You stand before the bathroom mirror, coat after coat of black pigment coating your lashes as the clock ticks toward your departure. It is a quiet moment of focus, yet you want a formula that respects your principles without sacrificing that bold, dramatic impact you crave.
Finding the best vegan mascaras 2018 changed the routine for many. You want lashes that hold their shape from your morning coffee until you finally wash the day away. Stick around to see which formulas hold their own against the elements.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize hypoallergenic formulas if your eyes tend to water or itch when you apply makeup.
- Choose a water-resistant or waterproof option if you live in a humid climate or work long shifts.
- Look for plant-based waxes and fibers in the ingredients list to achieve that desired volume without animal products.
- Consider the brush applicator shape because thick, dense bristles typically provide more drama than slim, plastic wands.
- Verify the ophthalmologist testing status on the label to ensure the formula is safe for delicate skin around your eyes.
| Top Tier Volumizer |  |
Pacifica Activist Volume and Curl Mascara | Serious volume and curl | Contains plant fibers | Vegan brush applicator | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Sensitive Eye Savior |  |
Gaya Cosmetics Vegan Black Mascara | Hypoallergenic formula | Buildable volume | Gentle on eyes | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Maximum Fluffy Length |  |
Pacifica Vegan Collagen Fluffy Lash Mascara | Adds significant length | Thickening plant fibers | Vegan collagen base | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Subtle Daytime Enhancer |  |
Essence Lash Princess Brown Mascara | Natural brown tone | False lash effect | Great for daytime | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Reliable Smudge Proof |  |
Pacifica Aquarian Gaze Water Resistant Mascara | Water resistant finish | Excellent length | Stays smudge-proof | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Ultimate Travel Companion |  |
Pacifica Mini Stellar Gaze Mascara | Compact travel size | Contains mineral ingredients | Strengthens lashes | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Bulletproof Lash Wear |  |
Essence Lash Princess Waterproof Mascara | Completely waterproof | Dramatic false lash look | Stays curled all day | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Minimalist Ingredient Choice |  |
Sandstone Scandinavia Hypoallergenic Mascara | Hypoallergenic ingredients | Safe for sensitivity | Clean, simple formula | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Budget Friendly Duo |  |
W7 Oh So Sensitive Mascara | Two pack value | Hypoallergenic formula | Very gentle application | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
-
Pacifica Activist Volume and Curl Mascara
If you want lashes that look like they belong on a runway, this is your best bet. It uses plant waxes and fibers to coat every strand, which gives you that dramatic lift without the usual heavy feel.
It is a fantastic choice for anyone who finds most natural mascaras a bit wimpy. Just keep in mind that the glass bottle packaging is quite sturdy but can be a bit slippery if you are rushing through your morning routine.
- Brand:Pacifica
- Product Name:Activist Volume & Curl
- Volume:0.24 oz
- Additional Feature:Uses plant waxes for hold
- Additional Feature:Includes lengthening fibers
- Additional Feature:Ophthalmologist evaluated formula
-
Gaya Cosmetics Vegan Black Mascara
Finding a mascara that does not make your eyes sting is like finding a needle in a haystack. This formula is specifically crafted for sensitive eyes and manages to build up both length and volume quite effectively.
You will appreciate that the finish looks very natural, making it perfect for everyday wear. It is not designed for extreme, spider-leg lashes, so look elsewhere if you want an intense, thick coating.
- Brand:Gaya Cosmetics
- Product Name:Vegan Black Mascara
- Special Feature:Hypoallergenic
- Additional Feature:Cruelty free ingredients
- Additional Feature:Natural looking finish
- Additional Feature:Ophthalmologist evaluated
-
Pacifica Vegan Collagen Fluffy Lash Mascara
This formula focuses on the thickening and lengthening aspect, which helps create that soft, full look. The inclusion of vegan collagen and plant fibers makes your lashes feel conditioned rather than brittle or dry.
It is ideal if you prefer a fluffy, feathered aesthetic over a sharp, defined look. Be aware that because it is designed for fluffiness, you might get a bit of clumping if you apply too many layers at once.
- Brand:Pacifica
- Product Name:Vegan Collagen Fluffy Lash
- Volume:0.24 oz
- Additional Feature:Soft finish effect
- Additional Feature:Cruelty free
- Additional Feature:Builds full lashes
-
Essence Lash Princess Brown Mascara
Sometimes black mascara looks too harsh, especially if you have a lighter complexion. This brown shade provides a gentle definition that brings out your eyes without looking like you are wearing a full face of makeup.
It is a solid pick for a low-key look or for those who want a soft false lash effect that stays subtle. The wand is quite large, so you have to be careful not to poke your eyelid during the application process.
