While not essential for a young girl, mascara can enhance and define the eyes, framing the face and boosting confidence. But for older women, mascaras are essential, and on the other hand, finding the right drugstore mascara can be challenging. Traditional formulas might smudge or clump on delicate lashes, while mascaras with lengthening properties may weigh down your lashes.
Drugstore mascaras formulated for older women address these concerns with volumizing, lengthening, and lifting capabilities. Moreover, they often use gentle, ophthalmologist-tested ingredients and are very safe for mature eyes.
Best Drugstore Mascaras for Older Women – Quick Overview
- Prime Prometics Primelash Mascara – Best Overall
- Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye Mascara – Best for Short Lashes
- Clinique High Impact Curling Mascara – Best for Daily Use
- Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara – Best for Sensitive Eyes
- L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Volume Building Mascara – Best Budget-Friendly
- Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Lash Multiplying Volume Mascara – Best for Volume
However, finding the vast array of drugstore mascaras can be overwhelming. So, I have created a list of the best Drugstore mascaras for older women based on their volumizing, lengthening, and lifting capabilities, along with gentle formulas and comfortable wear. So please keep reading to explore them!
Detailed Guide
Prime Prometics Primelash Mascara – Best Overall
Price at time of publish: $28 at Amazon, $28 at primeprometics.
Product Specifications
- Color: Black, Blue, Brown.
- Unit Count: 1
- Volume: 6 milliliters
- Waterproof: Water-resistant
- Form: Cream
- Hypoallergenic, Volumizing, Thickening, Lengthening
- Skin Tone: All
Pros
- Easy to remove.
- Long-lasting wear without flaking or smudging.
- Effective and easy to apply.
Cons
- The quick-drying formula requires swift application.
- A single coat is recommended to avoid globs.
Overview
Prime Prometics PrimeLash Mascara is specially formulated for women over 50, developed with input from 1200 mature queens to address common lash woes. This hypoallergenic mascara is designed to prevent clumping. It promises thick, defined, and lifted lashes in just two coats, with a ‘magic wand’ designed for easy application, even for those with hand tremors.
What I love is its vitamin-enriched formula acts as a lash growth serum. It nourishes your lashes while providing volume and length. Additionally, it’s easy to remove and minimize the risk of lash breakage.
PrimeLash Mascara for Seniors: Review and Price
Primelash mascara is made of 100% natural ingredients and provides dramatic volume to older women’s eyelashes.
Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye Mascara – Best for Short Lashes
Price at time of publish: $20.03 at Amazon.
Product Specifications
- Color: Black
- Material Type Free: Clump-Free
- Item Form: Liquid
Pros
- Defines and curls lashes without clumping.
- Recommended for daily wear, suitable for all occasions.
- Smooth application that extends lashes for a natural look.
Cons
- The price point may be considered high.
Overview
Bobbi Brown’s Mascara is designed to define, curl, and volumize even the tiniest lashes, leaving a silky, clump-free finish. Formulated for daily wear, this mascara smooths lashes for enhanced shape, coverage, and volume.
Its liquid form provides a smooth application for a stunning lash look. Proudly made in Italy, this product is ideal for those seeking a high-quality mascara that delivers on its promises.
Clinique High Impact Curling Mascara – Best for Daily Use
Price at time of publish: $49.99 at Amazon.
Product Specifications
- Item Form: Cream.
- Suitability: Ophthalmologist tested, suitable for sensitive eyes.
- Wear Time: Up to 24 hours.
Pros
- Doesn’t clump or smudge.
- Easy to apply and remove.
- Reaches even small lashes.
- Gentle on sensitive eyes.
- Good value for the money.
Cons
- It may cause slight irritation if rubbed into the eyes or applied too thickly.
Overview
The Clinique High Impact Curling Mascara in Black is designed to deliver the ultimate lash transformation. It elevates lashes to their most dramatic, bold, upturned appearance without discomfort. The unique arched wand uplifts every lash for a comprehensive application.
