The 15 Best Volumizing Mascaras of 2023, Tested & Reviewed

When it comes to mascara, there’s nearly an infinite number of formulas out there. Some add extra length; others create curl without the use of a curler; and some separate your lashes for a Twiggy, spidery effect. But when we want something truly dramatic? Trust that we’re reaching for a volumizing formula that will thicken and plump our lashes like no other.

Volumizing mascaras are the key to creating a falsies effect without ever having to reach for the lash glue, in addition to several other eye-enhancing effects. “Volumizing formulas are great for everyone,” says makeup artist Tony Tulve. “It’s the quickest way to bring instant attention to the eyes without a lot of effort.”

He goes on to explain that not only are they perfect for the days you want to skip out on the eyeliner, but they can also be a good base for false lashes for when you’re looking to go all out. “A good volumizing formula will also enhance a natural smokiness to the eye; the fuller lashes add a natural shadowing and definition to the eye,” he adds. The best part of all? Many volumizing mascaras have built-in lengthening and curling benefits too.

So, to sift through the good and the bad, we did the hard work for you by conducting hours of research in our Manhattan-based Lab. This intensive real-life testing allowed us to assess each mascara’s benefits, the shades it comes in, whether or not it’s waterproof, and how much it lifts and plumps your lashes for a full effect. We also took into consideration how much they clump—if at all. Finally, we had a look at the type of wand—looking at its design and shape, to see how well each mascara lifts and curls the lashes. You’ll also find expert recommendations from a celebrity makeup artist, who helped narrow down our list of top-rated fan favorites.

Best Overall

Covergirl LashBlast Volume Waterproof Mascara

Target

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“This is an old standby for me,” Vanderwoude says, “I use it on almost every bridal client of mine, and not a single one has complained about irritation. The formula is so creamy, and it doesn’t dry out or flake at all.” As for volume, she stands by CoverGirl’s 10x more volume claim.

We couldn’t agree more with Vanderwoude and after testing this mascara first-hand in our Lab, we gave it our ‘Best Overall’ award for its price, value, and efficacy. It has a nifty screw-cap wand that grabs each individual lash, adding volume and length with ease. We also didn’t experience any smudging or flaking even after applying a second coat. Let’s just say it’s become our favorite beauty treat to pick up in the drugstore.

Though waterproof mascara usually doesn’t smudge or flake, it does make it harder to remove. For easier removal, use an oil-based cleanser, like one of these best eye makeup removers from our lab test.

• Benefits: Lengthens, Thickens, Volumizes
• Size: 0.44 ounces
•  Shades: 4
•  Waterproof: Yes
•  Cruelty-Free: Yes

tamara staples

Best Lengthening

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

Sephora

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Thanks to its all-star formula (hi thickening collagen and curling polymers), this mascara has been a longtime staple in the internet’s lash hall of fame. It lengthens, curls, and plumps in a single swipe. It has also earned the pro’s stamp of approval. Indiana-based professional makeup artist, Krissy VanderWoude calls it “falsies in a tube.” “This mascara delivers a voluptuous, full, wispy look to the lash,” she says, “The brush was specifically designed in an hourglass shape, and it hugs each lash for excellent buildability.”

We also loved this during testing and found it to be pretty faultless, earning it our ‘Runner Up award. We especially liked that while the mascara can be built up for a high-drama look, one coat also creates a very natural yet defined result. The formula is not waterproof, but it sticks to lashes without smudging (and without scrubbing come cleanse time).

• Benefits: Lengthens, adds volume, curls
• Size: 0.27 fl ounces
•  Shades: 1
•  Waterproof: No
•  Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Defining

YSL Beauty Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils

Nordstrom

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This buildable mascara from Yves Saint Laurent gets top honors for its ability to trick others into thinking you’re wearing false lashes—it’s that dramatic. Not only does the intense black formula thicken and lengthen the lashes for insane fanned-out definition, but it’s also infused with Moroccan argan oil and provitamin B5 to nurture and condition your lash hairs. During testing, we particularly liked how this mascara coated each lash so easily and created a bold false-lash look. It also doesn’t budge, smudge, or flake, so you can relax knowing you’ll be raccoon eyes-free all day and night. The downside to this is that we did find it took quite a lot of removing, so make sure you have a good micellar water to hand and some large cotton pads.

