The 8 Best Mascaras, According to IPSY Members Who’ve Tried Everything

1. Best Tubing Mascara:

BLINC UltraVolume TUBING™ Mascara Mini in Black

If you’ve ever made it to 3 p.m. and wondered, why is my mascara under my eyes, this tubing formula is for you. Instead of painting pigment onto lashes, it wraps each one in tiny water-resistant “tubes” that resist smudging, flaking, and fading. One coat gives natural, fluttery volume; two or three gets you glam. And removal? Just warm water and a little pressure—no tugging or raccoon eyes required. “No smudging, no flaking, and my lashes looked longer without clumping,” says one Ipster. “I’m obsessed.” It’s an especially smart pick for oily lids, watery eyes, or marathon days where you need your mascara to stay exactly where you put it.

2. Best Mascara for Drama:

TARTE™ Lights, Camera, Lashes Volumizing Platinum Mascara

A true beauty icon (and IPSY member staple), this mascara gives lashes an instant red-carpet upgrade. The formula volumizes, lengthens, curls, and conditions with every swipe—making it a go-to for anyone who wants dramatic lashes without fussy falsies. The dense, fluffy brush grabs every lash to build thickness without clumping. One member raved, “I love how thick and full my lashes look with just one coat. It’s magic.” Another called it “hands-down the best mascara I’ve ever used.” If your goal is major lash drama with a soft, fluttery finish, this is it. 

3. Best Curling Mascara:

BENEFIT COSMETICS Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara

This cult-favorite mascara is beloved by IPSY members with straight or stubborn lashes for one major reason: it actually holds a curl. The curved brush has tiny hooks that grip and lift each lash, mimicking the effect of a lash curler—no extra tool required. Plus, the formula is lightweight enough that your curl doesn’t drop mid-day. “Roller Lash is the only mascara that holds my curl all day,” one IPSY reviewer shared. Another praised how it “makes lashes look naturally long and lifted without any clumps.” If curling and lifting are your top priorities, this mascara will deliver—and save you a step in the process. 

4. Best Budget Mascara Find:

E.L.F. COSMETICS Lash XTNDR Mascara

Viral for a reason, this under-$10 pick punches way above its price tag. It’s infused with lengthening fibers, vitamin E, and jojoba oil to give you soft, fluttery lashes that look freshly extended—but feel like nothing at all. The wand is slim and flexible, making it easy to reach every lash, even in the corners. “I was shocked by how good this is,” wrote one IPSY reviewer. “My lashes look longer and lifted, and no smudges!” Another said it “held up all day without flaking, which never happens with affordable mascara.” Want more affordable recs like this? Check out our favorite drugstore makeup picks.

5. Best Mascara for Everyday Definition:

WANDER BEAUTY Mile High Club™ Length and Define Mascara in Espresso

If your everyday look is more natural beauty than full beat, this mascara is your new go-to. The espresso brown shade subtly defines lashes without looking harsh, while the formula lengthens and separates for that perfectly undone-done vibe. “The color is so natural but still makes my eyes pop,” said one IPSY member. “Great for daytime and no clumps at all.” Another member called it “the perfect mascara for no-makeup makeup days.”  Curious about making the switch to brown mascara? Here’s why it might be your new favorite.

6. Best Mascara for Lash Separation:

ICONIC LONDON Triple Threat Mascara in Brown

No clumps, no flakes, no lashes left behind—this mascara is all about clean, precise definition. The ultra-skinny wand is designed to hug every lash, giving you total control (and zero spider lashes). The warm brown pigment adds subtle intensity that’s flattering on everyone. “It gives me clean, natural volume,” said one IPSY member. “Zero clumps and lifts beautifully.” Another reviewer noted how well it layered: “Two coats, still soft and separated. Love the brush!” For the days you want to look polished but not too extra, this one nails the balance.

7. Best Longwear Mascara Formula:

MAKE UP FOR EVER The Professionall 24HR Double-Ended Lifting & Volumizing Mascara in Black

A mascara with a personality for every mood. This dual-ended wand gives you two different formulas: one to lift and separate, and one to add thickening, jet-black volume. It’s designed to stay on for 24 hours—and according to IPSY members, it seriously delivers. “It stayed perfect all day—even through a sweaty concert and late night after!” one Ipster reviewer shared. Another said, “My lashes looked amazing, and I didn’t need a touch-up. That never happens.” Whether you’re headed to the gym, office, or happy hour (or all three), this mascara will stay with you.

8. Best for Major Volume:

PATRICK TA BEAUTY Major Volume Mascara

Patrick Ta knows glam—and this mascara brings it. It amps up volume from root to tip, creating the kind of plush, thick lashes that usually require falsies. The jet-black pigment adds depth, while the flexible brush makes it easy to build without clumping. “I got so many compliments,” wrote one IPSY member. “My lashes looked fuller and longer but still soft.” Another raved, “It doesn’t flake at all, and the volume is next-level.” Pair it with your favorite bold lip or winged liner for full glam status.

The Takeaway

From tubing magic to curl-locking power, these mascaras aren’t just great—they’re IPSY member–approved, beauty bag–tested, and totally worth the hype. Whether you want subtle lift or sky-high volume, there’s a lash-loving formula here for you.

Still looking for your lash match? Check out your personalized picks with the IPSY Beauty Quiz and get mascaras chosen just for you.