Whether you crave bold volume, fluttery length, or fairytale-worthy doe eyes, the right mascara is a makeup artist’s secret weapon for perfecting any look. “I’ve seen how the right mascara can transform lashes—especially for clients taking a break from extensions,” says Dionne Phillips, founder of D’Lashes Lash and Wellness Spa in Beverly Hills, who has worked with Naomi Campbell and Victoria Beckham.

### Vogue’s Top Mascaras
Best Classic: Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Mascara, $40
Best Lengthening: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push-Up Lashes, $29
Best Clean Formula: Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara, $29
Best Drugstore: Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara, $13
Best for Sensitive Eyes: Makeup by Mario Master Mascara Volumizing & Lift, $28
Best Dramatic Lashes: Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara, $29
Best Volumizing: Yves Saint Laurent Radical Volumizing Mascara, $32
Best Curling: Dior Iconic Overcurl Mascara, $33
Best Vegan: Westman Atelier Eye Want You Mascara, $45

Phillips notes that the best mascaras have fine bristles that grip “every single lash” to lift, separate, and define. “The brush shape—whether hourglass, tapered, or curved—should suit your eye shape and lash type for that polished, fanned-out effect,” she says. Ideal formulas are buildable, flake-free, and smudge-proof, with bonus points for nourishing ingredients like biotin or peptides.

For sensitive or mature eyes, she recommends avoiding harsh chemicals and fragrances, opting for mascaras that remove easily with warm water. “Tubing mascaras are perfect—gentle brushes are key, no spiky bristles!”

Phillips believes every makeup bag should have at least three mascaras:
– A soft brown or black for daytime or mature eyes
– A volumizing black for glam occasions
– A waterproof or tubing formula for long wear, tears, or humidity

Below, find the best mascaras recommended by makeup artists and Vogue editors. Happy fluttering!

### Best for Sensitive Eyes: Makeup by Mario Master Mascara Volumizing & Lift
Price: $28 at Sephora

Why We Love It: This mascara lifts, lengthens, and volumizes while nourishing lashes with ProVitamin B5 and castor oil. Its vegan wax blend (from sunflower, olive, and rice) adds soft volume, while a high-performance polymer ensures fluttery lift. The tapered wand coats every lash, even hard-to-reach lower lashes. Free of parabens and phthalates, it’s ideal for sensitive eyes.

Pro Tip: “It gives great lift without clumping—the brush catches every tiny lash,” says celebrity makeup artist Renée Loiz.

Benefits: Volumizing, lifting, lengthening, flake-resistant, sweat-proof, humidity-proof
Key Ingredients: ProVitamin B5, castor oil, polymer, vegan wax blend
Best For: Sensitive eyes needing volume, lift, and length
Waterproof: NoBest Drugstore: Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara
Photos: Courtesy of Ingu Chen & Sena Murahashi

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara
$13 at AMAZON

Why we love it: Maybelline’s viral mascara has kept its cult following since taking over TikTok in 2020—and for good reason. Its slim, flexible brush coats lashes from root to tip for dramatic length and volume, earning praise even from professionals.

“I absolutely adore this mascara,” says celebrity makeup artist Kelsey Deenihan Fisher, who works with Reese Witherspoon and Emma Roberts. “It gives my lashes insane volume without smudging or flaking, and it lasts all day.”

Ophthalmologist-tested and safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, the lightweight formula adds length without weighing lashes down. Plus, it’s an affordable drugstore find you won’t regret stocking up on.

“I’ve always loved Maybelline mascaras, and this one is the best,” says celebrity makeup and brow artist Stevi Christine. She raves about the wand: “The bristles coat every lash perfectly.”