• Benefits: Volumizes, strengthens, lengthens, conditions
•  Size: 0.2 ounces
•  Shades:1
• Waterproof: No
•  Cruelty-Free: No

Best Budget

Essence Cosmetics Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara

Ulta

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Social media is full of beauty product suggestions, and deciding which items live up to their TikTok reputation can be difficult. This beloved formula is no stranger to your feeds, and we understand why. Beloved by beauty gurus and the buuk.top staff, this mascara lifts and lengthens lashes for a fraction of the price of prestige competitors. We put it to the test in our Manhattan-based lab (and took it home for further testing) and found that it stayed put and didn’t smudge at all. There was no flakiness, it felt secure on our lashes and didn’t leave behind any annoying residue. The sculpting wand is also super lightweight and easy to handle while it separates the lashes and adds definition effortlessly. Plus, it promises to last from your morning cycling class through after-work drinks without smudging.

• Benefits: Lengthens, adds volume, applies evenly 
•  Size: 0.4 ounces
•  Shades:1
•  Waterproof: No
•  Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Drugstore

LOréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara

Amazon

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When it comes to this drugstore classic from L’Oréal Paris, you can’t go wrong. The 200+ bristle brush captures every single lash to create a full, feathery look with intense volume, while the soft-glide formula ensures the lashes remain soft, not crunchy. We noticed an immediate difference in volume when applying this on bare lashes.

Take it from Tulve, who counts this one as his ultimate mascara. “Not only do I know I can pick up a tube anywhere in an emergency, but no variation of the formula has ever given me a problem,” he says. “I carry a Carbon Black, Black Brown, and a waterproof of this formula in my kit at all times. Plus, they recently introduced four jewel-tone colors that are a perfect pop of color for anyone’s makeup wardrobe.”

• Benefits: Volumizes, lengthens, conditions
• Size:0.28 ounces
• Shades: 4
• Waterproof: No
• Cruelty-Free: No

 

Best Splurge

Pat McGrath Labs FetishEyes Mascara

Pat McGrath Labs

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Sure, this mascara might be a little splurgy, trust us when we say it’s worth it. Consider it the ultimate day-to-night mascara: “It’s a luxe, buildable formula that allows for natural thickness for the day, and will effortlessly build up for a dramatic volume for a quick makeup change,” says Tulve. As the name suggests, in addition to defining and thickening the lashes, it provides a pretty impressive lengthening effect, too.

We also tested it in our Manhattan lab and think this is a great option for those days and nights when you want to create a bold makeup look. As it has quite a thick consistency, we recommend starting lightly and building up to create the effect you want. Overall, we loved the boldness and length it added to our lashes.

• Benefits: Volumizes, lengthens, conditions, defines
• Size: 0.27 ounces
• Shades: 1
• Waterproof: No
• Cruelty-Free: No

Best Waterproof

Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara

Sephora

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We all know and love Monsieur Big and its ability to create bold, supersized lashes that mimic the look of falsies, but hear us out—its waterproof twin might be even better. Still creamy and buildable, this waterproof, sweat-proof, and smudge-proof formula will provide you with head-turning lashes for up to 24 hours. Rain and humidity don’t stand a chance! This might not be the best option for when you’re in a rush considering it takes some time to dry, but this is definitely not a deal breaker for us.

• Benefits: Volumizes, lengthens
• Size: 0.33 ounces
• Shades: 1
• Waterproof: Yes
• Cruelty-Free: No

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Best for Fuller Lashes

Charlotte Tilbury Full Fat Lashes Mascara

Nordstrom

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Not only does this buildable mascara lengthen, curl, and boost volume, but its five-grooved brush deposits the formula right along the lash line to lift the lashes up from root to tip. We loved the mascara’s glossy finish that elongated and curled our lashes in a really noticeable way. It definitely creates a fuller look rather than defining each individual lash, so you may want to bear that in mind before buying. It gets extra points for being super easy to remove!

• Benefits: Volumizes, defines
• Size: 0.27 ounces
• Shades: 1
• Waterproof: No
• Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for Drama

Uoma Beauty Drama Bomb Extreme Volume Nourishing Mascara

Ulta

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A lot of waterproof mascaras can be harsh or drying, which is why we love how nourishing this water-resistant and smudge-proof formula is. It’s infused with castor, avocado, and golden jojoba oils that moisturize your lashes while helping to promote future growth. But don’t be fooled! Even though it’s good for you, it still adds some serious drama. During testing, we loved the long, thin gorgeous lashes it created without even a hint of clumping or smudging. What’s more, it did all this with a vegan and cruelty-free formula containing synthetic beeswax and rice wax.

