If there is one make-up product that the Closer Style Team cannot live without, it has got to be mascara. Whether we are using it as the finishing touch to a smoky eye look, or we’re just quickly applying some to look more awake, nothing beats a good mascara.
Now don’t get us wrong, there are some occasions when only false eyelashes will do, but who has the time to deal with applying falsies on a daily basis? Not us that’s for sure.
And sure, when we’re going on holiday we may look into getting eyelash extensions, but when we’re talking about our everyday look, only our favourite mascara will do.
Whether you’re after a little extra volume in the lash department or if you’re lusting over a longer flutter, there is a mascara that will do the job. And this is exactly why we love this trusty make-up bag essential.
However, with so many mascaras on offer right now, it can be hard to figure out which mascara is the best for you. Luckily, Closer’s Style Team have tested countless mascaras to find the best ones out right now - so you can swipe away knowing you’re going to get your best lashes ever.
SHOP: The very best mascaras 2024
Cigdem Tanrioglu, Senior Style Writer
Lookfantastic
"For me, a good mascara is one that provides both length and volume - because bigger is better, right? L'Oreal's latest launch has made me forget about my old faithful mascaras thanks to its multi-level bristle brush which coats and fans out every single lash, leaving me with a flirty flutter that almost looks fake (trust me - people have actually asked if they are)."
Pros
- Available in 2 shades
- Affordable
- Creates length and volume
- Doesn't smudge
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Can be slightly difficult to remove
Aimee Jakes, Shopping Editor and Eden-Olivia Lord, Deputy digital editor
Aimee says: "This mascara is such an all-rounder and is easily the best I've tried. I have short lashes (despite my unwavering commitment to lash serums!) and this really helps them look as full and fluttery as possible. It's easy to apply, doesn't go everywhere and doesn't flake. Try it and thank me later."
Eden-Olivia says: "This has fast become one of my favourite mascaras. Not only does it make my eyelashes look longer but it does so without clumping them. Plus it’s got vitamin B5 in the formula so it nourishes and conditions my lashes – it’s a win/win."
Pros
- Creates curl
- Infused with vitamin B5
- Slim wand to create length
Cons
- Only available in black
- Not waterproof
Emma White, Senior Style Writer
Boots
"As a fan of lengthened yet natural-looking lashes, this mascara from Milk offers the best of both. The curved wand creates subtle definition and separation while lifting lashes for a gorge featherlight flutter. Plus it’s waterproof too!"
Pros
- Waterproof
- Lash-conditioning formula
Cons
- Only available in black
Jade Moscrop, Commercial Content Editor
ICONIC London
"As an oily-skinned gal, I need a product that will last all day and not transfer to my under-eyes – this is the only mascara I’ve tried that won’t budge, excluding waterproof mascaras, of course. It lengthens and defines lashes, doesn’t clump and is the deepest shade of black. I love the brush, the packaging, everything about it. My number one."
Pros
- Highly pigmented
- Vegan forumla
- Slim wand for length
Cons
- Doesn't provide curl
Scott Wells, Senior Style Writer
Glow For It
"Looking for a more natural lash for day-to-day? Then this brown-tone mascara is one to have on your radar. It does exactly what you want a good one to do from giving the appearance of fuller lashes, but it also promotes natural growth with vitamins and nutrients – winning."
Pros
- Available in 2 shades
- Promotes growth
- Lash-conditioning formula
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Not volumising
Jazz Harris, Contributing Style Editor
Sephora
"I'm a big fan of a tubing mascara as it coats your lashes to give unbelievable length with minimal flaking. This one from Hourglass is my absolute favourite giving a lengthening effect in the perfect glossy black shade."
Pros
- No need for make-up remover
- Provides length and volume
- Smudge-proof
Cons
- High price point
- Only available in black
Emma Hawkins, Style Writer and Phoebe Denman, Style Writer
Lookfantastic
Emma says: "As I go to the gym often, when it comes to mascara, I need something that won’t smudge through my workout. This one by MAC does just that and gives me volume and length with no clumps. Love!"
Phoebe says: "This waterproof mascara creates a voluminous, lengthened flutter with just one swipe, and each additional coat packs on a mega dose of volume. And it's a good densely black pigment too, so gives lots of definition."
Pros
- Sweat-proof
- Provides length and volume
Cons
- Only available in black
- Works best when used with a primer
Georgia Scott, Beauty and Fashion Product Writer
Sephora
“I received this mascara for Christmas a couple of years ago and I have been hooked ever since. This mascara adds volume, separates and lengthens my lashes without looking clumpy. I’m not normally a fan of a plastic wand but this mascara is hands down my favourite of all time. Although this mascara is on the pricier side, for me it’s worth it. The formula doesn’t transfer onto your skin and looks like you’re wearing falsies!”
Pros
- Fluffy brush for volume
- Lightweight formula
Cons
- High price point
- Only available in black
Carys Wigley, SEO Content Strategist
Boots
"I've tried most high-end mascaras but this high street wonder strengthens and lengthens my itty bitty lashes like no other. The burgundy shade really makes my green eyes pop too."
Pros
- Available in 8 shades
- Suits all eye colours
- Provides great length
Cons
- Colour isn't as vibrant as you may expect
Ella Shire, Junior Style Writer
Lookfantastic
"I was recently introduced to this mascara and it has changed my life. My friends have made comments that they've never seen my lashes this long. Just read the label!"
Pros
- Formulated with acacia Senegal tree extract to lift lashes
- Add curl
- Available in 2 shades
Cons
- May not add as much length as desired
- High price point
Emily Ward, Affiliate Partnerships Executive
CAIA Cosmetics
"There is a reason why this mascara won the 2023 Best Beauty Award by Allure- and, I was lucky enough to put it to the test. Whether you're after a more refined sleek look or the all-in statement look, Twist Me Up has four different options built into the one brush. It lengthens the lashes without making them clumpy. I absolutely love it!"
Pros
- Four in one brush
- Provides length and volume
Cons
- Only available in black
Which mascara is best for volume?
If you’re blessed with long lashes, but fancy adding a little extra va-va-voom with your day-to-day look then you may want to try a volumising mascara like the Rimmel London Scandaleyes Reloaded Volumising Mascara, which is loved by Maya Jama.
Typically, a volumising mascara will have a thick, fluffy brush which will easily coat your lashes without clumping, which is perfect for creating extra drama in the lash department. So if in doubt, check if the mascara has a big, fluffy wand before buying.
Which mascara makes your eyelashes the longest?
If you’re feeling down about having short eyelashes, then you may want to invest in a lash-lengthening mascara like L'Oréal Paris Telescopic Lift Mascara, which is favoured by the liked of Rochelle Humes.
Usually, a lengthening mascara will feature a slim wand with dispersed bristles, so you can really coat and separate each and every eyelash, instantly making them look longer. If you’re battling with straight lashes, as well as short lashes then opt for a curved wand rather than a straight one, as this will add curl whilst lengthening for that perfect flirty flutter.
And if mascara really isn’t working for you, then try incorporating a lash growth serum to promote growth.
Are more expensive mascaras better?
When it comes to shopping for make-up, we often find ourselves wondering if spending more is better? Well, you’ll be glad to hear that expensive doesn’t always equal better. It simply depends on what you want from your mascara and what works best with your lashes.
It isn’t just us who believe that budget mascaras work just as well as boujee designer brands – our fave celebs agree too. Millie Court swears by a bargain mascara, which is also loved by Lucy Meckleburgh.
And let’s not forget about some of the most incredible dupesthat are out right now. What could be better than getting the same quality mascara as your designer fave without having to splurge?