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Warm weather is right around the corner, and these are the formulas that won't make you look like a raccoon.

Look, the reality is if you've got sweaty or oily skin, live in a humid environment, or identify as a sensitive soul who cries... a lot, you need to be a lil' pickier with your mascara. Grabbing a random formula off the shelf is a big no-no, because there's a very real chance you'll end up looking a little something like, well: 

Finding a possible holy grail takes a certain amount of deep-diving to ensure reviewers can vouch that it'll truly last you *all day*, and that's where we come in! Below you'll find a roundup of the waterproof mascaras that reign supreme in their categories, like a swim-proof Japanese formula, a wispy beauty that won't irritate sensitive eyes, and one that gives such magical length and *oomph*, one reviewer couldn't escape the false-lash allegations — and, spoiler, it costs $5. So, grab your favorite cleansing balm (you're going to need it) and prepare to discover a formula that's so long-lasting, you'll soon forget the dark, dark days of ever looking like a certain (cute, albeit a bit rabid) five-fingered friend. 🦝 

After researching and filtering through the reviews of so many mascaras, Lancôme's Lash Idôl is the one I'd choose to begin my waterproof journey with. The curved brush is a fave among reviewers, as it follows the natural curve of your eye and grabs every last lash to lift and lengthen without much effort on your part. The lightweight gel formula also creates a gorgeous, fanned-out look that can be left natural or built up beautifully! And of course, once it's on, it's not going anywhere until you want it to — reviewers say it's survived humidity, intense crying, and swimming!  

Promising reviews: "This is my #1 mascara! I just love the formula and love the shape of the brush. The price is high, 100%, but it's so worth it. I never get clumps. The formula isn't too dry or runny. It adds length/volume, but looks natural. Even when I run out of product, I wash and keep the wands to use with other mascaras that I like (but none of them come close to being as amazing as this one)." —Baphy

"Had something traumatic happen to me out in public, and was uncontrollably sobbing. When I got home and looked in the mirror, mascara still looked great!" —SD

Get it from Amazon for $21 or from Ulta for $30. 

Essence's Lash Princess False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara, which lives up to its name so well, you'll soon forget the dark days of paying for falsies... and of paying more than $5 for a reliable formula. This has all the same defining volume and lengthening magic as the cult-fave OG, but has the added bonus of being long-lasting and resistant to sweat, tears, and oil. You're going to feel like you won at life when you start getting compliment after compliment for less than the price of your morning coffee. 🤫 

Promising review (for photo on the right): "Will definitely buy again! This product lived up to the hype! This mascara had coworkers and clients asking me where I got 'my lashes done' 😆😆😆 Some still didn't believe that it was just mascara on my natural lashes... which was quite the compliment!! 😆😆😆 It lasts all day, and I love that its waterproof! It doesn't irritate my eyes when compared to a certain top makeup brand... and it has great staying power. Pro Tip: use a cleansing oil to remove it at end of day. Makes my lashes look super long. The price point is also a huge plus for such an amazing product!!!" —Beauty and Di Budget

Get it from Amazon for $4.97 (also available as a three-pack). 

Buxom's Lash Waterproof Volumizing Mascara is an all-around *great* option if you're dipping your toes into the world of luxe formulas but don't want to, yk, pay luxe prices. 😵‍💫 It has a wonderfully efficient hourglass brush that'll coat your lashes in one go, and if you decide to go back in for a little extra *oomph*, you won't have to pay the price with clumping! The long bristles keep everything defined, curled, and oh-so-glam. 

Promising review: "This is the best waterproof mascara OF ALL TIME. It stands up to skiing, swimming, snowmobiling, running. It looks incredible, doesn't clump - it is the best of the best. It's all I've worn for many years and if they ever stop making it, I will probably give up on wearing mascara altogether." —Kassi M. 

Get it from Macy's or from Buxom for $26. 

Le Volume De Chanel Waterproof Mascara, because if you're going to splurge on a product, it better give you the prettiest, fanned-out lashes and check every single box. This luxury icon has a unique "snowflake" brush, which combines long and short bristles to create buildable volume, (✅) a highly pigmented formula to cover your lashes on the first coat, (✅) and offers vitamins B5 and E for a boost of hydration. (✅) It might just be the most beloved splurge-worthy formula, and is so popular it's sold out on their website right now. (So if you get lucky and see it's available, make sure to snag it before it's gone again!)

