Quick verdict
L'Oréal Telescopic Lift Waterproof is the best all-around pick for lifted, curled lashes at a drugstore price. Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof is the top choice for dramatic volume and hold. For precise, separated lashes that look polished from every angle, Lancôme Définicils is the prestige standard.
L'Oréal Paris Telescopic Lift Waterproof Mascara
L'Oréal's Telescopic Lift is designed specifically for lift, curl, and length - everything you want to lock in with a waterproof formula. The elongating spoolie brush catches every lash from root to tip, and the waterproof formula sets the curled shape firmly without stiffness or clumping.
Check price on Amazon →The best waterproof mascaras for curled lashes combine a lifting formula with sweat-proof, smudge-proof staying power. These five keep your curl locked from morning to night - through humidity, tears, and everything in between.
Getting your lashes curled is only half the challenge – keeping that curl lifted through a full day is where most mascaras fail. Humidity, sweat, and the natural weight of product all conspire to drag curled lashes back down within hours.
The solution is a waterproof mascara specifically formulated to lock in curl and lift. These five deliver exactly that, with varying emphasis on length, volume, and staying power.
Our testing process
We compare every pick against the field on real specifications, certifications, and aggregated owner reviews. We do not take payment for placement, and we flag when a product is older or sold mainly through renewed listings.
Quick comparison
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| L'Oréal Paris Telescopic Lift Waterproof Mascara | Check price | ||
| Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof Mascara | Check price | ||
| Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara | Check price | ||
| Benefit They're Real! Waterproof Lengthening Mascara | Check price | ||
| Lancôme Définicils High Definition Waterproof Mascara | Check price |
Reviewed in detail
L'Oréal Paris Telescopic Lift Waterproof Mascara
L'Oréal's Telescopic Lift is designed specifically for lift, curl, and length - everything you want to lock in with a waterproof formula. The elongating spoolie brush catches every lash from root to tip, and the waterproof formula sets the curled shape firmly without stiffness or clumping.
Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof Mascara
Great Lash has been a beauty staple for decades, and the waterproof version is just as reliable. The soft, flexible brush separates lashes naturally without clumping, and the buildable formula lets you control volume. It's the best everyday option when you want a natural, polished look that stays in place.
Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara
The waterproof version of Too Faced's bestseller delivers the same dramatic volume and curl with long-wearing staying power. The hourglass-shaped brush grips lashes from the root, pushing volume up and out while the waterproof formula locks the curl in place through workouts and humid climates.
Benefit They're Real! Waterproof Lengthening Mascara
Benefit's signature ball-tipped brush is a unique design that pushes into the lash line and sweeps each lash outward and upward. The waterproof formula holds this fanned-out, curled shape remarkably well, and the lengthening effect makes lashes appear significantly longer without heavy clumping.
Lancôme Définicils High Definition Waterproof Mascara
Lancôme's Définicils has long been a prestige beauty standby for definition and precision. The waterproof formula uses a separating wand that fans each individual lash, creating a high-definition effect that looks as good close up as it does across a room. It holds curl beautifully with no flaking.
How to choose
Formula and finish
For curled lashes, choose a lengthening or lifting formula over a heavy volumizing one. Dense, heavy formulas drag curled lashes back down faster.
Wand shape
A curved or tapered wand helps maintain and enhance the curled shape from your lash curler. Ball-tipped wands (like Benefit's) are excellent for working into the root.
Waterproofing strength
Look for formulas described as "sweat-proof" and "humidity-resistant" in addition to waterproof - these terms indicate a stronger film-forming formula.
Removal compatibility
The best waterproof mascaras come with clear guidance on removal. Those that require oil-based removers indicate the formula is genuinely waterproof rather than just water-resistant.
Conditioning ingredients
Some waterproof formulas include panthenol or vitamin E to offset the drying effect of film-forming polymers. These are gentler on lashes for frequent wear.
The bottom line
L'Oréal Telescopic Lift Waterproof is the best all-around pick for lifted, curled lashes at a drugstore price. Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof is the top choice for dramatic volume and hold. For precise, separated lashes that look polished from every angle, Lancôme Définicils is the prestige standard.
Common questions
Waterproof formulas are generally more drying than regular mascara due to their film-forming polymers, so wearing them every day without proper removal can lead to brittleness and breakage over time. The key is using a dedicated oil-based makeup remover to dissolve the formula rather than rubbing. Use waterproof mascara when you need it and alternate with a conditioning formula on regular days.
Use a micellar water or oil-based cleanser specifically formulated to break down waterproof makeup. Soak a cotton pad and hold it gently against closed eyes for 20-30 seconds, then wipe downward - never rub. Avoid cotton swabs on the lash line, which can pull individual lashes. Bi-phase removers (shake before use) are particularly effective on long-wearing waterproof formulas.
Mascaras with a lengthening or lifting wand formula pair best with a lash curler because they don't add too much weight that would drag curled lashes back down. L'Oréal Paris Telescopic Lift Waterproof and Benefit's They're Real! Waterproof are both excellent choices - their brush designs enhance the curled shape created by your curler rather than overpowering it with bulk.
More guides
5 Best Cream Eyeshadow for Aging Eyes 2026 | Long-Wear, No-Crease Picks
Best Cool Neutral Eyeshadow Palettes of 2026
5 Best Cream Eyeshadows for Mature Skin 2026 | Smooth, Hydrating, Crease-Free
5 Best Cream Eyeshadow for Sensitive Eyes 2026 | Gentle, Ophthalmologist-Tested
5 Best Cream Eyeshadow Pots 2026 | Single-Pan Formulas Worth Every Penny
Best Copper Eyeshadow of 2026
