Mascara is the darling of drugstore makeup. The options available hold up to more high-end mascara options out there — and even outperform. Still, I’m not willing to compromise my health for longer, fuller lashes. To avoid potentially-harmful ingredients I simply choose drugstore makeup that gets a safe rating from the Environmental Working Group (EWG). For me, in order to be the best drugstore mascara, a product must also be nontoxic. Luckily, some mascaras make the cut. Check them out below.
Best Drugstore Mascara
CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara
This vegan mascara from drugstore staple CoverGirl will make your lashes look longer, more defined, and fuller without looking overdone. It works best when applied in at least 2 coats. It gets a 2 on EWG, backing up its “clean” branding. It’s currently my favorite everyday mascara (clean or not) and performs just as well as a conventional product.
Maybelline New York The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara
Similar to Benefit’s They Are Real mascara, this drugstore mascara from Maybelline takes my invisible blond eyelashes to the next level. The mascara adds volume and will help your lashes hold a curl, making it great for a more dramatic look. When I want a more subtle daytime look, I just do one coat. Another perk: it goes on clump free. The mascara gets a 2 on EWG, so the ingredients are good to go.
Mineral Fusion Volumizing Mascara
Try this mascara if you’re looking to boost the thickness of your lashes. Mineral Fusion uses natural ingredients that are gluten-free, paraben-free, and hypo-allergenic, which means this mascara won’t irritate your eyes. One downside: it can smudge, so apply it carefully and wait for it to dry. Or try applying a matte powder under your eyes. This drugstore mascara also contains vitamins and botanicals in order to keep your lashes healthy. I like using it in the brown color on days I want a more natural look, but still want to look awake! It’s EWG Verified.
e.l.f. Studio Mineral Infused Mascara
If you’re a fan of waterproof mascara, check out this very affordable option. It won’t run and it adds a lot of length and definition to your lashes. It gets a rating of 2 on EWG, which means it doesn’t include hazardous ingredients.
With these affordable drugstore options, you can keep experimenting with safe and affordable mascaras.