Credit: Best brown mascara
3 min read
Brown mascara is one of the most overlooked beauty items – here’s why you shouldn’t sleep on it.
The power of a brown mascara should never be underestimated. Sure, it might feel a bit retro, maybe it’s the sort of thing your mum raved about back in the 90s, but it’s a product that’s having something of a resurgence and we couldn’t be happier about it.
Of course, there’s always a place for black mascara. Its ability to define and add the perfect finishing touch to pretty much any make-up look is unrivalled, but sometimes a brown mascara can be more effective.
The thing we love about it is that it’s not as bold, so it’s perfect for those no make-up make-up days, and it creates a more natural-looking finish. But it goes without saying that the right brown mascara will still lengthen, lift and add volume to lashes, and it’s important to know that it can still make all eye colours pop. In fact, it’s the best way to create a beautiful, multi-tonal look when paired with other neutral shades.
But, as with everything, not all brown mascaras are made equal. That’s why we’ve rounded up our favourite tried-and-tested formulas that’ll help make your life easier.
Best brown mascara 2023
L’Oréal Paris Lash Paradise Moonlight Noir Mascara in Dark Brown
One of the very best brown mascaras, this one doesn’t budge or smudge. It’s the perfect shade, lengthens as well as it separates and it sits on the more affordable end of the spectrum.
Shop L’Oréal Paris Lash Paradise Moonlight Noir Mascara in Dark Brown at Sainsbury’s, £13
Glossier Lash Slick in Brown
Glossier answered a lot of prayers when it (finally) launched its bestselling mascara in this shade of brown. The same formula we all know and love, it’s perfect for adding a touch of definition without being too OTT. It’s easy to remove, too.
Sculpted by Aimee MyMascara in Brown
When make-up artist Aimee Connolly launched her first mascara, the most-asked question from her customers was when would it be available in brown. And so, this formula was born. The clever brush works to coat every single lash and the formula is enriched with pro vitamin B5 for healthier lashes.
Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara in Brown
The mascara that went viral last year now comes in a well-pigmented shade of brown. The formula contains bamboo extract fibres to help strengthen and lengthen lashes, while the bendable brush helps to ensure each and every lash is coated.
Shop Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara in Brown at Superdrug, £11.99
Sweed Lashes Lash Lift Mascara in Dark Brown
Promising to lift and lengthen, this mascara has a slim brush that helps to catch even the smallest of lashes. The formula is water resistant, easy to remove and suitable for anybody who has sensitive eyes.
Shop Sweed Lashes Lash Lift Mascara in Dark Brown at LookFantastic, £22
Lancôme Hypnôse Mascara in Brun Hypnotic
Arguably one of the most iconic mascaras of our time, Lancôme Hypnôse formula in brown is a real winner. A volumising formula that works to create longer, fuller-looking lashes without smudging or clumping, it contains emollient waxes and a polymer system for maximum impact.
Shop Lancôme Hypnôse Mascara in Brun Hypnotic at LookFantastic, £29
Clinique High Impact Mascara in Black/Brown
Another iconic formula, Clinique’s tubing mascara adds volume, definition and length. The unique brush and formula work in tandem to thicken lashes, and the deep black/brown shade makes it the ideal your-lashes-but-better colour.
Shop Clinique High Impact Mascara in Black/Brown at Boots, £24
Images: courtesy of brands
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