Many people think that getting long lashes requires professional extensions. In reality, you can achieve a dramatic look with the right tube of product.
The Best Mascaras to Lengthen Lashes rely on clever formulas rather than heavy, expensive salon services. I have gathered the top contenders that promise high impact for your daily routine. Read on to see which formulas stand out for your specific needs.
Key Takeaways
- Seek out tubing technology if you struggle with smudging throughout the day because these polymers wrap each lash in a water-resistant sleeve.
- Choose a flexible elastomer wand if you have difficulty reaching the tiny hairs near your inner eye corners or along your lower lash line.
- Prioritize formulas containing conditioning ingredients like shea butter or castor oil to keep your natural lashes soft while wearing makeup.
- Check for buildable formulas if you prefer to layer your mascara for a custom level of volume without dealing with heavy clumps.
- Remember that your specific eye shape dictates which brush shape works best, as curved wands generally offer better lift for hooded lids.
| Ultimate Tubing Performance |  |
Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extension Mascara | Smudge proof formula | Easy water removal | Dramatic lifted length | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Lash Extension Look |  |
L'Oreal Paris Extensionist Mascara | Adds significant length | Enhances natural curl | Deep black pigment | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Sky High Definition |  |
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High | Flexible brush wand | Great for short lashes | Defines every lash | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Budget Friendly Length |  |
Essence Lash Without Limits Mascara | Reaches short lashes | Vegan and cruelty free | No clumping | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Full Fan Effect |  |
Maybelline Lash Sensational Washable Mascara | Iconic fan brush | Great for volume | Separates lashes well | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| False Lash Alternative |  |
Essence Lash Princess False Effect | Provides false lash effect | Great fiber brush | Excellent separation | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Peptide Infused Length |  |
Tarte Tartelette XL Tubing Mascara | Peptide infused formula | Smudge proof wear | Easy to remove | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| High Impact Volume |  |
4D Silk Fiber Mascara | Adds significant thickness | Enhances lash length | Smudge proof finish | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Mature Lash Specialist |  |
Prime Prometics PrimeLash Mascara | Hypoallergenic formula | Zero clumping | Great for thin lashes | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Conditioning Tubing Formula |  |
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky Tubes | 24 hour wear | Infused with castor oil | Extension like length | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extension Mascara
If you want lashes that look like professional extensions, this is your best bet. The tubing technology wraps each individual lash in a polymer sleeve, which creates a fanned out effect that stays put for up to 16 hours.
It is a fantastic choice for anyone prone to smudging, as the tubes slide off effortlessly with just warm water. Just keep in mind that since it is a tubing formula, you should avoid layering too many coats to prevent any potential stiffness.
- Brand Name:Hourglass
- Formula Type:Tubing
- Key Benefits:Lengthens and defines
- Water Resistance:Smudge-proof
- Additional Feature:Creates fanned out lashes
- Additional Feature:Lasts up to 16 hours
- Additional Feature:Flake free wear
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L'Oreal Paris Extensionist Mascara
L'Oreal has managed to create a formula that mimics the appearance of professional salon extensions. It works by building up the lashes to look significantly longer while providing a noticeable curl that stays locked in throughout the day.
This is a great everyday pick for those who want a dramatic, dark finish. The only slight drawback is that it is a traditional washable formula, so it may not hold up as well as a tubing mascara during a humid afternoon.
- Brand Name:L'Oreal Paris
- Formula Type:Washable
- Key Benefits:Lengthening and volumizing
- Package Quantity:1 count
- Additional Feature:Provides extension style look
- Additional Feature:Deepest black shade
- Additional Feature:Buildable volume
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Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High
This mascara is a viral sensation for a reason. Its flexible brush is designed to bend, which allows you to get right into the lash roots and pull the formula through to the tips for maximum extension.
It is ideal for people who struggle with short or straight lashes that need a bit of a lift. While it provides incredible length, you may need to wipe the wand slightly before application to avoid getting too much product on the brush.
- Brand Name:Maybelline
- Formula Type:Washable
- Key Benefits:Lengthening and curling
- Package Quantity:1 count
- Additional Feature:Multiplying lash effect
- Additional Feature:Buildable formula
- Additional Feature:Intense black color
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Essence Lash Without Limits Mascara
You do not need to spend a fortune to get extreme lengthening results. This formula uses a flexible elastomer wand that is particularly good at grabbing those tiny, hard to reach lashes in the corners of your eyes.
It is a wonderful, vegan-friendly option that keeps things simple and clean. Be aware that the brush is quite thin, so it might take a few extra strokes to build the volume you desire.
- Brand Name:essence
- Formula Type:Washable
- Key Benefits:Lengthening and volume
- Package Quantity:1 count
- Additional Feature:Flexible elastomer wand
- Additional Feature:Paraben free formula
- Additional Feature:Extra black pigment
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Maybelline Lash Sensational Washable Mascara
If you prefer a voluminous, fanned out look, this is the classic choice. The unique curved brush features ten layers of bristles that coat every single lash from root to tip, creating a full fringe appearance.
