You don’t need to splurge on a $30 mascara to get long, fluttery lashes—especially when it comes to brown mascara, which is often overlooked in both high-end and drugstore aisles. The good news? Several affordable options rival their luxury counterparts in performance, wear, and finish. Whether you’re after a soft, natural look or dramatic definition without the harshness of black, this guide rounds up the best drugstore brown mascaras that are solid dupes for popular high-end favorites.
1. L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara in Brown
💄 Dupe For: Lancôme Hypnôse Mascara in Brown
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
This cult-favorite drugstore mascara builds volume without clumps and provides a rich, warm brown tone similar to Lancôme’s high-end formula. It’s also made by the same parent company.
Price Comparison:
- L’Oréal: ~$9
- Lancôme: ~$33
Bonus: Great for building drama while still looking soft on lighter complexions.
2. Maybelline Lash Sensational Washable Mascara in Brownish Black
💄 Dupe For: Benefit They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara in Beyond Brown
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
The curved brush and multi-length bristles mimic the lash-separating effects of Benefit’s signature wand. It fans out lashes beautifully and holds a curl well.
Price Comparison:
- Maybelline: ~$11
- Benefit: ~$28
Best For: Short, straight lashes that need curl and length.
3. CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara in Brown
💄 Dupe For: Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara in Brown
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
Delivers bold volume and intensity, minus the high-end price. While Better Than Sex is known for its hourglass brush, Lash Blast uses a thick-bristled wand to similar volumizing effect.
Price Comparison:
- CoverGirl: ~$9
- Too Faced: ~$28
Standout Feature: Buildable formula with excellent staying power.
4. Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara in Brown (Limited Edition or Online)
💄 Dupe For: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes in Dreamy Brown
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
Essence’s budget-friendly formula lengthens and defines without flaking or smudging. While not always available in brown in stores, you can find it online or in seasonal drops.
Price Comparison:
- Essence: ~$5
- Charlotte Tilbury: ~$29
Best For: Anyone who wants big impact on a budget.
5. e.l.f. Big Mood Mascara in Deep Brown
💄 Dupe For: Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara in Soft Brown
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
With a vegan formula and a clean-beauty reputation, e.l.f.’s Big Mood brings similar results to Ilia: lifted, defined lashes and a non-irritating wear.
Price Comparison:
- e.l.f.: ~$7
- Ilia: ~$28
Extra Win: Great option for those with sensitive eyes or who prefer cruelty-free beauty.
6. NYX Worth the Hype Volumizing & Lengthening Mascara in Brownish Black
💄 Dupe For: Glossier Lash Slick in Brown
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
While not a tubing mascara like Glossier, NYX’s formula delivers natural-looking length and a featherlight finish, ideal for minimalist makeup lovers.
Price Comparison:
- NYX: ~$9
- Glossier: ~$18
Perfect For: Soft, everyday looks or no-makeup makeup styles.
7. Milani Highly Rated Anti-Gravity Mascara in Brown
💄 Dupe For: Dior Diorshow Mascara in Brown
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
Milani’s formula offers serious lift, curl, and pigment. The brush is thick and dense, giving Diorshow-like results without the luxury markup.
Price Comparison:
- Milani: ~$11
- Dior: ~$32
Bonus: Vegan and cruelty-free.
What to Look for When Shopping for a Dupe
Even if you’re shopping in the drugstore aisle, there are key features to prioritize:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| True brown pigment | Avoid grayish or dull shades |
| Smudge-proof formula | Keeps lashes clean throughout the day |
| Comfortable brush shape | For easy application and lash separation |
| No flaking or clumping | A must for smooth, soft volume |
| Long wear without dryness | Keeps lashes supple and healthy |
Final Thoughts
The beauty world is filled with affordable brown mascara gems that perform just as well—if not better—than their luxury-priced counterparts. Whether you’re going for length, lift, volume, or a clean formula, there’s a drugstore dupe for every lash need.
💰 Top Picks by Category:
- Best Overall Dupe: Maybelline Lash Sensational in Brownish Black
- Best for Volume: CoverGirl Lash Blast in Brown
- Best Clean Beauty Alternative: e.l.f. Big Mood in Deep Brown
- Best Ultra-Budget Find: Essence Lash Princess in Brown
Save your splurge for another product—your perfect brown mascara is just a drugstore aisle away.