• Benefits:Volumizes, lengthens, lifts
• Size: 0.37 ounces
• Shades: 1
• Waterproof: No
• Cruelty-Free: Yes

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Best Brown

Maybelline Total Temptation Mascara

Amazon

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Often overlooked for its inkier, deeper counterparts, brown mascara is a great choice for anyone with light hair or those simply looking for a more natural-looking finish without sacrificing thickness. When it comes to brown shades, Tulve is a big fan of the Deep Cocoa shade from this Maybelline formula. “It’s hands down one of the best warm brown mascaras I’ve found recently,” he says. “This lightweight whipped formula builds up effortlessly to create easy, controllable volume.” The formula is enriched with coconut extract to keep those lashes of yours extra soft and hydrated.

• Benefits: Volumizes, lengthens
• Size: 0.27 fluid ounces
• Shades: 4
• Waterproof: No
• Cruelty-Free: No

Best False Lash Dupe

Milk Makeup Kush High Volume Mascara

Sephora

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We’re obsessed with this mascara for two reasons. First, it contains heart-shaped fibers (aw!) that latch onto the lashes, creating insane volume and fullness, and second, its formulated with a buzzy ingredient of the moment, cannabis! (Not that kind.) This hemp-derived cannabis seed oil not only conditions the lashes but helps to fuse the fibers to them. Plus, the formula contains pure pigments that leave a vibrant black finish for an extra wow factor.

During intensive testing in our Manhattan Lab, this mascara scored well on thickening the lashes, while adding volume, length, and curl. We also found that it created a dramatic false-lash look – without the glue and patience. It’s also designed with a weighted wand which makes application really easy. And while it did make our lashes look bolder and thicker, they also felt quite light. Win, win!

• Benefits: Volumizes, conditions
• Size: 0.34 ounces
• Shades: 1
• Waterproof: No
• Cruelty-Free: Yes

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Best Dual-Purpose

Kosas The Big Clean Volumizing + Lash Care Mascara

Credo Beauty

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An extreme volumizing mascara and treatment bundled into one, this clean formula from Kosas is an absolute must. Botanical waxes, intense pigments, and an oversized spiraled brush work together to create full, fluffy lashes that don’t lack in volume, length, or curl. Plus, it’s formulated with hair care actives such as castor oil, provitamin B5, and biotinyl tripeptide-1 that support your lashes’ natural growth and repair. When put to the test, it definitely delivered on big, fluffy lashes with plenty of length. As the formula is quite thick, it’s slightly messy to apply so we’d suggest using it at home and not on the train to work.

• Benefits: Volumizes, strengthens
• Size:0.32 ounces
• Shades: 1
• Waterproof: No
• Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for Definition

Tarte Maneater Mascara

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Yes, the formula is essential for an effective mascara, but the brush is equally important. This wand is custom molded with over 500 bristles to separate and define each and every lash. This volumizing formula also nourishes and keeps lashes healthy with hydrating jojoba oil and lengthening carnauba wax.

“Every time I wear this mascara I am complimented on my lashes,” Vanderwoude says, “Not only is it richly pigmented, but it also makes my lashes look fluffy and long. It’s buildable for those who love a little extra drama, yet it maintains a feathery look to the lash.” We added it to our roundup as it really delivered on its promise of an ‘instant eye lift’ adding length and fullness to every lash.

• Benefits: Lengthens, volumizes, curls
•  Size: 0.3 ounces
•  Shades:2
•  Waterproof: No
•  Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best For Sensitive Eyes

ILIA Beauty Limitless Lash Mascara

Dermstore

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For some, like those with contacts or sensitive eyes, mascara can irritate. This formula from Ilia has been tested by both ophthalmologists and contact wearers to ensure users can have a comfortable experience. Beyond that, this gentle formula is free from controversial nasties like phthalates, coal tar, mineral oil, and others. Instead, this buildable formula uses keratin to fortify and shea butter to condition.

But how did it fare during testing? We loved its strong pigment that coated each lash easily, adding length and boldness in one swipe. It also didn’t clump and came off easily with a cotton pad and micellar water. Performance-wise, we also enjoyed the dual-side applicator that comes with a shorter side to add curl and volume while the longer bristles help to lift, lengthen, and separate each lash.

