Best Water Based Mascara
Looking to achieve fluttery, smudge-proof lashes without drowning your eyes in heavy formulas? Dive into our curated guide of the best water-based mascaras, where lightweight innovation meets lasting curl. Discover the perfect wand to elevate your look—effortlessly, and without the fuss of persistence.
Best Cheap Pick: Essence Lash Princess
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| Defines and separates lashes |
| Clump-free formula |
| Cruelty-free and vegan |
The Lash Princess False Lash Mascara truly lives up to its name, offering bold, dramatic volume and length without any clumping or globs.
The fiber conic-shaped brush effortlessly separates and defines each lash, giving a fierce, sculpted look in seconds.
Bonus points for being cruelty-free, vegan, and free from parabens and silicones—all at an affordable price point.
While it might smudge slightly overnight and isn't ideal for very straight lashes, it remains a fantastic, budget-friendly pick for those wanting a quick, impactful boost.
Be sure to also check out the best water-based mascaras for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
Best for Sensitive Eyes: ILIA Limitless Lash
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| Long-lasting, smudge-proof |
| Gentle for sensitive eyes |
| Natural, clean ingredients |
As the "Best for Sensitive Eyes," this mascara truly lives up to its reputation.
Its lightweight, nourishing, and non-toxic formula ensures comfort without sacrificing performance.
The dual-sided wand effortlessly catches every lash, giving that eye-opening length and separation we all crave.
With plant-based ingredients like organic shea butter and beeswax, lashes stay soft, healthy, and beautifully conditioned.
Plus, the ophthalmologist testing and eye-safe ingredients make it a reliable choice for contact lens wearers and sensitive users alike.
A truly clean and dependable option!
Be sure to also check out the best red mascara for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
Best for Natural Look: Vivienne Sabó
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| Lightweight and clump-free |
| Long-lasting, smudge-proof |
| Easy to remove |
This mascara is the ultimate secret to French beauty—effortless, natural, and chic.
It provides defined and voluminous lashes with just a single coat, making it perfect for a subtle, everyday look.
The lightweight, clump-free formula feels comfortable without weighing down your lashes, and it’s completely smudge-proof and long-lasting, so no midday touch-ups needed.
Plus, the petite wand ensures an easy, precise application.
We love that it’s cruelty-free, and it’s simple to remove without damaging lashes.
Ideal for a natural boost that stays put all day!
Be sure to also check out the best clear mascaras for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
Best for Long-Lasting Wear: Essence Lash Princess
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| Dramatic volume and length |
| Lasts all day |
| Vegan and cruelty-free |
the Lash Princess Waterproof Mascara truly lives up to its promise of dramatic volume with its unique conic fiber brush that delivers length and boldness with just a few coats.
Its waterproof formula resists sweat, tears, and weather, ensuring your lashes stay stunning all day without flaking or fading.
Plus, the vegan and cruelty-free credentials make it a guilt-free pick.
Keep in mind, removing it can be a bit tricky, and sometimes it can smudge or clump if not applied carefully.
Overall, a reliable choice for that long-lasting lash look!
Be sure to also check out the best white mascara for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High
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| Long-lasting and smudge-proof |
| Separates and volumizes |
| Easy to remove |
The Maybelline Snapscara offers lengthening magic with its lightweight, bamboo-infused formula that keeps lashes looking full without the flake or smudge.
Its unique Flex Tower brush bends to coat from root to tip, giving you a grab-and-go application that freshens up your look in seconds.
While the wetter formula may feel a bit heavy initially and takes some skill with the thinner brush, the result is a long-lasting, smudge-proof finish that’s easy to remove—perfect for those who want a natural, yet impactful eye look.
Be sure to also check out the best waterproof mascara for short lashes for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
Honest Beauty Mascara
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| Builds extreme length |
| Safe for sensitive eyes |
| Includes built-in primer |
The Honest Company's Clean Mascara and Primer duo truly delivers extreme length and sky-high lift thanks to its molded bristles and flexible wand.
The built-in primer creates an even base, boosting staying power and lash separation.
Plus, it’s safe for sensitive eyes, infused with jojoba esters, and free from parabens, silicones, and synthetic fragrances — perfect for all lash types, even contact lens wearers.
