In some ways, "waterproof mascara" is a bit of a misnomer. While these formulations will stand up to rain showers and a dip in the pool, plenty of people prefer them over regular formulas for other reasons. “Some people like waterproof mascara because it does tend to stay on the lashes longer without having to worry about it coming off in water or humidity,” explains pro makeup artist Lauren O’Leary. “I've also found that some do keep the lashes more curled than a regular mascara.”

Guaranteed to feel better (and last longer...) than even your most dangerous liaison, Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara by Too Faced is the waterproof edition of a bona fide make up icon. The number one selling prestige mascara in the U.S., this is a Holy Grail formula for countless devoted fans. Due to it being harder to remove, we recommend you only use waterproof mascara when necessary, e.g. for a big event or when it’s hot and humid outside. If using one regularly, be sure to keep lashes conditioned with a lash serum. Can you swim with waterproof mascara? Kelli Anne Sewell is a professional makeup artist and founder of Makeup by Kelli Anne, a makeup tutorial platform. This is a great choice for anyone seeking natural-looking definition (ideal for everyday makeup), as the brush deposits the right amount of product every time. GLAMOUR-approved: “Ever since I've dyed my hair copper, I've struggled to find a mascara that will look natural on my complexion and compliment my new hair colour. And once I first spotted the Charlotte Tilbury brown mascara on my TikTok feed, I knew I was sold almost immediately. Of course, after trying it out first-hand, I can safely confirm that it deserves all the hype that it gets online. Its unique brown hue makes my brown eyes pop like no other mascara I own, while the formula manages to hold the curl for the rest of the day. I also loved the way it looked on my bottom lashes and provided a nice contrast to the rest of my eye makeup.” – Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Commerce Writer.

The formula and brush work together to lengthen and volumize the lashes while giving them a lifted effect. The wand contains staggered bristles to effectively grip each lash, and we found that the bristles did a great job of separating lashes for a more wide-eyed look. The bristles on the tip of the brush also helped to coat the lashes in hard-to-reach areas, making for a full, even application. The best volumising mascara you can buy in 2023 1. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara: The best overall volumising mascara When removing mascara, especially if you’ve applied several coats, it’s important that you don’t vigorously rub or pull at the eye area. The skin around our eyes is particularly delicate, and harsh removal of product could cause damage to the eye area and hasten the appearance of wrinkles or fine lines.

READ NEXT: Perfect your smokey eye with the best pencil eyeliners How do I remove volumising mascara? Alyssa also spoke to experts to discuss important things to consider when purchasing mascara. Those experts included:

Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara

While some waterproof formulas can be nearly impossible to remove without harsh rubbing with makeup remover, this one came off surprisingly well with just a few swipes of a cotton pad soaked in makeup remover.

The only con worth noting: Some online reviewers say that it can take several coats to achieve significant volume. However, we noticed fuller, elongated lashes after one swipe. Dominique Della Maggiore, a celebrity makeup artist who has worked with clients like Shay Mitchell, Liza Koshy, and more. This short timescale may inform how much you’re willing to spend on a tube of mascara. How much should I spend?

Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara

It’s not often that a brand groups a moisturizer and a mascara under the same line, but considering that Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost line is all about plumping and replenishing, it makes sense. Just like the iconic moisturizer, this mascara utilizes the power of hyaluronic acidfor its hydrating and plumping benefits. The nourishing formula and the tapered wand work in tandem to provide extreme volume and a silky feel in just one coat. Alyssa Kaplan is an experienced writer in the beauty industry and product tester specializing in cosmetics. She has tested dozens of mascaras—including several on this list. Alyssa has been a commerce writer at Byrdie since 2022, where she covers all things beauty. Throughout the day, the wear for both was comparable. Better Than Sex flaked a bit and Lash Paradise smudged a tad — nothing egregious though. Both removed easily with my makeup-removing oil cleanser.

We recommend using a cotton or reusable makeup-removal pad to gently press onto your closed eye, gently swiping it down your lashes to remove any makeup or mascara. If your mascara is a waterproof formula, invest in a bi-phase makeup remover, which combines oil and water to dissolve even the toughest of waterproof formulations. How often should I replace my mascara?

Smudge-proof formula: It goes without saying that you should seek out a mascara formula that won’t smudge, bleed, or run when an unexpected rain shower (or cry session) crops up. Each of the mascaras on this list has been rigorously tested to withstand showers of all kinds. Waterproof mascara is known for its staying powers, and consequently, it can be a bit tough to remove. But don't fret—it can be removed without ripping out a dozen or so of your lashes. Gilleo reveals that t he best way to remove waterproof mascara is to turn to oil-based cleansers or cleansing balms. "Applying your cleanser straight to your face without wetting your face first really helps to break down any makeup product on your eyes and skin," she explains. "Once fully rubbed in, then rinse with water." She also recommends micellar water, adding, "Applying your product on a clean, reusable cotton pad and sweeping it over your lashes is another effective way to remove your mascara." And, of course, be gentle! You'll want to avoid any harsh tugging or pulling to prevent any damage to your lashes. When to Toss Out Waterproof Mascara Caitlyn Martyn is a commerce writer on staff at Byrdie, where she covers beauty and style-related topics. She is an experienced product tester and has tried hundreds of mascaras over the years, including a number of the formulas that appear on this list.