My Go-To Mascaras to Wake Up Tired Eyes
If there’s one makeup product I can’t live without, it’s mascara. The right formula can take you from looking half-asleep to wide-eyed in seconds (something I’m always in need of as a mum to two young kids!). While I love testing out new mascaras, there are a few that I always come back to. Whether you’re after fluttery length, dramatic curl, or a waterproof formula that won’t budge, this roundup will help you find your perfect match.
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Mascara Tips for Better Lashes Every Time
Here are some of my go-to tips to help you get the most out of any mascara:
1. Curl First
If your lashes are naturally straight or droop downward, don’t skip the eyelash curler. A quick squeeze at the base (and maybe again mid-length) can make your mascara look 10 times better. I love the Tweezerman Classic Lash Curler!
2. Wiggle at the Base
Start at the root of your lashes and wiggle the brush slightly as you pull upward. This helps deposit more product at the base for volume while separating lashes for lift.
3. Use the Tip for Inner & Lower Lashes
Turn the wand vertically and use the tip to carefully coat tiny lashes at the inner corners or your lower lash line. It gives a more defined, wide-eyed effect without smudging.
4. Don’t Pump the Wand
It’s tempting, but pumping your mascara wand introduces air into the tube, which dries out the formula faster. Instead, swirl the wand inside the tube to pick up product.
5. Layer Strategically
Want more drama? Let the first coat set for 10–20 seconds before adding a second. For even more impact, try layering a lengthening formula over a volumising one.
6. Clean Up with a Cotton Bud
If you get smudges on your eyelid or under-eye, wait for them to dry, then gently flake them off with a dry cotton bud. Trying to clean up wet mascara just makes it worse.
7. Replace Regularly
Mascara has one of the shortest shelf lives in your makeup bag. Aim to replace it every 3 months to avoid eye irritation or bacteria build-up.
My Top Picks
Best for Length: Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara
A staple in my routine, this mascara delivers serious length without clumping. The exclusive Flex Tower brush is thin and flexible, making it easy to coat every single lash, even the tiny ones at the inner corners. The formula contains bamboo extract and fibers to strengthen lashes while adding impressive extension.
Pros
- Noticeably lengthens lashes
- No flaking or smudging
- Lightweight formula that doesn’t feel heavy
- Removes easily with micellar water or an oil-based cleanser
- Available in nine shades
- Ophthalmologist tested and safe for contact lens wearers
Cons
- Not ideal for volume; if you want ultra-thick lashes, this isn’t the best choice
- Formula starts off quite thin and wet but improves after a couple of weeks when it dries out
- I’ve seen some reports of people experiencing reactions to the Burgundy shade. It might be something to consider if you have very sensitive eyes!
Where to Buy
At the time of writing, you can pick this mascara up on Amazon for £8.98/$11.60.
Best for Curl: Benefit Roller Lash
Roller Lash is a game-changer if you have straight lashes that struggle to hold a curl. The Hook ‘n’ Roll brush grabs, lifts, and curls lashes while the formula sets them in place. Benefit claims it has 12-hour staying power, and after wearing it through a full workday and chasing after my kids, I can confirm it delivers.
Pros
- Gives a natural-looking lift and curl
- Holds curl all day without feeling stiff
- Resists smudging and flaking
Cons
- Not the most dramatic option if you love thick lashes
- Can be tricky to remove without a good cleanser
- An eyelash curler may still be needed for maximum lift
Where to Buy
You can find it at Sephora for $30. If you’re in the UK, Lookfantasic currently have it on offer for £21.60
Best for Definition: Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara
For a soft, fanned-out look, Ilia Limitless Lash is the perfect choice. This clean beauty formula separates and defines lashes beautifully, creating a natural, fluttery effect. The dual-sided brush makes application easy—one side lengthens, while the other adds subtle volume.
Pros
- Defines and separates lashes for a natural, everyday look
- Lightweight, buildable formula
- Ophthalmologist tested and safe for contact lens wearers
Cons
- Not the best for dramatic volume
- The brush can get a bit clumpy after a couple of months
Where to Buy
You can get it at Space NK for £28 or at Sephora for $29.
Best Brown Mascara: Sculpted by Aimee Lashlift Mascara
If you’re looking for a softer, more natural alternative to black mascara, Sculpted by Aimee’s Lashlift Mascara in Rich Brown is a beautiful option. It gives lashes a lifted, fanned-out look without feeling heavy or crunchy. The warm brown shade is perfect for daytime or “no-makeup” makeup looks, especially if you have fair features or just prefer something subtler than classic black. I find myself reaching for brown mascara more and more often as I get older, it’s much more flattering!
The formula contains pro-vitamin B5 and conditioning agents to help care for lashes while adding definition and lift. The curved wand hugs the lash line to create a wide-eyed effect that’s still totally wearable for everyday.
Pros
- Beautiful rich brown shade that enhances lashes without harshness
- Lifts and defines lashes with a natural-looking curl
- Conditions lashes with nourishing ingredients
- Ideal for lighter makeup days or softer looks
Cons
- Not the most dramatic option if you want intense volume or colour
- May not hold as strong a curl on very straight lashes without a curler
Where to Buy
Get it at Sculpted by Aimee for £20.
Best Waterproof Mascara: Beauty Pie The Perfect Waterproof Mascara
For days when you need a mascara that won’t budge, Beauty Pie’s The Perfect Waterproof Mascara is a lifesaver. It adds volume, length, and serious staying power without making lashes feel brittle. I took this on a beach holiday last year and had no smudges, even after swimming and sunbathing.
Pros
- Completely waterproof—resists sweat, tears, and humidity
- Adds volume and length without clumping
- Holds a curl exceptionally well
Cons
- Requires a strong oil-based remover to take off
- Feels slightly drier than non-waterproof formulas
Where to Buy
If you are a Beauty Pie member, this mascara costs only £12. It’s also available for non-members for £20.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you want long, fluttery lashes, go for Maybelline Sky High or Ilia Limitless Lash. If curl is your main concern, Benefit Roller Lash is a solid choice. And if you need a waterproof formula that won’t move, Beauty Pie’s The Perfect Waterproof Mascara will not let you down.
No matter your lash goals, there’s a mascara for you. Have you tried any of these? Let me know your favourite in the comments!
