15 Best Waterproof Mascara to Try This Summer

Finding an excellent waterproof mascara that gives a person the desired eyelashes requires many trials and errors. Sometimes, finding a choice that remains intact in the allergic season, rain, and tears is nearly impossible. Flaky, runny, and smudged mascara ruins the makeup look, and having a waterproof product in the bag is a must-have choice.

So, we searched the internet for relevant products for waterproof yet highly rated and most popular mascaras and tested the 33 best products in our lab for the best choice. The products were exposed to artificial tears, rain simulations, sweat, etc. These products were evaluated based on ease of use, removal, wear, and overall look. 

The choice was narrowed after exposure to tears and sweat, so only the winners stood out. We consulted the makeup artists for their opinions on our chosen products. Please stay on the page to check out our chosen smudge-free waterproof products. 

Product’s Specifications

Best overall: MAC In Extreme Dimension Lengthening Mascara Best budget product: Collection Lash Surge Mascara (waterproof)  Best product with enhanced staying power: Benefit Badgal Bang Waterproof Mascara Best lengthening & volumising mascara: Maybelline New York Lash Flake-Free Sensational Sky High Mascara Ophthalmologically tested product for watery eyes: Mavala Length & Volume Waterproof Mascara Long-lasting effects for length & volume: LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Always There Waterproof & Lengthening Mascara Best soft mascara: L’Oréal Paris Paradise Intense Volume Mascara Better impact & length: Revolution Beauty London Big Lash Waterproof Volume Mascara Bes product with Pro-Vitamin B5: MAX FACTOR False Lash Volumising Formula Effect Mascara Best vegan product: Poppy Austin Black Volume And Length Waterproof Vegan Mascara Best cruelty-free product: Technic Mega Lash Water Resistant Mascara Best product for lasting curl: L'Oreal Paris Bambi Eye False Lash Mascara  Extra long voluminous & thick lash mascara: 4D Silk Fiber Eyelash Mascara For curly & lengthy lash with vitamin E: RIMMEL LONDON Extra Super Lash Building Mascara Vegan product for mega & fuller eyelashes: e.l.f. Lash It Loud Waterproof Mascara

MAC In Extreme Dimension Lengthening Mascara

Cost & availability: £25.00 (buy MAC In Extreme Dimension Lengthening Mascara at Lookfantastic.com) 

Pros: 

• Adds length, curl and volume
• Lightweight formula
• Precise application using the brush tip
• Ophthalmologist-tested
• Suitable for contact lens users

Cons: 

• Sometimes needs multiple coats for the desired effect
• Higher price compared to many alternatives

Size: 0.42 Ounce

Shade: Various shades (MD black, dimensional black)

Vegan: No

User rating: 4.63/ 5

Why do we choose it?: MAC’s In Extreme Dimension Lash mascara offers impressive drama and volume with its lightweight, whipped formula. The large, moulded brush ensures an optimal product with each stroke, while the tip allows a precise application on tiny hairs and lower lashes. Its symmetrical bristles prevent smudging and clumping, resulting in beautiful lashes. Suitable for contact lens users and ophthalmologist-tested, this mascara enhances lash appearance and improves conditions for flexibility and softness. 

Its carbon black formula adds length, density, and curl, making it the preferable choice for people looking for dramatic lash effects.

Collection Lash Surge Mascara (waterproof)

Cost & availability: £5.99 (buy Collection Lash Surge Mascara at Boots)

Pros: 

• Elongates and lifts eyelashes effectively
• Long-lasting, highly pigmented formula
• Dual brush allows precise application
• Available in various shades, including waterproof

Cons: 

• Sometimes needs careful application to avoid excess product application
• Limited shade options available

Size: 8ml

Shade: Black, waterproof black, ultra black, Brown/Black 

Vegan: No

User rating: 4.4/ 5 

Why do we choose it?: The Collection's bestselling Lash Surge mascara is a famous social media product known for its ability to elongate and lift lashes with a highly pigmented formula. The dual brush wand coats even the shortest lashes, creating a wide-eyed look without clumps, flakes, or smudges. Available in four shades, including Waterproof Black and Ultra Black, it ensures a lifted and naturally dramatic lash appearance. 

