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10 of the best waterproof mascaras for hay fever sufferers
By Holly Bullock &Charlotte Bitmead
17 days ago
All products on this page have been selected by the editorial team, however Stylist may make commission on some products purchased through affiliate links in this article
3 min read
On the hunt for a mascara that can withstand everything the onset of spring has to throw at it? Whether you’re looking for length, definition or volume, these waterproof formulas have you covered.
It’s 7.30am. You’ve woken up and have been sitting on the end of your bed looking at Instagram for far longer than feels good to admit (we know from experience), and now it’s time for make-up. As anyone who counts pollen as their kryptonite will know, this is where things get tricky. And while the panda-esque smudginess of Hay Fever Eye™ is definitely a look, it might not the look that works best for your first morning meeting.
With around one in four of us suffering from hay fever, and symptoms starting earlier and lasting longer for those who live in cities, finding a mascara that can withstand watery eyes feels like a worthy mission.
The good news is that your perfect match is out there, whether you’re looking for a subtle, barely-there slick of colour or an all-out coating of eye-defining volume. Here are the best waterproof mascaras to help you make it through your commute smudge-free.
Best waterproof mascaras
Mac MacStack Waterproof Mascara
As the name suggests, buildability is this formula’s raison d’etre. If you like to switch between subtle definition and big, feathery impact, the spiky plastic wand will comb through your lashes so you can apply multiple layers without forming clumps.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara
This showstopper formula has a loyal following online, and it’s easy to see why it has secured a spot in so many make-up bags. The bendy wand helps you get to roots of your lashes, and fibres in the formula build length.
Shop Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara at Boots, £12.99
Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Waterproof Mascara
Boasting 24-hour rain-proof wear, this mascara is a pro at delivering a fluttery, waterproof eye look. If you’re always after a bit of lift, the curved wand allows you to reach roots and fan out lashes with minimal effort.
Shop Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Waterproof Mascara at Boots, £35
Beauty Pie The Perfect Waterproof Mascara
This is a must on my packing list whenever I jet off somewhere sunny. It provides long, glossy lashes with added definition and no smudging. I’ve tested it while swimming in the sea and lounging by the pool, and it doesn’t budge.
Shop Beauty Pie The Perfect Waterproof Mascara at Beauty Pie, £20 for members, £28 for non-members
L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Lift Waterproof Mascara
The original formula is known for its voluminous results, and this waterproof version is no different. The jet-black pigment coats every individual lash to leave you with a full falsy effect.
Shop L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Lift Waterproof Mascara at Boots, £12.99
Max Factor Masterpiece HD Waterproof Volumising Mascara
The tapered brush allows you to reach every little lash, while the formula perfectly separates and defines individual hairs. Whether you’ve got hay fever or are a daily swimmer, this is guaranteed not to run or smudge, no matter the weather.
Shop Max Factor Masterpiece HD Waterproof Volumising Mascara at Boots, £12.99
Suqqu Eyelash Waterproof Mascara
From one of the original J-beauty stalwarts, this oil-based formula helps to moisturise lashes and leave them feeling nourished. With both a black and brown option, it’ll keep no-make-up make-up fans happy.
Byredo Tears in Rain Waterproof Mascara
Let’s get the obvious out of the way: this is the chicest mascara packaging we’ve seen. But the tube isn’t Byredo’s only achievement here – the smaller-than-usual wand gives the look of lash extensions with fluttery volume.
Shop Byredo Tears in Rain Waterproof Mascara at Space NK, £40
Revolution Big Lash Waterproof Volume Mascara
Subtlety can only get you so far, and this full-on mascara is perfect for anyone who loves high-drama lashes. The wand is so huge that it takes mere seconds to apply, but the waterproof effect lasts all day.
Shop Revolution Big Lash Waterproof Volume Mascara at Boots, £4.99
Lancôme Hypnôse Waterproof Mascara
If you’re devoted to your eyelash curler, this much-hyped mascara is an obvious port of call. Zig-zag the skinny wand from root to tip to set your lashes in place for a full-on look that won’t fall victim to watery eyes.
Images: courtesy of brands
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