9 Best Waterproof Mascaras for Swimming to Enjoy Long-lasting Effect

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Feb 05, 2024
9 Best Waterproof Mascaras for Swimming to Enjoy Long-lasting Effect
9 Best Waterproof Mascaras for Swimming to Enjoy Long-lasting Effect
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

With so many advancements in the beauty industry, developing waterproof makeup products was a groundbreaking step as it allowed us to stay stylish even in water. With a wide range  waterproof makeup products, today's article is about the best waterproof mascaras for swimming. 

We all love watching the Olympics and one of my favorite sports is synchronized swimming. The beautiful swimmers dressed up elegantly with gorgeous makeup and the artistic presentation of their swimming routine combine to present a mesmerizing and captivating performance. No matter how many dips and laps they take, their mascaras never run or smudge. That is the power of waterproof mascaras. You can enjoy swimming without any fear of racoon eyes or runny black streaks with them. Drawing from our experience, we have gathered together 9 best waterproof mascaras for swimming to have you swim-ready.

9 Best Waterproof Mascaras for Swimming

The waterproof eyeshadow stick by Julep is at the top of our list due to its creme-to-powder feature. The creamy eyeshadow stick glides across your lids smoothly to give you a crease-proof powder finish once it dries. Infused with vitamins C and E, it has a hydrating formula that keeps your eyelids nourished and moisturized. Vitamin C improves the skin tone and texture while vitamin E protects the skin from free radicals. The presence of candelilla wax makes the eyeshadow smooth and super blendable. This waterproof option has a built-in smudger that effortlessly blends the formula to give you that waterproof powdery finish.

Pros
  • Natural ingredients
  • Hydrating formula
  • Blends easily
  • Crease-proof
  • High-pigmented shades
Cons
  • Does not last long
  • Best overall

    Waterproof Mascara By Wet n Wild

    Waterproof Mascara By Wet n Wild
  • Wet n Wild offers a Mega Length Waterproof Mascara that has a smudge-resistant and sweat-proof formula. It is crafted with vitamin E that softens, moisturizes, and protects your lashes, at the same time, lengthening them. The applicator comes with a precision comb that defines each lash, brushing them from root to tip for longer-looking lashes. One of the best waterproof lengthening mascaras that extend, lift, and separate your lashes, the super-pigmented formula is a must-have for your make-up kit. This lash-effect waterproof mascara has to be the best choice for a beach vacation. 

    Pros
    • Smudge-proof
    • Sweat-proof
    • Clump-free
    • Sulfate-free
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Not easy to remove
  • Best nourishing

    Neutrogena Healthy Volume Waterproof Mascara

    Neutrogena Healthy Volume Waterproof Mascara
  • A brand that focuses on promoting beauty products that not only make you look good but also nourish your skin from within, Neutrogena incorporates healthy, natural ingredients in its products. The Healthy Volume Waterproof Mascara is infused with sweet almond and olive oil that conditions your lashes, making them plumper and fuller. The volumizing mascara creates up to 400% fuller lashes without any clumping, smudging, or flaking. This drugstore waterproof mascara’s formula is gentle and safe for sensitive skin.

    Pros
    • Smudge-proof
    • Oil-free
    • Clump-free
    • Long-lasting
    • Easy to remove
    Cons
    • The formula is a bit dry
  • Best smudge-proof

    Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara

    Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara
  • Clinique’s waterproof version of its High Impact Mascara creates instant volume and length after application. It stays all day without any smudging or clumping. This will soon be your go-to waterproof mascara for swimming as it resists heat, humidity, water, and any other moisture you might encounter. Apart from black, this mascara is also available in brown color. The best-selling formula is safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

    Pros
    • Long-lasting
    • Smudge-proof
    • No flaking
    • Clump-free
    • Easy to apply
    Cons
    • The applicator can be messy sometimes
  • The best long-lasting

    Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara

    Eyeko Beach Waterproof Mascara
  • The award-winning mascara by Eyeko is formulated with botanically-enriched ingredients for instant volume, length, and definition. Infused with 12 fruit extracts, coconut oil, sunscreen, and waterproof pigments, it is beach-approved and swimming-friendly. Inspired by Korean formulations and tubing mascara technology, this mascara coats each lash individually with a protective layer to prevent smudging, flaking, and clumping. The packaging has been designed to provide you with a mess-free application. This mascara is the perfect waterproof mascara for swimming as the nourishing ingredients keep your lashes moisturized while the sunscreen shields them from harmful UV rays.

