don’t break down until you use an oil-based cleanser. They’re your safest bet when you need completely smudge-proof wear.
Water-resistant mascaras, on the other hand, sit in the middle ground. They’ll hold up against light mist, drizzle, or the odd watery eye, but won’t necessarily survive a dip in the pool or a sweaty gym session. They’re often easier to remove than fully waterproof versions, making them a good choice if you want longer wear than regular mascara but don’t fancy the commitment of having to deal with the trickier removal process of a waterproof formula.
Think of it like this: waterproof mascara is your heavy-duty raincoat, while water-resistant mascara is more of a chic trench coat — protective to a point, but not made for a downpour.
How to apply waterproof mascara:
We spoke with Adeola to determine the best waterproof mascara application tips to get a flake-free finish and to see if you need to do anything special in comparison to regular formulas.
“When applying waterproof mascara, I always make sure my lashes are clean,” she shares. “If you have oily eyelids, a light dusting of powder beforehand can help the mascara adhere better and achieve optimal results.”
“Start by applying the mascara at the base of your lashes [by the lash line], wiggling the wand upwards to evenly coat each lash and add volume. For extra definition, use the tip of the wand to reach the smaller lashes in the corners of your eyes.”
Adeola also recommends using a compact mirror and resting your elbow on a table for stability. "Tilt your head back slightly and look down into the mirror to ensure you can coat every lash without getting mascara on your lids.”
How to remove waterproof mascara
“The long-lasting nature makes waterproof mascara perfect for special occasions, but it has the caveat that it is difficult to remove and can make lashes dry and brittle,” says Ruby Hammer MBE, makeup artist and founder of Ruby Hammer Beauty.
It's just as important to pair the best waterproof mascara with a gentle but effective eye makeup remover or cleanser to help lift it away completely without tugging or damaging your lashes. Many of the eye makeup removers in our tried-and-tested edit are tough on waterproof mascara but gentle on the eyes – and formulated specifically with waterproof mascara in mind. Take the Bioderma Sensibio Cleansing Micellar Water Sensitive Skin, for example. Fragrance-free and irritation-free, it works an absolute treat, making it a ‘must’ for your skincare kit.
Elsewhere, try cleansing your eyes with cold cream - a particularly good method for dry skin - or use natural alternatives like baby oil and almond oil.
In terms of the correct technique, Ruby says that a common mistake is not leaving the remover to actually do its job. "If you wait, it simply wipes away without any pressure,” she says.
Ruby also recommends soaking a cotton pad (or microfibre pad) with the remover and holding it on the eye for a few seconds to allow it to break the product down before wiping off. This way, you shouldn't have to be rough with removal.
Are tubing mascaras waterproof?
Not exactly — tubing mascaras aren’t technically classed as waterproof, but they are highly smudge-resistant. Instead of coating lashes in a traditional wax-based formula, tubing mascaras wrap each lash in tiny polymer “tubes” that set once dry. These tubes are designed to grip onto the lashes firmly, meaning they'll stay put without smearing, flaking or transferring throughout the day.
Where they differ from waterproof mascaras is in removal. While a waterproof formula typically needs an oil or balm cleanser to break it down, tubing mascaras come off with just warm water and gentle pressure — the tubes literally slide off the lashes in tiny filaments.
That said, tubing mascaras won’t hold up in the same way if you’re fully submerged in water. Think of them as a middle ground: more durable than regular mascaras, but not quite as bulletproof as true waterproof formulas.
Feeling inspired to upgrade your makeup routine with more beauty products? Check out our guides on the best bronzers, best concealers, best lightweight foundations, best cream blushes and best liquid blushes. We can also help you pick the best lipstick, best highlighter, best eyebrow product, best setting spray and more.