Benefits: Lengthens, volumizes
Key Ingredients: Bamboo extract and fibers
Who It’s For: Anyone with sensitive eyes who wants lightweight length, volume, and a range of shades.
Waterproof: No
Shades: 7 (Very Black, Blackest Black, Blue Mist, Burgundy Haze, Cosmic Black, Space Diamond [silver], True Brown)

Best Vegan Formula: Westman Atelier Eye Want You Mascara

Westman Atelier Eye Want You Mascara
$45 at NORDSTROM | $45 at WESTMAN ATELIER

Why we love it: This plant-based mascara has plenty to love. Its creamy formula glides on smoothly without clumping, while the hourglass-shaped brush catches every lash.

Buildable for a natural daytime look or bold drama, it’s packed with plant-based fibers for density and carnauba and candelilla waxes for glossy volume. Available in black and chocolate brown, it’s a favorite for sensitive eyes.

“I stopped wearing mascara because it always looked too heavy—until I tried this brown shade,” says senior shopping market editor Madeline Fass. “Now I use it for nights out for a subtle but enhanced look.”

Benefits: Buildable volume, lengthening, flake-resistant
Key Ingredients: Carnauba and candelilla wax blend, plant-derived ester, organic shea butter
Who It’s For: Those with sensitive eyes who want customizable volume and length.
Waterproof: No
Shades: 2 (Clean Black/Pitch Black, Le Brun Clean/Chocolate Terracotta)

Editor’s Tip: Senior shopping editor Talia Abbas swears by this mascara. “The brush lifts and separates naturally without clumping or flaking. I rub my eyes constantly, but this stays put!”

Best Staple: Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Mascara
Photos: Courtesy of Ingu Chen & Sena Murahashi

Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Mascara
$40 at CHANEL

Why We Love It: “This intensely black mascara does it all!” says celebrity makeup artist Andrea Tiller. “Just two coats give a dreamy false-lash effect.”

Perfect for those who want bold length and fullness, the formula thickens lashes in one stroke and comes in rich black, brown, or blue.Here’s the rewritten text in clear, natural English:

Enriched with natural waxes for volume, fast-drying acacia gum for curl, and film-forming agents for softness, this mascara is a top pick from Vogue for subtle fullness. Celebrity makeup artist Timothy MacKay swears by it, telling Vogue it’s his go-to for clients who want extra volume without an overly dramatic, false-lash effect.

Benefits: Thickening, volumizing, rich color
Key Ingredients: Natural waxes, acacia gum, film-forming agents
Best For: Anyone wanting a mascara that adds volume, length, and bold pigment.
Waterproof: No
Shades: 3 – Noir (black), Ecorces (brown), Blue Night (blue)

Best Classic: Dior Iconic Overcurl Mascara

Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara
$33 at Nordstrom

Why we love it: If big, bold lashes are your goal, this mascara delivers. Celebrity makeup artist James Molloy raves about its instant volume and silky texture, thanks to its full-bristle brush that lifts lashes effortlessly. Infused with cornflower water to soften lashes and soothe sensitive eyes, it’s also a favorite for mature clients. “This is my top mascara for mature eyes,” says makeup artist Aaron Paul, who works with stars like Jennifer Tilly. “The curling formula lifts lashes, opens up the eyes, and adds both volume and length—plus, it doesn’t smudge.”

Benefits: Volumizing, conditioning, curling
Key Ingredients: Cornflower water, jojoba esters, cotton extract
Best For: Those with sensitive or mature eyes who want volume and curl.
Waterproof: No
Shades: 3 – Noir (black), Marron (brown), Bleu (blue)

Best Curved Wand: Lancôme Lash Idôle Lash-Lifting & Volumizing Mascara

Lancôme Lash Idôle Lash-Lifting & Volumizing Mascara
$30 at Nordstrom | $30 at Amazon

Why we love it: A favorite among Vogue editors, this lightweight gel mascara lifts and curls lashes while conditioning them for a soft, feathery finish. Even those with short lashes will see a noticeable difference after one coat. “I love how it lifts lashes from the roots and gives definition and volume in just one swipe,” says celebrity makeup artist Ermahn Ospina, whose clients include Walton Goggins and Amal Clooney. “It dries fast and leaves lashes silky.” Makeup artist Valeria Ferreira, who works with Nicola Peltz Beckham, agrees: “It’s a great all-around mascara—length, lift, and definition in one.”

