The 10 Best Waterproof Mascaras That Won’t Smudge or Budge

If you had to choose just one long-lasting makeup must-have, we think the choice would be pretty easy to guess — it’s waterproof mascara. If it wasn’t your top choice we’d venture to say it’s at least in your top five since avoiding raccoon eyes and smeared eye makeup is a must. Plus, dramatic eyelashes can take a simple makeup look from boring to breathtaking — it just takes a few swipes of the right mascara.

No matter what you’re looking for in this staple beauty product — whether it’s long lashes, volume, lift or curl — we’ve got a waterproof option for you. So if you’re planning to hit a beach vacation for the holidays or you just live in a warm climate where pool days happen frequently, you won’t have to worry about dealing with mascara streaks running down your cheeks. 

Below, we’ve broken down the best waterproof mascaras from L’Oréal Paris, so keep reading to find your budge-proof mascara match.  

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara

For a mix of both intense volume and length, pick up this affordable mascara at any drug store. It features a soft, wavy bristle brush that holds an extensive amount of formula with more than 200 bristles catching every lash for a dramatic volumizing effect. You’ll get a full lash set that’s feathery soft, conditioned with the infused floral oil that coats lashes with no flaking or clumping. 

Editor’s tip: To apply your mascara, look up, place the wand at the base of your upper lashes, and wiggle it back and forth, coating the base of your lashes. Then pull the wand upward towards the tip of your eyelashes, making sure you’re coating each lash as you pull the wand through. Apply additional coats of mascara until you get the look you want.

L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Instant Lift Waterproof Mascara

Take control of how precisely you apply waterproof mascara with this lengthening option from L’Oréal Paris which gives lashes extra lift without excessive layering. Suitable for sensitive eyes and tested by ophthalmologists, this mascara is formulated with ceramides to lift lashes for up to 36 hours. Using the front bristles, apply the mascara to lashes before using the side bristles to comb and separate lashes. For those who aren’t the biggest fan of waterproof mascara but still want a long-lasting formula, try this eye product in one of the three washable shades — black, black-brown or blackest black.

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Waterproof Mascara

Clumps are most likely the bane of your mascara-loving existence — or at least they are for us. If you’re also anti-lashes sticking together, pick up this waterproof mascara that is formulated to resist clumping and separates lashes with each swipe. It features a unique formula that works to quickly thicken and build lashes without leaving them feeling heavy or weighed down. Available in three colors (black, black brown and carbon black) this affordable mascara is ophthalmologist- and allergy-tested, making it suitable for those who wear contact lenses or have sensitive eyes.

L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original Waterproof Lengthening Mascara

Uniquely formulated to provide intense length and up to 50 percent longer lashes, this lengthening mascara is your match if you want extra long lashes. Thin lashes won’t need multiple coats to be seen when using this mascara that adds pigment and length to each lash for a full look. The flat side of the patented flexible precision brush lengthens your lashes while the comb side of the brush separates lashes for a clump-free result. It’s no wonder this go-to is having a major TikTok makeup moment.

L’Oréal Paris Air Wear Air Volume Mega Mascara Waterproof, Lightweight

Go for bold lashes by using this innovative waterproof mascara from L’Oréal Paris. The innovation is showcased with an air-whipped formula that weightlessly coats lashes without making them feel too heavy. It features a cushioned double-bristle brush — the short side catches lashes from the root and the long side helps spread the formula evenly for fully blown-out lashes. It's also smudge and flake resistant so you don’t have to worry about making a mascara application mistake. 

Editor’s tip: It’s always best to prime your lashes before layering mascara. Use the L'Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Primer to help boost the effect of your mascara and to nourish and condition your lashes over time so they’re softer to work with.

L’Oréal Paris Bambi Eye Waterproof Mascara, Lasting Volume

When keeping a curl is just not as simple as using a lash curler, enlist the help of a curling mascara to help do the job. This waterproof option adds volume while it curls, giving you the appearance of wide-open eyes. The brush features short and long bristles to separate and coat every lash with just a few swipes. One layer of this waterproof mascara will give your lashes a wispy look that makes your eyes look bigger.

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Waterproof Mascara

On the days you want a more natural makeup look without losing volume on your lashes, reach for this waterproof mascara for a subtle everyday look. Your lashes will appreciate the all-day waterproof wear with a clump-free, flake-free and smudge-proof finish. If you’re in a rush, you don’t have to worry about applying too much product that instantly transfers onto your lids with the built-in wiping system that keeps the brush free of excessive product buildup. The brush will give you definition lash by lash while the buildable, collagen-infused, formula thickens and separates every lash.

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Butterfly Waterproof Mascara

Coat lashes with this waterproof mascara that extends your lashes like butterfly wings. The mascara is formulated to add mega volume to lashes at the roots all the way to the end of lashes to stretch individual lashes to their maximum length. The asymmetrical brush allows you to apply the mascara in every corner of the eye for lashes with a lot of volume and length.

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Superstar Mascara Waterproof

Equipped with a primer on one end and a fiber-rich formula to help you build and layer your mascara on the other, this waterproof formula is what you need for a super dramatic look. It goes on smoothly and is the perfect companion if you have really light-colored lashes that need a tint. And you’ll love the lifted, extended look that the curved brush offers.

L’Oréal Paris Unlimited Lash Lifting and Lengthening Waterproof Mascara

Reach every lash on your eyes with this lifting and lengthening mascara which features a bendable wand for precise application. With a waterproof formulation, this lifting product holds a curl from an eyelash curler without smudging the product or creating a flaky mess with every blink. You won’t need to apply numerous layers to coat lashes as the stretchable formula smoothly lays on lashes for a glamorous look that could be mistaken for false eyelashes.

How to Remove Waterproof Mascara?

Waterproof mascara is all fun and games until it’s time to remove the layer of product on your lashes. No matter how late it is or how tired you are, always remove your makeup before going to sleep. The above waterproof mascaras will last through it all, so make sure to use a makeup remover that can tackle waterproof makeup products. Look for a makeup remover in the form of micellar water or makeup-removing wipes as these are gentle enough to use on the eyes. Soak a cotton round with your micellar water of choice and gently swipe it across closed eyes to remove mascara. We love to use makeup-removing wipes like the L’Oréal Paris Ideal All Skin Types Makeup Removing Towelettes, which gently remove makeup — including waterproof mascara — without the need to excessively rub at your skin. After removing your makeup follow up with a gentle cleanser to remove any excess residue that might have made its way onto your skin. 

Next: 7 Myths About Lengthening and Volumizing Mascara Debunked

Photo Design: Sarah Duvivier