The 9 Very Best Drugstore Mascaras, According to Makeup Artists

You can find some of the

best mascara

at your local drugstore for less than $10. We talked to several makeup artists, who gave us their opinions on the best drugstore mascaras that rival high-end brands in performance. These affordable picks deliver impressive volume, length, curl, and staying power, making them must-haves for anyone looking to save money without sacrificing quality.

Why Choose Drugstore Mascaras?

Drugstore mascaras have come a long way, offering formulas that match luxury counterparts at a fraction of the price. Professional makeup artists frequently recommend them for their accessibility, variety, and results on all lash types. Whether you need waterproof options for humid days, volumizing brushes for sparse lashes, or nourishing ingredients for sensitive eyes, there’s a budget-friendly gem waiting. Switching to these can save you over $40 annually on your makeup routine, with quality that’s surprisingly comparable to premium brands.

Key benefits include:

• Affordability: Most under $10, available at Walmart, Target, CVS, Walgreens, and online.
• Performance: Advanced brushes, conditioning oils, and long-wear formulas.
• Versatility: Options for length, volume, curl, and waterproofing.
• Accessibility: Easy to repurchase and test in-store.

What to Look for in a Drugstore Mascara

Makeup artists emphasize selecting mascaras based on your lash needs and eye shape. For mature eyes or those over 50, prioritize nourishing formulas with oils to prevent dryness and clumping. Here’s what experts advise:

• Brush Type: Conical for length, thick for volume, curved for lift.
• Formula: Tubing for no-smudge wear, waterproof for longevity.
• Ingredients: Look for castor oil, peptides, or vitamins for lash health.
• Finish: Natural for day, dramatic for night.

Testing tip: Apply to one eye only to compare results instantly, as shown in real-user reviews.

Our Top 9 Drugstore Mascara Picks

Compiled from makeup artist recommendations and user favorites, these standouts excel in real-world tests for separation, hold, and no-panda-eye fallout.

Mascara Name	Key Features	Price Range	Best For
L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise	Plush volume, nourishing flax oil, smudge-resistant	$10–$13	Mature lashes, all-day wear
Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect	Conical brush, lifts/elongates, lightweight	$4–$5	Length, falsie effect
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High	Flexible wand, sky-high length, clump-free	$9–$11	Dramatic length
CoverGirl Exhibitionist Lash Blast	Thick brush, extreme volume, buildable	$8–$10	Volume boost
Essence I Love Extreme Volume Waterproof	Full lash look, waterproof, affordable	$4–$6	Waterproof volume
e.l.f. Lash N’ Roll Curling & Lifting	Curved brush, curl hold, lightweight	$7–$8	Curl and lift
Maybelline The Falsies Push Up Angel	Wing-shaped brush, push-up volume	$9–$10	Lift and separation
L’Oréal Paris Unlimited Lengthening	Stretch fibers, ultra-length	$9–$12	Straight lashes
NYX Professional Makeup Worth the Hype	Hourglass brush, volume/length hybrid	$8–$10	Everyday drama

1. L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara

This bestseller tops lists for its silky formula infused with

flax oil

for nourished, non-crunchy lashes. The full brush grabs every lash for plush volume and length that lasts all day without smudging. Makeup artists love it for mature eyes, as it conditions fragile lashes. Apply in zigzag motions for max separation.

2. Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara

A cult favorite at just $5, this delivers falsie-level length with a conical fiber brush that lifts and elongates. It’s lightweight, non-irritating, and perfect for beginners. Users rave about one-coat drama.

3. Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

With a flexible wand and lightweight formula, it achieves impossible length without clumps. Ideal for straight or sparse lashes, it’s a staple in artists’ kits for sky-high results.

4. CoverGirl Exhibitionist Lash Blast Mascara

The oversized brush pumps up volume dramatically. Buildable and clump-resistant, it’s great for bold looks.

5. Essence I Love Extreme Volume Waterproof Mascara

Under $6, this waterproof wonder gives a full, false-lash effect. Excels in humidity and lasts through tears.

6. e.l.f. Lash N’ Roll Curling & Lifting Mascara

Affordable at $7, the curved brush holds curl all day. Lightweight and vegan, perfect for natural lift.

7. Maybelline The Falsies Push Up Angel Mascara

Wing-shaped brush separates and lifts for doe-eyed allure. Smudge-proof and buildable.

8. L’Oréal Paris Unlimited Lengthening Mascara

Stretch fibers extend short lashes visibly. Great for precision.

9. NYX Professional Makeup Worth the Hype Mascara

Hourglass brush blends volume and length seamlessly. Hype lives up to its name for everyday glam.

How to Apply Drugstore Mascara Like a Pro

Artists share these steps for flawless results:

1. Curl lashes with a clean curler (10 seconds per eye).
2. Apply primer if lashes are sparse.
3. Wiggle brush at roots, sweep up and out.
4. Add 1-2 coats; separate with a spoolie.
5. Finish with translucent powder under eyes to catch fallout.

For longevity, pair with a lash serum nightly. Remove with oil-based cleanser to protect lashes.

Drugstore Mascara for Specific Needs

• Sensitive Eyes: Essence Lash Princess (hypoallergenic).
• Waterproof: Essence I Love Extreme.
• Vegan/Cruelty-Free: e.l.f. Lash N’ Roll.
• Mature Lashes: L’Oréal Voluminous (nourishing).

Saving Money with Drugstore Beauty

By ditching designer brands, you can save $160 yearly on makeup alone. Drugstore dupes perform equally well, freeing budget for other essentials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best drugstore mascara for length?

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High or Essence Lash Princess excel in lengthening with flexible wands and conical brushes.

Which drugstore mascara is waterproof?

Essence I Love Extreme Volume Waterproof holds up in any weather without flaking.

Is there a good drugstore mascara for volume?

CoverGirl Exhibitionist Lash Blast or L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise provide plush, buildable volume.

What mascara is best for older women?

L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise in Latte Brown nourishes mature lashes and prevents crunchiness.

How do I remove drugstore tubing mascara?

Use warm water and gentle rubbing; it slides off without harsh removers.

Are drugstore mascaras cruelty-free?

Many are, like e.l.f. and Essence lines—check packaging for Leaping Bunny seals.

These budget-friendly mascaras prove you don’t need to spend big for big lashes. Stock up on your favorites and elevate your routine affordably!