The Best Waterproof & Smudge Proof Mascaras for Long-Lasting Results

The desire for lengthy, voluminous lashes hasn’t gone anywhere, in fact, it’s been around in some form for over a hundred years. When it comes to mascara, waterproof formulas have put an innovative spin on this beauty staple. Whether it be rain or tears, the technology behind these formulas can hold onto just about anything.

Still, all waterproof mascaras are not equal and it can be hard to choose the best waterproof mascara that will stay on all day - that’s why our experts are here to help.

Our Lancôme team has gathered the best waterproof mascara recommendations, revealing everything you need to know about picking the right formula and how to apply it (and remove it) like a pro.

Whilst waterproof mascara remains immune from splashes or smudges, each formula is unique, holding its own benefits and distinct look and feel. Before deciding on your chosen mascara, explore some of Lancôme’s top waterproof formulas to help you choose the right product.

This long-lasting waterproof mascara has a specially designed swan-neck wand, bent to conform with the natural curves of the face for access to every single lash. Our Grandiôse Waterproof Wide-Angle Fan Effect Mascara works from corner-to-corner, root-to-tip as the monoi flower shaped brush ensures an even deposit of mascara coats even the smallest lashes.

How to Apply:

To apply, start at the outer corner with the brush curved down. Apply the mascara in zig zag motions moving toward the centre. As you reach the inner corner of the eye, simply flip the curve of the brush upwards for easier access. Easy!

Chose this mascara if you’re looking to keep your lashes extra soft and nourished. This is the only formula containing rose-cell extract to leave your lashes supple.

Looking to increase volume? Our Hypnôse Waterproof Custom Volume Mascara will improve your lash volume up to six times and last up to an impressive 16 hours. The buildable formula lets you control how much volume you want depending on the occasion, for a truly hypnotic look.

How to Apply:

Apply using the unique Power Full brush, which has 1,000 sensor bristles delivering made-to-measure lash volume. This highly customisable mascara is extra easy to apply due to the supple, creamy formula.

Our Hypnôse Doll Eyes Waterproof Mascara takes your lashes to the next level of lift, definition and separation. The formula adds volume to your lashes while also lifting and fanning them out for a wide-eye effect.

How to Apply:

Use the carefully designed cone shaped brush to lift, extend and volumise your lashes for an eye-catching look. Coat each lash from root to tip, using the specially shaped brush to reach the inner corners of the eye and outer lashes.

Your ideal mascara application technique will depend on what kind of look you want to achieve, be it sleek, elongated lashes, a bold voluminous style, or full-on doll eyes.

Although the advanced formulas of Lancôme mascaras mean they glide on without much effort, there are a few insider tricks that can make your application easier and take your results to the next level.

Before any application, remember to thoroughly (but gently) remove any existing eye makeup before you do your thing – this gives you a fresh start to avoid clumps.

Next, do some prep work that pays off. Use an eyelash curler before applying your mascara to create volume and open up your eyes.

Add Your Waterproof Mascara

Then, pull the mascara wand through your lashes from the base to the tips in one fluid motion, moving a bit faster than you might usually. It’s best to apply waterproof and smudge proof mascaras quickly, as they tend to dry faster than a regular mascara.

If your lashes are looking a little thin or you want some dramatic extra volume, consider using an eyelash primer before you layer on your mascara or even between layers.

We recommend the Cils Booster XL Super-Enhancing Eyelash Primer, a white mascara base that helps to protect your lashes and intensifies the colour of the mascara applied over the top.

Apply from the base to the tip of the lash, again using a zig zag motion to achieve optimal volume and separation. To turn things up a notch, sandwiching an eyelash primer in between layers of your waterproof mascara will make your lashes appear even thicker, by bulking up your base for a denser-looking effect.

Editor’s Tip:

Want to make sure your waterproof mascara will withstand anything? Here’s a quick trick: splash water on your eyes. If the mascara doesn’t move, it means your formula choice and application technique is on point.

One more tip for getting the most out of your mascara, be sure to take care of your eye area and lashes! By including lash serums and eye creams into your routine, this will ensure your eye area is well hydrated to act as the perfect base for your attention-grabbing lashes.

The beauty of waterproof mascara is that it doesn’t budge. But the question is, what do you do when you want it to disappear?

It can be challenging to remove waterproof eye makeup without rubbing your lashes too much, which can make those delicate hairs break or even fall out over time. Here’s how to get waterproof mascara off without causing any damage to your lashes or the delicate skin around your eyes.

Choose a good eye makeup remover that’s formulated to wipe away even the most longwearing of waterproof mascaras, like the Bi-Facil Non-Oily Instant Eye Makeup Remover. This effective waterproof mascara remover has a fresh-as-water bi-phase formula and is suitable to all skin types.

Before getting started, shake the bottle to activate the oil and water phases. This will provide an instant gentle cleansing experience that easily removes all traces of makeup (even waterproof) without leaving a greasy residue. The oily phase prompts makeup and persistent pigments to melt, allowing the water phase to wash away any impurities.

You’ll feel comfortable and completely clean after using this ophthalmologist tested formula. The best part is that it’s suitable for all skin types, even people with sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers – so we can all say goodbye to panda eyes!

Now that you know how to choose the right waterproof mascara for your desired look, learn our top recommendations for the rest of your makeup routine. Read about our best liquid foundation to take you from day to night