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12 Best Curling Mascaras That Will Take Your Lashes to New Heights

These transformative curling mascaras will have you looking fierce and fabulous in the blink of an eye! Get ready for lusciously lengthened and dramatically curled curls that'll make everyone do a double take.

16 min read
12 Best Curling Mascaras That Will Take Your Lashes to New Heights
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Beautifully curled eyelashes can effortlessly enhance the beauty of the eyes and make them look more appealing. While many cosmetics brands offer an array of mascaras that claim to curl and lift eyelashes, not all of them deliver the desired results. To make the task easier for you, we have created a list of the 12 best curling mascaras that will take your lashes to new heights. These mascaras not only provide true curl definition but also boost volume, thickness, and length to give your lashes the ultimate lift they deserve. Let’s dive into the details of these fabulous mascaras and get ready to transform your lashes!

Different Types of Curling Mascaras

There are many types of curling mascaras on the market, each with its own unique formulation and benefits. Here are a few of the most common types of curling mascaras:

types of mascara

Waterproof Curling Mascaras

These mascaras are great for hot and humid climates, or for those who tend to have oilier skin that causes regular mascaras to smudge or flake. Waterproof mascaras are designed to withstand moisture and keep your lashes looking fabulous all day long.

Fiber-Infused Curling Mascaras

These mascaras use tiny fibers to help lengthen and volumize your lashes, giving you a fuller and more dramatic look. They can also help to separate and define individual lashes for a more natural appearance.

Curved Brush Curling Mascaras

Some mascaras feature a curved brush that is designed to help curl your lashes as you apply the product. This type of mascara can be particularly effective for those with straight lashes that require extra curling power.

Heated Curling Mascaras

These mascaras come with a built-in heat wand that gently warms your lashes while you're applying the mascara. The heat helps to set the curl in place, giving you a longer-lasting curl that won't fall flat throughout the day.

No matter which type of curling mascara you choose, be sure to take your time during application to ensure a smooth and even coat. With a little practice and patience, you'll be able to find the perfect mascara to achieve your desired curl and lash look.

How to Choose the Best Curling Mascara to Suit Your Eye Shape

One crucial factor to consider when shopping for mascara is the shape of your eyes. Each eye shape requires a specific mascara formula and brush to enhance the beauty of the lashes. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at different eye shapes and suggest suitable mascara types that help bring out the best in your eyes. Whether you have almond-shaped, round, hooded, close-set, or deep-set eyes, we've got you covered with some tips to help you select the perfect mascara for your needs.

eye shapes chart
Eye Shapes Chart

Almond-Shaped Eyes

Almond-shaped eyes are the most common eye shape, and most mascara types work well with this shape. However, if you want to add emphasis to your eyes, try using volumizing mascara, which will make your lashes look fuller.

Round Eyes

If you have round eyes, the aim should be to lengthen and widen them. Try using a lengthening mascara that creates a dramatic effect.

Hooded Eyes

The challenge with hooded eyes is that they tend to have excess skin that hides the top part of the lid. For this type of eye shape, try using waterproof mascara, which will help prevent smudging, and a lash curler, which will make your lashes look longer and more lifted.

Close-Set Eyes

Close-set eyes require an extra emphasis on the outer corners of the eyes. Try using a mascara that comes with a curved wand to help lift and curl your lashes towards the outer corners.

Deep-Set Eyes

If you have deep-set eyes, you'll want to use mascara that lifts and elongates your lashes, making them appear more prominent. A waterproof mascara with a curved wand can help enhance your eye shape and give your lashes a dramatic lift.

Choosing the Perfect Curling Mascara for Your Skin Type

When it comes to curling mascaras, it's important to select one that suits your specific skin type. From straight to curly, thin to thick, everyone's lashes are different. Now, we'll explore the factors that determine the best curling wand for your skin type, so you can achieve the perfect lashes you've always wanted.

Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, choose a mascara that's free of harsh chemicals and fragrances. Also, look for a mascara that's ophthalmologist approved and has undergone allergy testing.

Oily Skin

For oily skin types, try using waterproof mascara, which will last longer and prevent smudging, even on days when you sweat or experience oily skin.

Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, avoid using waterproof mascara as it can cause your lashes to become brittle and dry. Instead, opt for a volumizing or lengthening mascara, which can help add moisture to your lashes.

Mature Skin

Choose a mascara that's designed to add volume and length to your lashes while being gentle on your delicate skin. Avoid using mascara that contains fibers or is too thick in texture, as these can make your lashes look cakey and uneven.

In conclusion, it's critical to choose the right mascara for your skin type to ensure that your lashes look their best. Use these tips to help you find the perfect mascara to enhance the beauty of your eyes.

