Ask any beauty editor, and they’ll tell you the best curling mascaras are like falsies in a tube. Unlike formulas that are more focused on dramatic volume or length, curling mascaras lift, fan, and define each lash like a lash curler would, so your eyes look wide awake even before your first coffee. These formulas strike the ideal balance of locking in lift without weighing lashes down or leaving behind a stiff, crunchy, or clumpy finish. Many are infused with hydrating and nourishing ingredients like vitamin E and castor oil to help strengthen lashes over time.
The science behind a good curling mascara lies in its ability to adhere to the lash base and provide a flexible hold. This is often achieved through a combination of polymers and film-formers that create a lightweight, yet durable, coating. These ingredients, when formulated correctly, can mimic the effect of mechanical lash curling by gently lifting and separating each strand, creating an illusion of wider, more open eyes. The brush design is equally crucial, with curved wands and varying bristle lengths engineered to grip and fan out lashes, ensuring every single one is coated and lifted from root to tip.
Our Top Curling Mascaras
When it comes to curling mascaras, the brush matters just as much as the formula—think curved wands with a mix of short and long bristles designed to grip and create that eye-opening, lengthened effect. Whether you’re after a soft, fluttery look or full-on drama, there’s a curling mascara out there for you. We put countless tubes to the test to find the standouts that truly lift, hold, and leave lashes looking sky-high and longer than ever.
Best Overall: Tower 28 Beauty MakeWaves Mascara
Tower 28 Beauty
MakeWaves Mascara
Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the Tower 28 Make Waves Mascara
Why it’s worth it: The secret to Tower 28 Beauty’s lash-lifting MakeWaves formula? A curved, triple-wave wand designed with shorter bristles that hug the lash line to really grab onto your roots, and longer bristles to lengthen and define.
This mascara utilizes Aquaflex Technology, a component commonly found in hair care products for its ability to provide hold and volume, now adapted for lashes. This technology helps to lock in the curl and lift, ensuring it lasts throughout the day without the lashes feeling stiff or heavy. The inclusion of a conditioning castor oil blend further supports lash health, aiming to minimize breakage and strengthen over time. This dual action of styling and conditioning makes it a standout choice for those seeking both immediate cosmetic results and long-term lash improvement.
"The formula stays flexible so the curl never falls flat," affirms Renée Loiz, a makeup artist based in Los Angeles. This flexibility is key to avoiding the dreaded lash droop and maintaining a natural, yet lifted, appearance. The absence of a stiff finish means lashes feel comfortable, and the risk of flakes or clumping is significantly reduced. The buildable nature of the formula allows users to customize their look, adding more coats for increased intensity without compromising the airy, clump-free finish. Tower 28’s commitment to sensitive-friendly formulations is also a major plus, with this ophthalmologist-tested product being suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner before applying the Tower28 Make Waves Mascara
Wohlner after applying the Tower28 Make Waves Mascara
“This mascara always lives at the top of my drawer because I know my lashes will look long, fluttery, and lifted every time I swipe it on—and the curl actually lasts all day. I love a voluminous lash, but I can’t stand when formulas make them look thick or chunky, and this one never does. As a contact lens wearer, a lot of mascaras make my eyes water, but I’ve never had that issue here.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer
"The hold on this mascara is incredible. I have short, dense, and straight lashes that are just so stubborn—but this coaxes some length and curl out of them! This is one of the few mascaras I can actually use without any kind of irritation. While it’s not the most lengthening or curling formula you can get your hands on, it’s so comfortable and doesn’t flake or smudge. I love that it provides the perfect amount of natural-looking weight to my eyelashes so you can actually see them." —Shanna Shipin, shopping director
Best for Brittle Lashes: Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara
Well People
Expressionist Curling Mascara
Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara
Why it’s worth it: Made with plant-based oils and vegan waxes (hi, olive oil and carnauba), the Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara helps nourish lashes while delivering lightweight hold, making it a great pick for those with brittle, short eyelashes. The curved brush does most of the heavy lifting here, gently separating each lash one by one (without pulling!) to keep clumps at bay. The bristles are super flexible, so they move with your lashes instead of tugging against them for a smooth experience, from start to finish. One side of the brush features short, dense bristles that deposit rich black color and build volume, while the longer bristles on the other side help guide lashes upward. We like to gently wiggle the wand at the base of the lashes before sweeping upward to get even more separation and lift.
