There are plenty of mascaras out there that are great for adding length, volume and drama to lashes – but not all of them are ideal for sensitive eyes.
Even some of the best mascaras can send sensitive peepers weeping and reddening at the sight of one slightly irritating ingredient.
And while there are plenty of makeup tips for sensitive eyes to avoid such situations, is it so much to ask for a mascara that does a good job and doesn’t leave you wanting to itch and rub?
We didn’t think so, and so we dug deep into our reviews to find the best mascaras for sensitive eyes. From hypoallergenic formulas to waterproof wonders, here’s what we found.
jane iredale PureLash Mascara
We say: Hypoallergenic and sensitivity-tested, the jane iredale PureLash Mascara often converts even the most sensitive of eyes to a new life of flutter and fullness.
You say: “This mascara has no known sensitisers and is perfect for sensitive eyes and contact lense wearers. It gives a nice natural enhancement to your lashes. But like all mascaras – additional layers can be used to build thickness and length. I have found no clumping or smudging. It applies nicely to separate the lashes.” – bh member JaneyPooh.
$37 at Adore Beauty
L’Oréal Paris Paradise Mascara
We say: With a 4.5 star rating from over 35 reviews and a few awards under its belt, the L’Oréal Paris Paradise Mascara is a no-brainer for sensitive eyes on the hunt for a waterproof formula. A few members even name it as a dupe for Too Faced Better Than Sex.
You say: “A great mascara that is kind to my sensitive and watery eyes. The soft brush and medium consistency of the product make this mascara easy and painless to apply. The results are beautifully voluminous and separated lashes in one coat. The waterproof variant really stays put through tearful events and sweaty exercise. It is also easy to remove with an oil based remover.” – bh member Frenchy1.
$20.99 at Chemist Warehouse
CLINIQUE Lash Power Mascara
We say: Most, if not all, of Clinique’s mascaras are friendly towards sensitive eyes. What’s great about the CLINIQUE Lash Power Mascara, though, is that it’s a tubing formula, so you can enjoy smudge-free wear all day.
You say: “The Clinique Lash Power mascara is gentle on my lashes and definitely stays on all day. Clinique is a trusted brand and this mascara did not disappoint. My lashes were well separated, defined and felt lightweight. This mascara did not irritate my eyes and I am happy with my choice.” – bh member samsy.
$40 at clinique.com.au
Revlon Mega Multiplier Mascara
We say: If you’ve found tubing mascaras to be ideal for your sensitive eyes but can’t afford to shell out $40+ every time you need to restock, try this $20 and often-on-sale pick instead. The Revlon Mega Multiplier Mascara even comes in three shades if you like a brown over black.
You say: “I think I have found my favourite mascara. It promises mega volume and length and it really did deliver. I was surprised with how good my lashes looked after only one coat of the mascara. I used a double coat when going out in the evening. The mascara never failed, it didn’t smudge, get clumpy or cakey.” – bh member Gea.
$23.95 at Adore Beauty
La Roche-Posay Respectissime Sensitive Waterproof Mascara
We say: The allergy-tested La Roche-Posay Respectissime Sensitive Waterproof Mascara is ideal for those after a natural, everyday lash-look. It’s gentle, easy to remove and doesn’t overload the lashes.
You say: “I have pretty sensitive eyes and can be allergic to many products – especially eye makeup. I have had no problem at all with this mascara. It is buildable, so if you want a slightly thicker look you can put a 2nd layer on. But it probably isn’t necessary. My lashes were well covered, with a good coating. It also didn’t get flaky during the day.” bh member KatherineLB.
$29.95 at Adore Beauty
Main image credit: Getty
Do you have sensitive eyes? Have you tried any of these mascaras?
Might need to try the dupe of better than sex
Had no idea LRP made mascara!