10 Best Colored Mascaras for When You Want to Stand Out From the Crowd
We are of the religion that a makeup look isn’t fully finished without a coat of mascara. And can you blame us? There’s nothing like the high of getting larger-than-life lashes that makes everything extra dramatic. Nowadays, there are so many different mascara formulas on the market that can help you create any look you can dream up. And with the rise of colored mascara, the possibilities are truly endless.
Whether you’re wanting to experiment with colored mascaras, want a more affordable option, or want to find something that takes the place of your everyday black or brown formula, we have the lowdown on all of the best colored mascaras available right now—plus some bonus application tips to make the most of your new favorite color makeup product.
1. Best for Beginners:
MAYBELLINE Great Lash Royal Blue Washable Mascara
This iconic mascara formula is already known for taking lashes to new lengths, so the fact that it now comes in a rich royal blue shade is an added bonus. Hypoallergenic and suitable for contact-wearers, this mascara delivers extra length and volume for a hyped up look. Plus, this blue color adds an understated edge to any eye look, making it a great starter shade for those wary of bright colors.
2. Best Color Options:
THRIVE CAUSEMETICS Liquid Lash™ Extensions Mascara
When a brand offers more than just blue mascara, you know it’s a unique find. THRIVE CAUSEMETICS has a plethora of fun colors to choose from, like purple, green, and even pink in its signature Liquid Lash™ formula. This blend helps lengthen each lash and is boosted by flake-free technology so you can wear it all day long without it smudging off.
3. Best Clump-Free:
COLOURPOP BFF Volumizing Mascara
COLOURPOP can do no wrong, and this clump-free formula proves it. The twisted nylon fiber brush actually combs and separates through each lash, so your eyes will be packed with bold, bright color. Are we brave enough to try red lashes? We say yes!
4. Best Budget:
L.A. Girl Volumatic Mascara
This mascara takes your lashes to the next level without breaking the bank. It volumizes, lifts your lashes, and provides water-resistant coverage for a look that won’t smudge. In addition to the traditional black and brown shades, you can choose from the beautiful gem-like pigments of blue, purple, or turquoise.
5. Best Thickening:
CHANEL Le Volume de Chanel in Blue Night
This high-precision mascara delivers instant volume and thicker-looking lashes in a single stroke. The brush has a unique combination of short and long bristles that coat each lash in a unique deep blue shade that makes any eye color pop. To take your look up a notch, pair with a bronze eyeliner.
6. Best Pigments:
CIATÉ LONDON Keep an Eye on Coloured Mascara
Heads up: This mascara is not for the shy. While many color mascaras deliver just a subtle tint of color, these fun-filled shades are bright and have a high color payoff for a vibrant look that you won’t miss. It comes in three shades: Be - Bold (a rich teal), Be - Brave (a bright pink), and Be - Happy (a standout neon yellow). Wear them alone for a dramatic look or layer them over your favorite black mascara.
7. Best Curling:
EPILYNX Long Lashes Mascara
The curved brush is the secret to achieving a sky-high curl. This mascara from EPILYNX is nut-free, vegan, and waterproof. Festival season is begging us to swipe a few coats of this bold color on.
8. Best Volumizing:
SHISEIDO ControlledChaos MascaraInk
This collection of colored mascaras has the green mascara of your dreams. The unique brush design features concave sides to boost volume and a flat side to lift your lashes, and it pumps out the bottom without weighing down your lashes for clump-free, smudge-free color. Choose from Emerald Energy, Violet Vibe, or Sapphire Spark.
Pro tip: To enhance the color of your mascara, pair with an eyeliner of the same color or a contrasting color for a color-blocked beauty moment.
9. Best Shimmer:
UNDONE BEAUTY Light On Holographic
If you’re not quite ready for a brightly colored mascara but you’re still interested in a unique finish, this holographic mascara is for you. The blue-black shimmer finish reflects light for a boosted, dimensional lash look. Plus, the formula contains castor oil to nourish and condition your lashes.
10. Best Water-Resistant:
HALF MAGIC BEAUTY Eyelectric Extreme Lengthening Mascara
Sometimes waterproof mascaras can be a little too intimidating, which is where water-resistant formulas come in. Unlike waterproof mascara, water-resistant mascara generally comes in tubing formulas (like with this one from HALF MAGIC) that slide off easily with warm water when you’re ready to remove it. This formula comes in three different colors, including this stunning bright purple.
Pro tip: Pair this gorgeous shade with a simple matte eyeshadow look for glam that stands out without being over the top.
Want in on all the IPSY fun? Take our Beauty Quiz now to get started with your own IPSY beauty subscription. Already an IPSY member? Refer your friends to earn points, which you can use toward products. Either way, don’t forget to check us out on Instagram and TikTok @IPSY.
Like this article? Share it with your friends by clicking the icons below!