These Waterproof Mascaras Don't Budge—Even After a Day at the Beach
Even celebrity makeup artist Vincent Oquendo swears by the unyielding power of waterproof mascara. 'The thing I love most is that if I send my client out on the red carpet with it on, I don't have to worry about the mascara running or transferring,' he says, noting that it's especially essential for those with 'a hooded eyelid or very long lashes that touch the crease or the skin below their eyes.' The magic is in the silicone and polymer that most formulas contain. Together, the ingredients 'create a waterproof barrier between your lashes and the formula,' Oquendo explains.
While we used to live in a world where smudge-proof formulas often meant less impactful lashes, the industry has evolved. You can now find countless mascaras that repel water and deliver incredible length and volume. However, with so many great formulas available, it can be challenging to navigate through all the trial and error. To simplify your search, I've tested dozens of options, tapped Oquendo for his top picks, and scoured customer reviews to gather the eight best waterproof mascaras below. Just make sure you have a trusty cleansing oil on hand for easy removal!
Benefit Cosmetics took their fan-favorite volumizing mascara and made it water resistant. The Badgal Bang! Waterproof Volumizing Mascara provides impressive volume and length that lasts, boasting a 36-hour wear time. Plus, the product never weighs down your lashes thanks to its unique, ultralight aero-particals.
Benefits: Volumizing
Shades: 1
Nordstrom rating: 4.6/5
An ELLE editor says: 'I was already obsessed with the original Badgal Bang! mascara, so when Benefit came out with a waterproof version, I knew I had to get my hands on it. The formula makes my very short, very straight lashes incredibly long and voluminous—never clumpy! I love that the wand is thin enough to coat every lash from corner to corner. Not to mention, its 'zero-gravity formula' really does feel super lightweight and allows my lashes to hold a curl better than most mascaras I've tried. And with 36-hour wear? This mascara can't be beat.'—Emma Aerin Becker, associate beauty e-commerce writer
Just as the name implies, this mascara delivers big, bold lashes every swipe. A favorite of Oquendo's, the Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara features a large brush with soft, wavy fibers that boost volume upon application. Its formula is super creamy and made with smudge-proof, sweat-proof, and, of course, waterproof agents that help it last up to 24 hours.
Benefits: VolumizingShades: 1Nordstrom rating: 4.7/5An ELLE editor says: 'With a few coats of The Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara, my lashes look as though they've doubled in thickness. While I'm usually a fan of thinner brushes, this extra-large wand makes application a breeze, coating all my lashes in seconds. The ultra-creamy formula glides on beautifully and seriously doesn't budge.'—Emma Aerin Becker
If you're looking for lashes that reach the bottom of your brows, look no further than the L'Oreal Telescopic Waterproof Lengthening Mascara. True to its claim, the product lasts all day long and brings your lash length to new heights—literally. The unique wand has a comb-like side that's perfect for keeping your lashes separated. The best part? It's under $10 and available in nearly every drugstore you step into.
Benefits: Lengthening, Separating
Nordstrom rating: 4.5/5
An ELLE editor says: 'I discovered this mascara by accident when I forgot my go-to on vacation and stumbled into a local drugstore to save my bare lashes. I snagged the L'Oreal Telescopic Waterproof Lengthening Mascara from the makeup aisle, and it's been a staple in my collection ever since. After applying a few light coats, my lashes became so long I could feel them touching the tops of my eyelids—a sensation I had never experienced. And the extra-thin brush and bristles make for a clump-less application every single time.'—Emma Aerin Becker
Attention no-makeup-makeup lovers: This product lengthens, defines, and ever-so-slightly volumizes your lashes for a stunning natural finish. Even better, the formula's packed with monoi oil and marigold extract to condition and strengthen your eyelashes while you wear it.
Benefits: Lengthening, enhances curl
Sephora rating: 4/5
A Sephora reviewer says: 'I literally love this so much!! It is fully waterproof and does not smudge on my eyes at all. It is great because it is lightweight, and makes my eyelashes look much naturally longer and darker. I also love that it is in the clean collection.'
A runway staple for decades, this formula instantly thickens, lengthens, and even curls your lashes as you apply. The brand's exclusive Aquastop water-resistant technology ensures your mascara will never run or flake—no matter how many tears are shed. The cult-favorite formula comes in black, brown, and bright blue shades.
