Keep a waterproof mascara in your bag if you’re heading to the beach, a pool party, or your regular swimming lessons. To help you find the best match for your lashes, I’ve compiled a list of 14 waterproof mascaras. The list is based on user reviews and ratings on Amazon, Maybelline, L’Oréal, and other brand websites. Make sure you choose a waterproof formula so your mascara has a better chance of lasting when you dive into the pool or enjoy splashing in the sea.
Waterproof formulas are usually denser, dry quickly, and are less likely to break down when exposed to water. If mascara spreads on your face, it can ruin your appearance. The mascaras on this list are designed to add volume, lift, and curl to your lashes and enhance their overall appearance. Bold colors accentuate your eyes, while a high-quality brush defines each lash from root to tip. If you enjoy water sports or swim regularly, consider using waterproof mascara.
Key recommendations include Essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara, which is celebrated for its vegan formula and dramatic volume. The Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara is praised for its infusion of coconut oil and sunscreen pigments. It is formulated to help lashes stay curled and lifted, even during light water exposure, though results can vary in saltwater. These selections cater to a range of preferences and budgets. As a result, swimmers can help maintain bold, smudge-resistant lashes during most activities.
In this article, I focused on some of the best-reviewed waterproof mascaras for swimming. Many waterproof formulas don’t hold up well in the pool or sea, but these selections are known for performing better than regular mascaras in wet conditions. I have covered options for all types of eyelashes. Choose the one that best matches your lash type and budget, and you’ll be better prepared for swimming or beach days. Your eye look is more likely to stay defined and less prone to smudging.
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Best waterproof mascaras are must-have for swimming – Let’s dive in
Best budget and vegan: essence lash princess false lash waterproof mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
The Lash Princess False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara provides dramatic, full-lash effects that mimic the look of fuller lashes, with a long-lasting, waterproof formula. The iconic fiber brush shapes and defines each lash, delivering volume and separation without clumps. This mascara resists flaking, smudging, or wearing off, ensuring all-day wear. It withstands tears and sweat with durable performance. At the end of the day, soak a cotton pad with a gentle, oil-based eye makeup remover and hold it over your lashes before wiping. You can also use coconut oil if your eyes tolerate it well. Essence Cosmetics is certified by PETA as a cruelty-free brand. No more worrying about raccoon eyes or fussing with false lashes—this mascara streamlines your routine while delivering results.
To reduce the risk of raccoon eyes after swimming with friends, you can try Essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof. It delivers dramatic volume and is designed to stay put through sweat and splashes when applied correctly. For removal, use an oil-based makeup remover. The best option for those seeking an affordable drugstore option on a budget.
Read detailed review about: Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara.
Covergirl Lash Blast Volume Waterproof Mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
With more than 54,399 global ratings, the CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Waterproof Mascara is designed to enhance the appearance of every eyelash. According to CoverGirl, this Lash Blast Volume Mascara is advertised as creating up to ten times more volume compared to CoverGirl’s bare lashes in brand testing. This mascara is available in four colors, allowing you to choose how bold you want to go with your lipstick and match your nail polish with your outfit. Each coat of this volumizing mascara is formulated to prevent clumping and flaking, resulting in a lightweight feel.
If you have dry or sensitive eyes and struggle to find a formula that doesn’t sting, this one is often well-tolerated according to user reviews and may become your “holy grail” choice. It stays on all day without burning or itching your eyes. To remove it, you can use coconut oil or baby oil. For swimming lovers and those with sensitive or dry eyes, this mascara is a great choice. If you are tired of spending a lot of money looking for the right product, this could be your Holy Grail mascara. This mascara is buildable with zero clumping, smudging, or transferring—even after an intense workout. Most importantly, it keeps your lashes lifted, defined, and voluminous all day. Despite being waterproof, it doesn’t make your eyelashes feel heavy or crispy. At this price point, you can’t go wrong. Try it!
Secret Xpress Control 4D Silk Fiber Lash Mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
Experience dramatic volume with Secret Xpress Control 4D Silk Fiber Lash Mascara! This breakthrough formula sculpts and defines lashes for a show-stopping, glamorous look. Forget smudging and flaking—the long-lasting finish keeps your lashes flawless. No glue, no heaviness—just beautiful lift! Hypoallergenic, non-irritating ingredients soothe sensitive eyes, and it’s ophthalmologist-tested and contact lens-friendly. The precise brush glides on a perfect, weightless coat, making it easy for beginners and pros to achieve stunning results. Additionally, removal can be easier with warm water or a gentle cleanser, but some users still prefer a dedicated waterproof eye makeup remover. Experience the transformation—try it now and see the difference for yourself!
