Your favourite mascara works harder than Kris Jenner did when launching Kim Kardashian’s model career. And it should. It’s the final flourish to a full face, an instant eye enhancer that defines, volumises, and lifts our lashes, and often the only product we’ll apply when time is tight.
Because they have been a beauty staple forever, the beauty shelves are never short on options. But with so many formulas overpromising and underdelivering (smudging, flaking, fading – we’ve all been there) finding one that genuinely performs and suits your style feels like a rare win.
We’ve tested 15 of the best mascaras for 2025 — covering everything from buildable volume to fluttery length and beyond — and narrowed it down to seven standouts. Whether you want a natural daytime flutter or full-on drama, these picks will keep your lashes looking flawless without clumps, flakes, or panda eyes.
How we tested these mascaras
To uncover the mascaras that truly live up to the hype, we put this year’s most talked-about launches and cult classics through their paces — wearing each one for at least a week. Think long office days, sweaty tube journeys, and the occasional evening event (not just studio lighting).
Each formula was evaluated using key criteria:
- Volume – Does it visibly boost fullness without clumping?
- Length – Can it extend lashes for a wide-eyed effect?
- Definition – Does it separate and coat lashes cleanly?
- Longevity – Is it resistant to smudging, flaking, and fading?
- Ease of removal – Can it be taken off gently, without tugging?
- Comfort – Is it suitable for sensitive skin / eyes and long wear?
- Brush design – How well does the brush support application and control?
We also called on a panel of beauty writers and editors with a range of eye shapes, lash types, and preferences — ensuring our top picks work across different faces, routines, and preferences.
The 7 best mascaras for 2025
1. Rimmel Thrill Seeker Extreme Volume Mascara
Rimmel Thrill Seeker Extreme Volume Mascara is definitely a game-changer if you want lashes that make a statement. It gives a full-on spider-web effect. It’s not the mascara you reach for if you want a soft, delicate look; this one is all about bold volume, and really lengthens and volumises the lashes.
The brush is massive — great for building serious size quickly, but if you have smaller eyes or shorter lashes, it might take a bit of practice to reach the inner and lower lashes without smudging.
The wear is reasonably good; I have worn it on full days (read 8am to 8pm) and it has held up well throughout the day, with a bit of flaking in the evening. Overall, I found Thrill Seeker perfect for big impact in minimal time.
Pros
- Big-volume, bold-lash effect quickly
- Long-wearing with minimal flaking
Cons
- Jumbo wand can be awkward on small or hooded eyes
- Not ideal for a soft or subtle finish
- Contains fragrance, which may irritate sensitive eyes
It’s available here for £12.99
2. Makeup Revolution Wrap Lash Tubing Mascara Black
For a budget mascara, this really punches above its weight. It delivers a strikingly bold lash effect – not clumpy exactly, but definitely on the dramatic side, which I actually prefer (if you’re going to apply mascara, you might as well make it worth it, right?).
The formula has that flexible, rubbery feel typical of tubing mascaras, but the payoff is more intense than most I’ve tried. The wand is on the larger side, so it’s not the easiest for precision or catching tiny corner lashes. Still, if you’re after bold, attention-grabbing lashes with minimal effort, it gets the job done.
What really stood out was the wear: no crumbling, no panda eyes, and it still came off easily with just warm water. For the price, it’s kind of everything you’d want and more.
Pros:
– Bold, spiky lash effect that holds all day
– No flaking or smudging, even after hours
– Great price point for the performance
Cons:
– Brush is quite bulky, so not the best for precision
Best for:
Those who love a defined, dramatic lash with zero fuss at removal — and want it for under a tenner.
Retails for £10.99 and is available here.
3. Benefit Cosmetics BADgal BANG! Mascara
BADgal BANG!’s ultra-black formula adds length and volume without weighing lashes down — thanks to aero-particles derived from space tech, no less. Even after a few coats, lashes remain lifted and flexible.
The slim, conical brush is surprisingly precise — ideal for fanning out lashes from corner to corner. But be warned: the formula is on the wetter side. It’s easy to overload if you’re heavy-handed, which can veer into clumpy territory fast. For those who prefer clean separation and a natural lift, this might feel like overkill.
It wears well through the day with minimal flaking, though those with oily lids might notice some smudging. And when it’s time to remove, bring out the oil-based cleansers — it won’t budge with micellar water alone.
Pros
- Good length and volume with a few coats
- Lightweight feel
- Flexible wand reaches corner and lower lashes easily
Cons
- Wet formula can clump if layered too quickly
- May smudge on oily eyelids
- Requires a strong remover to fully take off
Best for
Those who want dramatic, lifted lashes fast.
4. Sweed Lash Lift Mascara
Sweed’s Lash Lift Mascara has the slimmest brush I have ever seen in a mascara, which instantly made me think “it must be good”. And it was. The spaced bristles give you more control on application so you can coat every lash from root to top without clumping. It’s especially good for precision — even the tiny corner lashes get coated without any mess.
You don’t need layer after layer to see a difference. A couple of swipes make lashes look noticeably more lifted and defined, yet still natural. Even though it’s not a waterproof formula, it held up well throughout a full day.
It’s not quite the bold, spider-web look of Thrill Seeker — a bit more polished and great for definition and lift.
Pros
- Slim brush enables precise application
- Lashes appear naturally lifted and defined with minimal layering
Cons
- Not waterproof, so may smudge in humidity or tears
- Less volume for those wanting a dramatic effect
Best for
Anyone looking for a clean, polished lash look with excellent control over application.