    Pros
    • Long-lasting
    • Smudge-proof
    • Fiber-enhanced
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Not easy to remove
  • Best lash lengthening

    Pacifica Water-Resistant Long Lash Mineral Mascara

    Pacifica Water-Resistant Long Lash Mineral Mascara
  • As the name suggests, this mascara is equipped with a molded vegan lengthening brush that instantly makes your lashes long as it coats each lash separately to create volume. Enriched with natural ingredients like coconut oil, kelp extract, and vitamin B, it hydrates and moisturizes the lashes, strengthening and nourishing each lash. This gorgeous long-wearing and waterproof mascara has a gentle formula suitable specifically for those with sensitive skin and eyes. 

    Pros
    • Clean formula
    • Long-lasting
    • Smudge-proof formula
    • Lash lengthening
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Not smudge-proof
  • Best volumizing

    Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara

    Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara
  • When Zendaya says it gives beautiful, big, luscious lashes, you do not second guess. Lancome’s Monsieur Big Waterproof mascara is Zendaya’s favorite because it makes the lashes look bigger, fuller, and longer. Put on a second coat and you have the effect of false lashes with just mascara. It stays for up to 24 hours and provides up to 12 times more volume. The fat brush is designed with soft and wavy bristles that evenly coat each lash with high-intensity ultra-black pigments for clump-free wear. This smudge-proof and flake-proof mascara volumizes and lengthens your lashes, giving you dramatic lashes and a gorgeous look. 

    Pros
    • Soft brush
    • Instant volume
    • Long-lasting
    • Smudge-proof
    • Paraben-free
    Cons
    • Not easy to remove
  • Best curl effect

    Peripera Ink Black Mascara

    Peripera Ink Black Mascara
  • Created to lift and lengthen your lashes, this iconic mascara in the ink-black shade is Peripera’s best waterproof lengthening mascara. This mascara gives the effect of eyelash extension by separating and lengthening each lash. This regular mascara creates super-curls that stay curled all day long with the help of the in-built Strong Curve System technology that adds a powerful sealing layer of gel on top of the coat. This water-resistant formula easy-to-use wand applicator coats the eyelashes from the roots, building up the volume without smudging or clumping.

    Pros
    • Clump-free
    • Smudge-proof
    • Smear-proof
    • Volumizing formula
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Not easy to remove
  • Best buildable formula

    Christian Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara

    Christian Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara
  • Dior mascaras are known for their volume and curl effects. And this waterproof one is no exception. It has a buildable formula that works on your lashes to give them length and volume. The creamy texture delivers a lash-curling effect, making your eyelashes appear thicker and longer. It is formulated to strengthen and protect your lashes, keeping them healthy and attractive. One Amazon customer has reviewed this mascara as ‘The Allure of Thick and Long Eyelashes’. This is the ideal mascara for a luxe experience. 

    Pros
    • Tear-proof
    • Long-lasting
    • Buildable formula
    • Creamy texture
    • Curling effect
    Cons
    • Not smudge-proof

    What to Look for in the Best Waterproof Mascaras for Swimming

    Here is a buying guide for you to select the perfect waterproof mascara for swimming. Keep in mind the following factors while buying your waterproof mascara:

    • Ingredients: When it comes to beauty products, it is always necessary to check the ingredients list. Mascaras with natural elements like hyaluronic acid, essential oils, plant extracts, vitamins C and E will nourish your lashes , keeping them healthy. Opt for chemical-free formulas that will be safe for sensitive skin, too. Always look for mineral oil as a key ingredient. 
    • Formulation: Oil-based mascaras last long and they do not smudge easily. Waterproof formulawith volumizing effects and formulations that do not need any touch ups under water are perfect for swimming. As it is an eye makeup product, ophthalmologist-tested mascara is the best.
    • Ease of application and removal: The design of the bristle brush plays an important role in how easily you can apply the mascara to your lashes. Short brushes are easy to control, preventing smudging and smearing. They give full coverage by coating the lashes from root to tip. For volume and definition, a cone-shaped fiber curved brush is ideal. Waterproof mascaras often have a single complaint, they are hard to remove. Look for the ones that are easy to remove with a little oil or remover.
      As per our contributor, and renowned makeup artist Elaina Badro olive oil is great if you’re looking to remove waterproof mascara without makeup remover.
    • Customer reviews: To get the most out of a product, go through its customer review section. The reviews will let you know the pros and cons of a mascara after use.

    Dos and Don’ts Of Applying Waterproof Mascara While Swimming

    To keep your mascara intact while swimming, without any smudging or smearing, there are some dos and don'ts that you should follow:

    • Always select a mascara wand that is specifically made for swimming.
    • Prime your lashes with a primer before applying mascara to create a barrier between your lashes and the water.
    • Let your mascara dry after each coat to prevent smudging and smearing.
    • Curl your lashes and apply a thin coat of mascara to prevent clumping.
    • Put a light coat of powder on top of the mascara to lock it in.
    • Do not rub your eyes after applying mascara. It will cause smudging.
    • Do not apply too much product in a single coat as it will result in clumping.
    • Do not use skin care products for oily skin around the eyes. They might make the mascara smear or flake.
    • If you find it hard to remove the mascara clumps, opt for warm water or micellar water which are the best Eye Makeup Remover hacks. 

    Conclusion

    As indicated by our tests, waterproof mascaras, meant for swimming, having a smudge-resistant formula will last longer underwater with no flaking. The chlorinated water can have a harmful impact on your skin in the longer run. The waterproof mascaras are enriched with nourishing ingredients that take care of your eyes while offering them a plumper and fuller silhouette. The applicator decides the ease of application and precision that you can have. Soft and small bristles will help you have better control without any clumping. Removing waterproof mascara can get tricky. Our contributor Elaina Badro says “The best way to remove waterproof mascara is with oil and/or an oil-based eye makeup remover.” You can either use makeup remover or oil, vaseline, or baby cream for sensitive skin. With such an amazing curated list of the best waterproof mascaras for swimming, you can now stay under water as long as you want with picture-perfect eye makeup.

    Contributor: Elaina Badro, Entrepreneur and Makeup Artist, Founder - Elaina Badro Makeup Store

    FAQ's

    Can you wear waterproof mascara while swimming?
    Yes, you can wear waterproof mascara while swimming. There are many smudge-proof mascaras that withstand any type of moisture and stay all day long.
    What is the best mascara for swimming?
    Some of the best mascaras for swimming are listed in the article above. They are easy to apply, long-lasting, smudge-proof, and do not smear.
    What mascara doesn't come off in the pool?
    Mascaras that have strong smudge-resistant and water-resistant properties do not come off in the pool.
    What eye makeup do swimmers use?
    Swimmers use waterproof eye makeup products, mascaras, and eyeshadows, that do not smudge, smear, or flake under water.
    Can you go swimming with mascara on?
    Yes, you can go swimming with waterproof and smudge-proof mascara like the ones listed above.
    How do you keep makeup on while swimming?
    Applying good quality makeup made to resist water will keep makeup on while swimming. Also, instead of rubbing with a towel, pat dry your face or use blotting paper to absorb the moisture.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Sayantani, the author is a budding journalist and a makeup expert. She has tried numerous mascaras while taking a dip in the pool. While some mascaras leaked and smudged, a few of them stayed glued to the lashed. Whether you opt for a luxe option like Dior or an affordable drugstore product like Neutrogena, she has tried it all. It is after thorough research and experiments that she has curated this list of the best waterproof mascaras. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Sayantani Deb
    Makeup & Beauty Writer

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More