Benefits: Thickening, Lengthening
Nordstrom rating: 4.2/5
A Nordstrom reviewer says: 'Of all the waterproof mascaras I have used, this is by far my favorite. It separates my lashes, makes them look long, long, long, and never smudges under my eyes. It doesn't seem to contain fibres that end up flaking off and bothering my eyes, like some others. And it comes off completely with a luxurious cleanser. This is the only mascara I've used for the last 14 years. Love that it works so well and makes my eyelashes look so great!'
There's nothing worse than a clumpy mascara application, and when you love to layer your mascara as much as I do, you understand the struggle. Fortunately, Mac has solved all our clumpy conundrums with its MacStack Waterproof Mascara. Designed to be layered (or 'stacked'), this waterproof formula can be built up to its highest potential, providing customizable volume and length that lasts 24 hours, thanks to the brand's iMAC's Drench-Defense Technology.
Benefits: Custom length and volume
A Nordstrom reviewer says: 'Although this mascara was priced on the high end for me, I wanted one that would last while on vacation at the beach, and this was it! It doesn't budge, it doesn't clump when stacking and last all day. It's the perfect mascara for me'
A mascara that delivers extreme, long-lasting volume while making your natural lashes softer? Yes, please. Infused with iris extract, the YSL Lash Clash Extreme Volume Waterproof Mascara conditions your eyelashes as you wear it. The nourishing formula also boasts 48 hours of maximum thickness and color.
Sephora rating: 4.3/5
A Sephora reviewer says: 'Yves Saint Laurent's Lash Clash Extreme Volume Waterproof Mascara is now my holy grail mascara. I have been on the hunt for a good waterproof mascara forever. I have oily lids and some waterproof mascaras would still end up under my eyes, giving me raccoon eyes. Or, some waterproof mascaras don't really provide length or volume. It goes smoothly, doesn't clump. It really provides great length and volume. I also wear contact lenses and found this mascara comfortable to wear. I will repurchase once I run out.'
Oquendo swears by the Serge Lutens Mascara, because—to put it plainly—it really does it all. One swipe delivers long-lasting volume and impressive lash length; the one-sided comb applicator is amazing at separating each lash as you swipe, and works to physically extend the look of your lash. Plus, it comes in two unique shades: a deep black brown and a transparent version filled with fibers.
Benefits: Volumizing, lengthening, separating
Shades: 2
Serge Lutens rating: 5/5
A Serge Lutens reviewer says: 'Speechless... Expensive yes...worth it ? absolutely! Does not clump, does not smudge, has staying power.'
Vincent Oquendo is a celebrity makeup artist based in New York City, and the host of his talk show 'Backseat Beauties.'
'Most waterproof mascaras contain silicone and polymers, which is what creates the waterproof barrier between your lashes and the formula,' explains Oquendo. Additionally, they're often infused with waxes, which repel water and provide a base for other ingredients to adhere to. Application is generally the same, though Oquendo warns, 'waterproof mascaras can take a little longer to dry, so when I'm applying it on my clients' lashes, I allow for extra drying time.'
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, beauty writer Emma Aerin Becker spoke with a renowned makeup artist about waterproof mascaras. She also tried a few herself, searched the internet for heated round brushes, perused reviews for dozens of popular options, and evaluated each on its features and customer reviews.
The Best Brown Mascaras for a Natural Lash
The Best Mascaras According to ELLE Editors
The Best Eyeliners, From Pencils to Gels
The Best Cream Eyeshadows for Long-Lasting Looks
The Best Eyeshadow Sticks for Breezy Application
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Elle
5 hours ago
- Elle
Sarita Choudhury Feels ‘Lucky' She Didn't See That Infamous Trey Scene in 'The O.C.'
