Mascara is one of those beauty products that can seem a bit monotonous, and, admittedly, it’s often hard to distinguish your curling mascaras from your volumising ones. I’m here to tell you, though, that some mascaras actually are cut from a different cloth – you just have to know where to look.
Whether you’re after a waterproof mascara that won’t budge in the gym; one that gives your lashes extra length, or even one that’s undetectable, I’ve got the product for you.
I’ve been scouring the beauty aisles of high street and high-end stores, on the hunt for the best mascaras on the market in the UK. I’ve done away with all the clunky spoolies and sticky formulas, whittling down the industry’s hundreds of iterations to bring you my top 10 picks.
If you’re new to the make-up game, I’m here to help you get up to speed. Whether you like a wispy lash or a bold, statement eye, there are a couple of things to look out for across the board when choosing the best mascara for you.
Scroll on for everything you need to know, plus my favourite formulas for every lash requirement and budget.
How I tested
After researching the most popular mascaras, as well as any new releases from popular brands, I created a longlist of around 40 formulas. I then tested each mascara for a full eight hours’ wear, applying it in the morning to curled lashes before checking in on the state of my eyes throughout the day. I paid attention to any immediate results – considering if there was any drooping or clumping – as well as, in the long term, if the mascara smudged or caused irritation. I noted the practicality of each wand, how effective the coverage was and how many coats were required. Often, a mascara that appeared great upon application would then prove a poor choice after leaving me with panda eyes later on. As such, my 40-product longlist was eventually whittled down to just 10 mascaras.
Why you can trust us
As The Independent’s beauty writer, I’m constantly browsing the latest products and formulas. Whether it’s new skincare and fragrance launches or a new colour in Maybelline’s best-selling lash sensational sky high mascara, you can bet I’m on top of it. I’ve more than five years’ experience working in the industry and, in that time, I’ve accrued make-up intel from brand contacts and experts, as well as my own personal use of products. I’ve tested and reviewed myriad mascaras and have only recommended the ones I truly believe are worth your hard-earned cash.
The best mascaras for 2025 are:
- Best overall – Milk Makeup kush high roll mascara: £28, Sephora.co.uk
- Best budget buy – Maybelline great lash mascara: £6.20, Amazon.co.uk
- Best for defining – Refy lash sculpt mascara: £20, Sephora.co.uk
- Best for feathery lashes – Lancôme lash idôle mascara: £28, Sephora.co.uk
- Best for green and blue eyes – Clinique high impact mascara, black honey: £25.50, Boots.com
