Most people think thick lashes require a salon appointment or expensive magnetic strips. In reality, the chemistry inside a tube of paint can transform your look in seconds.
Picking the best volumising mascaras feels like choosing a favorite pair of jeans, because everyone has a different idea of what constitutes a perfect fit. I have sorted through the mess to find formulas that actually deliver. Keep reading to see which ones earn a permanent spot in your bag.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize a curved brush head if you struggle with getting volume into the difficult inner corners of your eyes.
- Check the label for washable versus waterproof formulas because the removal process differs significantly for sensitive skin.
- Look for buildable fiber content if you prefer to layer your mascara without risking a clumpy or heavy appearance.
- Consider a tubing formula if you deal with smudging throughout the day, as these wrap each lash in a water-resistant sleeve.
- Examine the bristle density on the applicator, since shorter plastic teeth provide better separation while thicker brushes deposit more product.
| Ultimate Soft Volume |  |
L'Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara | Extremely soft lash feel | Rich black pigment | Minimal clumping potential | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Reliable Waterproof Choice |  |
Volumising False Lash Effect Mascara | High water resistance | Dramatic lash thickness | Clump free application | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Unique Thermal Removal |  |
Kanebo Volumising 38 Degrees Mascara | Easy thermal removal | Clean, natural look | Gentle on lashes | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Maximum Length Multiplier |  |
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High | Exceptional reach and length | Highly buildable layers | Flexible brush head | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Best Budget Staple |  |
Essence Lash Princess False Effect | Incredible price value | Dramatic fan effect | Easy to find | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Iconic Thickening Power |  |
L'Oreal Voluminous Original Carbon Black | Intense dark pigment | Superior thickening ability | Reliable classic formula | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Precision Separating Wand |  |
L'Oreal Telescopic Original Mascara | Perfect lash separation | Reaches the roots | Sleek lengthened look | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Wide Eyed Definition |  |
L'Oreal Voluminous Panorama Mascara | Wide angle application | Smudge resistant | Wake up effect | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Reliable Everyday Volume |  |
L'Oreal Voluminous Original Blackest Black | Consistent volume results | Simple, classic formula | Easy to layer | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Futuristic Lash Height |  |
Maybelline Falsies Surreal Extensions | Surreal extension look | Combines volume and length | Unique fiber technology | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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L'Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara
If you want lashes that feel as light as air but look like they have been through a volumizing treatment, this is the one. It is best for those who crave a feathery, soft finish without the crunchiness that often comes with high-impact formulas.
The brush is designed to coat every single lash in a single pass. But be careful when pulling the wand out, as you might get a bit too much product on the bristles if you are not gentle.
- Brand:L'Oreal Paris
- Product Name:Voluminous Lash Paradise
- Volume Capacity:0.25 Fl Oz
- Count:1
- Additional Feature:Smudge resistant formula
- Additional Feature:Flake free wear
- Additional Feature:Intense black color payoff
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Volumising False Lash Effect Mascara
Sometimes you just need your makeup to survive a torrential downpour or a particularly emotional movie. This formula provides a false lash effect that stays put regardless of the weather conditions or humidity.
It is ideal for anyone who struggles with smudging throughout the day. However, since it is waterproof, you will definitely need a dedicated oil-based makeup remover to get it off at night.
- Brand:Generic
- Product Name:Volumising Mascara
- Formula Type:Waterproof
- Effect:Lengthening and Volumising
- Additional Feature:Jet black pigment
- Additional Feature:Precision brush applicator
- Additional Feature:Buildable lash intensity
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Kanebo Volumising 38 Degrees Mascara
This is a sophisticated option for someone who hates the tedious process of scrubbing their eyes clean every night. It is engineered to soften and release from your lashes when exposed to water that is 38 degrees Celsius or higher.
The formula provides a clean, polished look rather than a clumpy, exaggerated one. If you have sensitive eyes, you will likely appreciate how easily it slides off without any harsh tugging on your delicate lash line.
- Brand:Kanebo
- Product Name:Black Mask 38
- Effect:Volumising
- Additional Feature:Temperature sensitive formula
- Additional Feature:Polished lash separation
- Additional Feature:Lightweight feel
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Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High
This formula is famous for a reason, and that reason is the flexible wand that reaches even the tiniest inner corner lashes. It is perfect if your main goal is to add significant height to your eyes.
The buildable nature of the formula means you can keep adding layers without it looking too heavy. Just keep an eye on your speed, as it can occasionally get a bit messy on the eyelid if you are moving too fast.
- Brand:Maybelline
- Product Name:Lash Sensational Sky High
- Formula Type:Washable
- Effect:Volumising and Lengthening
- Count:1
- Additional Feature:Curling lash effect
- Additional Feature:Defines individual lashes
- Additional Feature:Intense blackest black pigment
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Essence Lash Princess False Effect
You do not have to spend a fortune to get noticeable volume that rivals the expensive brands. This tube is a favorite because the fiber brush grabs onto every lash to create a dramatic, fanned out shape.
It provides a very bold look that some might compare to wearing actual false lashes. It can be a little prone to flaking if you apply too many layers, so stick to two quick coats for the best results.
