The best waterproof mascaras that won't smudge or budge

Lashes, like every other body part, come in all shapes and sizes. Needless to say, there’s a wide range of mascaras that are available to accentuate your lashes, whether they’re pin-straight, sparse or stubby. Yet, no matter what your lash type and desired lash effect is, no one wants to run the risk of raccoon eyes as a result of smudged mascara.

Here, we put to test some of the most widely raved about waterproof mascaras — you'd want to add them to your cart ASAP.

Lancome Grandiose Waterproof Mascara, $50

The first thing that you’ll probably notice about this mascara is the odd-shaped wand, which is known as the famous swan-neck wand by the brand to ensure that every lash is comfortably coated with the pigment.

Formulated to stay put on your lashes for 24 hours, this waterproof mascara volumises and lifts your lashes without it flaking or smudging throughout the day. It’s also infused with rose-cell extract to keep your lashes healthy and supple without them feeling clumpy or dry.

Available at Sephora.

By Terry Mascara Terrybly Waterproof, $65

If you’re not a fan of that heavy mascara-coated feeling on your lashes, give this lightweight mascara a go. Formulated with natural beeswax to lengthen and volumise lashes while ensuring they remain soft and fluttery, this is a great pick if you’re looking for a dramatic mascara that lasts even on hot days by the pool.

Available at Sephora.

Shiseido Imperial Lash Mascara Ink Waterproof, $50

We love the sparse bristles on this newly launched mascara – not only does that ensure coating of all the lashes, but the bristles also separate the lashes so they don’t look clumped up together.

The high-coverage and waterproof formula makes it a must-have for anyone who want long and luscious lashes that last all day without the need to reapply. Tip: double up and pop on a few more coats to achieve a super dramatic eye look.

Available at Sephora.

L’Oréal Paris False Lash Butterfly Waterproof Mascara, $26.90

As its name suggests, this features a unique patented wand that is shaped like a butterfly wing. Designed to reach every single lash and stretch them outwards and upwards, it offers lashes a fanned out look that also helps give the illusion of lifted lids.

Plus, the creamy formula coats lashes to build volume without flaking or clumping. One coat is enough to see visible results, and three coats will give a false lash effect. Just wait about 30 seconds between application to allow for the formula to set before layering on more. This lasts through tears, perspiration and humidity, perfect for a night out dancing.

Heroine Make Super Waterproof Volume & Curl Mascara in Black 01, $21.90

This coveted Japanese mascara has a jet black pigment which clings onto lashes and will never run down your face. With a curled wand designed for Asian eyes, the mascara brush reaches each individual lashes so the lightweight formula spreads evenly and smoothly over lashes, lengthening and volumising them for a baby doll effect.

The waterproof formula is one of the most stubborn ones, so make sure you remove this with a bi-phase eye makeup remover. To avoid pulling and tugging, saturate a cotton pad and hold on lashes for 10-15 seconds to let the mascara dissolve.

Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara, $37

The waterproof version of the cult Better Than Sex mascara comes in a cute metallic tube adorned with fake water droplets just because. It holds the same hourglass shaped brush, which deposits the pigmented formula evenly, thickening individual lashes and holding them in place.

Thanks to water-resistant polymers, it repels moisture and stays on all day. The mascara is also enriched with collagen to treat and condition weak lashes at the same time.

Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes 4-in-1 Waterproof Mascara, $35

Encapsulated in a metallic, python-embossed tube, it is a sign of the drama that’s in store for your lashes. The mascara brush is smaller than most volumising mascaras but yet it does the job of fattening skimpy lashes. Plus points goes to the way the bristles are positioned as they help minimise clumps.

The formula also contains olive esthers and minerals to condition lashes, while the patented Skinvigorating Beeswax acts as a waterproofing agent to get your through any sweat and tears. 

Chanel Inimitable Waterproof Mascara, $67

Luxurious packaging aside, the thin bristle brush of this mascara is soft and flexible, which makes application a breeze. Thanks to its tapered shape, it is perfect for Asian eyes as it reaches tiny lashes at the inner and outer corners of the eyes easily.

The mascara bristles deposit just the right amount of formula, instantly volumises, curls, separates and defines lashes. Formulated to resist water, humidity and sebum, all you have to do is apply this in a zig zag motion from root to tip, and you’ll forget you even have it on for the rest of the day.