Few looks are as desirable as long, thick eyelashes. From the days of ancient Egypt, when women smudged kohl on their lashes to make them look darker or thicker, women have been vying for thick, lustrous lashes.

And luckily, mascaras have come to the rescue. Different mascara formulations can make your lashes look thicker, longer, darker, and curlier. Meanwhile, mascara wand designs can help separate lash hairs and make them look thicker. And using best lengthening mascara will turn even short and spiky lashes into long and lustrous ones. Lengthening mascaras work by building up fibers onto your lashes to add length and definition.

Related: The 10 Best Mascaras of 2019

Take a look at our list of the best lengthening mascaras. You're sure to find a mascara product that will give even short and pale lashes a more beautiful appearance.

Now here's a mascara you'll truly cherish! Cherisher's Lengthening Mascara is the best mascara for people with sensitive, tired, or damaged eyes and eyelashes. Cherisher's formula includes all the dark pigment and elegant accents of lengthening mascara with the added benefits of its nourishing formula.

Cherisher is one of the only mascara brands on the market that includes vitamins in its formula. This mascara is enriched with Vitamin E, making its hypoallergenic ingredients perfect for anyone with damaged eyelashes or sensitive eyes. Contact wearers will rejoice, too, since this formula is designed with eye care in mind. 

Cherisher's Lengthening Mascara comes with a custom curved mascara wand. This wand lifts, separates, and curls lashes all at the same time, while adding length, volume, and color to each individual lash. There's no need for silk fibers or fake lashes with this mascara — each application nourishes and strengthens your lashes, enhancing your natural look. 

Cherisher may have one of the more expensive lengthening mascaras on the market, but the added benefits are worth the price. When you're looking for makeup products that take care of your eyes and skin, look no further than Cherisher's Lengthening Mascara. 

Key Features
  • Vitamin-enriched formula
  • Hypoallergenic and gluten-free
  • Curved mascara wand for lengthening, curling, and volumizing
  • Sweat-proof and water resistant (but not waterproof)
Specifications
  • Waterproof: No
  • Wear Time: 12 hours
  • Hypoallergenic: Yes
  • Product Weight: 0.64 ounces
  • Brand: Cherisher
Pros
  • Hypoallergenic, vitamin-enriched formula is perfect for sensitive or damaged eyes
  • Curved mascara wand lengthens, curls, and adds volume at the same time
  • Flake- and clump-free
  • Durable formula lasts all day with minimal touch-ups
Cons
  • Not waterproof

Looking for a dependable makeup solution to take everywhere you go? Benefit's Roller Lash Mascara Set offers a regular-sized bottle for home use with a mini travel size to store in your purse or overnight bag. 

The Roller Lash set comes with Benefit's custom-designed "Hook N Roll" mascara wand. This specialized applicator is curved and ridged to simultaneously curl, lift, separate, and lengthen the lashes as you apply your makeup.

This delicate formula keeps your lashes at their longest and most expressive for up to 12 hours. Apply by starting at the base of the lashes and moving out to the tips, wiggling the curved brush to separate and curl each individual lash. At the end of the night, removal is simple with warm water or makeup wipes. 

You'll love Benefit's Roller Lash Mascara so much you'll want to buy it twice. That's why this dual set — with a full-size tube and a miniature travel size — is perfect for the everyday makeup aficionado and the jet-setter alike! 

Key Features
  • Includes full-size tube for daily use and miniature tube for travel
  • Curved "Hook N Roll" mascara wand for even application
  • Delicate formula for long-lasting use
  • Designed to curl and lift lashes for longest length
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 12 hours
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Product Weight: 0.3 oz (full size) and 0.14 oz (travel size)
Pros
  • Long-lasting
  • Curls, lifts, and lengthens lashes during application
  • Custom "Hook N Roll" mascara wand is curved for even application
  • Multiple uses: full-size tube is perfect for daily makeup while travel size fits in purse or handbag
Cons
  • Not hypoallergenic

Al'Iver's 4D Master Mascara offers all of the benefits of the best lengthening mascaras at a fraction of the cost. This inexpensive silk fiber lash formula is perfect for on-the-go use. Just toss the small, rectangular tube in your pocketbook and head out for the night!

This all-natural formula is designed for big results in a single application. The waterproof mascara stays with you through rain, tears, and sweat, keeping your lashes thick and fluffy all day long.

