12 Best Drugstore Mascaras: Expert Reviews & How to Choose the Right One
Discover the top-rated drugstore mascaras that deliver dramatic, natural, and clump-free looks—tested by beauty experts.
Why Drugstore Mascaras Can Rival High-End Formulas
In the world of beauty, mascara stands out as a product where affordable drugstore options can often perform just as well—if not better—than their luxury counterparts. Many $10 formulas use innovative wands, advanced formulas, and deliver results that rival $40 tubes, making them a smart choice for anyone looking to save without sacrificing quality.
Top Drugstore Mascaras—Expert Reviews
L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Panorama Mascara
- Pros: Volumizes, lengthens, and separates lashes for a fanned-out, wide-eyed effect; doesn’t clump.
- Cons: Some users wish it worked better for very short lashes.
This mascara is a Cosmo team favorite for its ability to add both length and volume, even to the smallest inner-corner lashes. The unique brush design lets you alternate between the smaller side for precision and the wider side for dramatic volume, and it never clumps or smudges—a must for travel and daily wear.
Pacifica Vegan Collagen Fluffy Lash Mascara
- Pros: Moisturizes lashes with jojoba oil and polyglycerides; contains eyelash-strengthening peptides; doesn’t smear or clump, even with multiple coats.
- Cons: Not the most volumizing formula, best for soft glam looks.
Pacifica’s clean beauty approach shines with this vegan, cruelty-free mascara. It’s gentle on lashes and ideal for those seeking a natural, fluffy look without harsh chemicals.
Maybelline Colossal Bubble Mascara
- Pros: Spiral wand lifts and separates; available in multiple shades; gives a false-lash effect.
- Cons: Needs a few extra passes for a perfectly combed through, lifted look.
This mascara’s spiral brush reaches down to the roots, helping lashes look longer and fuller from base to tip. It’s especially good for those with straight lashes, as it keeps them lifted without flakes or smudges for hours.
Other Noteworthy Drugstore Mascaras
While the above are top picks, the drugstore aisle has plenty of other standout options:
- Maybelline Lash Sensational: Curved wand for easy application, delivers volume, length, and separation—especially loved in the UK market.
- L’Oréal Paris Telescopic: Became viral for its lengthening prowess and clean, non-clumpy finish.
- Covergirl Lash Blast Clean Volume: A favorite for those seeking a volumizing effect with a clean formula.
Comparing Mascara Types: Volumizing, Lengthening, and Natural
| Type | Best For | Top Drugstore Pick | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volumizing | Dramatic, full lashes | L’Oréal Paris Panorama | Double-sided brush, no clumps, wide-awake look |
| Lengthening | Long, defined lashes | Maybelline Colossal Bubble | Spiral wand, comb-through effect, multiple shades |
| Natural | Soft, fluttery look | Pacifica Vegan Collagen | Peptide-infused, moisturizing, clean formula |
How to Choose the Best Drugstore Mascara for You
Selecting the right mascara depends on your lash type, desired look, and priorities (like clean ingredients or sensitivity). Here’s what to consider:
- Lash Type: Short, straight, or sparse lashes may benefit from a curling or volumizing formula, while long lashes might seek definition and separation.
- Desired Effect: Do you want dramatic volume, natural length, or a soft, fluffy look?
- Brush Design: Curved wands help curl, while spiral or double-sided brushes separate and add volume.
- Formula Preferences: Vegan, clean, or hypoallergenic options are available for sensitive eyes.
- Longevity: Look for smudge-proof, flake-free claims if you have long days or oily lids.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are drugstore mascaras as good as high-end ones?
Many drugstore mascaras now rival luxury brands in performance, brush innovation, and wear time—often at a fraction of the price.
What’s the difference between volumizing and lengthening mascara?
Volumizing formulas make lashes appear thicker and fuller, while lengthening mascaras extend the appearance of each lash for a more dramatic look.
Which drugstore mascara is best for sensitive eyes?
Pacifica Vegan Collagen and Covergirl Lash Blast Clean are both gentle, clean formulas suitable for sensitive eyes.
Can I layer multiple coats of drugstore mascara?
Most modern drugstore mascaras allow layering without clumping, especially those with silicone-based or lightweight formulas like Pacifica Vegan Collagen.
How do I prevent mascara from smudging or flaking?
Opt for formulas labeled “smudge-proof” or “water-resistant,” and avoid rubbing your eyes. Blotting excess oil from lids can also help.
Expert Tips for Mascara Application
Makeup artist Neil Scibelli shares his advice for maximizing your mascara’s impact:
- Start at the base of your lashes and wiggle the wand upward for maximum volume.
- Use the tip of the brush for hard-to-reach inner and outer corner lashes.
- For a natural look, apply one coat; for drama, layer two or three, allowing each coat to dry slightly between applications.
- Clean any excess mascara from the brush before application to prevent clumps.
Why You Should Still Try Drugstore Mascaras
While high-end mascaras can be tempting, drugstore options often deliver comparable—if not superior—results. With innovations in brush design, formula, and wear time, you can achieve a range of looks without breaking the bank. Whether you want to beef up sparse lashes, add dramatic length, or simply keep things natural, there’s a drugstore mascara that fits your needs.
Wrapping Up: Our Drugstore Mascara Hall of Fame
After years of testing and feedback from both editors and professional makeup artists, these are the drugstore mascaras that consistently rise to the top:
- L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Panorama: Best overall for volume, length, and separation.
- Pacifica Vegan Collagen Fluffy Lash: Best clean, natural option for sensitive eyes.
- Maybelline Colossal Bubble: Best for a lifted, false-lash effect without clumps.
- Covergirl Lash Blast Clean Volume: Best clean, volumizing pick.
- Maybelline Lash Sensational: Best for easy application and UK favorites.
- L’Oréal Paris Telescopic: Best for viral length and separation.
No matter your lash concerns or beauty priorities, there’s a drugstore mascara out there ready to elevate your look—without the luxury price tag.
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