Sarita Choudhury makes a point of avoiding the ever-fervent And Just Like That… discourse. 'I protect myself by not reading anything,' says the veteran stage and screen actress, who portrays the ultra-confident and unapologetically sexy real estate broker Seema Patel on the Sex and the City sequel series. But last week, news broke that Choudhury couldn't avoid—even on vacation in Spain. A day after she jumped on Zoom to speak with ELLE, series creator Michael Patrick King and star Sarah Jessica Parker dropped the bombshell that And Just Like That… would end with the remaining two episodes of the current third season. Immediately after, Choudhury reposted Parker's tribute in her Instagram Story, but has otherwise remained quiet. (Her representatives declined to comment.) In 2021, Choudhury—whose career took off after starring opposite Denzel Washington in Mira Nair's 1991 film, Mississippi Masala, and recently stole scenes in Fallout and Ramy—joined three-fourths of the original SATC cast in And Just Like That... After helping a widowed Carrie (Parker) sell the apartment she shared with Big (Chris Noth), Seema filled out an expanded and more diverse circle of high-powered, well-dressed, and quick-witted women that's actually representative of New York City. She brings the single, child-free, and self-made woman energy to the group—which sometimes elicits an oversimplified comparison to Kim Cattrall's Samantha. But in AJLT's now-final season, Seema embarks on an uncharted and revealing journey that feels much higher-stakes than when she was a victim of Birkin bag theft. Professionally, Seema—at the top of her game in a posh real estate agency—is thrown for a loop with her business partner and friend, Elliott (John Glover) announces early retirement. Instead of elevating her to sole owner of Proust & Patel, like originally promised, Elliott sells his controlling shares to Owning Manhattan's showboating deal-closer Ryan Serhant. Bouncing back from her initial shock and humiliation, a resolute Seema starts her own luxury boutique agency. But she encounters hurdles along the way, like getting real about her finances, swapping her chauffeured car for an MTA card, and braving a case of pink eye, thanks to her budget-friendly, but hygienically-challenged neighborhood lash spot. After breaking up with smooth but distracted movie director Ravi Gordi (Armin Amiri), Seema finds an instant spark with Carrie's crunchy, hunky landscaper Adam, played by Logan Marshall-Green, a.k.a. The OC's Chino hothead, Trey Atwood. Choudhury, however, didn't watch the mid-aughts teen drama, so she wouldn't have been preoccupied by, say, memories of a comatose Trey after Marissa (Mischa Barton) shot him. 'I'm lucky I didn't,' says Choudhury. Adam, who's at ease with his own feelings (maybe due to his close relationship with his late hippie, artist mother) plays a perfect foil to the bold, but emotionally guarded Seema. With Adam, she learns to be vulnerable and honestly express her feelings, which is perhaps a more daunting prospect than starting her own business. Behind the scenes of AJLT, Choudhury settled into a groove, too, especially with filming raucous lunch scenes with the rest of the main cast. 'The group scenes are now my favorite, because it's the only time I get to see everyone and we get to hang out in the makeup trailer before,' says Choudhury, who at first feared those moments back in season 1. 'Those lunch scenes in Sex and the City back in the day were iconic. So in my head, I was like, 'It doesn't even make sense for me to sit at that lunch table.' It was too meta for me. But now, it's completely the opposite.' Choudhury explains she quickly found her footing in season 1, largely because the original cast members, Parker, Cynthia Nixon, and Kristin Davis, were so supportive and welcoming. 'The original girls are so amazing. They're so normal. It's shocking. That's why it was actually very easy [to settle in],' she says. 'You don't feel that pressure on the set. I mean, it's women in their 50s hanging out. Everyone has children, and there's so many things that we're juggling.' While Choudhury ignores her social mentions and comment section, she welcomes the fans who approach her on the street—many of whom are rooting for Seema and Adam. 'They're super excited and they just give me a lot of energy,' says Choudhury. 'I've never experienced that. I've never done a show with that kind of energy.' Ahead, Choudhury—who was extremely careful not to reveal finale spoilers—discusses why Adam is different from other guys, a time when she felt like she lost her power, and how she takes inspiration from her character during a 'shake up.' I didn't actually take anything from my own. I got the help from MPK [Michael Patrick King]. There were two scenes, specifically, where you're being told something, and people are watching your expression, you're covering up, but you can't help but show [emotion] a bit. When we were shooting, MPK was like, '[Seema] covers up immediately, and then her awkwardness or vulnerability [later] betrays it. But she would never [reveal it immediately in the moment].' So she'll take the champagne and be like, 'Well, that's for me. I deserve it.' Because she's in a business suit, in the meeting, being told she's not getting the company or being valued for all that work. I think I do that. I think we all do that, where you have the facial reaction and