For maximum length, start by drying, curling, and applying a light coat of gel and silk fibers to the lashes. Then, apply your mascara as lightly or heavily as suits your style. This mascara is perfect to bring with you on any night out, but you likely won't need to reapply at all! When you get home, easily remove it with warm water or your favorite makeup remover. 

Whether you're a YouTube fashionista or a casual makeup user, you'll find the best of all worlds in Al'Iver's 4D Master Mascara. You can get a refined, elegant look for your lashes without the expensive price tag that comes with professional-level products. 

Key Features
  • Volumizing formula is perfect for lengthening and darkening lashes
  • Multi-angle adjustment brush head
  • Waterproof
  • Smudge- and flake-proof
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 12 hours
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Product Weight: 0.38 ounces
Pros
  • Waterproof, smudge-proof, and flake-proof
  • Instant results with a single application
  • Rotating mascara brush gives multiple options for length and volume of lashes
Cons
  • Not hypoallergenic

Who said makeup had to be bad for your skin? Julep's entire brand is built on nourishing, stylish products that are as good for you as they are on-trend. Their Length Matters Lengthening Mascara is no different: this mascara boosts your lashes' natural length and volume while nourishing the skin and hair with added vitamins. 

Julep's custom formula comes complete with beeswax, vitamin B5, and aloe leaf juice, three ingredients that add up to a spa day for your lashes. The finely tapered micro-bristle brush layers on as much mascara as you'd like to fill out your softly curled, wide-eyed look. 

As a brand, Julep celebrates the concept of "Brave Pretty." All of their products come with a "Girlfriend's Promise" guarantee: all Julep products are simple, good for you, and easy to use without a makeup artist's professional training. 

This lengthening mascara clings to the lashes without flakes or clumps. Depending on your style goals, you can apply a single coat for a lighter look or add layers with the micro-bristle brush for a more dramatic color. 

Whatever your night has in store for you, Julep has your makeup needs covered. Julep's Length Matters Lengthening Mascara is the perfect pop your makeup bag needs. It adds flair and elegance to any look, from everyday styles to night-out extravaganzas. 

Key Features
  • Micro-bristle mascara brush
  • Active ingredients include beeswax, vitamin B5, and aloe leaf juice
  • Cruelty, paraben, and SLS-free
  • Noticeable difference with one application
Specifications
  • Waterproof: No
  • Wear Time: 12 hours
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Product Weight: 0.32 ounces
Pros
  • Cruelty-free
  • Comes with "Girlfriend's Promise" warranty
  • Nourishing ingredients protect lash and eye health
  • Easy to apply and remove
Cons
  • Not waterproof
  • Not hypoallergenic

When you have sensitive eyes or wear contacts, you need a waterproof mascara that can stay with you all day with no irritation. Bestidy's QIC Xpress Control Mascara is perfect for daily use, with a formula durable enough to last all day but gentle enough for sensitive eyes. 

Xpress Control is designed for a dramatic look in a single application. Apply starting at the base of the eyelashes and work your way forward with a zig-zagging motion. This will separate, lengthen, and add volume to each lash. The ultimate result? A gorgeous, dramatic look that will keep up with you all day long. 

This mascara is designed to go on smoothly and last all day, with a waterproof, flake-proof, and smudge-proof formula that can be easily removed with makeup wipes. (Simple water may not be enough — that's how durable your look will be!)

When you need the best mascara, Bestidy is the way to go. For a dramatic look with little effort, the Xpress Control formula lengthens, separates, and adds volume to your lashes from the first swipe. 

Key Features
  • Deep pigment creates a dramatic, dark look
  • 4D Silk Fiber formula
  • Waterproof and long-lasting
  • Hypoallergenic and natural ingredients
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 12 hours
  • Hypoallergenic: Yes
  • Product Weight: 0.64 ounces
Pros
  • Waterproof, smudge-proof, and flake-proof
  • Hypoallergenic, all-natural formula is perfect for sensitive eyes and contacts
  • Creates a dramatic look with a single application
  • Long-lasting but easy to remove with makeup wipes
Cons
  • Can cause irritation in direct contact with eyes
  • Too many applications can result in chunks or clumps

VieBeauti's Ultimate 4D Mascara offers optimum length and volume at a reasonable price. For daily makeup users, this mascara is designed with a beeswax-based formula for easy application and long-lasting flourish. 

To apply, use an eyelash curler on clean, dry lashes. Starting at the base of the lashes, apply mascara by wiggling and sweeping the brush from root to tip. For best application, use a "Z" zigzag motion. Repeat the brushing step as needed until you've reached the ideal lash separation, volume, and length. 