Promising reviews: "Absolutely the best mascara on the market. I've tried countless brands, both upscale and drug store and Chanel is the best without question. It makes my skinny little lashes long and thick with no flaking or smudging. I love it!" —Rhonda Kaplan

"The best mascara ever. I had been trying other cheaper brands but I keep coming back to this. My eyelashes looks full and long without the clumping. It’s waterproof, and it doesn’t smudge so it still looks good even after 12-hour shift. Highly recommended." —Luchel

Get it from Macy's (available in black and brown) or from Nordstrom (available in black) for $40. 

Maybelline's Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara, aka the beauty icon itself that's racked up over 130,000 5-star ratings on Amazon alone. This is partly for the patented Flex Tower brush, which is designed to volumize and extend every lash from root to tip for length that'll have you going "😲🤯🤩." The lightweight formula means the lashes will stay UP, and it's even infused with bamboo extract to help keep 'em soft. And for under 10 bucks?? You won't regret adding this one to your routine. 

Promising review: "I love this mascara so much!! Makes my lashes look so much longer and so much nicer. My lashes naturally are very light towards the ends so they appear very short, however this helps with that problem so much!! My lashes look long and gorgeous with this. Although with the waterproof version, it is tricky to remove. A good makeup remover is needed and usually takes me a minute or so per eye to get it all off. Though, not really an issue imo." —Siena

Get it from Amazon for $9.79 (also available in washable formulas). 

Please take a moment to *look* at that brush... so bristly, so curved — and that's exactly why Dior's Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara reigns supreme for helping folks achieve that curled-lash effect! Not only does the arch act like a curling wand to catch and lift your lashes (yes, even the straightest, most stubborn ones), but the formula is designed to keep that fanned-out shape for up to 24 hours! No midday drooping here. 🙅‍♀️

Promising review: "Obsessed with this. I bought this mascara a couple of weeks ago and OMG it’s just what I was looking for. I have tried many brands and any of them was as good as this one. I struggle with my lashes staying curled and this does the the job. Love it" —Pp93

Get it from Dior, from Ulta, or from Macy's for $35. 

CoverGirl's Clump Crusher mascara, which saw you running a separating comb through your cluster of goopy lashes and said, "Never. Again." It has a curved, rubber brush with fine-tooth bristles that'll help separate and define each lash so well, you can probably ditch that extra step altogether! And don't even get me started on the mind-boggling volume that somehow... still looks natural?? Okay, Covergirl! ("Work it, girl — give a twirl"). 💃 

Promising review (for photo on the right): "I was skeptical of this mascara's claim to be clump-free. Any mascara I’ve ever used would get clumped up after applying more than two or three strokes. This one did not. It gave me the volume I’ve always wanted without looking like I have mascara on. I like a more natural look since I don’t wear makeup. I’m definitely going to be using more of this in the future. When I like something, I stick with it. I’m loving this mascara." —Teresa

Get it from Amazon for $8.42 (available in black brown and very black, as well as washable formulas).

E.l.f.'s Big Mood Waterproof Mascara, because of *course* this cult-fave brand came through with a formula you wouldn't have to think twice about. It comes with a big ol' fluffy brush you move up your eyelashes in a zigzag motion for lift, length, and separation that'll last you all day — zero flaking, zero smudges! One reviewer says the results are better than Too Faced and Milk mascaras, which are both almost triple the price. 🫢

Promising review: "I found my forever mascara! I must say it is the best that I have used! I have used several different kinds. But the formula for this mascara is outstanding! It is not dry, hard or clumpy, it really is waterproof and it doesn't smudge even after hours of wearing it. I forgot to take it of last night and I went to bed with it on. Even with a sleeping mask on, it had minimal smudge! I was impressed! The wand is great! It really separates and costs the lashes and makes them look huge! This mascara will not curl your lashes that much and when applying be careful because the wand is big and it's easy to get a little on you lid. But still worth buying 100%! Your lashes will look amazing and the price is wild! I don't see myself buying any other mascara after using this." —Jennifer Acevedo

Get it from Amazon for $8.24 (also available in washable formulas). 