It is perfect for those who want a combination of length and density. However, because it is so effective at building volume, it can occasionally feel a bit heavy if you apply more than two coats.
- Brand Name:Maybelline
- Formula Type:Washable
- Key Benefits:Lengthening and volumizing
- Package Quantity:1 count
- Additional Feature:Full fan effect
- Additional Feature:Easy to layer
- Additional Feature:Deep black finish
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Essence Lash Princess False Effect
This cult classic is famous for providing a dramatic false lash look without the need for glue or falsies. The fiber brush is excellent at layering the product to build up both length and thickness.
It is a top contender for those who love bold, high impact eyes. Since it provides so much volume, just watch out for the occasional clump if you are not careful with your application speed.
- Brand Name:essence
- Formula Type:Washable
- Key Benefits:Volumizing and lengthening
- Package Quantity:1 count
- Additional Feature:Vegan and cruelty free
- Additional Feature:Oil free formula
- Additional Feature:Paraben free
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Tarte Tartelette XL Tubing Mascara
This formula is essentially a lash extension in a tube. It is packed with peptides, which helps your lashes look healthier while you wear it, and the tubing technology ensures that it stays locked on all day.
It is ideal for those who want high-performance wear that is still easy to remove. One thing to note is that the tube can feel a bit large, so take your time during application to avoid hitting your eyelid.
- Brand Name:tarte
- Formula Type:Tubing
- Key Benefits:Lifted length and volume
- Primary Ingredients:Peptides
- Additional Feature:Extra bold results
- Additional Feature:Vegan and cruelty free
- Additional Feature:Long wearing formula
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4D Silk Fiber Mascara
When you want the absolute maximum amount of fiber-based length, this is a heavy lifter. The silk fibers cling to your natural lashes to add significant thickness and reach, creating a look that is exquisitely full.
This is best for those who want a very dramatic, almost theatrical finish. Because it uses fibers, it is best to apply it carefully to avoid any fiber fallout throughout the day.
- Brand Name:Generic/Brandless
- Formula Type:Fiber-based
- Key Benefits:Thickening and lengthening
- Water Resistance:Waterproof
- Additional Feature:Silk fiber technology
- Additional Feature:Softens natural lashes
- Additional Feature:Full coverage
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Prime Prometics PrimeLash Mascara
This mascara is specifically formulated for lashes that may have become thinner or more brittle over time. It provides incredible length and separation without the clumping that can sometimes happen with thicker, older formulas.
It is a highly reliable choice for those with sensitive eyes or those who wear contact lenses. Just remember that it is designed for a natural, elegant look rather than a heavy, spiky finish.
- Brand Name:Prime Prometics
- Formula Type:Washable
- Key Benefits:Volumizing and lengthening
- Package Quantity:1 count
- Additional Feature:Long stay wear
- Additional Feature:Easy application
- Additional Feature:Gentle on eyes
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Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky Tubes
This is a fresh take on the tubing category, incorporating shea butter and castor oil to keep your lashes soft. It provides that signature tubing length that stays put for 24 hours while remaining easy to wash off.
It is a perfect hybrid for someone who wants the longevity of a tubing mascara but the nourishment of a conditioning formula. Because it is so hydrating, it has a slightly wetter texture, so give it a few seconds to set after you blink.
- Brand Name:Maybelline
- Formula Type:Tubing
- Key Benefits:Lengthening and conditioning
- Primary Ingredients:Shea butter, Castor oil
- Additional Feature:Very black pigment
- Additional Feature:24 hour eye makeup
- Additional Feature:Easy removal process
Frequently Asked Questions
How many coats of mascara should I apply for maximum length?
Two coats are usually the sweet spot for most formulas. Apply the first layer from root to tip, then add a second coat while the first is still slightly tacky to avoid flaking. If you keep adding layers after the product dries, you will likely end up with spidery clumps rather than length. Less is often more when you use a high-quality lengthening wand.
Why does my mascara smudge under my eyes by the end of the day?
Smudging happens when the oils from your skin break down the mascara wax. Try applying a light dusting of translucent powder under your eyes to create a dry surface for the day. If that does not work, switch to a tubing formula that is resistant to natural oils. These will stay put until you intentionally rinse them away.
Should I use an eyelash curler before or after mascara?
Always use your curler before applying mascara. Curling wet or coated lashes can cause them to stick to the tool and snap off. If you need an extra boost, wait until your mascara is completely dry and then perform a very gentle squeeze at the base. Be careful, as this is the most common way to cause mechanical lash damage.
How often should I replace my mascara tube?
You should toss your mascara every three months regardless of how much product is left. Bacteria love dark, damp environments like a mascara tube. Continuing to use an expired product increases your risk of eye infections. If you notice a strange smell or the formula becomes thick and globby, get rid of it immediately.
Can I combine two different mascaras?
Layering is a professional secret for the best results. You might start with a lengthening formula to build the base, followed by a volumizing formula to thicken the look. This combination gives you the best of both worlds without forcing one product to do everything. Just ensure the first layer is not fully set before applying the second to prevent brittle lashes.
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