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The $7 Mascara That Gives Me Runway-Worthy Lashes

by Ruby Buddemeyer

Updated: Feb. 20, 2024

Originally Published: May 19, 2019

Tarte

Pink Big Ego mascara sticks

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Despite the fact that my shoebox apartment is chock-full of cosmetics (Marie Kondo would probably be appalled), there's really only one makeup product I can't live without: a super-volumizing mascara. Although the market is saturated with offerings — all of which promise to deliver next-level thickness and definition — I'll be the first to admit that my standards are high when it comes to my lashes, and finding the best volumizing mascaras of 2019 is no easy feat.

I'm of the belief that a quick swipe of mascara can change your entire look. Running off five hours of sleep? Mascara. Snoozed your alarm and late for work? Mascara. It's the quickest and (arguably) the easiest beauty hack in the game. That said, not all mascaras are created equal. I've tried more formulas than I'd like to admit — some great, some not so great, and some rather questionable.

Though everyone has different needs when it comes to mascara, mine are fairly specific. I'm lucky that my lashes are naturally long and curled, but I usually require some assistance when it comes to volume and definition. I don't wear eyeliner or eyeshadow, so I like my eyelashes to be the focal point of my makeup look. Easier said than done, right?

A young lady with mascara on her face

Ruby Buddemeyer

After searching high and low for my match made in mascara heaven, I discovered 10 formulas that meet my expectations and then some. Including new releases from cult-favorite brands like Tarte and Dior, as well as drugstore steals, there's something for everyone in my mascara lineup. Whether you're looking for dramatic lashes to accompany your Friday night smoky eye, or just a simple no-frills formula for day-to-day wear, I've got you covered.

Ahead, the 10 best volumizing mascaras on the market right now, tested and approved by yours truly.

Best For: Clump-Free Volume

GrandeDRAMA Intense Thickening Mascara With Castor Oil

GRANDE COSMETICS

GrandeDRAMA Intense Thickening Mascara With Castor Oil

This new release from Grande Cosmetics leaves your lashes with intense definition, without any clumps or smudging. Plus, the formula conditions your lashes with each coat, thanks to its hero ingredient: castor oil.

Best For: Versatility

Voluminous X Fiber Mascara

Voluminous X Fiber Mascara

I *always* find myself coming back to this drugstore pick from L'Oréal Paris. The double-sided wand reminds me of something I would have used in high school, but boy does it deliver. The primer is solid enough to use on its own for daytime coverage, but it also layers beautifully with the mascara for a bolder look.

Best For: Sweat-Proof Coverage

KUSH Waterproof Mascara

KUSH Waterproof Mascara

I've never considered myself a waterproof mascara person, but Milk Makeup's newest rendition of its cult-favorite KUSH Mascara has swayed me. One swipe of the cannabis seed oil-formula leaves lashes with all-over volume that truly stays put. I anticipate this becoming my go-to during New York’s sweaty summer season.

Best For: No-Makeup Makeup

Unlashed Volume And Curl Mascara

Unlashed Volume And Curl Mascara

There's a reason this Wander Beauty mascara is a staple in every beauty lover's arsenal. The flake-free formula offers smooth, natural-looking coverage that's perfect for no-makeup makeup looks.

Best For: Layering

Go Big Or Go Home Mascara

Go Big Or Go Home Mascara

This tube is loaded with a 100 percent vegan formula, swapping beeswax for a blend of olive and sunflower oils. Formula aside, the best part about this mascara is how buildable it is — layer it on for a dramatic look, or keep it simple with a single swipe.

Best For: No-Frills Coverage

LashBlast Volume Mascara

LashBlast Volume Mascara

This cult-favorite pick from CoverGirl offers simple, no-frills coverage every time. The thick bristles deliver incredible volume, though you'll want to apply with a light hand to keep clumps at bay.

Best For: Fanned-Out Lashes

Lash Volumizing Mascara

Lash Volumizing Mascara

Lash-defining volume is the name of the game with this wildly popular Buxom formula. The easy-to-use wand reaches each and every lash (no stragglers are left behind).

Best For: Dramatic Definition

Diorshow Pump 'n' Volume HD Mascara

Diorshow Pump 'n' Volume HD Mascara

Though you can typically find me wearing no-makeup makeup Monday through Friday, that doesn’t mean I’m opposed to a little drama when the time calls for it. This new formula from Dior offers high-intensity volume. And unlike the majority of heavy mascaras, this one is incredibly easy to wash off.

Best For: Gentle Coverage

Big Ego Mascara

Big Ego Mascara

Another vegan option, Tarte’s latest mascara launch is all about next-level thickness. The formula features a blend of conditioning ingredients (like glycerin and vitamin B5) to keep your lashes nice and hydrated.

Best For: Volume and Length

Volum' Express The Colossal Washable Mascara

Volum' Express The Colossal Washable Mascara

The best part about this Maybelline mascara is that it delivers on volume *and* length. Just know that you'll need a few extra swipes with this one.

This article was originally published on May 19, 2019