Benefits: Lifting, volumizing, waterproof
Key Ingredients: White tea extract
Best For: Anyone with short or thin lashes looking for volume and lift.
Waterproof: No
Shades: 1 – Glossy Black

Best Clean Mascara: Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara

Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara
$29 at Nordstrom | $29 at Ilia

Why we love it: What makes Ilia’s mascara stand out? It’s 99% naturally derived, aligning with the brand’s focus on clean, skin-friendly ingredients. “This mascara is like green juice for your lashes—clean, nourishing, and surprisingly powerful,” says Phillips. The dual-sided brush catches every lash, even tiny inner-corner lashes, while the lightweight formula avoids flaking or buildup. “It leaves lashes lifted and healthy-looking, like a natural extension of your own,” she adds. Packed with shea butter and beeswax, it moisturizes while performing. “Perfect for sensitive eyes or anyone who wants lashes that look and feel great.”

Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!Here’s the rewritten text in clear, natural English:

Clients who want a break from extensions but still crave drama will love this mascara’s long-wearing, smudge-proof formula that easily washes off with just water.

Benefits: Lengthening, clean formula
Key Ingredients: Arginine, shea butter, beeswax
Who It’s For: Those with sensitive eyes who want extra length.
Waterproof: No
Shades: 2 – After Midnight (soft black), Before Dawn (rich brown)

Editor’s Tip: “I usually struggle with my lower lashes, but this brush’s spiky design makes application foolproof—no smudges, just perfectly defined lashes. My eyes instantly look more awake!” – Jenny Berg, Vogue contributor

### Best Lash Tint: Surratt Noir Lash Tint

Why we love it: A cult favorite among beauty insiders, Surratt’s Noir Lash Tint delivers subtle definition without clumping. Lauren Santo Domingo, Moda Operandi’s co-founder, swears by it for everyday wear: “It defines the eyes naturally—never overdone.”

Vogue editors are fans too. “I’d never heard of it until LSD (a known tastemaker) raved about it,” says one writer. “As someone with short lashes, I love how lightweight it feels—no heaviness, just perfect definition.”

The bristle-free wand coats every lash evenly, and editor Lilah Ramzi adds: “I can layer it endlessly without clumps. It gives a featherlight, jet-black finish and holds a curl like nothing else.”

Benefits: Length, volume, precise definition
Key Ingredients: Isododecane, disteardimonium, iron oxides
Who It’s For: Those with short or stubborn lashes wanting subtle lift.
Waterproof: No
Shades: 1 – Black

### Best Dramatic Lash: Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

Why we love it: “This mascara brings all the drama!” says makeup artist Mata Marielle. Ideal for bold volume, it’s Vogue’s top pick for lifted, fanned-out lashes.

“The hourglass brush gives a doe-eyed effect—think Sharon Tate-level glam. Bat your lashes too much, and you might create a breeze!” jokes beauty writer Conçetta Ciarlo.

Enriched with curl-boosting polymers, volumizing acacia extract, and hydrating peptides, it’s a go-to for full, fluttery lashes.

Benefits: Lifting, curling
Key Ingredients: Film-forming polymers, acacia senegal extract, peptides
Who It’s For: Those who want bold volume and curl.
Waterproof: No
Shades: 1 – Black

Editor’s Tip: “I use two coats for a whimsical, fairy-tale effect—like a glamorous forest creature.” – Jenny Berg

### Best for Everyday: Victoria Beckham Vast Lash

Why we love it: A sleek, no-fuss mascara for polished, everyday wear.