Like many waterproof mascaras, VieBeauti's Ultimate 4D Mascara may require makeup wipes to remove if warm water does not get the job done. This highly effective mascara is waterproof and smudge-proof for up to 12 hours. No need to reapply halfway through your night! 

For excellent, bright, stunning eye makeup, trust a brand like VieBeauti. You can achieve the bold look of long, dark lashes without an expensive price tag. 

Key Features
  • Rich, creamy 4D formula provides maximum length and volume
  • Waterproof and long-lasting
  • Smudge-proof and flake-proof
  • Hypoallergenic formula
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 12 hours
  • Hypoallergenic: Yes
  • Product Weight: 1.3 ounces
Pros
  • Custom formula is hypoallergenic, waterproof, and smudge-proof
  • Wand is designed for easy holding and application
  • Creamy black color designed for smooth, even application
  • 4D silk fiber formula prevents clumps
Cons
  • Can be difficult to remove (must use makeup wipes)

Looking for dramatic, full lashes without applying fakes? St. Mege 4D Silk Fiber Lash Mascara & Fiber 2-in-1 Set offers a four-dimensional lash look without all the hassle of glue, fake eyelashes, and removers. 

This set offers the convenience of multiple "looks" in two convenient bottles. For a muted, everyday look, stick with the simple mascara. Looking for something a little more dramatic? Take it up a notch with a light fiber application. For the longest, fullest lash look possible, apply a full coat of fiber (start by applying gel, then the fibers, then another coat of gel before applying the mascara as the final step). 

St. Mege is known for their durable, lightweight makeup products. This mascara can be worn day and night with little to no touch-ups. Waterproof and hypoallergenic, this mascara will stay on all day, rain or shine, without irritating sensitive eyes. 

The dramatic "night out" look doesn't have to come with a massive price tag. St. Mege's 2-in-1 set offers the best of lengthening mascara with the added benefits of silk fibers. After a single application, your look will pop! 

Key Features
  • Dual-use silk fiber and mascara wands create fuller, longer lashes
  • 100 percent waterproof and smudge-proof
  • Hypoallergenic, all-natural ingredients
  • Scaled applications for everyday, night out, and glamour looks
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 12 hours
  • Hypoallergenic: Yes
  • Product Weight: 2.4 ounces
Pros
  • Waterproof and smudge-proof
  • Hypoallergenic ingredients are safe for sensitive eyes
  • 2-in-1 set includes mascara and fiber lash treatment for longer, fuller looks
  • Easy to apply and remove
Cons
  • Extra application steps with fiber treatment
  • Can be messy at first if you're not used to the fiber system

Many 4D silk fiber eyelash mascaras can score high on beauty scales but low on quality — some can turn into flaky, goopy messes, while others only perfect their formulas through animal testing. Purely Radiant's Lengthy Lash formula defies the odds with its elegant, refined look — and a formula that is 100 percent cruelty-free. 

Purely Radiant offers the best in waterproof lengthening mascara. After a single application, you can get rained on, take a swim, or spend a night dancing without worrying about your makeup dripping. 

Application is simple: the extended mascara wand lifts, lengthens, and separates eyelashes in a single swipe. The dark pigments provide a bold, dramatic look without the need for excessive coats of makeup. No more heavy, clumpy eyelashes! 

If you're looking for a high-quality, smudge-proof, water-proof, and all-around-incredible mascara at a low price, Purely Radiant has the match for you. The Lengthy Lash formula gives you the dramatic look you're seeking without any of the mess! 

Key Features
  • Hypoallergenic and cruelty-free
  • Clump-proof and waterproof
  • Designed for easy removal with makeup wipes
  • Long-lasting formula keeps mascara in place
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 12 hours
  • Hypoallergenic: Yes
  • Product Weight: 0.8 ounces
Pros
  • 100% cruelty-free: never tested on animals!
  • Hypoallergenic formula is perfect for sensitive eyes
  • Not crumbly, flaky, or clumpy like some lengthening mascaras
  • Noticeable difference after a single application
Cons
  • Heavier than similar formulas
  • Can be difficult to remove with water alone

ToullGo's Gentle Era 4D Silk Fiber Lash Mascara is one of the best lengthening mascaras on the market. A single application is enough for a bold, dramatic look, and the darkly pigmented formula accents your eyes without irritation. 

