What’s the Difference Between Black and Brown Mascara?

Mascara is one of the best ways to finish off a makeup look, and whether you’re going for a bold eyeshadow trend or a more neutral soft glam look, there’s a mascara out there that will fulfill your needs.

Things get interesting when you consider color — black mascara is often the standard shade, but brown mascara can be a popular pick as well. The two often seem interchangeable, but if you’re wondering if there’s actually a difference between black mascara and brown mascara, or if there’s a better time to use one over the other, keep reading.

Why Use Brown Mascara Over Black?

While both black and brown mascara will complement any eye makeup look beautifully, the difference between the two lies in how bold or dramatic you want your overall look to be. Since the color is so pigmented, black mascara will help you make a statement with your eyelashes, and while brown mascara will still lengthen and lift your lashes, the effect will be subtler and softer since the color isn’t as dark. 

It’s also important to note that while black and brown mascara can both be used in anyone’s beauty routine, if you have fair skin or light hair, you may want to reach for brown mascara more often. Black mascara can sometimes look too harsh against certain skin tones or hair colors, so brown mascara may be a better fit. Brown mascara is also a great pick for people with green eyes, as brown will bring out the different colors in your eyes.

What Is the Best Brown Mascara?

Brown mascaras can come in brown or black brown formulas. Here, four brown mascaras to add to your makeup lineup.

L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Instant Lift Washable Mascara in Black Brown

If you’re looking for a black brown mascara that will lengthen, lift, and curl your eyelashes, this one's for you. The lengthening mascara will make your eyes look more open and awake with its patented double hook brush that separates and coats each lash with the ceramide-infused formula. You’ll have lifted lashes for up to 36 hours.

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Washable Mascara in Black Brown

For volume and length, reach for this clump-resistant and smudge-resistant mascara. The black brown mascara’s power lies in the wavy brush that coats and catches every hair for fuller-looking lashes, and the nourishing formula that conditions  and softens eye fringe.

L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Makeup Lash Magnifying Mascara with Conditioning Serum in Brown

In addition to volumizing and thickening your lashes, this brown mascara will also condition them with its serum and jojoba oil-infused formula. Your lashes will be lengthened and defined, and the mascara is still gentle enough for sensitive eyes, contact wearers and anyone dealing with dry and brittle lashes due to aging.

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Washable Bold Eye Mascara in Black Brown

This mascara is uniquely formulated to resist clumping, keep lashes soft and build lashes up to five times their natural thickness. The black brown mascara comes in other bold shades like deep burgundy and cobalt blue, so you can also experiment with a more colorful mascara look.

Next: The Best Lengthening Mascaras for Long Lashes

Photo Credit: iStock, Photo Design: Sarah Duvivier