Frequently Asked Questions
Is waterproof mascara really waterproof?
Well, not exactly. “Most waterproof mascaras are closer to water-resistant than truly waterproof,” says Gailbreath. For the most part, they can prevent sweat-, humidity-, and water-induced raccoon eyes, but “none are invincible,” she says. Even the best waterproof mascaras aren’t completely guaranteed to hold up to a full day in the pool or ocean.
“They’re designed to handle moisture, a few tears, some humidity, and light sweat,” she says, which will keep you protected for the most part. So if you’re having a full cry or spending the entire day fighting off sweat or water, don’t be surprised if you still see some migration. That being said, they are “built for sustained contact with water,” she notes, so you don’t have to lose faith in the power of a waterproof mascara.
What are the drawbacks of waterproof mascara?
Waterproof mascara comes with a bevy of benefits (stays in place during a good cry, helps your lashes hold a curl, and much more), but that’s not to say it doesn’t come with some drawbacks as well. Some “formulas start to dry out and flake after a few hours,” says Gailbreath. If that happens, double-check your mascara tube isn’t expired or you didn’t layer too many coats of mascara.
It’s no secret that waterproof mascara can also be tough to get off at the end of the day. Gailbreath says it best: “The same thing that makes it great makes it a pain to remove.” Make sure that you have the right makeup remover to take it off at the end of the day (Gailbreath recommends an oil-based cleanser); otherwise, you’re at risk of “scrubbing your lashes for what feels like forever, and over time, that causes breakage and fallout,” she adds.
In general, “the formulas also tend to be drier and stiffer, which is why I don’t love them for daily use,” she explains, noting that they can make your lashes more brittle over time. Waterproof mascaras are best reserved for moments you know you’ll need that extra protection.
How are waterproof mascaras different from standard mascaras?
While standard mascaras do the trick in lengthening, volumizing, darkening, and separating your lashes, waterproof mascaras are better suited for long-wear and durability. “Waterproof mascaras are designed to be more resistant to running and smudging with tears and sweat, and some can even [withstand] a day at the pool,” says Cincinnati-based cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos. “They often contain ingredients such as polymers that adhere strongly to lashes and create a water-resistant film.” Waterproof mascaras rely on film-forming copolymers, which help with flexibility, holding the eyelash’s curl, and boosting temperature resistance.
“Some waterproof mascaras are totally anhydrous, meaning they contain no water, so they dry differently and sometimes can take longer,” continues Dobos. “The unique, natural composition of beeswax makes it a useful ingredient in all mascaras but especially waterproof formulas.”
Are waterproof mascaras safe for your lashes?
Waterproof mascara itself is always safe for lashes, but the product tends to be more difficult to remove when it comes time to wash off your makeup, posing potential distress to your lashes. Dobos explains, “Your usual micellar water might not cut it. Rubbing and pulling at lashes can cause breakage or already loose lashes to come out.” But not all hope is lost—the way in which you approach removal can make a difference. “Using a bi-phase or oil-based eye makeup remover helps reduce pulling or tugging at the delicate eye area to remove. Isohexadecane and silicones work to dissolve the tenacious polymer films,” Dobos adds.
How should I choose a waterproof mascara?
As always, your perfect-match-mascara depends on what you’re looking to get out of the product. Do you want a waterproof mascara that prioritizes lengthening? One that is especially heat-resistant? One that can withstand a day of water-sport practice? Look at the mascara’s description and ingredients before you head to checkout. “Some examples of ingredients to look for are Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Styrene/Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer, and VP/Eicosene Copolymer,” Dobos advises.
Dobos suggests that, beyond examining the formula, you should consider the mascara’s brush and the “wiper” at the mouth of the tube. “There are some tradeoffs in using waterproof mascaras; some might take a little longer to dry, meaning lashes coated with the product that touch each other might stick together,” says Dobos. “A good wiper—that separate ring you can see at the opening of the mascara tube—and silicone bristles that are stiff and on the shorter side can help separate lashes, reduce the amount of product applied, and thereby reduce clumping potential.”
How do you stop mascara from smudging under the eyes?
According to Dowds, application is a big part of her smudge-proof technique—sometimes the brush is too big, or sometimes there’s too much product on the brush. “I recommend starting with a single, thoughtful first coat, then letting it dry for a moment before applying a second coat in the same way,” she says.
Her best trick? Keeping disposable mascara wands in both mini and regular sizes as brushing through the lashes with a clean, dry wand helps separate them and prevents clumping. “A good initial application sets the lashes for the day and helps minimize smudging,” she adds. “I also suggest avoiding eye cream too close to application. Let it settle well beforehand if needed. Some people apply powder under the eyes to help, but I generally don’t use much powder, and almost never under the eyes unless it’s for a specific character look.”
Meet the experts
- Shani Gailbreath, a hair and makeup artist in Nashville
- Molly R. Stern, a makeup artist based in Los Angeles
- Lavonne, a makeup artist based in Little Rock, Arkansas
- Stoj, a makeup artist based in New York City
- Amrita Mehta, a makeup artist based in New York City
- Yuki Hayashi, a makeup artist based in New York City
- Patrick Ta, a makeup artist based in Los Angeles
- Kelly Dobos, a cosmetic chemist based in Cincinnati
- Linda Dowds, a makeup artist based in Los Angeles
How we test and review products
Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?
For our review of the best waterproof mascaras, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and cosmetic chemists to review the products. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product’s performance across four primary categories: formula, wear, longevity, and durability. For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
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After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
