Why it's great: Many reviewers initially chose this mascara because of its eco-friendly packaging and natural ingredients (47 percent of which are organic) — but they kept it for its ability to make lashes "gigantic and gorgeous."
One reader, who reports that she normally has a bad reaction to mascaras, writes, "This mascara doesn't give me an allergic skin reaction or irritate my eyes. I can put it on generously and be comfortable all day!" Another reader admits she was skeptical of "natural" mascara, but this product made her lashes longer and fuller than high-end brands.
Why it's great: Reviewers say this is a great "basic" mascara, especially for those "on a budget." This formula will give you "natural-looking lashes," promise readers, without the "spider leg" effect of thicker formulas. If you're looking for a more dramatic effect, readers say it "builds nicely," even after "two to three coats."
Why it's great: "This is such a beauty bargain," one reader raves of this dual-sided drugstore mascara. Users highly recommend the product's brow gel side, saying it "works very well to keep brows in place."
Though many reviewers prefer the brow gel to the clear mascara, some readers say that used in tandem with a lash curler, "you get mega lashes without the clumps" and a curl that "lasts the whole day." For just $2, you can't go wrong.
Why it's great: "I get soft, long lashes every day and don't have to worry about reapplying" one reader says of this "fabulously" waterproof mascara. Another user writes, "The brush is superior when it comes to lash separation and volume-building, and the formula doesn't clump, flake or smudge."
Other reviewers say they won't go without this drugstore mascara because it "holds a curl ... like no other mascara," leaving eyes "looking wide open."
Why it's great: "When they say no clump, they mean it," a reader says. "If you love dark, dramatic lashes, this is for you." Other devoted users say this mascara "makes your lashes so long," but "doesn't make them stick together or look too thick." The unique wand shape is the "magic touch" for flawless application.
Thanks to Adele's signature falsies and Kim K's spidery fringe, eyelashes are doing a lot more than protecting eyeballs from dust particles these days. Between Latisse and the eyelash extension craze, who isn't enhancing their eyelashes? But, not everyone who lusts after the faux-lashed look has the time, funds or steady hands to apply these instant come-hither-ers.
So, to get bat-worthy lashes, we turn to the most essential of all makeup: mascara. In fact, even if you were born with long, full lashes, a coat or two of quality mascara can be the difference between looking dull and looking fresh-faced, wide-eyed and youthful.
However, not all mascaras are created equal. That's where this list of the best mascaras comes in. The best mascara lengthens, volumizes and curls your lashes. It's also flake-free and smudge-proof. On top of that, the best mascara comes with a well-designed brush that doesn't leave a single eyelash without mascara, as well as a formula that doesn't massacre your lashes when you remove it at the end of the night.
The best part about mascara (as opposed to say, foundation or anti-aging serum) is that price doesn't dictate quality. In fact, we scoured through thousands of reviews to find drugstore mascaras that readers believe are comparable, if not better than the leading high-end brands. Once and for all, say goodbye to mascara flakes and smudges, and hello to gorgeous, long, easy-to-come-by lashes.
