11 Best Drugstore Mascaras for Volume & Length

There’s no denying that mascara is the unsung hero of every makeup bag. With just a few swipes, it can take your look from tired to wide-awake, natural to glamorous, and everything in between. But here’s the best part—you don’t need to spend a fortune to get those voluminous, fluttery lashes.

Our beauty editors have tested dozens of formulas, from waterproof wonders to lash-lengthening mascaras, and we’ve narrowed it down to the 11 best drugstore mascaras that truly deliver. These picks rival luxury brands in performance, staying power, and style—without the designer price tag.

Why Drugstore Mascaras Are Beauty Game-Changers

Once upon a time, “drugstore” meant compromise. But not anymore! Today’s drugstore mascaras rival high-end ones with innovative brushes, rich pigment, and smudge-resistant formulas.

Here’s why they’re must-haves:

• Affordable Luxury: Get salon-quality results for a fraction of the price.
  
  

• High Performance: Advanced formulas now offer volume, curl, and length in one stroke.
  
  

• Easy Accessibility: Available at your local store or online—no waiting for shipping.
  
  

• Cruelty-Free Options: Many drugstore brands now lead the charge in ethical beauty.
  
  

So, whether you crave sky-high length or ultra-thick volume, there’s a budget-friendly volumizing mascara out there for you.

How to Choose the Best Drugstore Mascara

When it comes to finding your perfect lash match, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Consider these key factors:

• Brush Type: Curved brushes enhance curl; straight brushes add definition.
  
  

• Formula: Look for volumizing, lengthening, or curling depending on your lash goals.
  
  

• Waterproof or Washable: Waterproof lasts longer, while washable is easier to remove.
  
  

• Lash Type: Sparse lashes need thickening formulas; long lashes need lifting formulas.
  
  

💡 Pro Tip: If you want both volume and length, try layering two mascaras—one volumizing, one lengthening—for a custom effect.

The 11 Best Drugstore Mascaras, Tested by Editors

1. L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara

Often called the dupe for Too Faced Better Than Sex, this mascara gives instant volume and curl with zero clumps.

Why We Love It:

• Silky, smooth texture
  
  

• Intense color payoff
  
  

• Long-lasting without flaking
  
  

2. Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

This viral sensation lives up to the hype. The flexible brush reaches even the tiniest lashes, giving a lengthening and lifting effect.

Best For: Creating sky-high lashes with a featherlight feel.

3. CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara

A timeless classic, this bright orange tube delivers massive volume with a single swipe.

Why It’s Iconic:

• Smudge-proof
  
  

• Great for daily wear
  
  

• Available in waterproof and washable formulas
  
  

4. e.l.f. Big Mood Volumizing Mascara

For dramatic lashes on a budget, e.l.f.’s Big Mood mascara is unbeatable. Its hourglass brush hugs every lash for intense lift and volume.

Bonus: It’s cruelty-free and vegan.

5. Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara

This internet-famous mascara is a cult favorite for a reason. It creates a false lash effect without extensions or falsies.

Editor Verdict:

• Incredible length and curl
  
  

• Only a few dollars—yes, really!
  
  

6. Revlon So Fierce! Big Bad Lash Mascara

If bold, statement lashes are your vibe, this mascara delivers serious volume and drama.

Why It’s Great:

• Buildable formula
  
  

• Adds intensity without clumping
  
  

7. Milani Highly Rated 10-in-1 Volume Mascara

A clean, cruelty-free formula that checks all the boxes: volume, length, lift, and definition.

Editor Favorite: Ideal for sensitive eyes.

8. NYX On The Rise Volume Liftscara

This hybrid mascara gives you both lift and volume, thanks to its unique hourglass-shaped brush.

Perfect For: Those who want curled, fanned-out lashes all day long.

9. Neutrogena Healthy Volume Mascara

Infused with olive oil and vitamin E, this mascara nourishes lashes while enhancing them.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Dermatologist-tested
  
  

• Ideal for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
  
  

10. Rimmel London Scandaleyes Retro Glam Mascara

Get that 60s-inspired wide-eyed look with bold, voluminous lashes.

Pro Tip: Wiggle the brush at the base of your lashes for a lifted curl.

11. Physicians Formula Organic Wear Natural Origin Mascara

For the eco-conscious beauty lover, this mascara is 100% natural origin and free from harsh chemicals.

Why It’s a Winner:

• Gentle on lashes
  
  

• Adds soft, fluttery definition
  
  

How to Apply Mascara Like a Pro

Even the best drugstore mascara won’t perform if it’s applied incorrectly. Here’s how to get the most out of every tube:

1. Curl Your Lashes: Start with a lash curler to lift your eyes.
   
   

2. Wiggle the Wand: Apply from root to tip, wiggling slightly for maximum coverage.
   
   

3. Layer Strategically: Let each coat dry for 10 seconds before adding more.
   
   

4. Separate Clumps: Use a clean spoolie to comb through lashes.
   
   

5. Seal the Deal: Apply a waterproof coat on top for long wear.
   
   

💄 Bonus Tip: Replace your mascara every three months to prevent clumping and bacteria buildup.

Volumizing vs. Lash-Lengthening Mascara: Which Do You Need?

You can also mix both—start with a lengthening formula, then layer a volumizing mascara for the ultimate lash look.

Editor’s Tips for Long-Lasting Lashes

• Avoid pumping the wand—it lets in air and dries the product.
  
  

• Store your mascara at room temperature.
  
  

• Use micellar water or oil-based remover for easy, gentle cleansing.
  
  

• Always apply mascara after eyeshadow to prevent fallout on lashes.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Luxury doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. These 11 best drugstore mascaras prove you can achieve full, fluttery lashes without spending big bucks. From volumizing mascaras that thicken every strand to lash-lengthening formulas that reach new heights—there’s a perfect match for every lash type and budget.

✨ Ready to upgrade your lash game? Explore our full range of makeup essentials and find your next go-to mascara for every occasion.

Suggested Internal Links:

• Explore our latest makeup and beauty collection
  
  

• Shop our top-rated eye makeup products
  
  

• Read: 10 Best Eyeliners for Everyday Wear
  
  

Suggested External Links:

• Allure: Best Drugstore Mascaras of the Year
  
  

• Byrdie: Editor-Tested Mascara Reviews
  
  

• Vogue Beauty Guide