- Brand:Essence
- Product Name:Lash Princess False Lash
- Pack Count:1
- Additional Feature:Subtle color profile
- Additional Feature:Large brush applicator
- Additional Feature:Lightweight feel
-
Pacifica Aquarian Gaze Water Resistant Mascara
If you struggle with mascara migrating down your cheeks by noon, you need a water resistant formula. This one stays put remarkably well, making it a reliable companion for long days or humid weather.
It provides a nice amount of length and dries down to a smudge-proof finish. Because it holds on so well, you will definitely want to use a quality oil-based remover to get it off at night.
- Brand:Pacifica
- Product Name:Aquarian Gaze
- Water Resistance:Water-resistant
- Additional Feature:Long wear formula
- Additional Feature:Deep black pigment
- Additional Feature:Lengthening properties
-
Pacifica Mini Stellar Gaze Mascara
There is nothing worse than trying to shove a full-sized makeup bag into a carry-on. This travel-friendly mini packs all the benefits of the full-sized version, including mineral-based lengthening and strengthening ingredients.
It is a great way to keep your lashes looking long and defined while you are away from home. Since the tube is small, it will run out faster than a standard size, so keep that in mind if you plan to use it daily.
- Brand:Pacifica
- Product Name:Mini Stellar Gaze
- Special Feature:Travel-friendly
- Additional Feature:Mineral based formula
- Additional Feature:Ophthalmologist evaluated
- Additional Feature:Convenient mini applicator
-
Essence Lash Princess Waterproof Mascara
If you are planning to head to the pool or you just know you are going to have a good cry, grab this. It is a true waterproof formula that refuses to budge no matter what the environment throws at it.
It provides a dramatic false lash effect that holds a curl all day long. The downside is that this kind of staying power requires a bit of patience to remove thoroughly without tugging at your lashes.
- Brand:Essence
- Product Name:Lash Princess Waterproof
- Water Resistance:Waterproof
- Pack Count:1
- Additional Feature:High volume pigment
- Additional Feature:Long lasting hold
- Additional Feature:Intense black finish
-
Sandstone Scandinavia Hypoallergenic Mascara
Sometimes the best approach is the simplest one. This formula is built for those who have highly sensitive eyes and cannot handle the preservatives or fragrances found in typical department store brands.
It gives a clean, honest look that does not irritate the delicate skin around your eyes. It is not the most volumizing option on the market, but it is a safe and steady performer for daily use.
- Brand:Sandstone Scandinavia
- Product Name:Hypoallergenic Mascara
- Special Feature:Hypoallergenic
- Additional Feature:Designed for sensitive eyes
- Additional Feature:Black pigment
- Additional Feature:Non-irritating base
-
W7 Oh So Sensitive Mascara
If you lose your mascara as often as you lose your keys, this two-pack is a life saver. It is designed for sensitive eyes and provides a gentle, reliable application that won't leave your eyes red or puffy by the evening.
You get a soft, natural look that is easy to build up without getting clumpy. It does not provide the heavy-duty drama of some other brands, but it does exactly what it promises for everyday wear.
- Brand:W7
- Product Name:Oh so Sensitive
- Special Feature:Hypoallergenic
- Pack Count:2
- Additional Feature:Black pigment
- Additional Feature:Easy to remove
- Additional Feature:Designed for sensitivity
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I keep my mascara before throwing it away?
You should replace your tube every three months to keep things hygienic. Bacteria love dark, damp environments, so using an old tube is a fast track to an eye infection. If the mascara starts to smell like vinegar or changes texture, toss it out immediately.
Can I use vegan mascara if I have oily eyelids?
Oily skin can turn even the best mascara into a dark smudge under your eyes. Look for tubing formulas that wrap each lash in a polymer sleeve. These are designed to stay put until you wash them off with warm water, preventing the dreaded raccoon eye look.
Does vegan mascara really provide the same volume as traditional options?
Modern formulas use advanced plant waxes and fibers to mimic the effects of animal-derived ingredients. You might find that you need to apply one extra coat to reach the same level of thickness. The results are often just as bold and dramatic as anything found in standard beauty aisles.
What is the best way to remove these formulas safely?
Use a gentle oil-based cleanser or micellar water to break down the pigments. Soak a cotton pad and hold it against your closed eye for twenty seconds to let the liquid do the heavy lifting. Never scrub your lashes harshly, as that leads to unnecessary breakage and thinning.
Are there any vegan mascaras that contain lash-growing serums?
Some brands include nourishing botanical oils like jojoba or argan to keep your lashes soft and flexible. While these ingredients won't physically grow new hair, they prevent your lashes from becoming brittle. Keeping your lashes well-conditioned makes them appear fuller and healthier over time.
Jamesmathew is an expert Amazon affiliate writer, helping readers discover top products, smart deals, and practical buying guides through honest reviews and insightful content.