Best mascara: Our editors tested mascaras - and these are the 23 favorites
A really good onecan oneextremely upgrade. Many people want to have great eyes, but what is often missing is the best mascara for their type. After all, we all have different needs and a different idea of how we want to emphasize our lashes. The fact is that it isn'tthe onebest mascara there is. The GLAMOR mascara test 2025 also showed this.
The main task of mascara is to emphasize, maximize and accentuate your own eyelashes. The beauty market offers a huge amount of mascaras designed to lengthen or add volume to eyelashes. In addition, some contain nourishing ingredients that are intended to protect against overuse.
The best mascaras to have on your radar in 2025:
How do you choose the best mascara?
Since there are what feels like thousands of products that all claim to do the same thing - thicken, define, add momentum - it's hard to know which ones actually deliver the results they promise. To help you make the right choice, we have oneList of the best mascarasfor you. Find your go-to for the mega eye look and shop them23 mascara test winners GLAMOR Mascara Tests 2025for every budget and every taste.
Of course, we took all the important factors into account - from the right formula to different finishes. Whether you're looking for the best length, volume or drugstore mascara, we've got itdieMascara for you in our ultimate lash list.
TheThe team tested various mascaras from different categories and price ranges.
Which mascara is the best according to Stiftung Warentest?
Stiftung Warentest is still onetheSources we use to research the best products. The latest test from 2021 took a closer look at which mascaras are particularly easy to use, contain (un)critical substances and what the microbiological quality looks like. The winner in the “not waterproof” category is “The Colossal Mascara” from Maybelline, and in the “waterproof mascara” category another Maybelline product, the “Classic Volum' Express Waterproof”, was able to convince.
Tips and tricks about mascara
- Pay particular attention to theDo not push the brush into the tube too often in a row,Because this pumps air into the small container, which allows the mascara to dry out more quickly.
- Have you found an eyelash curler that works well for you? Don't forget them alwayseasy to clean and replace the rubber surface!
- Would you like to emphasize your eyelashes even more? APrimeris well suited for this, as the product is not only easier to apply, but the eyelashes are often lengthened a little.
- For thelower eyelasheswe recommend the viral one, which involves gathering eyelashes into small clusters using tweezers to create a doll-like look.
How is mascara applied correctly?
Vincent Ford, Global Artist atNars, is of the opinion thatThe best way to apply mascara depends on what story you want to tell with your eyes.For onenatural lookYou should run the brush through your eyelashes from root to tip, as if you were combing your eyelashes to lengthen them. You can get rid of excess mascara that has built up unintentionally by running a clean eyelash comb or brush over the inked eyelashes again.
“For oneDramatize Look“I like to build up the mascara at the base of the lashes by moving the brush from side to side at the base of the lashes without brushing the tips,” reveals Vincent Ford. “This results in a feather-light, full lash look that looks good on everyone.” So you can see: the technique with zigzag movements definitely pays off.
Are you looking for more content about make-up? Discover our selection of the best here, ours, dieas well as the,and.
This article was prepared with passages from our GLAMOR colleagues from the UK.
Mascara in the GLAMOR test: Here is our selection of the best products
Length, volume or both? The GLAMOR team has inked and inked and inked - to choose for you the crème de la crème of the most popular mascaras on the market. Here you can see the results in our big mascara test:
1. Beste Mascara insgesamt: “Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High”-Mascara
Tested by:Leona Ullmann, Affiliate Beauty Editor
“Maybelline Sky High Mascara – Waterproof”
- Effect:Lengthening, defining
- Colors:Black, Brown, Blue, Pink, Burgundy (theStar on TikTok currently)
- Waterproof?Yes, available in waterproof or non-waterproof versions
Why we love the mascara:This mascara from Maybelline became a viral TikTok sensation in just a few hours. Why? It gives the eyelashes a lot (!) of length, volume and definition. And all of this without clumping. By the way, the formula is enriched with bamboo extract and fibers, which further strengthens the eyelashes.
Leon Fazit:“In fact, this is my Holy Grail mascara. I keep buying them again. Why? It separates the eyelashes, gives them more length and volume, and above all, it does one thing that other products often can't do for me: it maintains the curl that I previously create with an eyelash curler. You can find my detailed review of the mascara.”
2. Best waterproof mascara: “Lash Clash Waterproof Mascara” by YSL
Tested by:Allegra Isert, Beauty Editor
“Lash Clash Mascara Waterproof” von Yves Saint Laurent
- Effect:Volume enhancing, defining
- Colors:Schwarz
- Waterproof?And
Why we love the mascara:This YSL mascara has been a classic for years. Popular because of its nourishing formula and the mega volume it creates, it now comes in a new version - the “Waterproof” version. Thanks to the new formulation, it is not only water-proof, but also heat-, sauna-, dance-, fitness-, sweat- and high-action-proof. AMustfor everyday life.