then, later, you have the phone call or the road trip with Carrie. But in terms of my life, as an actor, you go through it all the time. Because everything is about your artistic desire versus what you're receiving. Maybe the job doesn't align perfectly with what you want. Or we audition and don't get the part. We're so good at rejection as actors. I'm really enjoying it in season 3. Because in season 1, it was more, 'Oh, I need to pull this off, because I'm so different from Seema.' This comedy, mixed in with a very grounded—oddly—story, is an opportunity I've had in theater, but never really on screen. So it's been fun to be agile. It's like doing math. You literally have to figure out the comedy and keep it real. It's new for me and I love it now. I remember realizing, 'Oh, my God, this is the rom-com moment.' Everyone probably thinks Seema's really tough, but I think every woman wants that moment. Every other scene with Adam before that was sparring with words and Seema just making fun of [him] because she liked him. You do that when you're 12 years old; that's how she was behaving. So for me, that scene was just like, 'It's happening, so just let it happen and enjoy it.' It's that moment you can't quite believe it's happening, and there's part of your brain that just is like, 'Don't talk. Just accept it. It's so beautiful. Oh my god.' I think I was having that realization even though everyone is staring at me, and there is a side to it that's just so outlandish. Logan is so good at this. [Adam] is so grounded and he watches, and that disarms her. Because I think she's the watcher and the mover. Like, she says something, and he matches it with a phrase. It's like Beatrice and Benedict in Much Ado About Nothing. They're not the ones that are supposed to fall in love. They're constantly sparring. Of course, as you're watching it, you're like, 'Of course, they're gonna get together.' He's the only one who doesn't let it go. He's matching her word for word. He touches her … like [removing her] eyelash and coming in that close and touching her face. I don't think Seema was used to that on any level. Again, as women, we love that, but we don't know how to tell a guy to be like that. You can't train someone to be like that. A guy is like that or not. Yeah, his hands are in the dirt every day with things that are growing. He's just the opposite of Seema. It's the kind of thing, when you're so happy in your own world, and then a friend or someone just goes, 'Yeah, but…'' Like, reminding me of something I wanted to do, as if I hadn't remembered myself. It's embarrassing. [For Seema], it's like, 'Well, you think you're on top of the world with everything, but then why is your love life always such a sham?' Even in her business mind, she's like, 'Wait a minute, the equation is not working. Let me try and play with this equation.' But within three wrong sentences, either from the brilliant Cheri Oteri, or from the guy on the date, she's out. She's not gonna give anything too long. I never thought I'd feel this, because I know it's a scene where I'm playing the character doing this. But when I saw the costume options, I was literally appalled. I've played Seema long enough, but it kind of shocked me. I felt like an imposter, even with the straightened hair. It was perfect for that [scene]. Because you could wear pastels in the style that you usually dress and still feel some odd power. It felt like I had no angle that I was used to! So I lost my power. I didn't know how to navigate these colors and clothes. Oh, wow. [Long pause.] It's funny because we get the scripts ahead of time by a few or maybe five days. But I remember, as we were hitting this area, I was even thinking, 'Oh my god, what is going to happen?' Because, with shows, sometimes you open the script that's just been sent to you, and you're praying—because some story lines you enjoy—and you're like, 'Oh, please don't shift this one away.' So I can't give anything away, obviously, but the question you are asking is exactly how I felt as an actor at this point in the series. I remember thinking, 'Oh my god, what are they going to do with the last?'—especially because there's only a few left. I did not know what was going to happen. I know that doesn't answer your question. But I'm aligned with you in asking it. Oh I know, it's inspiring to me too, because we all get shaken up—or need shaking up—and I don't know which one is truer. Because she's a so-called 'strong woman,' it's kind of great to see, 'Oh, how did she deal with it?' Because, I need to learn that all the time. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
Elle
6 hours ago
- Elle
The 5 Coolest Bob Haircuts Taking Over Copenhagen Fashion Week