You’ll be amazed by how smoothly and effortlessly it applies. The brush is exceptional. It coats each eyelash, making them appear more natural. It also adds impressive length. Lashes never look clumpy, even after multiple coats. The waterproof quality is outstanding. You can swim at the beach or in the pool and it tends to stay in place well for many users, though results can vary with saltwater and chlorine. The most difficult part is removing it at the end of the day. Use a waterproof makeup remover. Apply a small amount to a cotton pad and press it onto your lashes for a few seconds, then gently wipe away. Once you try this volumizing mascara, you’ll never want to go back.
L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Waterproof Mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
This mascara builds and defines lashes with intense black pigment, adding volume and length. It removes easily with a waterproof makeup remover and is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. The deep black color provides dramatic definition and stays in place without smudging or crumbling.
Covergirl Exhibitionist Uncensored Waterproof Mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
This high-impact waterproof mascara is described by some reviewers as outperforming more expensive options, including certain Urban Decay mascaras. Saving money is great, but even better with a product this excellent! Ditch pricey mascaras without sacrificing quality. The buildable formula offers a natural look with one coat or drama with two, and never flakes or weighs down lashes. It maintains curl all day. Like most waterproof mascaras, it’s tough to remove; I use baby oil for easy removal.
If you appreciate striking packaging, you will enjoy the sleek design of this mascara. It’s very similar to the Lash Paradise mascara. This mascara resists clumping and avoids smudging, even after up to 18 hours of wear, according to brand claims. It lengthens and evenly coats lashes straight from a new bottle, unlike many mascaras that require several uses to work well. It delivers dark, separated, curled lashes without extra steps. You can add a second coat for thicker, more dramatic lashes without significant clumping.
Christian Dior Show Waterproof Backstage Makeup Mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
Dior Diorshow waterproof mascara is available in blue, black, or brown. It intensifies, thickens, and curls your lashes with a waterproof formula for a stunning look that can hold up through light waves and splashes in many cases. Suitable for sensitive skin and contact lens wearers. If you have light eyes, this mascara will enhance your beauty. Enjoy hours swimming, diving, and splashing—your mascara will stay perfect. Many users even report taking underwater selfies without noticeable smudging, but individual results can vary. The blue shade creates a mermaid look in the blue water.
Best for Beach and Pool: Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara is designed especially for beach use. The mascara was developed in London and formulated using skin-loving ingredients, including coconut oil, sunscreen, and waterproof pigments, to ensure it doesn’t run or fade when exposed to water. The unique brush is shaped like an ocean wave and is designed to sweep your lashes upwards, increasing volume and lift.
It’s marketed as a beach-friendly option that can handle splashes from ocean waves or light water sports, though very long or deep scuba dives may still cause some smudging. This mascara offers a beach-friendly beauty solution. London creators blended sunscreen, coconut oils, and waterproof pigments, ensuring it won’t run or fade with water exposure. The brush mimics an ocean wave and lifts and volumizes lashes. You’ll get ready lashes in no time.
If your lashes stay curled, it may look like you’re wearing false lashes. However, if your lashes tend to rub against your upper lid and smudge after a few hours, you often need to wipe them off. To address these concerns, this Holy Grail mascara lasts a whole day without smudging, even during water skiing, tubing, and swimming at the beach. Plus, it looks natural, doesn’t clump your lashes together, makes them fuller, and holds a great curl!
Neutrogena Healthy Volume Lash-Plumping Waterproof Mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
Neutrogena’s Healthy Volume Lash-Plumping Waterproof Mascara features a volumizing formula and a large brush. Tested by ophthalmologists and dermatologists, this product is suitable for individuals with sensitive eyes and those who wear contact lenses. The formula contains sweet almond oil and olive oil to deliver rich color with conditioning benefits. It resists clumps, smudges, and flakes, promising up to 400% fuller-looking lashes in brand testing.
Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
The pointed brush reaches every lash and coats them with a volumizing, long-lasting formula. Better Than Sex Waterproof mascara features an energizing, water-proof formula with polymers designed to deliver waterproof, sweat-resistant wear.
Why Better Than Sex Mascara is highly popular? Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara is a highly popular and acclaimed product known for its exceptional performance in delivering long, thick, inky-black, and fluttery lashes.
Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Waterproof Mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
Hypnôse Drama Mascara is formulated to last through swimming and is often reported to stay put without noticeable smudging. Be careful not to rub your eyes after or during a swim. Otherwise, the formula can break down and flake off if you rub your eyes a lot. This waterproof formula can be applied to bottom lashes, won’t leave raccoon eyes, and lasts all day. It is easy to remove and has excellent staying power. The volumizing formula adds bold volume and length to lashes.
Lancôme monsieur big waterproof mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
Monsieur Big waterproof mascara creates dramatic volume and lasts up to 24 hours for long, dark lashes. The large brush and creamy formula glide on smoothly, delivering up to 12x more volume. No touch-ups, flaking, or smudging. Ideal for big evenings and the morning after. The unique brush shape and soft, wavy bristles provide perfect lashes in one stroke. The formula, rich in waxes and polymers, instantly adheres for dramatic volume and length. One coat is enough to see why Monsieur Big stands out. Apply more as desired. Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara can be a good option if you want dramatic lashes that hold up well for most people while swimming.
Read more about: How many Lancome Mascara are in the Market: A deep dive.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
The Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara has ten layers of bristles. It captures the eyelashes from root to tip. Maybelline mascara is ophthalmologist-tested and suitable for individuals with sensitive eyes or those who wear contact lenses. The formula is designed to be clump-resistant for a variety of eye looks. Maybelline Mascara can help define your eyes. The curved fanning brush features ten bristles to define and volumize the natural eyelashes.
➡️ Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara Review: A Drugstore Gem, read complete review.
L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
This mascara provides a full, feathery-soft lash fringe that stays in place without flaking, smudging, or clumping. Enjoy voluptuous volume and intense length. Achieve the long, full eyelashes you love with this volumizing mascara, designed to enhance both length and volume.
➡️ L’Oréal Paris Lash Paradise Mascara Review: Ratings And Buying Guide – 2025 Updated, read complete review.
Clinique’s High Impact Waterproof Mascara
Price at time of publish: Check price at Amazon.
Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara adds instant volume and length. It resists heat, sweat, and humidity. Start at the lash base and work your way to the tips. It is paraben-, sulfate-, and phthalate-free, vitamin-enriched, and fragrance-free. It includes conditioning ingredients, such as mineral oil, to help keep lashes feeling soft.
Lash Health & Safety Tips (Important for Waterproof Mascara Users)
Waterproof mascaras are great for swimming, but they can stress your lashes if used daily. Follow these simple safety tips to keep your lashes healthy:
- Avoid daily use — waterproof formulas contain waxes and polymers that can make lashes dry and brittle if worn every day.
- Use an oil-based remover — soak a cotton pad for 10–20 seconds before wiping. Avoid rubbing harshly.
- Give your lashes a break — alternate between waterproof and washable formulas during the week.
- Condition your lashes — apply a lash serum, castor oil, or a conditioning mascara to keep lashes soft.
- Replace mascara every 3 months to avoid bacteria and eye irritation.
How We Chose These Mascaras
We selected these mascaras based on a combination of factors: waterproof performance, user experiences from swimmers, brand claims, ingredient quality, lash-friendliness, and overall value for the price. This list reflects real-world performance, especially in conditions like pool water, saltwater, humidity, and sweat, rather than just lab claims on packaging. These picks are based on ingredient analysis, brand claims, and verified user reviews from Amazon and official brand websites, not lab testing in our own facility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Many swimmers prefer strong waterproof formulas that resist smudging, such as Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara or other long-wear options. However, performance can vary based on water type, how long you swim, and whether you rub your eyes.
Final Verdict
Choosing the right waterproof mascara keeps lashes flawless during swimming and outdoor activities. In this guide, I’ve highlighted top mascaras for long-lasting wear, volume, and water resistance, including Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara and Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara. These ensure your lashes stay voluminous and defined throughout aquatic adventures.
Finding a mascara that truly holds up for swimming is challenging. Many mascaras claim to be waterproof, but in real-life use a lot of them still smudge—especially in chlorinated pools or saltwater. Based on my research and user reviews, L’Oréal and Maybelline offer some of the most consistently reliable waterproof options at drugstore prices.
Further Reading:
Planning a beach vacation? Explore our guide to the best waterproof mascaras for sun, sea, and sand. This article delves into top picks that withstand saltwater, humidity, and long beach days, ensuring your lashes remain voluminous and smudge-free.