eye makeup The Best Waterproof Mascaras That Won't Smudge Under Your Eyes

If you had to choose just one long-lasting makeup must-have, we think the choice would be pretty easy — waterproof mascara of course. 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 — whether it’s length, 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.  

Which Is the Best Waterproof Mascara?

If you’re wondering, what mascara stays on while swimming, or does waterproof mascara work for sweat, take your pick from any of these top-selling (some TikTok viral) fan-favorites that won’t disappoint.

L'Oréal Paris Air Volume Mega Mascara Waterproof, Lightweight. 

Go for bold lashes by using this great waterproof mascara for volume. 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. 

Thanks to the air whipped formula your lashes won’t feel weighed down. It's also smudge and flake resistant so you don’t have to worry about getting mascara all over your face. Feel free to apply three coats to the entire lash for a superbly dramatic look.

Editor’s tip: It’s always best to prime your lashes before applying 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 Telescopic Original Waterproof Lengthening Mascara

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara

For a mix of both intense volume and length, reach for this affordable mascara. It features a soft, wavy bristle brush that holds an extensive amount of formula while the more than 200 bristles catch every lash for a dramatic volumizing effect. You’ll get a full lash fringe that’s feathery soft with no flaking or clumping! What’s not to love?

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 Voluminous Waterproof Mascara

Clumps are most likely the bane of your mascara-loving existence — or at least they are for us. If you’re not a fan of clumping (who is?), look for a waterproof mascara that is formulated to resist clumping and flaking, like this one that’s great for separating lashes.

It features a unique maximizing formula that works to quickly thicken and build lashes without leaving them feeling heavy or weighed down. It’s ophthalmologist- and allergy-tested and suitable for those who wear contact lenses or have sensitive eyes.

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.

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Waterproof Mascara

There’s a time and place for dramatic waterproof mascaras — but if you’re back in the office, you may be looking for eye makeup options to create simpler looks. In that case, reach for the best waterproof mascara for a subtle everyday look, like this pick.

It offers all-day waterproof wear, with a clump-free, flake-free, and smudge-proof finish. The brush will give you definition lash by lash while the buildable, collagen-infused, formula thickens and separates every lash. And it has a built-in wiping system to keep the brush free of buildup, leaving the perfect amount of mascara to get you the lash look you desire.

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 mascara 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 Voluminous X Fiber Waterproof Mascara

We love a good fiber mascara just as much as the next beauty and this fiber mascara for length and volume is a top pick for building intense lashes. First prime your lashes with the built-in primer, then layer on the fiber-infused formula. 

The two-step system never leaves your lashes feeling weighed down and the formula doesn’t smudge or smear. Reach for it every time you’re ready to go to extreme lengths with your eye makeup look. 

Next: This Is My Go-To Mascara When I Want To Skip A Lash Lift

Edited by: Shalwah Evans, Photo Design: Sarah Duvivier