The formulation of this mascara is particularly noteworthy for its focus on lash health. The inclusion of olive oil and carnauba wax provides a natural base that is both conditioning and texturizing. These ingredients help to coat and plump lashes without the use of harsh chemicals, making it an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive or brittle lashes. The flexible bristles of the brush are designed to bend and adapt to the natural curve of the lashes, minimizing any tugging or pulling that can cause breakage. This gentle approach ensures a comfortable application and contributes to the overall health and resilience of the lashes.
Felbin before applying the Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara
Felbin after applying the Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara
I use this product a few days a week, as part of my regular makeup routine. I curl my lashes and then apply two coats. My standards for mascara are pretty high—I have oily eyelids and watery eyes, so the formula needs to stay put all day (no flaking or transferring to my lower lash line) without irritating my eyes. Well People’s Curling Mascara checks every box, and then some. I love that the brush is curved—the shape makes it super easy to coat every lash, from corner to corner. I also like that I can build up multiple coats for a more dramatic effect. And, the application lasts all day without smudging or running. This is a super-solid, daily mascara for me—it’s just the right amount of lengthening and volumizing, rolled into one formula.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor
Best Volumizing: Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara
Kulfi Beauty
Badi Lash Mascara
Allure senior commerce director applying the Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara
Why it’s worth it: Inspired by South Asian lashes—often naturally full and straight—this mascara turns the dial all the way up, delivering a lifted, eye-opening effect in just a few swipes. The instantly volumizing tubing formula wraps each lash for va-va-voom length without smudging, melting, or clumping. And, its flared-tip brush is shaped to mimic your natural lash line, so it can catch those tricky inner-corner hairs while fanning everything out for that wide-eyed, fluttery finish. With this formula, it’s not just about the look: a conditioning blend of castor seed oil, rambutan extract, and a tripeptide complex works behind the scenes to soften and strengthen lashes over time. The tubing formula means it removes like a dream—just warm water and a gentle slide, with no rubbing required.
The efficacy of tubing mascaras lies in their unique application method, where tiny polymer tubes encase each lash. This creates a dramatic lengthening and volumizing effect that is also remarkably smudge-proof. Kulfi Beauty’s Badi Lash Mascara leverages this technology, enhanced by ingredients like castor seed oil, known for its hair-strengthening properties, and rambutan extract, which offers antioxidant benefits. The addition of a tripeptide complex further supports lash health by potentially promoting lash growth and resilience. This combination of advanced formula technology and nourishing ingredients aims to provide a visually impactful and beneficial cosmetic experience.
Shipin before using the Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara
Shipin after using the Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara
"Kulfi’s mascara gives me jet-black lashes with the kind of curl and volume they absolutely do not have naturally. I hardly ever use an eyelash curler, and really don’t feel the need to when I have this mascara on me. It has hours of hold and with just the teeniest bit of fallout since it is technically a tubing mascara. One of my favorite things is that it wards off smudges—crucial for me since I reapply moisturizer, SPF, and sometimes use a misting spray when I’m feeling extra dry. If you want the drama, this will bring it." —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director
Best Buildable: YSL Beauty Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara
YSL Beauty Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara
Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying YSL Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara
Why it’s worth it: A 2025 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner and one of our favorite mascaras ever, the YSL Beauty Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara delivers the kind of bold volume that’s hard to ignore—and the staying power is just as impressive. Some of our testers say the effect borders on falsies, thanks to an oversized brush that’s surprisingly easy to maneuver and grabs onto every lash. “It’s great for building fluttery volume with extra coats and really helps catch all the lashes,” says New York City–based makeup artist Sara Talias. It’s also seriously pigmented (even the brown color), so if you’re racing out the door, one coat still makes a big impact. That said, we’re partial to layering it up because it builds fluffy volume without tipping into clumpy territory.