The street style at Copenhagen fashion week is a sight to behold, as show-goers never fail to deliver ultra-cool haircut trends and fashion inspo to carry us through this season and beyond. While we've been waxing lyrical about French and Italian bobs (they're still a favourite for chic cuts), it turns out that Copenhagen bob hairstyles are the one to beat if you're looking for statement-making looks. Bobs took over the Danish capital, bringing an offbeat Scandi-spirit. Nothing prim or stuffy here, as stylish street style stars embrace a more rebellious vibe with their hair through choppy layers, uneven ends, or by teaming their bobs with equally mesmerising fringes. If you're in the mood for something dramatic, try the wispy, feathery bob which is perfect for fine hair. It's cut to almost a pixie shape, so if you've been considering a tight crop, the Scandi bixie is an excellent way to ease into the style. Elsewhere, full yet extra short bobs make the most out of thicker hair. It's voluminous and brings with it a nonchalant glamour that feels especially fresh for any upcoming heatwaves. There's something here for the more low-maintenance among us too, as Copenhagen fashion week attendees demonstrate how to elevate the longer, easier to manage shoulder-length bob. The cheat sheet? Pile on the hair accessories and make sure your colour is bright and glossy for maximum impact. Meanwhile, a modern mullet or graduated style is an easy way to elevate a curly bob as it brings out the best of your natural texture. If there's one takeaway from the bobs spotted in Copenhagen, it's that there really is no wrong way to embrace a short hairstyle. It's all about dialling into your individuality and attitude. Short, curly haircuts are blessed with volume and movement. This graduated chop, which is shorter in front and longer in the back, is a modern take on a mullet chop. Paired with the trendy boho bangs, this choppy, chin-length bob brings with it a rebellious edge. If you need a sign to take the plunge, this is it. The extra short, earlobe-grazing chop makes an impactful statement; keep styling to a minimal and just pair with fanciful earrings. Grungy, offbeat and undoubtedly cool, this feathery statement cut is a great bob for fine hair types to make an impact. Take it to the next level with a micro fringe and bleached brows. Dial up a short hairstyle with fun accessories such as hair bows and a striking colour. The silver hardware jewellery helps to bring balance to this unapologetically girlish style. Medina Azaldin is the beauty editor of ELLE and Harper's Bazaar UK, working across print and digital features. She has more than seven years journalism experience and has previously written for Red and Good Hoousekeeping. When she's not demystifying the latest skincare ingredient, sniffing out the next big perfume trend or uncovering the science behind wellness practices, you'll most likely find her in Hatchards Piccadilly or watching a crime series with her cats. Oh, and she's a competitive cheerleader, too.
Elle
a day ago
- Elle
Brittany Snow's Rumored Boyfriend, Hunter Moreno, Shows Her Support After 'The Hunting Wives' Release
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. THE RUNDOWN In October 2024, The Hunting Wives actress Brittany Snow was seen with a mystery man in New York City in photos shared by the Daily Mail. He was identified as cinematographer Hunter Moreno, and the pair looked very cozy, sharing a kiss while walking Snow's dog. The actress was wearing a Yankees cap, long black coat, and wide-legged pants for the outing with a pair of sunglasses. Moreno was in a baseball cap, jeans, and a big white hoodie. A year earlier, Snow divorced ex-husband Tyler Stanaland, known for his role on Selling The OC, a spin-off of the popular Netflix reality show, Selling Sunset. The former couple announced their split in September 2022 in a joint statement on Instagram that is now deleted, saying, 'This decision was made with love and mutual respect for one another. We have realized we need to take some time and make sure we are each living our most fulfilling and authentic lives. We started this journey as best friends and our relationship will continue to be a priority not only for us but for our dog Charlie.' Fans were intrigued by her new flame and wanted to know more about Moreno after they were spotted together. Here's what there is to know about Moreno and his relationship with Snow so far. Moreno is a creative director, cinematographer, and photographer who has worked with celebrities like Selena Gomez, Cara Delevingne, Reneé Rapp, Machine Gun Kelly, Miley Cyrus, and brands like Vogue, Inkd Magazine, and Madewell. He started his career in Los Angeles, filming YouTube videos for growing influencers. He seems to have been working on directing more music videos in 2024, and was just nominated for a directing award at the People's Choice Country Awards. He also briefly dated Tana Mongeau in 2017, and they remain good friends, according to Perez Hilton. Moreno is the co-founder and creative director of Make Sure Your Friends Are OK, or MSYFAO. The organization sells merchandise and then donates a portion of the profits to mental health charities. In an episode of Recovering From Reality with Alexis Haines, he says he was inspired by his own struggles with mental health issues. Mental health is an important issue to Snow as well, who co-wrote a book titled September Letters about issues around mental well-being, partnering with the Mental Health Coalition. In January, Snow tagged Moreno in a series of photos taken of her for a Netflix press event, crediting him for photographing her. She wrote, 'I was asked to hang out a little bit with my friends at @nightagentnetflix. I got to be an agent and run around the streets of Bangkok. Weirdly, I did not wear this dress. 🤍* press for season 2 *' As of July 2025, the two still follow each other on Instagram, and Moreno has liked almost all her recent Instagrams. She also regularly likes his posts. No, as of August 2025, neither Moreno nor Snow has addressed speculation about their relationship.