Our Favorite Mascara for Curling Lashes

If you’re looking to take your lash game to the next level, a good mascara is a must-have. But with so many different curling formulas and applicators out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect one. That's why we’ve done the work for you and have found the best mascara for curling your lashes! Not only does it give you the perfect curl, but it adds volume and length for a full and dramatic look. Keep reading to discover our top pick for the perfect curled lashes.

L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara

Best Mascara for Straight Lashes

Color: Black | Benefits: Volumizing, Smudge-Proof, Non-Clumping, Non-Flaking | Shades: 6 | Waterproof: Yes | Cruelty-Free: No

This amazing mascara formula not only adds intense volume and length to your lashes but also creates a subtle curl that lasts all day long. Say goodbye to flaking, smudging, or clumping - this mascara is designed to stay put and provide feathery soft full lashes that are sure to turn heads. The blackest black color adds an extra touch of intensity, making your eyes pop like never before. Whether you're headed to work or a night out, this cult-favorite mascara is the perfect addition to your makeup bag.

Maybelline Sky High Washable Mascara Makeup

Best Easy-to-Wash Mascara

Color: Black | Benefits: Defining, Volumizing, Curling, Lengthening | Shades: 6 | Waterproof: Yes | Cruelty-Free: No

This volumizing mascara boasts a buildable and washable formula that leaves your lashes looking sky-high all day long. With its unique Flex Tower brush, this mascara evenly coats each lash from root to tip, defining and curling as it goes.

Perfect for those with straight or average lashes, this very black formula is sure to make your eyes pop! And don't forget – it's easily washable for a fuss-free removal process. Get ready to see the world from new heights with Maybelline Sky High Mascara!

Maybelline Falsies Lash Lift Mascara

Best Curling and Lengthening Mascara

Color: Black, Brown | Benefits: Volumizing, Curling, Lifting, Lengthening | Shades: 4 | Waterproof: Yes | Cruelty-Free: No

This mascara is designed to volumize, lengthen, lift, curl, and multiply your lashes, making them fuller and longer than ever before. With its unique curling formula, this mascara is great for women with straight, short, or sparse lashes, as it will bring out their natural curl and help make them look fuller and more defined. The brownish-black color is perfect for everyday wear, and the waterproof formula means that you can wear it all day long without worrying about smudging or flaking.

Essence Mascara Lash Princess Curl and Volume

Best Clump-Free Mascara

Color: Black | Benefits: Curling, Lifting, Clump-Free | Shades: 1 | Waterproof: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you're looking for a mascara that can give you bold and beautiful lashes, Essence Mascara Lash Princess is the one for you! With its unique formula, it curls and lifts your lashes, giving them a full and voluminous look. This mascara is perfect for those who have straight lashes and want to add some curl and dimension to them.

The conical shape of the brush makes it easy to apply and reach every lash, no matter how small. You'll notice the difference from the first swipe itself! The best part about this mascara is that it's affordable, cruelty-free, and long-lasting. Say goodbye to lash extensions and hello to gorgeous lashes with Essence Mascara Lash Princess!

Lune+Aster Eclipse Volumizing & Curling Mascara

Best Curling and Volumizing Mascara

Color: Blue | Benefits: Moisturizing, Hydrating, Nourishing | Shades: 1 | Waterproof: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes

For those seeking full and curved lashes without dealing with smudging, this tubular mascara is an excellent choice. What makes it even better is that it's vegan and contains shea butter, which helps to nourish and protect your lashes. When it's time to take it off, simply use warm water, and it'll come off easily without any pulling or tugging, making it ideal for people with sensitive eyes or those who cannot stand stubborn mascara.

This one-of-a-kind formula is excellent for all eyelash types and will provide you with the perfect curl you've been searching for. With 4.5-star ratings, beauty stans love how this mascara curls and lifts the lashes.

Pacifica Beauty Mascara

Best Mascara for Length and Curl

Color: Black | Benefits: Curling, Volumizing, Lengthening | Shades: 1 | Waterproof: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This clean eye makeup is plant-fiber based, microplastic, and nylon 6 free, vegan, talc-free, and cruelty-free. But let's talk about what really matters – the results. This mascara provides both volume and length, with a specially designed vegan brush that curls and lifts your lashes for an eye-opening effect.

And with its glass tube packaging, you'll feel extra fancy every time you use it. Plus, this mascara is perfect for all lash types. So whether you've got short and wispy lashes or long and curly ones, Pacifica Activist Mascara will help you achieve the lashes of your dreams.

Kiko Milano Mascara

 Best Mascara for Volume and Curl

Color: Black | Benefits: Separating, Long Lasting, Curling | Shades: 1 | Waterproof: Yes | Cruelty-Free: No

This long-lasting mascara is specially formulated to curl and define your lashes while adding volume that lasts all day long! Whether you have short, sparse lashes or long, full lashes, this mascara is perfect for you! With its unique curved brush, it's easy to apply and ensures every lash is coated evenly. And the best part? It's designed to stay put, giving you a stunning, eye-catching look that's perfect for any occasion.

