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I don’t always wear a ton of makeup, but if I’m going to put in the effort, mascara is a must-have part of my routine. With just a few simple swipes, mascara instantly helps me look more awake, pulled-together and glamorous.
This makeup staple doesn’t have to be expensive, either. Some of the best mascaras can be found at an affordable price at your local pharmacy or on Amazon — just make sure you’re buying from a verified seller.
According to makeup artist Natalie Setareh, there is a huge counterfeit cosmetics industry, so you’ll want to ensure you’re getting a genuine product.
Here are five makeup-artist-approved mascaras that you can find on Amazon.
1. L’Oreal Lash Paradise, $9.97
Setareh loves the volume and length that this mascara provides, which she says rivals that of higher-end competitors. She says that compared to L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara, another favorite among makeup professionals from the brand, Lash Paradise has an even larger and fluffier brush, which translates to bigger volume for less work.
2. essence Lash Princess Falsh Lash Effect Mascara, $4.99
Want the look of false eyelashes without the hassle and price? Look no further than this under-$5 pick, essence Lash Princess, that is gluten-free and cruelty-free.
“The tapered pine cone brush makes it a breeze to apply,” says Setareh. “The black is quite black for a mascara at this price point, and the brush handle is comfortable.”
3. L’Oreal Paris Makeup Beauty Tubes Lengthening Mascara, $9.48
According to celebrity makeup artist Jessica deBen Polish, the magic of this L’Oreal Beauty Tubes Lengthening mascara lies in the way it “tubes” the lashes with a rich, waterproof black pigment.
“My clients enjoy this formula as the ultimate travel mascara that won’t run or smudge and is easy to remove with warm water,” she says.
4. Lancome Monsieur Big Volume Mascara, $21.25
Polish uses two coats of this “powerhouse mascara,” Lancome Monsieur Big Volume, to get her clients red-carpet-ready.
“This is a great mascara for when you want your lashes to visibly frame the eyes and even extend to the point that it hides any upper lid puffiness or hooding,” she says. “I highly recommend it.”
5. St. Mege 4D Silk Fiber Lash Mascara, $18.79
Paris-based celebrity makeup artist Alison Depriestre recommends this 4D Silk Fiber mascara for its silky-smooth texture that glides on easily without clumping or flaking. It comes in a non-waterpoof formula as well.
Kate Streit lives in Chicago. She enjoys stand-up comedy, mystery novels, memoirs, summer and pumpkin spice anything. More.