Allegras Fazit:“The large bushy brush screams for voluminous lashes as soon as you open it. And it keeps that promise. In no time at all she conjures up deep black and curly eyelashes - luckily without any clumps. I'm happy to accept the additional effort involved in removing make-up. The mascara stays on so well all day that I even need an extra dose of make-up remover after the gym or an involuntary walk in the rain in the evening. Apparently the mascara is even sauna-proof. I definitely have to try this out.”
3. Best buildable mascara: “Architect Eyes Buildable Mascara” by Monika Blunder
Tested by:Sarah Riechwald, Junior Photo & Visual Content Editor
“Architect Eyes Buildable Mascara” von Monika Blunder
- Effect:Lengthening, defining
- Colors:Black, brown
- Waterproof?No
Why we love the mascara:This mascara contains shea butter, which not only has a gentle nourishing effect, but also ensures that you can apply the mascara beautifully smoothly. The formula is vegan and cruelty-free and is intended to thicken and lengthen the eyelashes thanks to algae extract.
Sarah's conclusion:“The mascara is deep black and makes a huge difference even on already dark eyelashes. I think this particularly emphasizes the volume. The large, bushy brush certainly helps - definitely an option for me if I want more!”
4. Best mascara for defined lashes: “Next Level Mascara” from Caia Cosmetics
Tested by:Madeline Dangmann, Senior Fashion Editor
“Next Level Mascara” von Caia Cosmetics
- Effect:Lengthening, volumizing
- Colors:Schwarz
- Waterproof?No
Why we love the mascara:The key word here is: smudge-proof. According to the manufacturer, the mascara from Caia Cosmetics is formulated so that it does not smear and is also suitable for oily eyelids. It's easy to build up and provides support for up to 24 hours. Nevertheless, according to customer reviews, it is easy to wash off.
Madelines Fazit:“For me, the Caia mascara trumps one thing: the silicone brush. I never use other mascaras without exception because they create the best defined lashes for me. Caia also completely convinces me, no flowers, no sticking and a light feeling - the durability is also great.”
5. Best mascara for the “no makeup” look: “Lash Xtndr Mascara” from Elf Cosmetics
Tested by:Lisa Zirngast, Affiliate Fashion Editor
“Lash Xtndr Mascara” von E.l.f Cosmetics
- Effect:Lengthening, volume-enhancing
- Colors:Braun, “Soft Black”, “Pitch Black”
- Waterproof?No
Why we love the mascara:Thanks to the “tube technology”, this mascara covers every single hair and lengthens them, which makes your look almost look like “fake lashes”. It is also enriched with 5 percent jojoba seed oil, which additionally nourishes the eyelashes. Plus points for being 100 percent cruelty-free and vegan.
Added Fazit:“I actually only ever use brown mascara on my lower lash line because it gives a natural, yet accentuated look. For the 'rest' I prefer and only use black. When I also used the Elf Cosmetics product on my upper eyelashes, I was immediately positively surprised - no clumps, a pleasantly narrow brush shape and good separation or fanning of the lashes. The result is very natural and perfect for days when you want a ‘no makeup’ look.”
6. Best Mascara for Sensitive Eyes: “Big Best Volume Mascara” by Bell Hypoallergenic
Tested by:Nhi Nguyen, Affiliate Marketing Coordinator
“Big Best Volume Mascara” von Bell HypoAllergenic
- Effect:Lengthening, condensing
- Colors:Schwarz
- Waterproof? No
Why we love the mascara:People with sensitive eyes who tend to react quickly to mascara are particularly pleased with this gentle formulation of Bell Hypoallergenic mascara. It is “PETA cruelty free” certified and contains 94 percent ingredients of natural origin. On top of that, the texture also contains castor oil - so you get a growth-enhancing effect included!
Nhis Fazit:“When I first applied it, I was immediately impressed by the brush. Gives my thin lashes more thickness and stays on well too. It can also be easily removed with a simple cleansing water.”
7. Beste Tubing-Mascara: “Full Sleeve Mascar” von Kvd Beauty
Tested by:Franziska Fuchs, Trainee Fashion Editorial
“Full Sleeve Mascara” von Kvd Beauty
- Effect:Volume enhancing
- Colors:Schwarz
- Waterproof?No
Why we love the mascara:With the “24H Tattoo Tubing Technology” it covers every eyelash – KVD-like like a “full sleeve tattoo”. It provides clump-free, smudge-proof hold, length and definition.
Franziska’s conclusion:“A huge plus: the silicone brush. I was able to apply my eyelashes very easily without touching my eyelids. My eyelashes separate beautifully and look longer. Even though my eyes often water, the mascara lasts all day. I LIKE!"