The applicator's design prevents excess product, making the application process effortless and smooth. Use the Collection's Eyes Uncovered Eyeshadow Palette & Fast Stroke Eyeliner for best results.

Benefit Badgal Bang Waterproof Mascara

Cost & availability: £27.00 (buy Benefit Badgal Bang Waterproof Mascara at Boots)

Pros: 

• Long-lasting for 36-hour wear
• Smudge-proof & waterproof
• Lightweight formula with ultralight aero-particles
• Custom brush for precision and full coverage

Cons: 

• Needs require a specialised remover for waterproof makeup
• Higher price point than other mascaras

Size: 8.5g

Shade: Black

Vegan: No

User rating: 4.6/ 5

Why do we choose it?: Badgal BANG! 36-HOUR Waterproof Mascara offers significant volume with an ultralight, lightweight aero-particle formula that avoids weighing down the lashes. The pitch-black colour works effortlessly for a dramatic effect with the custom Slimpact! The brush reaches every lash from corner to corner and tip to root. 

It is suitable for all skin types and provides a waterproof, long-lasting finish that can withstand harsh conditions. Wand and Wiggle from the base of the eyelashes to the tips for best results, and repeat as necessary for maximum volume.

Maybelline New York Lash Flake-Free Sensational Sky High Mascara

Cost & availability: £9.99 (buy Maybelline New York Lash Flake-Free Sensational Sky High Mascara at Amazon UK)

Pros:

• Long-lasting and waterproof
• Nourishing formula with fibres and bamboo extract
• Suitable for contact lens wearers and sensitive eyes
• Lightweight formula
• Unique Flex Tower brush for full lash coverage

Cons: 

• Requires multiple coats for dramatic results
• Higher price point compared to many alternatives

Size: 10ml

Shade: Waterproof

Vegan: No

User rating: 4.3/ 5

Why do we choose it?: Maybelline's Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara delivers remarkable length and volume thanks to its innovative Flex Tower brush, which bends to reach every lash from corner to corner and tip to toe. With fibres and bamboo extract, the waterproof formula ensures that lashes remain complete, long and lightweight without being weighed down. This mascara is ideal for people wearing contact lenses and wearing contact lenses, as it is allergy-tested and ophthalmologist-tested. 

The richly pigmented colour delivers a curling, defining, and lash-multiplying effect that lasts all day. Use a primer and an eyelash curler before applying the mascara in a zigzag fashion for better results. It can be removed easily with a makeup remover, making it convenient for any beauty routine.

Mavala Length & Volume Waterproof Mascara

Cost & availability: £17.46 (buy Mavala Length & Volume Waterproof Mascara at Nailpolishdirect.co.uk)

Pros: 

• Long-lasting and waterproof  
• Hydrating and nourishing formula
• Suitable for people with sensitive eyes
• Protects breakage

Cons: 

• Requires complete removal to avoid residue

Size: 10ml

Shade: Waterproof black

Vegan: No

User rating: 5/ 5

Why do we choose it?: The Mavala Length & Volume Waterproof Mascara promises enhanced length and volume. Its anti-dryness formula nourishes the eyelashes and enriches them with antioxidant ingredients for hydration. It is suitable for sensitive eyes, while its smear-proof, water-resistant, and long-lasting formula ensures that lashes remain protected from breakage and flexible. 

Ophthalmologically tested, the mascara is suited to those seeking to improve their damaged eyelashes. For best results, apply just one coat for length and separation and a second for definition and volume. Its removal is relatively easy with a soaked cotton pad.

LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Always There Waterproof & Lengthening Mascara

Cost & availability: £20.00 (buy LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Mascara at Amazon UK)

Pros: 

• 100% waterproof and long-lasting 
• Flake-proof and smudge-proof
• Doesn't cause clumping
• Innovative brush for smooth application
• Suited to all skin types

Cons:

• Some users find its removal process challenging
• Often requires many layers for the desired volume

Size: 51g

Shade: Waterproof + lengthening mascara

Vegan: No

User rating: 4/ 5 

Why do we choose it?: Laura Geller Beauty's Always There Waterproof Mascara stands out with its long-lasting nature, ensuring the eyelashes stay defined and voluminous throughout the day. The mascara is designed to lift, build, and lengthen eyelashes in a single swipe, thanks to its blend of hard and soft waxes and innovative brush. This combination allows smooth application and prevents clumping. 