Price: $34

Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!OLEHENRIKSEN Grey $34 at Bergdorf Goodman

Why we love it: If you want to pamper your lashes, this mascara is a must-try. Packed with vitamins and smudge-proof, it nourishes while adding dramatic length and volume. Microalgae strengthens lashes for a fuller look in just two weeks, while panthenol hydrates, tocopherol conditions, and niacinamide boosts keratin for healthier growth.

Phillips raves: “This one’s special—Victoria herself is a longtime client. Her Vast Lash Mascara is pure luxury, from the sleek tube to the expertly curved brush that lifts, separates, and coats every lash perfectly. The tubing formula wraps each lash for clump-free length, curl, and staying power. I tried it and thought, ‘Victoria, you nailed it!’”

Benefits: Lengthening, curling, smudge-resistant
Key ingredients: Tahitian sea microalgae, panthenol, niacinamide, tocopherol
Who it’s for: Anyone wanting nourishing mascara with bold volume and length.
Waterproof: No
Shades: 1 (Black)

Editor’s tip: Murden says, “This is the only mascara that’s ever gotten me compliments on my lashes—and that’s saying something!” Abbas adds, “The waterproof version lets you ugly-cry through One Day without a trace.”

Best Falsies-Look: Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening & Volumizing Mascara $29 at Nordstrom

Why we love it: Prepare for “Are those falsies?” questions—this mascara delivers insane volume and length. Ferreira calls it “an all-time favorite for pigment and drama,” and Phillips agrees: “It’s a classic for a reason. The spiky brush coats every lash, even the tiny ones, while the domed tip fans out corners for a wide-eyed effect. The formula is glossy, long-wearing, and perfect for events or lash extension breaks.”

Benefits: Bold pigment, volumizing, lengthening
Key ingredients: Paraffin, polybutene, beeswax
Who it’s for: Those who want a false-lash effect without the hassle.
Waterproof: No
Shades: Black

Best Lengthening: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push-Up Lashes Mascara $29 at Nordstrom

Why we love it: Lizzo’s makeup artist Alexx Mayo swears by this mascara: “The brush grabs every lash and stretches them effortlessly for clean, sky-high length.” The formula lifts lashes vertically for 24 hours, and the “Dream Pop” shade (a berry-brown) mirrors the brand’s iconic Pillow Talk hue.

Benefits: Lengthening, volumizing
Key ingredients: Microcrystalline wax, stearyl alcohol
Who it’s for: Anyone craving defined, elongated lashes.
Waterproof: No
Shades: Multiple (including Dream Pop)Yves Saint Laurent Radical Volumizing Mascara
$32 at Nordstrom

Why we love it: This mascara is designed to give lashes a soft, fluffy look. Enriched with argan oil, walnut leaf, and vitamin B5, it thickens, volumizes, and lengthens lashes. The fiber brush lifts lashes without clumping. “It’s high-quality and delivers dramatic volume in just a few strokes,” says Ferreira. Deenihan Fisher adds, “It’s my secret weapon for insane volume—every swipe builds bold, lush lashes.” Perfect for a soft, fluttery look or a standout date night.

Benefits: Volumizing
Key Ingredients: Walnut leaf, argan oil, vitamin B5
Who It’s For: Anyone wanting dramatic volume without clumps.
Waterproof: No
Shades: 1 (Black)

NARS Climax Mascara
$26 at Nordstrom

Why we love it: This lightweight, creamy formula builds volume without clumping. Housed in a striking red tube, it’s a pro favorite. “It layers beautifully for bold, intense lashes with no fallout,” says Deenihan Fisher. Camille Ariane raves, “The volume is unreal—it gives an instant false lash effect.”

Benefits: Volumizing, curling
Key Ingredients: Acacia gum, paraffin, synthetic beeswax
Who It’s For: Those who want buildable, clump-free coverage.
Waterproof: No
Shades: 1 (Black)

Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara
$33 at Nordstrom

Why we love it: Euphoria makeup artist Donni Davy recommends this mascara for its lengthening and separating abilities. The fiber-coated formula fans out lashes, and the spiked wand ensures precision. “It’s easy to remove—no raccoon eyes,” she notes.