YSL's Lash Clash Mascara was made for anyone who lives for the drama. The big, fluffy brush works overtime to coat your lashes with a rich black formula you can layer and layer and layer without worrying it'll become a clumpy mess. You'll be left with thicker, fuller lashes, which the brand claims can be up to 400% more voluminous! Whether or not that's exactly true... those reviewer images don't lie.  👀

Promising reviews: "This mascara EEEEATSSSSS. I have straight, thin lashes, so I always have to curl them and use waterproof mascara — otherwise, it looks like I have no lashes at all (iykyk). This mascara is by far the best I’ve ever tried. It makes my lashes super black, adds thickness without clumping, and holds a curl all day long.  The brush is bigger than I typically prefer, which does speed up the application process, but it also picks up a lot of product, so I have to scrape off the excess on the bottle’s edge.  Despite that, the results are totally worth it. My lashes look full, lifted, and defined, and the curl actually lasts. 10/10 would repurchase." —HalliBeauty

"LOVE!! 💗 Purchased for a Caribbean cruise and it did not disappoint!  Amazing volume, dark black color, builds easily with layers and no clumping, and best of all SURVIVED swimming and snorkeling. Perfect. 🤩" —rlhoneydew

Get it from Sephora or from Macy's for $34. 

L'Oreal Paris Telescopic Waterproof Mascara, which has a long, thin (patented!) rubber wand you may as well have gotten from Ollivander's, because it'll grab every itty bitty lash you're working with and cast a lengthening spell on them. 🪄 It has a flat portion specifically designed to make the most out of even the stubbiest lashes, and a comb portion that'll help you keep everything separated and clump-free! You'll be convinced some sort of transfiguration must have occurred to make them look so long and lifted, but nope — that's all you! 

Promising review (for photo on the right): "I have crappy, short little eyelashes. It runs in my family, we're not blessed with lovely, long, full lashes. The thing I think that makes this work so well is the wand construction. It applies easily and is also buildable without getting too much of that "spider lash" or chunky lashes look. I ordered waterproof, and it is DEFINITELY that lol. It's hard to get off without remover. But I need that because my skin is so oily, non waterproof mascara runs and smudges on me after a few hours of wear. I give this five stars, it's a good mascara for the price. I've bought more expensive mascaras that don't holdup to this one." —@steph_does_

Get it from Amazon for $11.97 (also available in washable formulas). 

Attention all contact-wearers, dry eye-havers, and allergy sufferers: your hunt for a mascara that won't irritate your poor peepers ends today! If you're unfamiliar with Clinique High Impact Mascara's game, it's allergy tested, ophthalmologist tested (aka eye doctor approved), and 100% fragrance free — so you can have the full eyelash-batting effect without the annoying itch and burn. Reviewers love its lightweight, wispy look, too (and the fact that it comes in brown)! 

Btw — It's also free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, SLS, mineral oil, gluten, and alcohol. 

Promising reviews: "I have really sensitive dry eyes. This is the only mascara that doesn't cause issues such as watering eyes and itching. I have to use drops for dry eye that causes most mascara to run… but this waterproof mascara stays on." —Wendy

"If you wear contacts and have a hard time finding mascara, try this. Never, never smudges. Please never stop making this. This is the only mascara I can wear!!!!" —Love2shop

Get it from Amazon (available in black and brown) or from Ulta (available in black) for $27.

When you're not feeling the ✨ drama ✨ of an inky black shade, Beauty Pie's "The Perfect" Waterproof Mascara in glossy brown is the one you'll want in your makeup bag. The warm chestnut applies with a high-definition brush to help separate, creating the perfect "your lashes but better" look that can be built up, clump-free. The reason it's a champ in this category, though, is for the sheer amount of *nourishment* it has going on! The combo of shea butter, arginine, acacia seed extract, and vitamin B5 can help keep your lashes from drying out, making it gentler for everyday use and better for creating that fluttery (not stiff) look when you layer it on! 