- Brand:Essence
- Product Name:Lash Princess
- Formula Type:Washable
- Count:1
- Additional Feature:Cone shaped brush
- Additional Feature:Cruelty free formula
- Additional Feature:High pigment black
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L'Oreal Voluminous Original Carbon Black
If you love a deep, dark lash line, this carbon black version is a classic for a reason. It is built to thicken lashes significantly, making them look full and dense after just one or two swipes.
The formula is a bit on the thicker side, which is how it achieves such impressive volume. It is best to wipe the excess off the wand before you start to avoid any unwanted clumps.
- Brand:L'Oreal Paris
- Product Name:Voluminous Original
- Volume Capacity:0.26 Fl Oz
- Effect:Thickening and Volumising
- Additional Feature:Carbon black formula
- Additional Feature:Creamy consistency
- Additional Feature:Long wearing finish
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L'Oreal Telescopic Original Mascara
This wand is like a tiny comb for your eyes, making it the top choice for people who hate when their lashes stick together. It is designed to lengthen and separate each hair for a very clean, defined appearance.
Because the brush is so thin, you can get right to the root of the lash to deposit color where it matters most. It is not the best for massive, fluffy volume, but it is unmatched for a sleek, long look.
- Brand:L'Oreal Paris
- Product Name:Telescopic Original
- Volume Capacity:0.27 Fl Oz
- Formula Type:Washable
- Effect:Separating and Lengthening
- Count:1
- Additional Feature:Narrow comb brush
- Additional Feature:Blackest black shade
- Additional Feature:Clean application
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L'Oreal Voluminous Panorama Mascara
This brush uses varying bristle lengths to capture lashes in the corner of your eye, which helps create a wide open effect. It is a fantastic option if you want to make your eyes look bigger and more awake.
The formula is specifically crafted to be smudge resistant, so it should stay looking fresh for a long time. It can feel a bit stiff once it dries, but that is a small trade off for the long wear performance.
- Brand:L'Oreal Paris
- Product Name:Voluminous Panorama
- Volume Capacity:0.33 Fl Oz
- Formula Type:Washable
- Effect:Volumising and Lengthening
- Additional Feature:Multi level bristles
- Additional Feature:Long wear formula
- Additional Feature:All night black
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L'Oreal Voluminous Original Blackest Black
This is the standard, no-nonsense choice for anyone who wants a dependable everyday mascara. It delivers consistent volume that is not too thin and not too heavy, just a solid, standard coat of black.
It is very easy to layer if you want to take your look from day to night. While it might not have the fancy bells and whistles of newer wands, it remains a dependable favorite for a reason.
- Brand:L'Oreal Paris
- Product Name:Voluminous Original
- Volume Capacity:0.28 Fl Oz
- Effect:Volumising
- Additional Feature:Blackest black shade
- Additional Feature:Creamy buildable texture
- Additional Feature:Standard brush design
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Maybelline Falsies Surreal Extensions
If you want your lashes to look like they are touching your eyebrows, this formula is your best bet. It uses extended fiber technology to give you that surreal, stretched out appearance that usually requires a salon visit.
The brush is shaped to handle both volume and length at the same time. You might find it takes a little extra effort to remove, so keep your favorite makeup remover handy at the end of the day.
- Brand:Maybelline
- Product Name:Falsies Surreal Extensions
- Formula Type:Washable
- Effect:Volumising and Lengthening
- Count:1
- Additional Feature:Blackest black pigment
- Additional Feature:Surreal length effect
- Additional Feature:High impact volume
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I stop my mascara from clumping when I build volume?
Clumping usually happens because you are applying too many layers while the first one is still wet. Use a clean spoolie brush to comb through your lashes between coats to separate them. You can also try wiping the wand on a tissue before applying it to your lashes. This removes the excess glob of product that inevitably collects at the tip of the brush.
Should I use a lash primer before my volumizing mascara?
Using a lash primer is an excellent trick if you want extra thickness. It acts like a base coat, coating each lash in a white or translucent substance that gives the mascara more surface area to grab onto. Just make sure you apply your mascara while the primer is still slightly tacky. If you wait until it is fully dry, the mascara may struggle to adhere properly.
Is it okay to pump the wand inside the tube?
Please stop doing this immediately. Pumping the wand forces excess air into the tube, which dries out your formula significantly faster than normal. Instead, swirl the wand gently against the inside walls of the tube. This picks up the perfect amount of product without introducing unwanted air pockets.
How can I tell if my mascara has expired?
The most obvious signs are a change in smell or a texture that has become dry, flaky, or stringy. If the product starts to irritate your eyes or cause redness, discard it right away. Even if it still seems fine, three months is the safety limit for liquid eye products. Beyond that, the inside of the tube becomes a playground for bacteria that you really do not want near your eyes.
Does volumizing mascara work on short lashes?
Absolutely, though you may need a smaller brush head to ensure you don't get mascara all over your eyelids. Focus on wiggling the brush at the very base of your lashes to create a root-lifting effect. This creates the illusion of more length and fullness at the lash line. Follow up by layering just on the tips to add volume without weighing the lash down.
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