Guys, we need to talk about mascara. You know, that one magic wand that takes your lashes from barely-there to HELLO—I’ve arrived. I’ve been trying mascaras for years now (perks of being a makeup artist!) and I’m pretty sure 2023 has brought out some bangers. I’m talking length for days, volume that speaks for itself, and formulas that ACTUALLY last. We’re finally at a point where the mascara game is strong as it’s ever been. So, naturally, I had to spill the tea and tell you exactly which ones you should be adding to your cart RN. Let’s just dive right into my top picks for length and volume this year—and ya know I’m keeping it real with you.
1. Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara
Okay, fam… if you’ve been on TikTok (and let’s be honest, who hasn’t?), you know how much hype this mascara has gotten. And let me tell you: this one 100% lives up to it. Maybelline really popped off with the Lash Sensational Sky High.
Sky. High. Just let that sink in.
This beauty is all about length, length, and more LENGTH. Seriously, this wand grabs every single lash, making them look more defined and elongated than I thought possible for my own eyelashes without falsies.
Lash Sensational gives me major “I woke up like this” vibes—perfect for anyone who pretends like they didn’t spend time obsessing over their makeup.
Pros:
– Affordable (hello, drugstore win).
– Lightweight, buildable formula. It layers without getting clumpy.
– Long-lasting, smudge-proof goodness.
Cons:
– It’s mostly about length—so if you’re looking for major volume, this one might not go all the way there for you.
| Product | Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara |
|---|---|
| Best For | Length |
| Price Range | $9-13 |
| Waterproof | Available in waterproof and regular versions |
2. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
Okay, like… the name? Kinda scandalous. But let’s be real: the mascara? Truly iconic. Too Faced Better Than Sex is the queen when it comes to thick, voluminous lashes that’ll make people think you’re wearing falsies. If you’ve never tried a high-end mascara and want to feel boujee AF without splurging on like, designer clothes, this is where it’s at.
The wand is thick, but not obnoxious, and it has this hourglass shape, which is SO GOOD for catching your smallest lashes and adding a ridiculous amount of volume. If you want drama—and I mean DRAMA—this one’s for you.
One coat and your lashes will have more volume than that PB&J sandwich you packed last week. Trust.
Pros:
– Extreme volume. Like, its whole MO is “big lash energy.”
– Thick, rich formula that doesn’t flake.
Cons:
– Can get a tiny bit clumpy if you’re not careful (but let’s admit, we all go a little extra sometimes).
– Some might find it a bit heavy for every day—but hey, extra lashes are good lashes!
| Product | Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara |
|---|---|
| Best For | Volume |
| Price Range | $27 |
| Waterproof | Available in waterproof version |
3. Benefit They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara
Picture this (OKAY, bad phrasing—I promised no “picture this,” but stay with me!). You’re looking for that natural, fluttery lash look but you also want your lashes to, you know, EXIST. Enter: Benefit’s “They’re Real!” Mascara. It’s the perfect middle ground between going full-on glam and keeping it casually cute.
What I’m OBSESSED with is how this one is length-building, but still gives you some volume. The brush is kinda spiky (but don’t be scared—it’s a good kind of spiky!); it separates your lashes SO well and really defines them.
If “effortlessly put together” had a beauty product equivalent, this would be it.
Pros:
– Adds noticeable length without being over-the-top dramatic.
– Doesn’t smudge or flake off by lunchtime.
Cons:
– It can be tricky to remove if you’re not using a proper makeup remover. Ain’t nobody got time to tug on their lashes.
| Product | Benefit They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara |
|---|---|
| Best For | Length & Definition |
| Price Range | $27 |
| Waterproof | Nope |
4. L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise
Don’t sleep on drugstore mascaras, fam! If you’re on a budget but you still want to SLAY on the daily, L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise has you covered. This one’s basically because you want mega volume and a little bit of length on the side.
I have to shout out the formula here—it’s kinda mousse-y and soft, so it cushions your lashes and stays comfy AF all day. Even better? It doesn’t flake away or melt off by noon, even when you’re out and about running a billion errands in the summer heat.
Pros:
– Thickens lashes fast; builds volume in one or two coats.
– The brush covers even the shortest lashes.
Cons:
– It’s a bit more prone to clumping if you overdo those layers.
| Product | L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise |
|---|---|
| Best For | Volume |
| Price Range | $10-12 |
| Waterproof | Yes |
5. Glossier Lash Slick
Hold up. Glossier doing mascara? Yep, and Lash Slick is all about adding that subtle, natural definition that makes you feel like a fresh-faced angel. Not tryna do the most but still want your lashes to look clean, defined, and “awake”? This is the mascara to reach for. It enhances your natural lashes in this glossy black coat. If you’re into that minimalist vibe that Glossier nails every. single. time, you’re going to love this mascara.
What’s special is the fiber formula, which gives you extra length by grabbing hold of your lashes and stretching them out juuust enough without being overdone.
Perfect for that “no makeup makeup” look when you have to look *put together* but don’t want to look like you’re trying too hard.
Pros:
– Natural, lightweight feel. Like, literal featherweight status.
– Tubing formula makes it SO simple to remove—warm water is all you need.
Cons:
– It’s on the pricey side for the amount of volume it gives.
– If you’re looking for chunky or dramatic volume, this won’t get you there.
| Product | Glossier Lash Slick |
|---|---|
| Best For | Natural Definition |
| Price Range | $18 |
| Waterproof | Water-resistant, but not waterproof |
6. Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara
This one’s a bit of a hidden gem that deserves WAY more love than it gets. If you hit up your local drugstore, you’ve probably seen Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect just chilling on the shelf. But let me tell you, looks can be deceiving!
This mascara is budget-friendly as hell and gives you high-key dramatic lashes. The wand is simple, the formula is smooth, and the effect is basically like you applied lightweight falsies… except you didn’t have to mess with glue. Just coat them, build up the layers a bit, and boom: false lashes effect done for way less.
Pros:
– Super affordable. Like, did I even spend $$ on this mascara? Affordable.
– Really noticeable volume and length, comparable to higher-end brands.
Cons:
– It can smudge a bit, especially if you’re in warm, sweaty climates (I know, I know… sigh).
| Product | Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara |
|---|---|
| Best For | Volume & Length |
| Price Range | $4-5 |
| Waterproof | No, but it holds up pretty well for the price |
Final Thoughts (because I wouldn’t leave you hanging!)
Alright guys, these were my top 2023 mascara picks for when you’re after longer, thicker lashes that make alll the difference. Whether you’re hitting up your local CVS or splurging on some high-end mascara goodness, there’s a magic wand 😉 for everyone. At the end of the day, lashes can be a super personal thing (who knew?!), but I feel like if you try one or all of these, your lash game will be officially upgraded. Go ahead and find your new favorite!
Have fun, play with the length, play with the volume, and remember: mascara fixes everything!
Be sure to let me know your favorites or any hidden gems I missed in the comments. 👀
