Benefits: volumizing, thickening | Shades: Noir, Écorces (brown), Blue Night | Waterproof: yes | Who it's for: anyone who wants a dramatic boost of volume and thickness

Best Drugstore: Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

Why it's worth it: In 2021, Maybelline New York's Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara became a TikTok legend and earned itself a Best of Beauty Award months later. This flexible mascara wand has amassed a major following with over 39 million views. "My sparse lashes looked remarkably fuller without any weigh-down," says Trakoshis. The formula is super pigmented, smudge-proof, and lightweight, infused with bamboo fibers for major drama sans extra heaviness. Grab it in a classic Blackest Black, or try something a bit more natural with Brownish Black.

Tester feedback: "Real talk: You won't get drama with this mascara, but that's usually my preference. In fact, I usually opt for True Brown for a subtler effect," says Han. "Another win," she adds, "is that I don't find mascara smudges along my lower lash line by midday."

Benefits: lengthening | Shades: Blackest Black, Very Black, Cosmic Black, Brownish Black, True Brown, Blue Mist | Waterproof: yes, shop here | Who it's for: someone who wants fluttery long lashes without breaking the bank

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I choose a mascara?

While some of us dabble with treatments like lash extensions or lifts, we all have our tried-and-true tubes of mascaras that we regularly restock. It's also worth noting that everyone's lashes are different, and the best mascara for your best friend may not be the best for you. For example, some Allure editors prefer lengthening mascaras for a brow-grazing look, while others prefer a curling mascara to lift straight lashes. Whatever the desired effect, some key factors we kept in mind while making this list include the longevity and pigment (yes, there are more than just black) of each mascara formula. We've run these mascaras through the gamut—meetings, errands, bottomless brunches, rainy days, and even the barre class—to see how they actually hold up throughout the day (and how many compliments they get, if we're being honest).

How does waterproof mascara differ in formulation and wear?

It's pretty self-explanatory, but in case you need a reminder, the difference between regular and waterproof formulas is whether or not they can withstand rain, tears, sweat, or any other unwelcome fluid that comes your way. Cosmetic chemist Ginger King previously told Allure that ingredients like isododecane (a solvent), paraffin (a type of mineral oil that resists water), and VP/eicosene copolymer (a film-forming agent) are the typical players in waterproof mascara.