This mascara is formulated to be smudge, flake, and smear-resistant, which maintains an eye-opening effect for up to 24 hours. Moreover, it is easily removable with warm water and has been ophthalmologist-tested for safety and comfort for all users, especially those with sensitive eyes.
Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara – Best for Sensitive Eyes
Price at time of publish: $4.99 at Amazon.
Product Specifications
- Item Form: Cream.
- Claims: Cruelty-free, Free from gluten, silicones, parabens, oil, fragrance, alcohol, & microplastic particles.
Pros
- It doesn’t clump or flake.
- Washes off easily.
- Glides smoothly on lashes.
- Suitable for sensitive eyes.
- Reaches even short lashes.
Cons
- It doesn’t provide enough volume.
Overview
Essence Lash Princess False Lash Mascara is designed to deliver a false lash effect without the need for actual falsies. Its unique conic-shaped fiber brush separates and defines lashes while adding dramatic volume and length, achieving a bold look without clumps or globs.
The product is cruelty-free and free from harmful ingredients such as gluten, silicones, parabens, oil, fragrance, alcohol, and microplastic particles. Proudly made in Luxembourg, Essence Cosmetics is committed to not testing on animals, a stance certified and acknowledged by PETA.
L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Volume Building Mascara – Best Budget-Friendly
Price at time of publish: $6.69 at Amazon.
Product Specifications
- Color: Deepest Black
- Advantages: Adds Volume
- Washability: Easily Washable
- Key Characteristic: Free from Formaldehyde
Pros
- Easier to fix smudges, enhances eye color.
- Good for fair skin/light eyes.
- Doesn’t irritate eyes.
Cons
- May smudge in humid environments.
Overview
This mascara is a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their eye color and achieve voluminous lashes. Its unique burgundy shade, reminiscent of the discontinued Black Honey mascara from Clinique, has a subtle yet stunning effect, especially for fair-skinned individuals with light blue eyes.
Designed for both top and bottom lashes, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking to avoid the heavy look of black mascara, with a more straightforward fix for any smudges. This product has been a trusted go-to for decades, praised for its quality and effectiveness in providing a natural yet enhanced lash appearance without the need for fake lashes.
Ani’s experience with L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Volume Building Mascara: “I have been using it since L’Oreal Voluminous came in the long red tube (I believe this was in the 1970s). Although I occasionally experiment with different brands or formulas, L’Oreal is the best mascara, so I always stick with it. I’m a blonde with light blue eyes and fair skin. I have a lot of eyelashes that are long enough, but they’re blond and delicate like the rest of my hair, so I look washed out without good mascara. After applying a few quality coats of Voluminous, I can get by without artificial lashes. Regards, L’Oreal”.
Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Lash Multiplying Volume Mascara – Best for Volume
Price at time of publish: $24.95 at Amazon, $33 at esteelauder.
Product Specifications
- Color: Brightens and seduces
- Lash Care: Vitamin-rich formula
- Brush: Large, dual-bristle for definition
- Ingredients: 3-fiber blend, vitamin-enriched
- Directions: Apply with brush for no clumps
Pros
- Doesn’t irritate eyes.
- Volumizing and lengthening.
- Conditions lashes.
- Defines and separates lashes.
Cons
- May be higher priced compared to standard mascaras.
Overview
Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Lash Multiplying Volume mascara promises a dramatic transformation with its innovative formula and design. It combines three high-volume fibers for a false-lash effect and delivers a significant lift, curve, and volume, leaving eyes looking brighter and more seductive.
The mascara’s Lash Advancing Vitamin Complex ensures lashes are conditioned while worn. Its unique Oversized BrushComber Extreme provides lashes that are thickened without clumps, defined, and separated. Suitable for sensitive eyes, it’s a game-changer in the mascara world, offering long-lasting wear without irritation.
SAMANTHA’s experience with Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Lash Multiplying Volume Mascara: It’s just like every other mascara I’ve ever used! I’m in awe! Maybelline is what I purchased at the pharmacy. Even the Pump n’ Volume mascara from Diorshow. Not even a tight contest. The real deal is this mascara. Even without lash primer, it looks natural and lengthens lashes when you’re in a hurry. I also wear false lashes, so applying this mascara underneath makes it easier for my natural lashes to blend in. I adore this mascara so much.
