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Top 10 Best Waterproof Mascaras for Smudge-Proof Lashes in 2025

Whether you’re facing rain, tears, or summer heat, a great waterproof mascara is your best defense against smudging, flaking, and raccoon eyes. In 2025, beauty brands have stepped up their game with smudge-proof, long-lasting, and lash-loving formulas that don’t compromise on volume or length. If you’re searching for the perfect waterproof mascara to withstand your day (and night), this curated list covers the top 10 waterproof mascaras of 2025 that deliver drama and durability.


1. L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Waterproof Mascara

A cult favorite gets a waterproof twist. The Telescopic Waterproof version offers ultra-defined length with a slim, flexible wand that grabs every lash. It’s ideal for those who want precise, clean definition without smudging—even after hours of wear.

Why it’s great:

  • Great for sensitive eyes
  • Ultra-lengthening
  • Budget-friendly

2. Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara

This viral favorite continues its reign in 2025. Known for its flexible tower brush and sky-high lift, this waterproof formula adds serious length and separation while staying featherlight.

Why it’s great:

  • Bamboo-infused for lash strength
  • Waterproof without stiffness
  • All-day curl hold

3. Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara

Love bold, voluminous lashes? Monsieur Big delivers intense volume in a waterproof formula that lasts up to 24 hours. It’s perfect for events, sweat, or emotional days.

Why it’s great:

  • No flaking or fading
  • Great for dramatic looks
  • Rich, deep pigment

4. Benefit BADgal Bang! Waterproof Mascara

This fan-favorite mascara was upgraded with a waterproof formula that still delivers weightless volume and gravity-defying length. Its aeroparticles ensure big lash impact without weighing them down.

Why it’s great:

  • Water-resistant but buildable
  • Slim, tapered brush for precise application
  • Smudge-free for up to 36 hours

5. Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara

An iconic mascara that delivers thick, fluttery lashes with a waterproof hold. Its hourglass-shaped brush coats each lash while the film-forming polymer locks in curl and volume.

Why it’s great:

  • Intense black formula
  • Holds curl all day
  • Ideal for night-outs and weddings

6. Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara

This is the waterproof version of Tarte’s best-selling mascara, made with natural ingredients like rice bran and olive esters to nourish lashes while staying put in water, sweat, or tears.

Why it’s great:

  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Clean formula
  • Lashes look soft, not crunchy

7. Essence Lash Princess Waterproof Mascara

At a drugstore price point, Lash Princess still gives luxury-level results. The waterproof version of this fan-favorite mascara offers defined volume and long-lasting wear, perfect for daily use on a budget.

Why it’s great:

  • Under $6
  • Cruelty-free and ophthalmologist-tested
  • Dramatic results with no smudge

8. Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara

Designed for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, this mascara gives natural-looking volume and definition that holds up through rain, workouts, or a long commute.

Why it’s great:

  • Hypoallergenic
  • Fragrance-free
  • Easy to remove with waterproof makeup remover

9. Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Waterproof Mascara

For those who want luxury with performance, this mascara offers lash-lifting curl, bold volume, and waterproof staying power in one sleek tube. The curved brush is ideal for lifting every lash.

Why it’s great:

  • Lash-curling and sculpting
  • Luxurious formula
  • Ultra-black pigment

10. Heroine Make Long and Curl Waterproof Mascara

This Japanese beauty cult favorite is beloved for its extreme curl hold, waterproof power, and lasting definition. It’s nearly bulletproof but still gentle enough for daily use.

Why it’s great:

  • Excellent for oily lids or humid weather
  • Lash-curling power like no other
  • Super long wear (but requires oil-based remover)

Final Thoughts

In 2025, waterproof mascaras are more advanced than ever—offering smudge-proof technology, nourishing ingredients, and performance-level wear without sacrificing lash health. Whether you need a mascara to survive your 10-hour workday, your next beach vacation, or just an emotional movie night, there’s something on this list for every lash type and budget.

Pro Tip: Always remove waterproof mascara gently using an oil-based remover or cleansing balm to protect your lashes from breakage. With the right mascara and care routine, you can have unstoppable, flawless lashes—rain or shine.

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