This formula is designed with sensitive eyes in mind. Perfect for contact wearers, people with allergies, or people prone to itchy eyes, this mascara goes on smooth and comes off easily. Practice makes perfect — a single application is all you'll need to make your lashes pop, and after a few uses you'll be one of the experts. 

To use this mascara, dry and curl the eyelashes (if desired) with your favorite eyelash curler. For a dramatic look, apply gel and silk fibers and let them dry fully before you apply the mascara. Using the mascara wand, move out slowly from the base of the lashes, using a zig-zagging motion to lift, separate, and lengthen each individual lash. After one application, you're good to go! (But you can always add another layer for a darker, more dramatic look.)

Whether you're prepping for an extravagant night out or you're just looking for a reliable mascara to add to your daily makeup bag, ToullGo has the option for you. This lengthening mascara offers the best of waterproof, durable makeup products without the heaviness and chunkiness of cheaper, lower-quality options. 

Key Features
  • All-natural formula designed for people with sensitive eyes
  • Deeply pigmented formula for a bold and dramatic look
  • Waterproof
  • Comes with silk fiber applicator
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 12 hours
  • Hypoallergenic: Yes
  • Product Weight: 2.4 ounces
Pros
  • Waterproof
  • Designed specially for sensitive eyes
  • Can be used with silk fiber treatments (included)
  • Dramatic look in a single application
Cons
  • Not smudge-proof: may require some practice to apply cleanly

What's your type? theBalm's "Tall, Dark and Handsome" mascara offers some of our favorite romantic tropes in the form of a high-quality mascara. Your lashes, too, can have all the attractive qualities of a romcom's leading lady. 

theBalm's custom mascara wand is designed to be a triple threat. A single application lengthens, volumizes, and curls the lashes as you apply. To use, simply start at the base of the lashes and wiggle the wand as you move outward, painting each individual lash for a refined, dramatic look. 

The proprietary formula includes two different types of wax — olive wax and rice wax — keeping your mascara refined and elegant without clumps or smudges. Plus, the fun branding on the bottle is an excellent conversation starter!

Who doesn't want their lashes to be tall, dark, and handsome? Try theBalm's "What's Your Type?" mascara on for size, and find yourself with the gorgeous, accented eyes of the main character in your favorite romantic movie. Date night, anyone?!

Key Features
  • Lengthens, volumizes, and curls lashes
  • All-natural ingredients include panthenol, olive wax, and rice wax
  • Dramatic, bold look without clumping
  • Deep pigment darkens lashes
Specifications
  • Waterproof: No
  • Wear Time: 12 hours
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Product Weight: 0.33 ounces
Pros
  • Wax ingredients keep mascara from clumping
  • Dark pigments provide a dramatic look in a single application
  • Triple threat mascara wand: lengthens, volumizes, and curls at the same time
  • Easy to bring on the go
Cons
  • Not waterproof or hypoallergenic

When you're looking for the best lengthening mascara on the market, you're looking for a product that will truly transform your face. Silk fibers, eyelash curlers, gels and pigments and dyes are all designed for one thing: to accentuate your eyes and leave your admirers wondering, "Are those eyelash extensions, or just really good mascara?"

Lengthening mascara can be difficult to find. Most mascaras advertise themselves as "volumizing" or "emphasizing," but what does that actually mean? Which mascaras perfect that bold, dramatic look we're going for, and which just turn into a clumpy, flaky mess after the first application?

Luckily, the search for the best lengthening mascara doesn't have to take a millennium. Like all makeup products, the best lengthening mascara for YOU may not be the same as what's best for your fashionista neighbor. When considering which mascara to buy, take a few things into consideration:

Do you suffer from allergies, dry contacts, or itchy eyes? You'll want a hypoallergenic formula to keep your eyes safe.

When do you plan on wearing this mascara? If you'll be out in the rain, dancing all night at the club, or watching a particularly sad movie, you'll want to invest a few extra dollars in a waterproof mascara.

Just how "dramatic" of a look are we trying to get, here? For a more "everyday" look, you'll want something that lengthens the lashes without darkening them too much. For your next club night, you'll want a deeper pigment that makes your eyes pop. And for a no-holds-barred, stepped-off-the-runway look, you may want the added benefits of a silk fiber treatment or a 3d fiber. (Looking for a mix of all three? Try a 2-in-1 product that lets you mix and match your mascara "looks" depending on the occasion.)

No matter where your day may take you, the best lengthening mascara will keep your "look" at its best all day—and all night long.

Resources— Marie Claire, Byrdie, Influenster

Share this Buyers Guide About The Author