How to Choose the Best Drugstore Mascaras for Older Women?
Choosing the best drugstore mascara for older women involves considering several factors to improve the lashes appearance while accommodating changes in lashes and skin that may come with age. Here’s a guide to help you find a suitable mascara:
Look for Volumizing and Lengthening Formulas
With age, lashes may become thinner and shorter. A mascara that promises volume and length can help counteract these changes. Therefore, opt for mascaras that contain fibers to build lash volume and length without clumping.
Prioritize Non-Drying, Hydrating Ingredients
Older lashes can be more brittle and dry. Mascaras formulated with conditioning agents (Vitamin E, panthenol, and natural oils) can help keep lashes healthy and prevent breakage. So, checking the ingredients list for hydrating components is important when buying mascara for mature eyes.
Choose Waterproof Sparingly
Although waterproof mascara stays put longer, it can be challenging to remove and might lead to lash loss or damage due to the rubbing required to take it off. Therefore, I advise reserving waterproof formulas for special occasions and opting for water-resistant versions for daily wear, as they are easier to remove.
Avoid Heavy Formulas
Heavy mascaras can weigh down lashes and make them look droopy. This effect can accentuate sagging around the eye area. So, look for lightweight formulas that promise a lifting effect.
Consider the Brush Design
The wand plays a crucial role in the application. A good brush can help separate lashes, avoid clumps, and ensure an even coat. Brushes with densely packed bristles are great for volume, while curved brushes help lift and curl lashes.
Go for Subtle Enhancement
As the skin around the eyes becomes more delicate with age, a softer look can be more flattering than dramatic, heavy makeup. So, choose mascaras in softer shades like brown or burgundy for a more natural look, especially for daytime wear.
Test for Smudging and Flaking
Mascaras that smudge or flake can accentuate fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes. To avoid these issues, look for smudge-proof and flake-proof formulas to keep your eye makeup intact throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Do Older Women Need Different Mascara?
Older women’s lashes can become thinner and shorter over time. Mascaras designed for older women often have volumizing, lengthening, and conditioning formulas to address these changes.
Can Waterproof Mascara Be Bad For Older Women?
Yes, waterproof mascara can be hard to remove and may lead to lash loss or damage. It’s better to use water-resistant mascaras for easier removal.
How Do I Prevent Mascara From Smudging Or Flaking?
Look for smudge-proof and flake-proof formulas. Also, applying a primer before mascara can help prevent smudging and flaking.
Is It Okay To Use Black Mascara?
Yes, black mascara is okay, but softer shades like brown or burgundy might offer a more natural look for day wear, especially for fair-skinned individuals or those seeking subtle enhancement.
What Type Of Brush Is Best For Applying Mascara To Older Lashes?
Brushes with densely packed bristles are great for adding volume, while curved brushes can help lift and curl lashes. The key is to find a brush that separates and coats lashes evenly without clumping.
Conclusion
For older women, the right mascara goes beyond cosmetic appeal; it’s about choosing a product that gracefully complements the natural beauty of aging. The best drugstore mascaras for older women cater to specific needs: volumizing, lengthening, and lifting, with gentle formulas for comfortable wear.
If your eyes are sensitive, I suggest using Essence Lash Princess False Lash. If you want a mascara for daily use, Clinique High Impact Curling Mascara is best for you. So, enhance your lashes confidently, and let your beauty regimen reflect elegance.
Why Trust Cosmetics Gears
The author, Shahnaz Nazim is a makeup expert and Passionist. I do research for the best makeup products on the internet. Big websites like Amazon, byrdie, Sephora, M.A.C. Cosmetics, Tarte, Maybelline, and Loreal Paris have honest ratings and reviews from customers who bought the products from these websites. I go there and read all the positive and negative reviews for each makeup product. I collect all the information about what people are talking about the product, for whom it is the best product, and for whom it is not good. Why the content is created: To help the people in their desired product selection and to save their time while online shopping.
