Having fuller and longer lashes can dramatically transform a look, which is why it is always crucial to equip your kikay kit with a good mascara. A good mascara does not necessarily have to be expensive, as several drugstore mascaras nowadays easily rival high-end ones despite having a lower price point.
Drugstore mascaras have formulas that come at par with their expensive counterparts, making them the go-to pick of many people. If you're also excited to get your hands on one, continue reading this article for our guide reviewed by beauty professional Elaine Ganuelas, and our top drugstore mascara recommendations!
Elaine Ganuelas has been living and breathing the life of all things beauty since childhood. What once started as her passion became her career in 2006. Now she does makeup, hairstyling, image consultation (yes, makeovers), personal shopping, consumer research, and reviews.
Rica is a writer and editor for mybest PH who first joined the team in October 2020. She mostly writes lifestyle titles, especially ones that tap into fashion, beauty, food, arts, and hobbies. Though she's someone who dabbles in whatever sparks her interest, Rica spends most of her free time fangirling, watching races, and playing with her dogs.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
For more information, read through our buying guide below.
Mascaras differ from one another based on the specific effect they can provide your lashes. Some formulas are intended to add volume to your lashes, while there are ones that help lengthen them. For those who seek some dramatic definition, some mascaras can also curl your lashes!
If your lashes' natural sweep needs some enhancing, or you want to make your eyes appear bigger, a curling mascara is your new best friend. Curling mascaras usually have resins, waxes, or polymers that help lift your lashes into a curl.
If you want to achieve dramatic eyelashes but do not want fake-looking falsies, a volumizing mascara can help do the job for you. This type of mascara usually has a thicker and waxier formula infused with silicone polymers that help bulk up eyelashes.
This formula also tends to contain darker pigments to make your lashes appear darker and fuller. It is the perfect mascara to grab when you want some dramatic volume and wish to add intensity to your overall makeup look.
For those with short and sparse eyelashes, you wouldn’t have to resort to falsies all the time, as there are lengthening formulas that help elongate the appearance of your lashes!
Although they do not really help them grow, they have nylon fibers that make your lashes appear longer while wearing them. These nylon fibers are designed to bind the tip of your lash hairs to make them seem longer.
Brushes come in all shapes and sizes, each one of them creating different results. Let's find out more below about which is best for each occasion.
For those who have straight lashes, a curved wand is your best option. This will hug your eyelashes from root to the tip and will result in curled eyelashes. It allows you to easily comb your eyelashes in an upward direction, making sure that you will get that beautiful open-eyed look.
The fluffy/fiber-laden and hourglass brush work in many ways as you use it because of its unique shape. The finer bristles will build up the volume at the root, while the hourglass shape will help distribute the mascara from the root to the tip. This will result in thickened and volumized lashes, making you look like you are wearing falsies!
This brush is very helpful in separating your eyelashes, producing natural-looking lashes. Since the bristles are fine, it will be much easier to apply mascara from the roots—on both upper and lower lashes! This is great for those who have short lashes because you can define your lashes without clumping them and making sure that even the smallest hairs are coated well.
While on the search for the perfect mascara, you’re also bound to encounter different formulations such as water soluble ones and the waterproof kind. Weigh their pros and cons below.
Water-soluble mascaras are ones that you can easily remove with just water or a gentle makeup remover. They are also a better option for those with sensitive skin, as they wouldn't require you to constantly rub and tug your skin just to remove them.
However, for those same reasons, some people may find them troublesome to wear. Since they are not long-wearing, they tend to get smudged easily, especially in hot and humid conditions like ours.
If you have an oily face, or you live in a hot and humid area that makes you susceptible to constant sweating, consider going for waterproof formulas to avoid hulas. These formulas are designed to be long-wearing, making them capable of staying for long hours.
However, the process of taking them off requires more effort. They wouldn't usually budge with just a few dabs of a soaked cotton pad, and some of them require oil-based makeup removers. On top of that, they also tend to leave a dark ring around your eyes even after you've wiped them off.
Most drugstore mascaras come in black and brown colors. If you are unsure which one you should go for, you can consider the color of your eyes and eyebrows. But regardless of their colors, it is possible to rock them both depending on the look you're going for.
If you want to bring out your eyes and give them more definition, then black mascaras are your best bet. Since they possess a darker pigment, they can create a bolder and more dramatic effect on your eye makeup. They are also best if you have naturally dark lashes.
On the other hand, if you have naturally lighter lashes, brown mascaras will work best in helping you achieve a natural look. They would also work well if you have light-toned hair or if you wear light-colored lenses.
If you want to get your entire money's worth, consider looking for mascaras that offer extra features. The first thing you want to do is check the packaging of your chosen mascara. Some mascaras would have labels like "ophthalmologically tested." These are tested to be safe for contact lens wearers and those with sensitive eyes.