Promising reviews: "Simply the best mascara ever!! No flaking, no smudging. Lashes are beautifully long and full of volume. The shade is perfect. Gorgeous dark brown that’s softer than black. Another great thing is that it’s fairly easy to remove at night. Please never discontinue the brown shade!" —Benita

"I have been looking for a brown water proof mascara for many years. I’ve tried every brand from high end to grocery brands. This mascara is what it says. It is waterproof, doesn’t clump, stays looking good even after using eye drops or swimming." —Kris

Get it from Beauty Pie for $25 (also available in black). 

L’Oreal Paris' Voluminous Waterproof Mascara is an ol' reliable that's earned and kept its spot in reviewers' makeup bag for years. The thick brush makes coating all your lashes quick and easy, and the buildable formula defines and adds volume so well, even the shortest, thinnest lashes have a shot at achieving that big, bold look. Plus, you'll be so grateful it's your go-to when you forget it during your next vacay and can just pop into the nearest CVS!

Promising review "My fave of all time — waterproof black noir never disappoints. It's buildable, doesn't dry hard, and easily removed with baby oil. My lashes are sparse and blonde and short so I have nothing going for them whatsoever lol. I put a layer on then let it dry and reapply until I'm happy, always allowing the layers to dry in between. I've always gotten so many compliments before false lashes were a thing or at least not common and still do." —Krystle Reeter

Get it from Amazon for $8.39 (available in carbon black and black brown, and in a two-pack). 

I don't mean to play favorites, but the Clio Kill Lash Superproof Mascara is my personal tried-and-true. I go pretty in-depth in my review below, but TL;DR: this'll totally transform your eyes into any look you'd like! They have different wand styles and colors available (including Earl grey!) and whichever you choose, you're guaranteed lift, definition, and a look that'll last.

As an oily skin gal who could never find a formula that didn't end up underneath my eyes a few hours in, this mascara bewitched me, body and soul (and I'm not even being dramatic). My thin lashes point downward and don't like to hold a curl, so I'm not sure what magical concoction is in this tube, but with a single coat I've got long, wispy lashes that I can practically hear going *fwoosh fwoosh fwoosh*! The Long Curling has been my go-to for a while and has survived sweaty, humid summers, super long days, and every cry sesh. I don't wear too much makeup, and imo it adds the perfect "medium amount" of volume, length, and definition — but if you prefer, they also have a Volume Curling (which is thicker for a bolder look) and a Fine formula (so pretty for no-makeup days and bottom lashes!). It does dry *super* quickly on my lashes, so I have to move fast while applying, and at the end of the day, I gently rub my eyes with my trusty Anua oil cleanser and have had zero problems with removal (and my lashes are super delicate). I never got complimented on my eyes until I started wearing this, so there's nooo way I'll stop any time soon! 

Promising review (for the Long Curling formula): "This is one of the very best mascaras I have ever tried, and as a 67-year-old with a lifetime addiction to trying new makeup, I've tried hundreds of mascaras over the years. The formula stays in place, doesn't smudge, and keeps my lashes curled all day. It gives me great length and the brush seems to find even the tiny lashes. The brush is also easy to control, and works great on lower lashes as well as upper lashes — and it's reasonably priced, too. I had no problem at all removing this mascara, either. Just shake the bottle well before saturating a cotton round with the right kind of micellar water, then hold the saturated pad on your lashes for about 15 seconds, then gently wipe away the mascara. This mascara is so good, it will replace my $34 waterproof premium brand mascara that's been my favorite for a couple of years. Clio, please don't ever stop making it!" —Nebraska Native in Pennsylvania

Get it from Amazon for $14.50 (available in six styles, four colors, a three-pack, and as a remover). 

Caliray's Hell or High Water Mascara — if you've never tried ~tubing tech~, it's beloved for being long lasting, smudge proof, and sweat resistant, but coming off with warm water and a gentle wipe! Reviewers are saying this waterproof formula didn't betray them during long workouts, humid weather, and I'm even seeing a few reports of it withstanding swimming (as long as you don't rub your eyes)! A buildable formula and long, gorgeous lashes that'll hold up to the impending summer sun? Yes, please! 

