Your waterproof mascara questions, answered:
Do waterproof mascaras actually work?
In short: yes, the best waterproof mascaras do exactly what they promise. Unlike regular mascaras, which can start to smudge, flake, or run at the first sign of moisture, waterproof formulas are designed with long-lasting polymers and waxes that form a seal around your lashes. This means they won’t budge through rain, teary moments, sweaty spin classes, or humid holidays. The result? Smudge-free, defined lashes that look freshly applied even after hours of wear.
That said, not all waterproof mascaras perform equally well. Some formulas prioritise hold and curl (making them a lifesaver if your lashes are naturally straight), while others lean more volumising or lengthening. The key is finding one that balances staying power with comfort, since certain waterproof formulas can feel drying or stiff if worn daily.
How are waterproof mascaras different from regular mascaras?
At first glance, waterproof and regular mascaras might look and apply the same — both give you that satisfying lash lift, definition and colour payoff. But the difference lies in the ingredients. Waterproof mascaras contain special film-forming agents, waxes and polymers that literally coat each lash in a water-repellent layer. This creates a barrier that prevents moisture from breaking down the formula, meaning it won’t smudge or transfer even in the face of sweat, tears or rain.
What is the difference between waterproof and water-resistant mascara?
The difference comes down to how much water exposure a formula can handle. Waterproof mascaras are built to withstand it all — full-on tears, swimming, intense humidity — with polymers and waxes that lock onto lashes and don’t break down until you use an oil-based cleanser. They’re your safest bet when you need completely smudge-proof wear.
Water-resistant mascaras, on the other hand, sit in the middle ground. They’ll hold up against light mist, drizzle, or the odd watery eye, but won’t necessarily survive a dip in the pool or a sweaty gym session. They’re often easier to remove than fully waterproof versions, making them a good choice if you want longer wear than regular mascara but don’t fancy the commitment of having to deal with the trickier removal process of a waterproof formula.
Think of it like this: waterproof mascara is your heavy-duty raincoat, while water-resistant mascara is more of a chic trench coat — protective to a point, but not made for a downpour.
How to apply waterproof mascara:
We spoke with Adeola to determine the best waterproof mascara application tips to get a flake-free finish and to see if you need to do anything special in comparison to regular formulas.
“When applying waterproof mascara, I always make sure my lashes are clean,” she shares. “If you have oily eyelids, a light dusting of powder beforehand can help the mascara adhere better and achieve optimal results.”
“Start by applying the mascara at the base of your lashes [by the lash line], wiggling the wand upwards to evenly coat each lash and add volume. For extra definition, use the tip of the wand to reach the smaller lashes in the corners of your eyes.”
Adeola also recommends using a compact mirror and resting your elbow on a table for stability. “Tilt your head back slightly and look down into the mirror to ensure you can coat every lash without getting mascara on your lids.”
How to remove waterproof mascara
“The long-lasting nature makes waterproof mascara perfect for special occasions, but it has the caveat that it is difficult to remove and can make lashes dry and brittle,” says Ruby Hammer MBE, makeup artist and founder of Ruby Hammer Beauty.
It’s just as important to pair the best waterproof mascara with a gentle but effective eye makeup remover or cleanser to help lift it away completely without tugging or damaging your lashes. Many of the eye makeup removers in our tried-and-tested edit are tough on waterproof mascara but gentle on the eyes – and formulated specifically with waterproof mascara in mind. Take the Bioderma Sensibio Cleansing Micellar Water Sensitive Skin, for example. Fragrance-free and irritation-free, it works an absolute treat, making it a ‘must’ for your skincare kit.
Elsewhere, try cleansing your eyes with cold cream – a particularly good method for dry skin – or use natural alternatives like baby oil and almond oil.
In terms of the correct technique, Ruby says that a common mistake is not leaving the remover to actually do its job. “If you wait, it simply wipes away without any pressure,” she says.
Ruby also recommends soaking a cotton pad (or microfibre pad) with the remover and holding it on the eye for a few seconds to allow it to break the product down before wiping off. This way, you shouldn’t have to be rough with removal.
Are tubing mascaras waterproof?
Not exactly — tubing mascaras aren’t technically classed as waterproof, but they are highly smudge-resistant. Instead of coating lashes in a traditional wax-based formula, tubing mascaras wrap each lash in tiny polymer “tubes” that set once dry. These tubes are designed to grip onto the lashes firmly, meaning they’ll stay put without smearing, flaking or transferring throughout the day.
Where they differ from waterproof mascaras is in removal. While a waterproof formula typically needs an oil or balm cleanser to break it down, tubing mascaras come off with just warm water and gentle pressure — the tubes literally slide off the lashes in tiny filaments.
That said, tubing mascaras won’t hold up in the same way if you’re fully submerged in water. Think of them as a middle ground: more durable than regular mascaras, but not quite as bulletproof as true waterproof formulas.
Feeling inspired to upgrade your makeup routine with more beauty products? Check out our guides on the best bronzers, best concealers, best lightweight foundations, best cream blushes and best liquid blushes. We can also help you pick the best lipstick, best highlighter, best eyebrow product, best setting spray and more.