While the small tube might mean frequent re-ups, the results make it worth it for those seeking a cruelty-free, gentle, yet effective mascara.
Be sure to also check out the best iron wand mascara for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara Water Based Mascara
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| Resists clumping |
| Softens and builds lashes |
| Suitable for sensitive eyes |
The Voluminous Mascara resists clumping beautifully and gives your lashes a soft, natural feel.
Its unique formula gently builds up thickness up to 5X, creating a fuller, more dramatic look without feeling heavy.
The volume-maximizing brush evenly coats each lash, making application quick and fuss-free.
Plus, it's suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, which is a huge win.
While it doesn't offer the most vibrant color or waterproof wear, for those seeking a natural, soft-volume effect, this mascara is a top contender.
Be sure to also check out the best waterproof mascara for contact lens wearers for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
Maybelline Lash Sensational
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| Clump-free formula |
| Long-lasting wear |
| Affordable price |
The Lash Sensational Mascara boasts an exclusive fanning brush with ten layers of bristles that effortlessly reveal layers of lashes for a full-fan effect.
It adds length and volume without any clumping, giving your eyes a dramatic yet natural look.
Its clump-free formula ensures a smooth application and long-lasting wear, making it perfect for busy days.
While it’s not fully waterproof, a good makeup remover easily takes it off.
Plus, it’s affordable and delivers salon-quality results in a flash.
Truly, a must-have for any mascara lover!
Be sure to also check out the best clear mascara to hold curl for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
Maybelline Great Lash
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| Builds volume easily |
| Hypoallergenic and safe |
| Affordable price |
The Great Lash Washable Mascara delivers amazing volume with minimal effort thanks to its lash-doubling formula.
It glides on smoothly and conditions your lashes while thickening, giving you a vibrant, natural look or buildable drama.
Plus, it's hypoallergenic and safe, making it perfect for sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers.
On a budget?
It’s affordable without sacrificing quality.
However, keep in mind it can be prone to flaking or smudging over time, especially if you aim for a waterproof effect.
Overall, a solid go-to for everyday lashes!
Be sure to also check out the best mascara primer for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
L'Oreal Paris Telescopic Mascara Water Based Mascara
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| Long-lasting wear |
| Excellent lash separation |
| Suitable for sensitive eyes |
The Waterproof Lengthening Mascara by L'Oreal Paris delivers dramatic lash extension with superb lash-by-lash separation, thanks to its innovative flexible Precision Brush.
The flat side effortlessly lengthens, boosting lashes up to 60%, while the comb side maintains clump-free definition.
It's ophthalmologist tested and ideal for sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers, making it a reliable choice for everyday wear.
Plus, its long-lasting formula resists smudging, ensuring you stay fabulous all day.
Just a heads-up—if you prefer a more natural, sparse lash look, it might thin out your lashes slightly.
Overall, a fantastic option for those who want length and separation in a waterproof mascara.
Be sure to also check out the best mascara redheads for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Mascara
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| 10x volume boost |
| Vegan, clean formula |
| Cruelty-free certification |
The COVERGIRL Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara delivers a bold, 10x volume boost that truly transforms your lashes, making your eyes pop instantly.
Its vegan formula, enriched with argan and marula oils, is gentle yet effective, aligning with eco-conscious values.
The applicator brush expertly separates and defines each lash for a longer, fuller look without clumping.
Plus, the eco-friendly FSC-certified packaging and cruelty-free certification give us peace of mind.
While it can be a bit stubborn to remove and isn't the best for waterproof wear, the overall performance makes it a fantastic choice for everyday volume.
Be sure to also check out the best baked foundations for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
L'Oreal Paris Lash Paradise
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| Voluminous and lengthening |
| No flaking or smudging |
| Beautiful natural brown |
L'Oreal's Voluminous mascara delivers voluptuous volume and up to twice the length of natural lashes, creating that bold, fluttery look we all crave.
The formula is flake-free, smudge-proof, and beautifully natural brown for a softer vibe.
While the brush could be a tad thinner for even more precision, it still coats lashes evenly and enhances their natural beauty.
The added length may be limited after multiple coats, but overall, it offers a high-quality experience.
