There was a time when waterproof mascara was only associated with summer and lounging around by a pool or the ocean with a cocktail in hand and not a care in the world – but times have changed; Now there’s a place for waterproof mascara in your daily makeup bag too. Withstanding everything from sweat to tears, modern formulas are so advanced that they feature everything you love about their regular mascara counterparts which can lengthen, volumise and curl as well as offering a multitude of benefits that make them suitable for everyday wear.
Not just for swimming or holidays, waterproof mascara can help with many mascara gripes like smudging, smearing and straight lashes or running mascara due to watery eyes, allergies and intense exercise; and I always keep one in my collection for that very reason. If ever there’s a chance I might get caught in the rain, there’s a heatwave or I’m going to an event that’s likely to set off tears, I opt for waterproof mascara. I know I can rely on it to keep my lashes looking as perfect as they did when I applied it.
From sweaty spin sessions, swimming, teary moments to seasonal changes, this selection of three waterproof mascaras will ensure your protection against all of them, and more…
Why do waterproof mascaras stay put?
Waterproof mascara formulations contain higher amounts of wax and polymers (to grip onto your lashes) than regular mascara and as a result, they must be dissolved using an oil-based makeup remover that can break down the bonds.
1. For Curled Lashes
Why it’s good for curl: DIOR Overcurl Waterproof has a shape-holding, volumising formula that also contains K-polymers (strengthening, coating and fixing agents) that help to reshape lashes and give them the ultimate curling effect. It will even encourage your lashes to be more curly naturally!
Wand: an incurved bristle brush (modelled on eyelash curlers!) that will help to curl the lashes as you apply by coating every lash from bottom to top.
How easy is it to remove?: It’s easy to remove with an oil-based makeup remover.
Special features in addition to being waterproof:
• Waterproof version of DIOR’s iconic curling mascara.
• A ‘stretch’ effect to lengthen lashes.
• Contains a unique lipid complex that strengthens lashes to prevent breakage.
I love that the DIOR Overcurl waterproof mascara has such a unique brush, it’s kind of curved and straight at the same time but makes creating the perfect curl effortless. It gives a natural lash effect but if you did want to amp up the volume it layers beautifully to allow for a little more drama!
If you’re after perfectly separated lashes that you can adjust according to the occasion but also put through its paces during your workout, this is the one for you!
2. For Volumised Lashes
Why it’s good for volume: it has a texturising complex that boasts a triple coating system to ensure your lashes look and feel thick and luxurious, all the volume of the original Hypnose formula in a waterproof format!
Wand: its unique S-shaped convex bristle brush helps to coat your lashes evenly from root to tip while evenly adding volume.
How easy is it to remove?: This was more tricky to remove out of the three I’ve tested but the effects of the mascara were worth the extra couple of minutes it took to remove.
Special features in addition to being waterproof:
• Dramatic volume that doesn’t fade throughout the day.
• 24-hour hold.
• Texturising complex formula with highly saturated waxes.
• Triple coating system enriched with Pro-Vitamin B5
• Deep carbon black pigment
If you adore volume without clumps but also need a waterproof formula – step this way because the waterproof version of the iconic Hypnose Drama mascara does all of this, and then some. A little goes a long way too, you don’t need a lot to obtain quick, easy and noticeable results without clumping. It also provides incredible lift.
Yes, it is a little on the trickier side to remove but in my opinion, the 24-hour volume without a smudge or streak in sight makes it worth it!
3. For Lengthened Lashes
Why it’s good for lengthening: it contains a unique lash-boosting serum that contains a vitamin B5 complex to visibly lengthen lashes with just one application.
Wand: long straight spiral brush that gently separates while adding length and definition.
How easy is it to remove?: It’s easy to take off with a waterproof eye makeup remover and minimal effort.
Special features in addition to being waterproof:
• Natural blue lotus wax to add volume and protect lashes.
• Advanced lash boosting complex and mineral pigments to support and strengthen lashes.
This Clarins waterproof mascara has a fairly thick consistency but don’t be put off by that. I can vouch that it applies smoothly and gives defined natural lashes with added length in just one swipe!
What I also love about this one is that Clarins Advanced Lash Boosting Complex is included in the formula so there’s no need for a separate conditioning primer with this one.
Are waterproof mascaras bad for your lashes?
For all the benefits of waterproof mascara, there are still some minor drawbacks. These long-lasting formulations won’t stream down your face, however for the very same reason they are a little more tricky to remove. They have a bad reputation for damaging lashes but it’s the removal of waterproof mascara that usually causes the damage and if you’re using an eye makeup remover specifically for waterproof mascara (and hold it on your lashes for around 30 seconds) and you’re gentle and a little patient, you can still have damage-free lashes and enjoy wearing waterproof mascara on the regular. Another good tip if you’re worried about the condition of your lashes, is to use a conditioning primer – like the Lancome Cils Booster Serum. It will also help to prevent lash damage during removal.
How to remove waterproof mascara
If you’re opting for waterproof mascara, a waterproof eye makeup remover is a must. They tend to have a more oily formulation and are more often or not bi-phase (a watery texture and an oily texture that you need to shake the bottle to mix prior to using). This helps them to break down the waxes and polymers in the mascara. Opt for a formulation that will also condition lashes like Vichy Purete Thermale Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover or cult favourite La Roche-Posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover. Soak onto a cotton pad and gently press it onto the lashes for a few seconds, allowing time for the formula to break down. Then, without tugging, gently swipe the cotton pad over the lashes to remove.
Discover More:
3 Best Mascara Primers For Getting The Most Out Of Your Mascara