• Benefits: Lengthens, volumizes, holds curl, separates
• Size: 0.27 ounces
• Shades: 1
• Waterproof: No
• Cruelty-Free: Yes

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Best for False Lash Dupe

IT Cosmetics Lash Blowout Volumizing Mascara

Sephora

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This mascara from IT Cosmetics gets extra points for its very cute design that looks like a mini round hairbrush. The contents inside are just as good and feel super nice right out of the tube. It’s not too wet or gloopy and goes on easily while adding tons of volume in just a few swipes. If you like that false-lash look without the actual falsies, this also offers that extra bit of drama that we love. Removal was surprisingly easy and just took a couple of swipes with some micellar water and a cotton pad.

• Benefits: Volumizes, curls, defines
•  Size: 0.21 ounces
•  Shades: 1
•  Waterproof: No
•  Cruelty-Free: Yes

Final Verdict

We’ll go ahead and say that you really can’t go wrong with any of the above, but our overall favorite is COVERGIRL Lash Blast Mascara.  Not only is it an affordable price but it also adds incredible volume and length, earning five out of five for its performance during testing. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara also came a close second due to the dramatic, multi-dimensional effect it creates. On the luxury end, Yves Saint Laurent’s Volume Effet Faux Cils Mascara is a firm favorite. A mascara so fancy you can get it engraved, it creates the ultimate false lash effect with no glue or steady hand required.

How We Tested

Our roundup of volumizing mascaras was selected after hours of research based on hundreds of online reviews, expert insight, and real-life testing in our Manhattan-based lab. This allowed us to see how each formula fared in real life on a wide range of women of different ethnicities and ages. We also made sure we tested a wide range of formulas – from those that you can pick up in the drugstore, to clean, vegan options and those that really bring the drama. We evaluated each for their ease of use, how they lasted throughout the day, as well as their overall performance and look on the lashes.

What to Look For in Volumizing Mascaras

Opt for Drier, Creamier Textures

When it comes to finding a good volumizing mascara, Tulve counts texture as one of the most important factors to keep in mind. “I prefer a drier, almost creamy or whipped texture to my mascaras, as they tend to bulk up easier,” he says. “These formulas are also ideal for doing quick washes of color, as the slightly drier texture grabs the lash nicely without weighing it down.”

Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara is an excellent choice if youre looking for a creamier, buildable formula.

Avoid Formulas That Are Too Wet

With the above in mind, it’s also best to avoid mascaras with wetter formulas. “Wetter mascaras tend to stick and weigh down the lashes,” says Tulve. These, he points out, won’t build up on the lash in the way you’d want if you’re seeking a thick, voluminous look.

If you want to avoid a clumpy look and prevent your lashes from sticking together, go with Pat McGrath Labs FetishEyes Mascara. Charlotte Tilbury Full Fat Lashes Mascara also does a great job of separating the lashes.

Buildability Is Key

Tulve also recommends opting for products that are easily buildable to create additional volume. Products that you can layer on without clumping or flaking will allow you to turn up the drama effortlessly. “I like to build in layers, so I’ll start with the brush horizontally in the root of the lash, give it a good wiggle, and pull the brush through,” he says. “I’ll flip the brush vertically to start to sculpt the lash and flip back and forth between how I’m holding the brush as I build up to the desired effect.”

Some of our favorite buildable formulas include YSL Volume Effet Faux Cils Mascara, Fenty Beauty Full Frontal Volume Lift & Curl Mascara, and MAC Stack Mascara.

FAQ

Which is the best volumizing mascara?

The best volumizing mascara, in our opinion, is the YSL Beauty Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils. It is richly pigmented, goes on smoothly, and comes off with ease. The formula is buildable, so you can wear it in the office or for a night out. As a bonus, it is infused with provitamin B5 and Moroccan oil for luscious lashes.

What is a good mascara for thin lashes?

For thin lashes, choose a mascara that adds volume and thickness. For the best results, look for a mascara that also nourishes your lashes, helping them grow thicker. Ingredients like fatty acids and vitamins will help.

How do you volumize your eyelashes?

Volumize your eyelashes with a volumizing mascara that also nourishes your lashes so they will grow thicker. You could also consider an eyelash primer that goes underneath your mascara to add thickness.

What is the difference between volume and length in mascara?

Volume is the appearance of lashes as thicker and denser. Length in mascara is how long your lashes look. Some mascaras are designed to provide length, some will thicken and volumize to a greater extent, and some will offer all of these benefits.

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