June 15th, 2016
If you thought finding a regular mascara that you love was tricky, waterproof formulas can be even worse. Finding a waterproof mascara that finds the balance between long-wearing and impossible-to-remove is difficult, and there’s certainly different degrees of how resistant they are to the odd splash. And yet they have a worthy place in your kit – whether it be for tearful brides or actors struggling in rain or open water. Have no fear, we’ve put a selection through their paces to bring you our favourite waterproof mascara formulas.
Waterproof versions of classic mascaras can sometimes go awry – the brush might not work well with the change in formula, or it might not resemble the original in look at all. Maybelline Great Lash has been a kit staple for decades thanks to its bold look and cheap price point. The Waterproof Great Lash (£4.99) is no different, thankfully – an inexpensive yet reliable mascara which truly is waterproof. It is one of the more stubborn to remove, but at least you know it won’t be go flaking on you.
Clinique High Impact is another firm favourite among the team. The narrow wand delivers volume at the roots then pulling through the formula to create lashy length. The Waterproof version (£17.50) delivers all of that lengthening goodness while holding a curl brilliantly and surviving any wayward splashes.
Eyeko’s entire range are waterproof to a degree – they resist smudging or running when splashed, only coming off with warm water. But for intense action scenes in the rain or water-based photoshoots you might need something a bit stronger. Step forward Eyeko Sport Catch & Curl mascara (£18) whose triple coating film formulation prevents smudging, flaking or running with even under extreme sport conditions. On top of all that it also includes collagen and 11 fruit extracts to condition and nourish lashes.
Waterproof formulas are a must for weddings, with someone in the bridal party almost guaranteed to cry. The Lancôme Hypnôse Doll Eyes Waterproof mascara (£23.50) gives beautiful fluttery lashes which will stay put through any happy tears that might be shed.
Sensai 38C Mascara (£20) is an interesting one. We found this jet black formula to be excellent at definition and length, with an easy to control wand. True to its name the mascara will wash off with water at 38°C, but otherwise it holds fast against humidity and watery eyes.
If you have a client who suffers from sensitive, watery eyes then a waterproof mascara is essential. We like the Benefit BADgal Lash Waterproof (£17.50) for sensitive types as it doesn’t flake or smudge, while providing a generous but wearable amount of volume.
Urban Decay’s Cannonball mascara (£15.50) uses a gel formula to coat every lash and keep them water-tight. Some waterproof mascaras can feel quite heavy and brittle, but this feels light and very comfortable to wear – a good choice for long shoots. Vigorously tested to ensure it stays in place come hell or high water (literally), your lashes are safe with this one.
If volume is what you’re after then look no further than the new L’Oreal Paris Mega Volume Miss Hippie Waterproof Mascara (£7.99). With a ‘fuzzy’ bristle brush it manages to coat every lash and really build volume at the roots, although you might want something more delicate for the lower lashline.
Finally we have a couple of wild cards. Waterproof topcoats are few and far between, but they can be highly useful pieces of kit which extend the use of your other mascaras. Sudden changes in location or weather might see you whipping out one of these top coats to ensure that your client’s look can stay in place whatever the weather. Our top pick would be Clarins Double Fix’ (£20), which can also be used as an eyebrow topcoat. For a more budget-friendly option you could try NYX Proof It (£5.50), with its narrow brush to get right down into the roots of the lashes. These topcoats will obviously not be quite as waterproof and long-wearing as the dedicated mascara formulas, but they’re certainly a handy fix.