Affordable mascaras often outperform their high-end counterparts, offering impressive results without breaking the bank. The latest selections from drugstore brands like L’Oréal Paris, CoverGirl, and Maybelline New York prove that stunning, long, and defined lashes can be achieved for under $15.
Beauty editors and makeup professionals have curated a list of the best drugstore mascaras, emphasizing their ability to deliver buildable volume, natural separation, and noteworthy length while maintaining a comfortable wear throughout the day.
Top Drugstore Mascaras to Enhance Your Look
**Best Overall:** L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original Waterproof Mascara – $15
This mascara stands out for its ultra-defined length. Its precision brush, equipped with tiny elastomer bristles, effectively combs through lashes, lifting and extending them without clumping. The formula provides a long-lasting, smudge-proof finish that resists humidity and sweat, making it suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
**Best for Lifting:** Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara – $14
Ideal for straight or flat lashes, this mascara features a flexible “Flex Tower” brush that stretches lashes upward. Its buildable formula offers volume and length while remaining soft and separated. Enriched with bamboo extract and collagen, it nourishes lashes while ensuring a smooth curl that lasts all day.
**Best for Defining:** CoverGirl Clump Crusher Extension Mascara – $13
True to its name, this mascara eliminates clumps, thanks to its curved brush and fine bristles. It defines and separates lashes while building volume without flaking or smudging. Formulated with conditioning ingredients, it keeps lashes soft and feathery throughout the day.
**Best for Tinting:** Almay Thickening & Tint Mascara – $10
This product provides both immediate volume and gradual deepening of natural lash color with regular use. Its dual-action formula includes a lash-care complex that conditions lashes while delivering a lifted, defined finish. The precision wand ensures even pigment distribution for clump-free results.
Additional Notable Mascaras
**Best for Length:** Milani Highly Rated Lash Extensions Tubing Mascara – $14
This mascara mimics the effects of professional lash extensions with a tubing formula that wraps each lash in flexible polymers. The slim wand captures even the smallest lashes, creating a fluttery effect. It offers 16-hour wear without flaking and is easy to remove with warm water.
**Best for Volume:** L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara – $13
Known for building instant volume, this mascara features a wavy brush with over 200 bristles that coat each lash. Its silky formula resists smudging and flaking, maintaining lash softness even after multiple applications.
**Best Waterproof:** Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara – $5
This budget-friendly option provides defined lashes that withstand sweat and tears. Its conical fiber brush ensures a soft finish, while the formula conditions lashes as it lengthens. Removal is simple with an oil-based cleanser.
These seven mascaras highlight the advancements in drugstore beauty products, demonstrating that effective and high-quality options are accessible to all. With these budget-friendly staples, achieving a stunning lash look at home is easier than ever.