Benefits: Lengthens, separates
Key Ingredients: Glycerin, shea butter, castor oil
Who It’s For: Anyone seeking defined, fanned-out lashes.
Waterproof: No
Shades: 1 (Black)

### Choosing the Right Mascara
Consider wand shape—fluffy, skinny, curved, or tapered—based on preference. Celebrity makeup artist Kirin Bhatty says, “Wand shape is personal! I love a big, fluffy brush for volume.”Here’s the rewritten text in clear, natural English:

Brush Shape: For maximum volume, opt for a thick brush, while a curved wand enhances curls. Celebrity makeup artist Meg Boes favors big brushes: “I love a chunky wand—it helps apply more product and coats every lash. You can always comb through with a disposable wand afterward to perfect the look.” In contrast, pro makeup artist Carolina Dali prefers a long, tapered wand: “It’s fuller at the base and narrows toward the tip, letting me define each lash. The slim end is great for lower lashes.”

Shade: Boes recommends black for a bold look and brown for softer glam. Bhatty usually chooses black for a “luscious, sultry” effect (her favorite is Armani Beauty Eyes to Kill). Dali suggests black for most people but notes dark brown flatters blondes and redheads.

Benefits: Mascaras offer lengthening, volumizing, or both. Bhatty loves a volumizing, curling formula for full lashes but advises mixing products: “Use a curling mascara first, then lengthening for extra impact.” Some, like Benefit’s They’re Real!, do both at once.

Waterproof: Bhatty prefers smudge-proof formulas, favoring waterproof mascaras or tubing options like Victoria Beckham’s Vast Lash. Celebrity makeup artist Kasha Lassien notes: “Many tubing mascaras don’t label themselves—look for ingredients like propanediol or dimethicone.”

Removing Mascara:
Dali’s two-step method:
1. Soak a cotton pad with oil-based remover (like Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil) to dissolve mascara gently.
2. Follow with your regular cleanser.

Bhatty double-cleanses with Eadem’s balm and Joanna Vargas Vitamin C wash, then applies lash serum (Vegamour) and eye cream (La Prairie).

Applying Mascara:
Celebrity artist Daniel Martin (who works with Ali Wong and Michelle Yeoh) advises:
– Wipe excess product off a new wand for cleaner application.
– If the tube doesn’t “pop” when opened, the mascara is too dry.
– Wiggle the brush from the lash base to tips to coat evenly.

Preventing Flaking/Smudging:
Martin suggests: “Comb lashes before applying mascara to remove dust and separate them.”

Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!Applying mascara can sometimes leave shadows or fallout on the lashes, which may cause clumping or smudging. To avoid this, brush through your lashes one more time after applying—just make sure to do it quickly before the mascara dries.

If you want long-lasting wear, try adding a final coat of waterproof mascara. This helps lock everything in place, prevents smudging or transfer, and still removes easily since you’re not layering multiple coats of waterproof formula. Another tip: lightly dust translucent powder around the eye area to keep smudging at bay.

### Meet the Experts
Camille Ariane – Celebrity makeup artist for clients like Nomzamo Mbatha and Ingrid Best.
Stevi Christine – Celebrity brow and makeup artist, founder of Naturally by Stevi Christine.
Kelsey Deenihan Fisher – Celebrity makeup artist for clients like Reese Witherspoon and Ellen Pompeo.
Valeria Ferreira – Celebrity makeup artist for clients like Camila Morrone and Nicola Peltz Beckham.
Renée Loiz – Celebrity makeup artist for clients like Sophia Roe and Uzo Aduba.
Ermahn Ospina – Celebrity makeup artist for clients like Walton Goggins and Amal Clooney.
Dionne Phillips – Celebrity lash extension expert, makeup artist, licensed esthetician, and founder of D’Lashes Lash & Wellness Spa Beverly Hills.