Keep in mind, the price is a bit steeper than drugstore brands, but the results are worth it.
Be sure to also check out the best mineral concealers for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
Neutrogena Healthy Lengths Mascara Water Based Mascara
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| Gentle for sensitive eyes |
| Easy to remove |
| Nourishes and strengthens |
The Neutrogena Healthy Lengths Mascara delivers on its promise of longer, stronger lashes without the fuss.
Its antioxidant-rich formula nourishes from within, helping lashes stay healthy and resilient — perfect for those with sensitive eyes or contact lenses.
The soft-bristle brush coats every lash from root to tip, creating a natural look with good definition.
While it offers a minimal volumizing boost and might flake slightly with heavy use, its ease of removal and gentle composition make it a trusted choice for everyday wear.
A reliable, nourishing option worth trying!
Be sure to also check out the best baked eyeshadow for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
Clinique High Impact Mascara
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| Soft, natural look |
| Easy to remove |
| Good at holding curl |
Clinique’s Water-Based Mascara delivers a soft, natural look that seamlessly enhances your lashes without feeling heavy or stiff.
It’s super easy to remove, making your nightly routine a breeze.
Plus, it’s actually pretty good at holding a curl—perfect for those looking for a subtle lift.
However, it’s worth noting this isn’t a waterproof formula, so if you're caught in the heat or rain, a little run might happen.
Overall, a great everyday choice for a quick, fresh lash boost!
Be sure to also check out the best waterproof concealer for scars for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
Essence Lash Princess Mascara
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| Affordable price |
| Long-lasting hold |
| Cruelty-free certified |
The Lash Princess Sculpted Volume Mascara delivers gorgeous, fan-worthy lashes without breaking the bank.
Its creamy black formula is perfect for building dramatic volume or a more natural, defined look—whichever you prefer.
Plus, it holds curl all day long, resisting smudges and flaking, making it an ideal companion for busy mornings.
Crafted with cruelty-free, vegan ingredients, it’s as ethical as it is effective.
Just be mindful to wipe off excess product to avoid clumping, and you'll enjoy fluttery, long-lasting lashes from morning to night.
Be sure to also check out the best white face paint for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
Prime Prometics Water Based Mascara
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| Long-lasting, smudge-proof |
| Easy to remove |
| Natural-looking results |
PrimeLash Mascara is a game-changer for women over 50 seeking natural yet defined lashes.
The magic wand effortlessly separates and lengthens, giving your eyes an instant lift without clumping or smudging.
Plus, the vitamin-enriched formula helps promote lash growth, so you’re not just wearing mascara—you’re nourishing your lashes too.
While it’s not as volumizing as some might hope and has mixed reviews on waterproof hold, its ease of removal and hypoallergenic qualities make it a reliable choice for everyday wear.
A true beauty booster!
Be sure to also check out the best waterproof leg makeup for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Panorama
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| Long-lasting and smudge-proof |
| Creates voluminous lashes |
| Easy to remove with water |
The Voluminous Panorama Mascara by L'Oréal Paris delivers stunning, fanned-out lashes that make your eyes appear up to 1.4x bigger.
Its multi-level bristle brush ensures even application from root to tip, giving you voluminous and lengthened lashes in a single swipe.
The longwear formula is smudge-proof, flake-resistant, and lasts up to 24 hours, perfect for busy days or nights out.
Plus, it's easy to remove with water—no harsh scrubbing needed.
Overall, this mascara combines performance with gentle removal, making it a must-have in your makeup bag.
Be sure to also check out the best white eye shadow for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
Lash Power Tubing Mascara
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| Long-lasting & smudge-proof |
| Natural lash enhancement |
| Easy water removal |
Its long-lasting and smudge-proof formula means you can confidently go about your day without worry.
We love the natural lash enhancement it provides, making your eyes pop subtly but effectively.
Plus, when it’s time to wash it off, water removal is a breeze, no harsh scrubbing needed.
However, keep in mind the small tube size might require more frequent repurchases, and some users may find it a bit hard to remove.
Overall, if you’re seeking effortless, natural definition, this water-based mascara is a solid pick.
Be sure to also check out the best mascara over 60 for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!