The mascara is also flake-proof and smudge-proof, eliminating the need for frequent touch-ups. Its rich black formula and ultra-creamy nature work well for all skin types and provide dramatic, intense lashes that won't quit.

L’Oréal Paris Paradise Intense Volume Mascara

Cost & availability: £9.79 (buy L’Oréal Paris Paradise Intense Volume Mascara at Amazon UK)

Pros: 

• Lengthening and volumizing effects
• Flake-free and waterproof
• Suitable for contact lens wearers and sensitive eyes
• Enriched with rose and castor oils
• Ultra-soft brush for easy and smooth application

Cons: 

• Some users find it slightly clumpy
• Removal is often challenging without a good makeup remover

Size: 6.4ml

Shade: Extra black

Vegan: No

User rating: 4.2/ 5

Why do we choose it?: L'Oreal Paris Lash Paradise Mascara in Extra Black delivers a volumising effect and provides an excellent go-to for longer-looking fluttery lashes. This waterproof mascara is ophthalmologist-tested and flake-free, making it best for those with sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. 

Enriched with many lash-loving ingredients, e.g., rose and castor oils, it provides intense, volumised, extra-black color lashes with an ultra-soft brush for smooth application. The formula is upgraded for sensitive eyes, ensuring comfortable daily wear.

Revolution Beauty London Big Lash Waterproof Volume Mascara

Cost & availability: £3.99 (buy Revolution Beauty London Big Lash Waterproof Volume Mascara at Amazon UK)

Pros: 

• Adds significant length and volume
• Fast-drying and waterproof formula
• Weightless
• PETA-certified and cruelty-free
• Affordable price tag

Cons: 

• Removal is a bit challenging
• Some users prefer a more natural-looking product

Size: 8g

Shade: Black

Vegan: No (cruelty-free)

User rating: 4.2/ 5

Why do we choose it?: Revolution Beauty London Big Lash Waterproof Volume Mascara is one of the best choices for those looking for bold & voluminous eyelashes. It features a wide-angled brush that adds body to each lash, while the short bristles hook onto the tiniest lashes for weightless drama. 

Its formula is fast-drying, waterproof, and jet black, providing a high-impact finish that lasts for the day. This cruelty-free product is PETA-certified, ensuring that no animal testing has occurred at the stage of development.

MAX FACTOR False Lash Volumising Formula Effect Mascara

Cost & availability: £6.69 (buy MAX FACTOR False Lash Volumising Formula Effect Mascara at Amazon UK)

Pros: 

• Provides dramatic length and volume
• Long-lasting, smudge-proof and flake-free formula
• Enriched with pro-vitamin B5 for adequate lash nourishment
• Suitable for contact lens users
• Cruelty-free product

Cons: 

• It is slightly tricky to remove
• Some users find the brush too large

Size: 13ml

Shade: Black

Vegan: No

User rating: 4.2/ 5

Why do we choose it?: Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara offers a dramatic length and volume, giving the look of false eyelashes without the hassle. The unique brush containing 50% more bristles ensures that every lash is coated fully, while the patented Liquid Lash formula, containing pro-vitamin B5, delivers long-lasting volume. This mascara is smudge-proof and flake-free, offering a glamorous finish lasting all day. 

It is cruelty-free, suitable for contact lens wearers, and respects the skin and environment. With a moderate rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from thousands of customers, it is a reliable choice for achieving a bold, false-lash effect.