Dermatologist-tested products are also safe for those with sensitive skin. You might also want to check the ingredients of a particular mascara before buying it. Look for ones that contain glycerin and silk extracts if you wish to score flake-proof and clump-proof mascaras.
The said ingredients lubricate the formula to make it smoother and help it adhere to your lashes better, preventing clumping and flaking. You can also search for brands that claim that they are long-wearing. Lastly, make sure to keep track of the PAO or "period after opening," and make sure to throw out your mascara after the PAO has passed. The PAO for mascaras is usually 3 months.
This Hypercurl Mascara comes from Maybelline, a go-to brand for many Filipinas of all ages because of its quality yet affordable products. It is a staple that you can easily spot in drugstores, convenience stores, and supermarkets. It takes pride in its curl-lock formula containing sealing wax to help provide your lashes with a volumized curl for up to 36 hours.
It is also perfect for daily use, as it can let you stay looking fresh with its formula that does not melt or smudge. Plus, it provides your lashes with a light waterproof coating that dries instantly. This is a good pick for contact lens wearers and those with sensitive eyes, too, because its formula is ophthalmologist-tested and guaranteed gentle and non-irritating.
Formula Type | Curling |
---|---|
Brush Type | Curved |
Waterproof | Yes |
Other Features | Smudge-proof, 36-hr Curl |
If you're after some dramatic length and volume that looks as if you just had eyelash extensions done, this one will do the job for you. Falsies Lash Lift Mascara by Maybelline promises to give your lashes an instant lifting effect that can last all day.
Its fiber-infused formula works hand-in-hand with its double-curved lifting applicator to grab lashes from the root to lift them and make them appear longer. Its formula is also waterproof, so you can expect it to adhere well all day without clumping, smearing, or flaking.
Formula Type | Lenghtening, Volumizing |
---|---|
Brush Type | Double-Curved |
Waterproof | Yes |
Other Features | No Clump and Smear, Ophthalmologist-tested |
Several mascaras can provide your lashes with incredible volume, but not many can do it without making them look heavy and "too done." This mascara by L'Oreal lets you score voluminous yet feathery and soft-looking lashes that can last for up to 24 hours.
Another thing that sets it apart from regular mascaras is its ultra-soft brush with 200+ soft wavy bristles that catch every lash for an instantly volumizing effect. It is also infused with castor oil that nourishes your lashes with every use. Although waterproof, its smooth glide consistency allows it to be quickly removed with a gentle lip and eye makeup remover.
Formula Type | Volumizing |
---|---|
Brush Type | Not Specified |
Waterproof | Not Specified |
Other Features | 24hr Long Wear, Smudge-proof |
Aside from giving your lashes volume, Happy Skin's mascara also promises to keep your lashes healthy. It is infused with castor oil, known to have the ability to stimulate lash growth. It also contains vitamin E to prevent lash damage and sunflower seed oil that nourishes your lashes to prevent them from falling out.
If your eyelids tend to get oily, this is a good pick because it is sweatproof and smudge-proof. It is also guaranteed to be safe for people with sensitive eyes and those who use contact lenses. On top of that, it does not smudge or clump.
Formula Type | Volumizing |
---|---|
Brush Type | Curved |
Waterproof | Yes |
Other Features | Sweat-proof, Clump-free |
For those who don't have much time to get ready in the morning or want a makeup product that gives instant results, this mascara just may be your new go-to product! It lets you achieve super curl lashes with one coat, mega curl with two coats, and ultra curl with three coats. Reviewers love that they see a massive difference even with just one coat of this mascara!
It comes with a curved brush wand that coats each lash to maximize length and volume. It also has ingredients like castor seed oil, panthenol, and peach leaf extract, that work hand in hand to nourish, grow and strengthen lashes. Lastly, it's water-resistant, so you can go about your day without worrying about your lashes going down.
Formula Type | Volumizing, Lengthening |
---|---|
Brush Type | Curved |
Waterproof | Yes |
Other Features | Lightweight, Paraben-free |
This mascara from BLK Cosmetics vows to volumize and lengthen your lashes without subjecting them to clumps and smudging. It has an intense black pigment that dramatically coats every lash hair, giving it a lusher and fuller appearance. It also comes with a unique curved brush that grabs your lashes from the root to lift and separate the strands to make them appear longer.
You're also sure to avoid having dry clumps midday while wearing this, as it has a budge-proof formula that stays smooth. And although this mascara is smudge-proof when worn, it can come off easily enough if you wash it with warm water should you need to remove it at the end of your day. This subsequently eliminates excess rubbing and tugging!