Trish McEvoy Lash Curling Mascara

Best Mascara for Length Curl and Volume

Color: Jet Black | Benefits: Curling, Tear Tracks-Free | Shades: 1 | Waterproof: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This 0.18 oz/5g tube is packed with unique features to give you the curled, voluminous lashes you've been dreaming of. The formula is specially designed to hold the curl in place all day long, without any flaking or smudging. Plus, the curling brush is curved to match the shape of your lash line, making application a breeze. This mascara is perfect for those with straight or downward-pointing lashes, providing long-lasting lift and curl. Say goodbye to droopy, lifeless lashes and hello to bold, beautiful eyes!

MISTINE Mascara

Best Curling and Volumizing Mascara

Color: Black | Benefits: Curling, Non Clumping, Lifting, Lengthening| Shades: 1 | Waterproof: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

MISTINE Mascara in natural black is the perfect solution for those seeking volume, length, and curl all in one. Best suited for those with sparse or straight lashes, this mascara adds a dramatic lift and lengthening effect that lasts for up to 24 hours. And the best part? No clumps, no smudging, just lasting beauty. Plus, this mascara is not only cruelty-free but also vegan.

Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Curling Mascara

Best Mascara for Lifting Lashes

Color: Black | Benefits: Curling, Separating, Thickening| Shades: 1 | Waterproof: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This incredible curling and lifting mascara is specially designed to give even short, straight lashes an amazing curl that lasts all day long. With a unique Hook 'n' Roll brush that grabs and lifts each individual lash, it's perfect for anyone who wants beautifully defined, ultra-curly lashes that really pop. Plus, it's smudge-proof, water-resistant, and easy to remove, making it an absolute must-have for anyone who wants stunning lashes without any fuss.

ILIA Limitless Lash Mascara

 Best Lightweight Mascara

Color: Black | Benefits: Curling, Nourishing, Lightweight | Shades: 1 | Waterproof: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This mascara comes with a dual-sided brush that has a long side perfect for getting a natural lift and a shorter side that allows you to build volume and dramatic length. In just one coat, your lashes will have an enviable curl and lift that will last throughout the day. But don’t be fooled by the natural look, this mascara is versatile enough to accommodate a more pronounced look to wear to dinner or for a night out.

Additionally, its flake-free, smudge-proof formulation, ensures that your lashes stay flawless, whether you're in the office, running errands, or enjoying a night out. The Limitless Lash Mascara is perfect for those with sensitive eyes or those who want a natural, everyday look.

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

Best Mascara to Make Lashes Thicker

Color: Black | Benefits: Curling, Thickening | Shades: 1 | Waterproof: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This cult favorite mascara is beloved by makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts alike for its amazing curling and volumizing abilities. The hourglass-shaped brush is specially designed to coat every single lash, separating and defining as it goes. But the real magic happens with the mascara's unique formula.

The collagen-infused mascara uses peptides to nourish and condition your lashes while it works its volumizing magic, giving them a lush and full look. The intense black pigment will also make your eyes pop, perfect for a night out or a special occasion.

Tips on How to Get the Perfect Curled Lashes

lash curling

Whether you're getting ready for a night out or just want to add some drama to your everyday makeup look, curled lashes can make a big difference. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfect curled lashes using curling mascara:

  • Start with clean and dry lashes: Curling mascara works best on clean, dry lashes. Remove any old mascara or eye makeup with a gentle makeup remover.
  • Choose the right curling mascara: Look for a mascara with a curved brush that will help lift and curl your lashes. Some mascaras even have special ingredients that work to hold the curl in place.
  • Hold the wand at the base of your lashes: Place the wand at the base of your lashes, then wiggle it back and forth as you move it upward. This helps to separate and define your lashes.
  • Use a curler first: If you want even more curl, use an eyelash curler before applying your mascara. Gently clamp the curler at the base of your lashes and hold for a few seconds before releasing.
  • Apply multiple coats: Apply a few coats of mascara, making sure to let each coat dry before applying the next. This will help build volume and keep the curl in place.
  • Don't forget the corners: Pay extra attention to the outer corners of your lashes, as this is where the curl tends to drop first.

With these tips, you can easily achieve perfectly curled lashes using curling mascara. So go out there and rock your fabulous lashes!

Curling Mascara FAQ

Does waterproof mascara hold a curl better?

Yes, waterproof mascara tends to hold a curl better than regular mascara. This is because waterproof formulas have more staying power and are less likely to smudge or smear throughout the day, which helps to maintain the curl of your lashes. However, because waterproof mascara is harder to remove, it can be more drying to your lashes and may cause them to break or become brittle over time. If you choose to use waterproof mascara, be sure to apply a nourishing lash conditioner regularly to keep your lashes healthy and strong.