The innovation behind YSL Beauty’s Lash Clash mascara lies in its high-impact formula and its oversized brush. The formula is designed to deliver extreme volume and intensity, with a rich pigmentation that ensures a noticeable effect even with a single application. The brush, described as oversized, is engineered to coat each lash efficiently, providing lift and separation. The combination of a potent formula and an effective applicator allows for both a quick, impactful look with one coat and a more dramatic, layered effect with multiple applications. This versatility makes it a highly adaptable product for various makeup needs and preferences.
Hoffmann before applying YSL Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara
Hoffmann after applying YSL Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara
"Its thick, almost pasty texture adds so much volume and thickness that it’s almost comical—I’ve been interrupted mid-conversation by people asking if my lashes are real while wearing this. The brush is giant, which makes it easy to coat every lash, and even though it’s not curved, it magically adds a lifting curl to my lashes that rivals the best eyelash curlers I’ve tried." —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer
Best for Short Lashes: Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara
Lancôme
Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara
Why it’s worth it: Skip the hours-only appointments and the high price tag of lash extensions. Lancôme’s Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara gives you longer, more curled lashes in just a few swipes. The twisted brush is designed to grab even the shortest lashes for a separated, fluttery effect that still looks natural. It features low-density setting polymers, which make lashes appear thicker and add volume, but they also set them in place so they hold their curl all day without falling flat. The brand claims this formula can wear without smudging for up to 30 hours, and although we’ve never tried it for that long, our tester experienced only slight smudging during her all-day wear test, which, for a non-waterproof mascara, gets a big green check.
The formulation of the Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara is engineered to address the specific needs of shorter lashes. The unique twisted brush is designed with precise bristle placement to capture and lift even the shortest, most elusive lashes. This targeted approach ensures that no lash is left behind, contributing to a more complete and fanned-out appearance. The incorporation of low-density setting polymers is a key innovation, as these agents provide volume and thickness without the heaviness that can cause lashes to fall. This allows the curl to be maintained throughout the day, offering a lasting lifted effect that enhances the natural shape of the eye. The claim of extended wear, even for a non-waterproof formula, underscores its robust performance.
Han before applying the Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara
Han after applying the Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara
“My lashes are short, straight, and stubborn. I never apply mascara without a curler, but for this story, I went without—and I was pretty darn impressed. While my lashes weren’t crazy-curled (again, they’re super stubborn!), I definitely noticed a lifting effect, and it held throughout the day, which is even more notable. I dealt with a little smudging but that’s not uncommon with non-waterproof mascaras, especially if I’m not maximizing application with a curler. In short, I don’t plan on ditching my curler but, if I’m really in a rush, I can count on the Curl Goddess to do the job on its own.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
Best Color Options: Benefit Cosmetics BadGal Bang Volumizing Mascara
Benefit Cosmetics
Benefit Cosmetics Badgal Bang Mascara in Wild Plum
Allure former content director Kara McGrath applying Benefit Cosmetics BadGal Bang Volumizing Mascara
Why it’s worth it: Packed with ultra-light aero-particles, the Benefit Cosmetics BadGal Bang Volumizing Mascara delivers ample volume without making lashes feel heavy or stiff, while provitamin B5 helps strengthen them over time. The ultra-slim wand reaches from corner to corner to coat every lash. It’s also impressively long-lasting—once it’s on, the brand claims it stays put for up to 36 hours without smudging or flaking. Another bonus: Along with classic black and brown, there’s plum (a deep burgundy that adds subtle drama with just one swipe) and a bright electric blue that’s especially fun for concerts or nights out.
The technology behind Benefit Cosmetics’ BadGal Bang mascara centers on its "aero-particles," which are exceptionally lightweight and contribute to significant volume without adding weight or stiffness. This is crucial for maintaining the lifted curl throughout the day. The inclusion of provitamin B5 is a thoughtful addition, offering a nourishing element that supports lash health and strength. The slim wand design is intentionally crafted to ensure thorough application, reaching even the shortest lashes at the corners of the eye. The extended wear claim, up to 36 hours, suggests a formulation designed for maximum longevity, appealing to those who need their makeup to last through demanding schedules. The availability of unique color options beyond traditional black and brown provides an avenue for creative expression and personalized style.