Poppy Austin Black Volume And Length Waterproof Vegan Mascara

Cost & availability: £9.99 (buyPoppy Austin Black Volume And Length Mascara at Amazon Uk)

Pros: 

• Contains plant-powered natural ingredients
• Easy application with a soft mascara brush
• Packaged in ethically sourced, sustainable bamboo
• Cruelty-free, Vegan, and hypoallergenic

Cons: 

• Needs a consistent use for visible results
• Some users noticed that the bamboo packaging is less durable

Size: 9g

Shade: Black

Vegan: Yes

User rating: 4.3/ 5

Why do we choose it?: Poppy Austin's Natural Lash Serum is an excellent choice for people looking for thick, long, and full lashes. This all-in-one eyelash and eyebrow growth serum contains natural ingredients like castor oil, biotin, caffeine, vitamin E, argan oil, and aloe vera. It delivers a nutritional boost to hair follicles and promotes faster growth. The easy-to-apply serum has a soft mascara brush head and a sustainable bamboo tube. 

Poppy Austin's commitment to cruelty-free, vegan, and hypoallergenic products makes it an excellent choice for sensitive skin users. With a customer rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from thousands of customers, this serum is an ethical and reliable option for achieving fuller brows and lashes.

Technic Mega Lash Water Resistant Mascara

Cost & availability: £4.10 (buy Technic Mega Lash Water Resistant Mascara at Amazon UK)

Pros: 

• Smudge-proof and Clump-free formula
• Provides impressive length and volume
• Water-resistant and best for long-lasting wear
• Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free
• High-quality and affordable

Cons: 

• Results vary with different lash types

Size: 12ml

Shade: Black

Vegan: Vegan & cruelty-free

User rating: 4.3/ 5

Why do we choose it?: Technic Lash Building Mascara delivers a smudge-proof, clump-free formula with impressive length and volume in just one application. The mega wand delivers dramatic lashes with maximum effect. This water-resistant mascara ensures that the lashes stay stunning, regardless of the weather. Technic Cosmetics, a PETA-approved brand, delivers vegan-friendly and cruelty-free products. 

With an affordable price tag and high quality, this mascara is best for everyday confidence. With a customer rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on thousands of reviews, Technic Lash Building Mascara is an excellent choice for dramatic lashes. 

L'Oreal Paris Bambi Eye False Lash Mascara

Cost & availability: £9.99 (buy L'Oreal Paris Bambi Eye False Lash Mascara at Amazon UK)

Pros: 

• Sweat-proof and waterproof
• Long-lasting
• Suitable for contact lens wearers and  those with sensitive eyes
• Free from alcohol, silicones, parabens, sulphates, lead, petrolatum, wax, Teflon, mercury, and ammonia

Cons: 

• Slightly higher price compared to other alternatives
• Often needs a strong makeup remover due to its waterproof formula

Size: 6.7ml

Shade: Black

Vegan: No (allergen-free)

User rating: 4.1/ 5

Why do we choose it?: The L'Oreal Paris Bambi Eye False Lash Mascara Waterproof is an excellent product for people looking for a dramatic, lasting lash look. Its sweat-proof and waterproof formula ensures the curl stays up all day, making it best for extended wear. Its curved bristle brush reaches every lash and offers a wide-eyed appearance. 

Additionally, it's free from harsh chemicals, e.g., parabens, silicones, and sulphates, making it a superb choice for contact lens wearers and sensitive eyes. It is a popular choice with a 4.1-star rating from hundreds of users.

4D Silk Fiber Eyelash Mascara

Cost & availability: £4.99 (buy 4D Silk Fiber Eyelash Mascara at Amazon UK)

Pros: 

• Curling and volumising
• Waterproof and smudge-free
• Suitable for sensitive skin and Oil-free
• Lightweight feel

Cons: 

• Needs a specific remover for cleaning
• Higher price tag compared to many alternatives

Size: —

Shade: Black

Vegan: No

User rating: 4.2/ 5 (black)

Why do we choose it?: The Jane Choi Smudge Proof Waterproof Mascara is the best choice for curling and volumising lashes. Its Volume Maximising Brush thickens each lash, making them soft without smudges, flakes, or clumps. The mascara is oil-free and easily removed with warm water or lotion. It resists sweat and cold water, making it the best choice for various conditions. 

It is suitable for sensitive skin and enhances thick lashes effortlessly, delivering a lightweight feel. With a 4.2-star rating from thousands of reviews, it stands out for its ease of use and performance. 