Do you curl your lashes before or after mascara?

To achieve maximum curl, it's best to curl your lashes before applying mascara. This is because curling after applying mascara can cause your lashes to stick to the curler, resulting in breakage or clumps. Mascara can also make it difficult to achieve a strong curl as it can weigh down your lashes. Curling your lashes before applying mascara creates a more natural-looking curl without causing damage to your lashes or clumps in your mascara. So, make sure to curl your lashes first to achieve that perfect curl and stunning look.

How to keep eyelashes curled without mascara?

If you want to keep your eyelashes curled without mascara, there are a few options you can try:

a. Use an eyelash curler: Using an eyelash curler can help give your lashes a natural-looking curl. Hold the curler at the base of your lashes and gently clamp down. Hold for a few seconds before releasing.

b. Use a heated lash curler: Heated lash curlers work by applying heat to your lashes, which helps to set the curl. These devices can be a bit trickier to use than traditional curlers but can provide longer-lasting results.

c. Try a lash lift: A lash lift is similar to a perm for your lashes, and can help create a long-lasting curl. This technique involves applying a perming solution to your lashes, which are then shaped around a silicone rod. The results can last up to eight weeks.

e. Use a lash serum: Some lash serums are designed to promote lash growth and strength, which can help maintain a natural curl. Look for products containing biotin, peptides, and vitamins that nourish and strengthen lashes.

Regardless of which method you choose, it is important to be gentle with your lashes to avoid damaging them. With a little patience and the right tools, you can achieve a natural-looking, long-lasting curl without mascara.

Can you use mascara without curling lashes?

Yes, you can definitely use mascara without curling your lashes. Mascara has the ability to enhance the natural length and volume of your lashes, making them appear fuller and more pronounced. However, if you want curled and lifted lashes, it’s best to do so before applying your mascara. This will help avoid clumping and ensure a smooth and even application. It’s important to also choose a good quality mascara that fits your needs and preferences, whether it be waterproof, volumizing, lengthening, or all in one.

Can you curl lashes after mascara?

While it is technically possible to curl your lashes after applying mascara, it is generally not recommended. Curling your lashes after applying mascara can cause them to stick or clump together, potentially resulting in an uneven or clumpy appearance. It can also cause your lashes to break or become damaged, particularly if you use an eyelash curler that is too hot or if you clamp down too hard. It is best to curl your lashes before applying mascara to get the best results and avoid any potential damage.

Final Thoughts

To achieve curled and brilliantly contoured lashes, selecting the proper mascara is key. With an array of options to choose from, it's crucial to find a mascara that suits your needs and preferences, whether you want lengthening, volumizing, waterproof, or all-in-one features. Each of the ten curling mascaras discussed in this article provides various benefits that can enhance the natural beauty of your lashes. So, go ahead and explore these mascaras to achieve perfectly curled and breathtakingly beautiful lashes.

When shopping for a good curling mascara, look for products that have a curved brush or a formula that is designed to help curl your lashes. It's also important to choose a high-quality mascara that won't flake, smudge, or clump throughout the day. Whether you prefer a more natural look or bold, dramatic lashes, there is curling mascara out there for everyone.

Overall, using curling mascara can be a quick and easy way to give your lashes a beautiful lift and definition. These top ten curling mascaras are some of the best on the market and are sure to take your lash game to new heights. So go ahead and try out one of these amazing products, and see how they can transform your lashes in just a few swipes!

Elevate your lash game further with our expertly curated articles on the 16 Best Mascaras for Older Women to Achieve Flawless Lashes, The Best Mascara for Short Lashes that Will Make Them Pop, and 19 Best Waterproof Mascaras to Survive Any Summer Pool Party. Plus, don't miss out on our selection of These 16 Tubing Mascaras Will Withstand Even The Most Emotional Events for tear-proof glamour. Prepare to bat those gorgeous lashes with confidence!

16 Best Mascaras for Older Women to Achieve Flawless Lashes | Catchy Shopper
Say goodbye to clumping, smudging, and flaking, and hello to stunning, voluminous lashes that will have everyone asking for your secret weapon.
The Best Mascara For Short Lashes that Will Make Them Pop
Are you looking for the best mascara to make your short lashes look longer and fuller? Find out our top picks for mascaras that will make your short lashes pop!
19 Best Waterproof Mascaras to Survive Any Summer Pool Party
Get ready to make a splash with these smudge-proof, waterproof, and long-lasting mascaras that will have you looking stunning from day to night.
16 Best Tubing Mascaras That Will Withstand Even The Most Emotional Events | Catchy Shopper
Get ready to slay through even the most dramatic moments without a single mascara meltdown.

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