McGrath before applying the Benefit Cosmetics BadGal Bang Volumizing Mascara
McGrath after applying the Benefit Cosmetics BadGal Bang Volumizing Mascara
"BadGal Bang is one of my favorite lash mascara formulas of all time, so it wasn’t exactly shocking that I love the burgundy version too. I know wearing purple eye makeup (even eyeshadow) to contrast green eyes is the oldest trick in the book, but this plum-y brown really does make mine ‘pop’ without it being super obvious that I’m wearing a colorful mascara." —Kara McGrath, former content director
More Curling Mascaras We Like
Best Tubing: Grande Cosmetics GrandeWrap Tubing Mascara
Grande Cosmetics
GrandeWrap Tubing Mascara
Why it’s worth it: We love how easily tubing mascaras rinse off, but they don’t always have the best staying power. Thankfully, that’s not an issue with the Grande Cosmetics GrandeWrap Tubing Mascara. The formula uses smudge-proof tubing polymers that wrap around each lash and hold up through long days without flaking or smudging. Conditioning ingredients like provitamin B5 and mango butter help lashes feel soft and flexible.
In terms of design, the brush features domed bristles at the tip that reach into the inner corners so you can define the entire lash line without missing those tiny hairs. Los Angeles-based makeup artist Nicholas Wlodarski says it’s the best mascara for a “mini lash-lift effect” that makes eyes look wider and more awake. And, when it’s time to take it off, the tubes slide right off with warm water—no rubbing required.
The appeal of tubing mascaras, like GrandeWrap, lies in their unique removal process. Instead of requiring harsh makeup removers, they slide off in tiny tubes with warm water, minimizing lash breakage and irritation. This makes them ideal for those with sensitive eyes or for individuals who prefer a gentler approach to makeup removal. The formula’s ability to maintain its integrity throughout the day, resisting flaking and smudging, is a significant advantage. The inclusion of ingredients like provitamin B5 and mango butter adds a layer of conditioning, ensuring that the lashes remain supple and healthy, even with daily wear. The specialized brush design, with its domed tip, is a testament to the product’s focus on comprehensive lash coverage and lifting.
Best Lightweight: e.l.f. Cosmetics Lash ‘N Roll Mascara
E.L.F. Cosmetics
Lash ‘N Roll Mascara
Why it’s worth it: E.l.f. Cosmetics Lash ‘N Roll Mascara is the mascara Loiz personally reaches for because it delivers a “lifted, wide-eyed look without feeling heavy or crunchy.” Even better, it’s budget-friendly at a mere $7. The curved brush hugs the lash line and lifts as you swipe, while the lightweight, castor seed oil-infused formula helps hold that curl in place without weighing lashes down. Once it’s on, it stays put—lasting all day without flaking, even if you go back in for a second or third coat.
The affordability and effectiveness of the e.l.f. Cosmetics Lash ‘N Roll Mascara make it a standout in the drugstore beauty market. The formula’s lightweight nature is paramount for achieving a lasting curl, as heavier formulations tend to weigh down lashes. The inclusion of castor seed oil is a common and beneficial ingredient in mascaras, known for its moisturizing properties that can contribute to lash health and strength. The curved brush is a critical design element for curling mascaras, as it is specifically shaped to grip the lashes at the root and provide an upward lift. The product’s ability to maintain its hold throughout the day without flaking or clumping is a key indicator of a well-formulated curling mascara.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should you look for in a curling mascara?
Loiz always looks for a lightweight formula when it comes to curling mascaras, because too-heavy formulas will drag the curl straight down. “A curved brush that fits along the lash line helps lift from the root,” she adds. She also prefers formulas that dry down to a flexible finish, so the lashes stay lifted without feeling crunchy or flaking, which is also what Wlodarski calls “the sweet spot.” Another key tip: Looking for a waterproof formula will help your lift last through the end of the day.
What’s the difference between curling mascaras and other mascaras?
Curling mascaras are specifically designed to hold shape rather than just add volume or length, says Loiz. “They usually have a lightweight formula and a curved brush that helps guide the lashes in an upward direction,” she explains. Similar to how an eyelash curler shapes and lifts your lashes, Wlodarski says curling mascaras help your eyes look more open.
Meet the experts
How we test and review products
Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?
For our review of the best curling mascaras, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and professional makeup artists to review the products. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product’s performance across four primary categories: ingredients, wear and longevity, packaging, and inclusivity. For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.
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