Even on “no makeup” days, a lot of us still swipe on a little mascara. That’s because it enhances the face in a number of ways, making the eyes appear bigger, brighter, and more awake.
So, whether we’re running errands, attending a workout class, hanging out by the pool, or watching a tearjerker that’s guaranteed to make us cry, the last we want is a makeup meltdown, which is why a waterproof formula is so important. And while you could spend a pretty penny on prestige brands, there are plenty of great drugstore dupes that work just as well.
Here, we’ve rounded up some of the best drugstore waterproof mascaras that won’t budge or flake, no matter.
The Best Drugstore Waterproof Mascaras
L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Waterproof Mascara ($11; ulta.com)
This waterproof mascara is formulated to separate lashes while coating them in a clump-free formula that makes them appear fuller and fluffier.
Wet ‘n Wild Mega Length Waterproof Mascara ($3; walmart.com)
Working with short, stubby lashes? This mascara features a comb with tightly-packed bristles that hugs every lash and a highly-pigmented formula to add extra length and definition.
Revlon So Fierce! Eyes Wide Open Waterproof Mascara ($11; cvs.com)
The curved “Push Up Brush” on this mascara helps grips every hair, even those tiny ones in the corners, to lift and curl lashes as you apply; plus, the lightweight formula lasts.
Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara ($12; ulta.com)
If you’re looking for a falsie effect, then this mascara is for you. The fan-shaped brush features 10 layers of bristles to separate, sweep, and coat lashes from root to tip.
Essence Lash Princess Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara ($5; ulta.com)
This mascara delivers dramatic results at a fraction of the cost of its prestige counterparts. The conic shape brush sculpts and darkens lashes without clumping.
CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Waterproof Mascara ($12; cvs.com)
CoverGirl LashBlash Volume Mascara has developed a cult following, thanks to its big bristles that grip and coat each lash, and it’s now available in a water-and-smudge-proof formula.
Neutrogena Healthy Volume Waterproof Mascara ($9; walmart.com)
For less than $10, this olive oil infused mascara will make your lashes look fuller and darker while also conditioning them for a softer, more natural appearance.
L’Oréal Paris Bambi Eye Waterproof Mascara ($12; ulta.com)
With a mix of long and short bristles, this mascara provide evenly-pigmented lashes. Plus, as implied by its name, it lifts and separates each lash from inner to outer corner for a doe-eyed look.
Almay Multi-Benefit Mascara ($10; ulta.com)
This mascara is ideal for people with sensitive eyes. Not only that but the volumizing formula is strengthened with keratin to keep your lashes soft and strong through wear.
No7 The Full 360 Waterproof Mascara ($11; target.com)
The half-moon-shaped brush helps lift and lengthen as you you sweep on the inky mascara. The results is fuller, longer-looking lashes that still appear natural.
Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof Mascara ($9; ulta.com)
When it comes to drugstore waterproof mascaras, this is the holy grail. The iconic formula has been a go-to for beauty lovers for over 50 years. It lengthens, defines, and darkens lashes just right.