The Best Drugstore Mascaras — For Every Lash Type

Mascara is one of the major workhorses in our makeup routine—and there is truly a tube out there for everyone. From volume-seeking gals to those just wishing for a totally clump-free formula, mascara consumers can be pretty picky about what they coat on their lashes. But what if you’re looking to find a formula that works for your lashes and won’t totally break your bank?

Well, we’re the bearers of good news: There are drugstore mascaras out there, which quite frankly, are just as good as what you’ll find at the department store makeup counter. And the best part? Being able to afford three different tubes for three different lash looks. Hello, options! 

Many applications later, here’s what we’ve rounded up that's worth your time—‘just OK’ contenders weeded out—no matter what lash type you’re looking to suit. 

Best for short lashes:
Physicians Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Mascara 
$7.49

The marriage of the rubberized bristles with a thick, football-shaped wand makes it super easy to reach all lashes, no matter how nonexistent they may seem. Plus, the formula won't irritate even the most senstive of eyes. Good for making the most of what you’ve got. 

Good for your run-of-the-mill, average lashes:
Maybelline Lash Sensational 
$6.74

It’s all in the name—this mascara is a sensational win across the board. Its 10 layers of bristles glide the formula on effortlessly without any goopy clumping. And because of the aforementioned wand, you’ll be left with full, feathery looking lashes. 

Sparse lashes looking for volume:
Maybelline New York Volum’ Express Falsies Big Eyes 
$9.49

This brush is the most innovative of the bunch (but sans battery-powered, eye-endangering vibrations). One end of the double-sided brush has plush bristles specifically for your top lashes, while the skinner end caters to the lower lash line where tiny hairs can easily be swiped over. The lash effect is certainly woodland-animal fantasy. 

You’ve got the length, but you want curl:
Rimmel London Wonder'lash Lift Me Up 
$8.99

Even if you’re a seasoned veteran with an eyelash curler, sometimes your lashes need that extra curve. This green tube has got so much lift that it will have you considering retiring your curler to your bathroom drawer. 

Best for lashes going to take plunge:
L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Waterproof 
$8.99

There comes a moment in every girl’s life (or, rather, every mascara-wearers life) where she finds herself sporting some eyelash coating goo well below her lash line, aka looking like a raccoon. Rocking an unintentional drippy eye is embarrassing, but never fear, L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Waterproof is on your side. Many waterproof mascaras are prone to drying out lashes and causing breakage, but this formula conditions as it gives you your best lashes yet, through water, rain, tears or sweat.