The Best Waterproof Mascara: Pool-Proof & Smudge-Free

Hot days, sweaty commutes, teary moments, spontaneous dips in the sea, there’s no shortage of things threatening your lash game in summer. That’s where the hero of the season comes in: waterproof mascara.

If you’ve tried one in the past and ended up with crunchy lashes or panda eyes anyway, we get it, not all waterproof formulas are created equal. But fret not, we’ve done the legwork and rounded up the best waterproof mascara formulas that actually stay put, so whatever your day (or night) throws at you, your fluttery lashes won’t budge.

What Makes a Mascara Waterproof, Anyway?

It all comes down to the ingredients. Most waterproof mascaras are made with film-forming agents and water-repelling waxes (like beeswax or carnauba), which help the formula grip to your lashes and resist water, sweat and humidity.

The upside is reliable all-day wear, smudge-proof lashes, and no flaking halfway through the day. But there can be downsides; these mascaras can be trickier to remove, and if used daily, some can be drying. But used in the right moments, the best waterproof mascara can be a total lash lifesaver.

When You Actually Need Waterproof Mascara

There are moments when regular mascara just won’t cut it. Think: weddings, beach holidays, sweaty summer gigs, intense gym sessions or even a good old cry to a romcom. The best waterproof mascara for swimming is especially useful on pool or spa days when you want to look put-together and still take a dip.

It’s also a must if you have oily eyelids or find that mascara tends to transfer. Just keep in mind that waterproof formulas are best saved for those occasions; they’re not always gentle enough for daily wear, especially if you don’t remove them properly.

The Best Waterproof Mascaras to Try

These tried-and-tested favourites deliver volume, curl, and drama, with none of the smudging.

How to Remove Waterproof Mascara

Waterproof mascara is built to last, which means it takes a bit more effort to remove. The usual micellar water or foaming cleanser won’t cut it here. Instead, reach for an oil-based makeup remover or a rich cleansing balm. These formulas are designed to break down the stubborn waxes and film-forming agents that give waterproof mascaras their long-wear power.

Start by soaking a cotton pad with your chosen eye make-up remover, then gently press it over your closed eyelid for 10 to 15 seconds. This allows the product to dissolve the mascara without any harsh rubbing. After holding, gently wipe downwards, not back and forth, to avoid tugging at the delicate lash line. You might need to repeat the process once or twice, depending on how much mascara you’ve applied.

Whatever you do, resist the urge to scrub or pull at your lashes; not only is it uncomfortable, but it can also lead to breakage and lash fallout over time. Once all traces are gone, finish with a hydrating eye cream or apply a nourishing lash serum to keep your lashes strong, soft and ready for their next glam moment.

When regular mascara melts or smudges, the best waterproof mascara is your ride-or-die. From poolside lounging to dancefloor sweating, the right formula can handle it all. Keep one in your handbag, your holiday kit or your festival backpack, and be ready for whatever comes your way.

Smudge-proof, sweat-proof, sob-proof lashes? Consider it done.

For more budge-proof and summer-approved makeup, check out our guide on The Best Lip Tint For A Smudge-Proof Summer Pout.