Maybelline / Douglas
Best mascara according to Stiftung Warentest
Maybelline “The Colossal”-Mascara
Why we love the mascara:This mascara is a dream for seductive eyes. Stiftung Warentest also agrees and names Maybelline’s “Colossal” mascara as the test winner in the “Volume Mascaras” category. The proven formula is enriched with collagen to give the eyelashes even more expressiveness. It gives voluminous lashes, definition, curl and length - all in one!
This is what customers say:Not only Stiftung Warentest is a fan of this mascara, numerous users also celebrate it. On average it is rated 4.5 out of 5 points on Maybelline's website.
- Effect:Volumizing, densifying
- Colors:Schwarz
- Waterproof?No, butin a waterproof versionavailable
Maybelline / Douglas
The best waterproof mascara according to Stiftung Warentest
“Classic Volum’ Express Waterproof”-Mascara von Maybelline New York
Why we love the mascara:The price-performance ratio here is right. For just 3 euros you can get thick eyelashes thanks to a curling brush with a fan comb function that reaches every single hair and creates long and thick eyelashes.
This is what customers say:Customers confirm what Stiftung Warentest has already tested. Using this mascara is supposed to be super easy. Some people just miss the version with blue ink.
- Effect:Volume-increasing, densifying
- Colors:Schwarz
- Waterproof?And
Dior / Douglas
Best mascara for the false eyelash effect
Dior “Diorshow Pump’N’Volume”-Mascara
Why we love the mascara:If you want the false eyelash look without having to deal with annoying glue, this is itDior-Mascarathe best choice. The bottle is also squeezable so you can get everything out of the product.
This is what customers say:A customer says: “Best mascara! Lengthens and gives volume without sticking. Highly recommended.”
- Effect:Volumizing
- Colors:Black, brown, blue
- Waterproof?No
L'Oréal Paris / bottles
L'Oréal Paris “Volume Million Lashes Panorama”-Mascara
Why we love the mascara:The brush of this L'Oréal mascara has bristles of different lengths and coats even short and fine eyelashes generously with product - thus ensuring 360 degree panoramic volume. True to its name, the “Volume Million Lashes Panorama” mascara is our favorite for creating a cat-eye look à la Kendall Jenner.
This is what customers say:Despite the fact that this mascara hasn't been on the market for that long, it has already received a considerable number of positive reviews - it receives an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
- Effect:Defined, diversified
- Colors:Black, brown
- Waterproof?No, but according to customers it should last just as well as a waterproof mascara
lancome
Best mascara foritEye blink
Why we love the mascara:Lancôme's mascara deserves its reputation as an iconic mascara because it gives you voluminous, non-clumpy lashes. Plus, the formula doesn't tend to smudge.
This is what customers say:It's no secret that this mascara is one of the popular varieties. At Douglas, a customer says: “I've been using them for years and buy them again and again!”. And that's probably the best compliment a beauty product can get, right?
- Effect:Volumizing, defining
- Colors:Black, brown
- Waterproof?No
Benefit / Douglas
Best mascara for volume
Benefit “They’re Real!”-Mascara
Why we love the mascara:“They’re Real!” from Benefit has been an absolute favorite since its launch in 2011 and really impresses. The brush allows for easy and precise application, while the product itself keeps lashes looking thick and dramatic all day long.
This is what customers say:“They’re Real!” is one of Benefit's bestsellers. What customers love about it is that it holds the curve so well and creates a natural finish.
- Effect:Volume-enhancing, lengthening
- Colors:Schwarz
- Waterproof?No
CATRICE / bottles
Best Drogerie Mascara
Why we love the mascara:If you are looking for the absolute price-performance winner, this is the perfect choice. Catrice's mascara at a drugstore price makes eyelashes even more luxurious. The reason for this is the curved elastomer brush, which, in combination with the waterproof formula, gives your eyelashes ultra length. You can layer it perfectly without it clumping.
This is what customers say:Leona Ullmann, Affiliate Beauty Editor at GLAMOR has ONLY used this mascara for years. “For me, no mascara comes close to this. And believe me, I have everything from high-end to mid-price to drugstorea lottested...
- Effect:Lengthening, defining
- Colors:Schwarz
- Waterproof?And
Hourglass / Douglas
Best mascara for a jet black look
Hourglass “Caution Extreme Lash”-Mascara
Why we love mascara: Do you want outstanding length, curl and volume? Hourglass' Caution Extreme Lash mascara delivers without question, with ultra-black pigment for a stunning finish. Plus: the formula doesn't smudge!
This is what customers say:Rumor has it that many users even gave up on their Dior mascara after discovering it.
- Effect:Volumizing, lengthening
- Colors:Schwarz
- Waterproof?No
Too Faced / Douglas
Best mascara for long-lasting effect
Too Faced “Better Than Sex”-Mascara
Why we love the mascara:While we can't necessarily guarantee that this mascara is better than sex, we can confirm that it's a pretty good product. Applied twice, it creates beautifully curved eyelashes that almost look like fake lashes. Thanks to its formulation with collagen and acacia extract, it also has a nourishing effect.
