Expectations can run high for a single tube of mascara. Longer. Thicker. Curlier. More lift. No clumping. No flaking. No smudging. If your quest continues for the perfect eyelash-enhancing product, here are eight of the best mascaras of 2018.
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1. theBalm Mad Lash Mascara
Strap in for an “out-of-this world mascara.” This highly rated product boasts both a “phenomenal formula”, and an “injection-molded wand” that add height and water-resistant, smudge-proof volume to your lashes. Users have a lot of love for this mascara — from calling it “awesome” and their “new favorite”, to the understated “BEST BEST BEST!!!” Bonus: It doubles as a liquid eyeliner. Talc-, paraben-, and cruelty-free.
2. Skin2Spirit Natural Mineral Mascara
If you wear contacts or have an eye condition, this more natural blend may be for you. One user calls it “a truly hypoallergenic mascara.” No more tears or irritated eyes. It promises to condition your lashes, and help them grow longer, stronger, and thicker, with minimal clumping, flaking, and smudging. Also doubles as a liquid eyeliner. Non-toxic. No talc, parabens, mercury, lead, dye, petroleum, or gluten. Cruelty-free. Vegan.
3. Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes 4-in-1 Mascara
Who doesn’t need a “push-up bra” for their lashes? This self-described “cult classic” is another more natural blend that promises to lengthen, curl, volumize, and condition your lashes, without clumps or flakes. Users consider it “the best mascara on the market,” “lightweight and not gummy,” and one that delivers “super thick lashes.” No talc, parabens, petrochemicals, sulfates, preservatives, oil, dye, fragrance, or gluten. Cruelty-free. Vegan.
4. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
No faking it here. “Mind-blowing lashes, every time!” This formula boasts thicker, conditioned curls that last and last. Another “best mascara on the market” and “the best mascara ever” that delivers “long, lustrous lashes.” Actually, there is some faking: Users have been asked if their lashes are fake, which is a real compliment. No parabens or gluten. Cruelty-free. Vegan.
5. Elizabeth Mott It’s So BIG Volumizing Mascara
Size matters. This formula touts lifted, separated lashes with maximum volume and no smudges. If you have lash extensions, the natural wax formula won’t weigh them down. Users love how this mascara keeps lashes in place despite sweat or tears. They also note its effectiveness and lower cost than other brands. Cruelty-free.
6. Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara
This volumizing, curling, lifting formula and special brush bring out the “lashes you never knew you had.” It’s also long-lasting to the point where it may be a little difficult to remove, says one user, but she can deal with that because it’s the “best mascara.” Another user says she has tried numerous other brands, but this one “blows them all out of the water.”
7. Kiss Me Heroine Make Long and Curl Mascara
If you have stick-straight lashes, this mascara may deliver the long-lasting length and curl you’ve always wanted. Manufactured in Japan, users call it their “favorite mascara” and the “holy grail of mascara.” It’s formulated with camellia oil, argan oil, wild rose oil, Kaninabara fruit oil, royal jelly extract, and chamomile extract for moisturized, protected lashes.
8. Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Super Curling & Lifting Mascara Travel Size Mini
This small-sized mascara makes a pretty big claim: You don’t need to use an eyelash curler before applying. “Simply wiggle the wand from base of lashes to tip.” The 12-hour curve-setting formula leaves a satin finish that’s water-resistant. The provitamin B5 and serin also condition your lashes. No raccoon eyes with this brand, says one user. Another user was so pleased after trying the trial size that she moved up to the full size.
If you’re raising your mascara game, how about adding some shine to your skincare too? Check out the world’s first and only turmeric peel-off mask from Raeka Beauty, available in SHOP NaturallyCurly.
We want to hear from you. Do you remember the first mascara you ever used? What’s your current go-to mascara, and why? Share with us in the comments below.