Every good beauty enthusiast knows that there's no feeling better than getting a deal on makeup. Of course, there's a time and place for luxe products, and there's nothing wrong with splurging every now and then. But affordable makeup with formulas that rival high-end brands is a complete win. One item that has always reigned supreme in this category is drugstore mascara.
For years, heritage brands have paired inky formulas with simple spoolies to deliver lush lashes. Many have become iconic in their own right and even propelled the brand to global success. In the sea of high-end brands, the drugstore continues to serve up a wide selection of quality mascaras. Below are the tubes that have stood the test of time and a few that are well on their way to becoming icons.
Maybelline Great Lash Mascara
Arguably one of the most iconic mascaras around, Great Lash lives up to its claims. The simple spoolie separates your lashes as it deposits a formula that is conditioning and highly pigmented. Best of all, it's buildable. Two coats are all that's needed for a bold, full look.
L'Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara
If you adore full, fluffy lashes, you'll love this tube. The super-pigmented formula glides on smoothly, giving you a deep intensity. But the bubble-shaped brush is equally impressive. It separates and evenly coats your lashes as it lightly fluffs them.
CoverGirl Full Lash Bloom Mascara
CoverGirl's Lash Blast Mascara is an icon, but this rose-colored tube deserves just as much attention. The petal-shaped brush expertly disperses the product to give you a wide-eyed look. Even the formula, a soft mousse made with natural beeswax, is lush.
Essence Lash Princess False Lash Mascara
There's a reason this mascara has captured the hearts of professionals and newbies alike. One coat instantly lengthens and darkens your lashes. Two coats intensify the look, giving the appearance of falsies. The formula is nice, but the conical-shaped brush is the real star. It grabs every lash, even those hard-to-get ones in the corner, and stretches them for a dramatic effect.
E.l.f. Lash 'N Roll Mascara
If lash curlers aren't your thing, you'll love this tube from e.l.f. Designed to mimic the effects of a curler, it lifts and defines with a single swipe. The brush is even double-sided, making it ideal for top and bottom lashes.