It retails for £22 and you can buy it here.
6. MAC MACStack Waterproof Mascara (Mega Brush)
MACStack Waterproof is what I reach for when I need lashes to last. It delivers that same buildable volume as the original MACStack, but with serious staying power — think humidity, rain, sweat, and tears. The Mega Brush version is no joke: it’s big, bold, and great for delivering impact fast. One coat gives definition, but it’s layer two or three where you get that full, lifted lash effect.
Despite being waterproof, it doesn’t feel stiff or heavy — I was surprised by how soft my lashes stayed, even after multiple layers. But removing it is another story. You definitely need a proper oil-based remover — micellar water won’t touch it — and even then, it can take a fair bit of rubbing and patience to get it all off. If you’re used to waterproof formulas, it’s probably par for the course, but for me, this one really clung on.
Pros
– Buildable volume without clumping
– Waterproof and smudge-proof all day
Cons
– Large brush isn’t ideal for precision
– Very hard to remove, even with oil-based remover
Best for
Anyone who wants long-wearing volume that can handle a full day (or night) of whatever life throws at you.
Retails for £27 and you can buy it here.
7. Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara (Cosmic Black)
Sky High is the mascara I keep coming back to for everyday lashes. It’s not the boldest or the most dramatic, but it nails that fluttery, lengthened look without any clumping or fuss. The brush is slim and flexible, which makes it easy to get right into the base of my lashes — especially helpful when I’m in a rush or doing makeup on the go.
Even without using a lash curler, my lashes look lifted and stay that way all day.
The formula is super lightweight, so it layers nicely without going crispy or weighing lashes down. And even with a few coats, my lashes still feel soft — never stiff or flaky.
Pros
– Great length and lash separation
– Lightweight formula that doesn’t go crunchy
Cons
– Not waterproof
– Less volume than some might want
Best for
A soft, fluttery lash look that won’t smudge.
6. Jane Iredale’s Lash Fixation Mascara
Jane Iredale’s Lash Fixation Mascara has a lightweight, tubing formula that wraps each lash in tiny, flexible tubes. This helps the mascara stays put all day without smudging, flaking, or running, even though it’s not waterproof.
The brush reaches even the smallest lashes in the corners, giving them length and separation without clumps. The effect is natural yet defined. It’s also a super gentle formula. You can wave goodbye to vigorous rubbing with makeup remover – this one rinses away easily with warm water and gentle pressure.
Beware that it doesn’t build much volume. If you prefer bold, thick lashes, this might not satisfy that craving.
Pros
- Smudge- and flake-free wear throughout the day
- Coats even tiny lashes
- Easy, gentle removal with warm water
Cons
- Not waterproof, so it doesn’t withstand heavy sweating or swimming
- Minimal volumising effect
Best for
Those seeking a long-lasting, natural-looking mascara that’s gentle on lashes and skin.
What mascara brush is best for you?
Choosing the right mascara brush can make all the difference in achieving your desired lash look. Here’s a quick guide to help you find the perfect brush:
- Classic straight brush: Ideal for everyday wear, this brush offers even coverage and builds natural volume and length without clumping.
- Curved brush: Designed to lift and curl lashes, a curved brush hugs the lash line perfectly, making your eyes appear wider and more awake.
- Thick, dense brush: Perfect for maximum volume, these brushes deposit more product for bold, dramatic lashes, great for nights out or statement looks.
- Thin, precision brush: Best for lower lashes or hard-to-reach corners, this slim brush helps define every lash without smudging.
- Rubber or silicone bristles: These flexible brushes separate lashes effectively, reducing clumps and creating a fanned-out, fluttery effect.
How to choose a mascara for sensitive eyes
The delicate eye area is one of the most reactive parts of your face, and the wrong formula can trigger everything from puffiness to full-blown irritation. But that doesn’t mean you have to skip mascara altogether.
Start with hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist-tested formulas. These mascaras are specifically designed to minimise irritation and are often trialled on contact lens wearers. You’ll usually find them labelled “safe for sensitive eyes,” but it’s still worth checking the ingredient list for potential red flags.
Go gentle with the actives. Mascaras enriched with lash-conditioning ingredients like pro-vitamin B5 (panthenol), vitamin E, or biotin peptides can actually help strengthen your lashes over time. These ingredients support healthier growth and reduce the risk of brittle lashes snapping off — a common side effect if you’re constantly rubbing your eyes.
Steer clear of known irritants. Fragrance-free doesn’t always mean irritation-free, but it’s a solid place to start. Watch out for parabens, alcohol, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (like DMDM hydantoin), and synthetic dyes — all of which can be sneaky culprits behind red, itchy eyes.
Avoid going waterproof. Waterproof mascaras promise to stay put through tears and humidity, but they also tend to require industrial-strength removers — and all that tugging and rubbing can inflame sensitive eyes further. Instead, opt for water-resistant or tubing mascaras, which stay in place during the day but melt away with warm water or gentle cleansers.
Be meticulous about removal. Even the most eye-friendly mascara can become a problem if you’re too rough taking it off. Reach for a micellar water for sensitive skin or a lightweight oil cleanser, press a soaked cotton pad over the eye, and give it time to dissolve — no rubbing, no drama.
With the right formula and a little TLC, you can keep your lashes long, defined, and fluttery.