This is what customers say:There are many happy voices about this, one of which particularly impressed us: “This mascara is definitely the best on the market, I have had so many high-end mascaras and this is by far the best. My eyelashes stay up all day and always look so long.”
- Effect:Curling, “false lash effect”
- Colors:Black, brown
- Waterproof?No, butin a waterproof versionavailable
Chanel / Douglas
Best luxury volume mascara according to Stiftung Warentest
Chanel “Le Volume de Chanel”-Mascara
Why we love the mascara:Of course, this influencer favorite cannot be missing from the list. Chanel's “Le Volume de Chanel” ensures super voluminous lashes without clumps. If you're looking for a mascara that will give your lashes a dramatic transformation, then this is the product for you.
This is what customers say:They are thrilled with the quality. It seems as if many who have discovered this Chanel mascara will never give it up again.
- Effect:Volume-increasing, momentum-fixing
- Colors:Black, brown, midnight blue
- Waterproof?And
Charlotte Tilbury / Sephora
Best brown mascara
Charlotte Tilbury “Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes!”-Mascara
Why we love the mascara:This award-winning mascara is a true champion. It gives the lashes definition and volume and thus ensures a particularly intense “push-up look” - without clumping. With its high-quality formula, this mascara is easy to apply and is suitable for both everyday and evening wear. In addition to the new color “Berry Brown”, which is currently going viral, it is also available in classic black.
This is what customers say:The internet has gone crazy over the color “Berry Brown,” which the mascara is available in, among other things. Users love the light product that creates a great swing.
- Effect:Volumizing, lengthening, thickening
- Colors:Black, berry brown
- Waterproof?No
Pat McGrath Labs / Douglas
Best mascara with light texture
Pat McGrath Labs “Dark Star”-Mascara
Why we love the mascara:Transform your lashes with this mascara and expect instant intensity, delivering explosive volume with just a single coat. The luxurious formula provides a lightweight yet powerful layer of jet black color. What more could you ask for?
This is what customers say:The “Mother of Make-up” Pat McGrath can call this mascara from her own brand a bestseller. It is particularly popular because it separates the eyelashes so beautifully, creating a natural look.
- Effect:Defining, volumizing
- Colors:Deep black
- Waterproof?No
L’Oréal Paris / Douglas
Best narrow brush mascara
L’Oréal Paris “Telescopic Lift”-Mascara
Why we love the mascara:The slim, delicate applicator supports accuracy, especially if you want to separate the eyelashes very precisely. XXL length included. Ideal for definition. Perfect for anyone who struggles with their short eyelashes every day.
This is what customers say:Highly popular on Amazon: Almost 6,000 people have already rated the L'Oréal mascara - and the vast majority of them positively. And after this comment at the latest we are also convinced: “I’m telling you, I’ve never received as many compliments as with that one!”
- Effect:Ultra-lengthening
- Colors:Black, deep black
- Waterproof?No
Clinic / Douglas
Best mascara for a natural look
Clinique “High Impact”-Mascara
Why we love the mascara:It lengthens and separates the lashes really well. One layer is enough for a beautiful, natural look - perfect for a “no makeup” makeup day. However, the formula can also be built up.
This is what customers say:No matter which online shop you look at, the reviews for this mascara are consistently positive and usually five out of five stars.
- Effect:Fixing momentum, of course
- Colors:Black, black-brown
- Waterproof?No
M. Asam
Best mascara with serum
“Magic Finish Grow Serum Mascara” von Asam Beauty
Why we love the mascara:You loveeyelash serumand can't imagine life without this boost? Then you should make it easy for yourself in the future and choose a mascara that contains serum. This mascara from Asam Beauty has a serum care formula with argan oil, magnolia extract and a vegan growth complex that additionally strengthens the hair roots of your eyelashes.
This is what customers say:Serum and mascara in one - of course this is a real one for all of usWin. And the reviews confirm it, as the mascara from Asam Beauty receives almost exclusively positive comments.
- Effect:Nourishing, lengthening
- Colors:Deep black
- Waterproof?No
Max Factor / flaconi
Best mascara for neatly separated eyelashes
Max Factor “Masterpiece Max”-Mascara
Why we love the mascara:This mascara is a beauty team favorite. The brush, which is made of a flexible material, coats each eyelash without affecting the natural curl. For anyone who prefers separation to lumps, it's a must. And a real bargain at that.
This is what customers say:Amazon's tip and user favorite at the same time - this mascara is popular for its great price-performance ratio.
- Effect:Volume-increasing, densifying
- Colors:Black, black-brown
- Waterproof?No