RIMMEL LONDON Extra Super Lash Building Mascara

Cost & availability: £3.80 (buy RIMMEL LONDON Extra Super Lash Building Mascara at Amazon UK)

Pros: 

• Dramatic lash definition
• Nourishing formula with vitamin E
• Clump-free and long-lasting
• Cruelty-free and ophthalmologically tested

Cons: 

• Larger tube size is not travel-friendly
• Requires careful application

Size: 8ml 

Shade: Black

Vegan: No animals testing

User rating: 4.4/ 5

Why do we choose it?: Rimmel's Extra Super Lash Mascara delivers dramatic lash with a nourishing vitamin E-enriched formula. This gel-based mascara lengthens, defines, and curls lashes while ensuring a clump-free and smooth application. Its long-lasting finish keeps lashes curled and volumised all day. Cruelty-free and Ophthalmologically tested, it's suitable for all skin types. 

With a 4.4-star rating based on thousands of reviews, it's highly praised for its ease of use and performance.

e.l.f. Lash It Loud Waterproof Mascara

Cost & availability: £5.94 (buy e.l.f. Lash It Loud Waterproof Mascara at Amazon UK)

Pros: 

• Intense pigmentation
• Waterproof and long-lasting
• Vegan
• Flexible wand
• Affordable
• Toxin-free

Cons: 

• Requires a strong makeup remover as it is waterproof
• Some users note that the formula is a bit thicker and clumpy

Size: 9.2g

Shade: Black waterproof

Vegan: Yes

User rating: 4/ 5

Why do we choose it?: The e.l.f. Waterproof Mascara offers a bold lash definition and impressive volume with its intensely rich pigments. Its flexible silicone wand features horizontal and vertical bristles, ensuring that every lash is evenly coated for a more defined and fuller look. This long-lasting formula is ideal for people seeking a dramatic effect lasting the whole day without flaking or smudging. 

It is also cruelty-free, vegan, and free from harmful toxins, making it the best choice for all skin types. With a 4.0-star rating based on thousands of reviews, it is a popular choice for people wanting waterproof, reliable performance. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the ideal mascara for hot weather? 

Tubing mascara is the best for hot summer days. Its formula doesn't have the problems of other waterproof mascara, so it is the best sweat-proof mascara in the summer. 

Is waterproof mascara a better choice for summer? 

Waterproof mascaras contain significant amounts of silicones and waxes, which make them a better choice for resisting water. However, including these ingredients makes these mascaras harsher and heavier, making the eyelashes look dry. 

Are waterproof mascaras suitable for all-day use? 

Yes, it is okay to use them all day. Waterproof means that it doesn't become wet and doesn't come off with tears and sweat. Yet, some experts recommend using it only for a few days due to the risk of irritation and dryness.

Is it a bad idea to use mascara for two consecutive days? 

Leaving mascara on the eyelashes for a considerable length causes them to break and become brittle, leading to natural stiffness and increasing the risk of scratching. So, it is necessary to be cautious when using these products for a long time.

Describe some disadvantages of the waterproof mascara. 

Waterproof mascaras cause damage to the eyelashes and are unsuitable for regular use. They require considerable effort to remove, leading to lash loss and breakages over time. They are also heavier and sometimes cause the eyelashes to become clumpier. 

Does sleeping with mascaras cause pink eyes? 

Sleeping with mascaras sometimes causes bloodshot and itchy eyes that suggest an allergic reaction. If a person is not careful, it can sometimes cause total eye infections. Many women experience pink eyes after sleeping with mascaras. 

Bottom-line 

The right choice makes the difference when choosing the waterproof and best mascara for summer. Whether braving the heat, lounging by the pool, or hitting the beach, these 15 waterproof mascaras are the best as they stay intact and have more length, power, and volume.

These products ensure eyelashes look smudge-free and stunning all day in the summer. Say goodbye to smudgy, raccoon eyes and hello to resilient, beautiful eyelashes no matter where you go on summer adventures. However, always consult Welzo health professionals whenever the eye condition worsens.