Formula Type | Lengthening, Volumizing |
---|---|
Brush Type | Curved |
Waterproof | Not Specified |
Other Features | Smudge-proof, Long-wearing |
Unlike most mascaras you can find in drugstores that only come with a single applicator, often more suitable for top lashes, this one comes with two brushes intended for both your top and bottom lashes. It also has a formula that doesn't smudge, so it can last the whole day.
Aside from that, it comes with a smooth and buildable formula, coupled with an ultra-black pigment that lets you create a dramatic yet weightless lash look that you can easily sport. According to several reviewers, it also dries up easily, which is perfect if you're always on the go.
Formula Type | Lengthening |
---|---|
Brush Type | Curved and Skinny |
Waterproof | Yes |
Other Features | Not Specified |
Careline's Skinny Mascara is designed for those who have trouble coating thin and short lashes. Its skinny brush will definitely make it easy to apply mascara on those parts that are too difficult to reach using a bigger brush, like the lower lashes. This will ensure that all lashes are coated evenly.
It is also smudge-proof and waterproof, making it perfect for all-day wear. This is surely a steal for its affordable price! Reviewers enjoy the consistency of this formula because it helps lengthen their lashes. Just be careful with the combination of thick formula and a small wand since the mascara dries pretty quickly.
Formula Type | Lengthening |
---|---|
Brush Type | Skinny |
Waterproof | Yes |
Other Features | Smudge-proof, Non-Clumping |
Formula Type | Lengthening, Volumizing |
---|---|
Brush Type | Curved |
Waterproof | Not Specified |
Other Features | Not Specified |
Formula Type | Volumizing, Lengthening |
---|---|
Brush Type | Thick |
Waterproof | Yes |
Other Features | Not Specified |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
There are 3 things to note here: color, smell, and texture. If your mascara smells funky or foul, then it's time to toss it. If the formula separates, or is dry and comes out in clumps, that's also a sign that it's gone bad. Even though it might be painful to throw out your mascara, it's crucial to protect your eyes from infections and irritations.
Experts recommend that you change your mascara every 3 months if you use it daily and every 6 months if you use it occasionally.
When applying your first layer, you may want to do it lightly. Some tend to apply too much product on the first layer, and this could lead to overloading your wand, resulting in clumped eyelashes. It's also helpful to apply a good eyelash primer beforehand to prepare your lashes before the mascara.
Saving your old mascara brushes or spoolie is also a good idea because they can be used as dry brushes to separate clumped lashes after applying mascara. Slim wands are also a great way to prevent mascara from sticking together on your lashes. Using skinny brushes will help in parting clumped lashes as they have thinner bristles.
You have to first make sure that you lessen the exposure of your mascara from the air. Too much air entering your mascara will cause it to dry out, so try to close it as soon as possible after using it. Store your mascara, along with your other makeup, in a relatively cool place. Sun or heat exposure can ruin your makeup.
Makeup products are your palette, and your face is your canvas. Go over these links, and create your best eye makeup look yet using these recommended eye makeup products.
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
Beauty
Body care, Makeup, SkincareCameras
Camera supplies, Digital cameras, Drones and multirotorsHealth
Beauty supplements, Medical supplies, Feminine careHousehold goods
Air treatment, Bath and shower supplies, BlanketsPCs and laptops
Computer accessories, Computer components, Desktop pcsHome appliances and electronics
Air conditioners and coolers, Air treatment, Blenders, mixers, and food processorsFood and drinks
Alcoholic beverages, Baked goods and desserts, BakingKitchen supplies
Baking tools, Coffee and tea accessories, Food containersClothing
Brands and shops, Men's coats and jackets, Men's innerwearShoes
Men's shoes, Other shoes and footwear, Outdoor footwearAccessories
Bags, Accessories and jewelry, BeltsMom and baby
Baby books and toys, Baby food and snacks, Baby suppliesInterior and furniture
Beds, Carpets and rugs and mats, ChairsHobbies
Animes, Arts and crafts, Board gamesOutdoor
Camping beds and cots, Camping stoves, CoolersDIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Accessories, Badminton, BasketballPets
Cat supplies, Dog supplies, Fish and aquarium suppliesBooks, CDs, and DVDs
Books and magazines, CDs, Linguistics, dictionaries, and phrase booksGames
Console accessories, PC and console gamesCars and motorcycles
Car accessories, Car seats, Car suppliesGifts
Christmas-related gifts, Gifts for kids, Gifts for menHome improvement and tools
Door hardware and locks, Electrical, Gas stovesSmartphones and tablets
Smartphone accessories, Smartphones, StorageBanking and finance
Credit cards, Debit cards, Services and appsInsurance
Car insurance, Life insurance, Medical insuranceAudio
Earphones, Gaming, HeadphonesSmartphone applications
Business apps, Dating apps, Education appsOthers
Others, Merch, Recreation