Promising reviews: "I have oily skin and wanted a sweat/water proof mascara that will last in the heat and humidity. I ran a half marathon and this mascara didn’t disappoint. No smudging or panda eyes at the finish line, It stayed on. I’ll be buying the full size." —msElayna

"Had this for a few years now, and I have tried four different tubing brands, this is the best for me. I wasn't aware it was waterproof until I went snorkeling in Mexico for over two hours, took a shower for supper and my mascara was still as it was that morning when I applied it. It doesn't hurt my eyes the way non-tubing mascara now does. I HIGHLY recommend this product." —Marjantreb

Get it from Sephora for $25 (available in black and brown and as a mini). 

Ere Perez's Avocado Waterproof Mascara doesn't just deliver long-lasting, smudge-proof wear, but is also committed to sustainability and plant-based ingredients that are gentle for those with sensitive skin. If you've struggled with crusty lashes in the past, this one's infused with nourishing avocado oil and camellia seed oil to help hydrate and give them a pretty glossy finish! Reviewers are also obsessing over the natural, wispy look the tapered brush creates. 

For every purchase made, Ere Perez donates a dollar to The Seabin Foundation, an initiative tackling ocean pollution by removing plastic waste from our waterways. The brand is also certified carbon neutral, and signatories of the UN Global Impact. 

Promising review: "Absolute magic!!! I had been using another brand of mascara for the past 27 years, (yes seriously 27 years). I loved it. Anytime over the years if I ever tried something else, I was always disappointed. It never smudged, ran or flaked and gave incredible separation and lift. I was often complimented on my lashes, even by strangers. I thought nothing could ever be better, until....

Recently, due to the wonderful ethical and clean ethos of Ere Perez brand (and all the positive reviews!), I thought I would give the Avocado Waterproof Mascara a whirl, and oh. my. goodness. This will now be what I wear for forevermore! Done. My other one no longer cuts it after trying this. From the bottom of my heart, I can honestly say THIS IS THE BEST MASCARA YOU WILL EVER WEAR!!! Hands. Down. Do yourself a favor and try this mascara. PS: I have almost never written a review on anything. This 100% deserves it." —Claire

Get it from Ere Perez (available in black and brown) or from Ulta (available in black) for $29. 

Heroine Make Kissme Long & Curl Mascara so you can splash and dive without worrying you'll scare your kids when you emerge with black streaming down your face like some undiscovered deep-sea creature. 😟 Hear the reviewers when they say this 👏 will 👏 not 👏 budge.👏 The Japanese formula was basically made for summer — it lengthens, separates, and curls but won't be brought down by 90-degree humidity, sweaty pickleball at the park, or dips in the pool. 

Promising review (for photo on the right): "BEST MASCARA EVER!! This is the most long-lasting waterproof mascara I’ve ever tried. It leaves no residue under my eyes after a long pool day or being outdoors and sweating. I went on a camping trip to a lake and was in the water non-stop, jumping in, swimming underwater, etc and my lashes did not move at all!! It is so waterproof!! The only way I have been able to take it off is with baby oil. You have to massage your eyes gently for a few minutes. IM IN LOVE!!" —Michelle

Get it from Amazon for $18 (available in black and brown, as a micro wand, and a two-pack; also available in a volumizing formula in black and brown). 

Reviewers suggest pairing this with the brand's mascara remover! Also, you can check out the other waterproof formulas available on their storefront. 

Benefit Cosmetics' BADgal BANG! Mascara so you're prepared for every possible moment the night may throw at you, like 1) crying your eyes out listening to the parents give a toast, 2) getting sweaty while dancing to (and belting out) "Dancing Queen," and 3) waiting patiently until the end of the night just to get a slice of cake. By the time you get home at midnight, you'll have the same bold look you left with! 

Promising review: “Cried my eyes out at a wedding and did not move an inch. Has stayed up for eight hours and still counting. Looks great for volume if you use an eyelash curler before applying.” —VeronicaBEY

Get it from Ulta or from Sephora for $29. 

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Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity. 

BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.Divinia Tarin is a resident writer on the BuzzFeed Shopping team who covers a variety of topics, including travel, home, beauty, gift guides, and anything that’ll add just a bit of whimsy into people’s lives.