15 Top Mascaras for Short Lashes To Achieve the Ultimate Curl
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When it comes to achieving voluminous, curled lashes, mascara is a makeup essential.
But for those with shorter lashes, finding the right mascara that provides both length and lift can be quite a chore.
Luckily, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top mascaras for short lashes that promise the ultimate curl.
From drugstore favorites to high-end luxury brands, there is a mascara for every budget that solves the dull look of short and sparse lashes.
Whether you prefer a waterproof formula or want to try a mascara that also nourishes and conditions your lashes, there is a product that will meet your needs!
Excited to say goodbye to lackluster lashes and greet a cheerful hello to fluttery, curled perfection?
Scroll down to see 15 of our favorite mascaras that will help you achieve the ultimate curl you deserve!
- Gives ultimate lash length
- Hydrating
- Cruelty-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Double-ended volume set
- Enhance length and volume
- Volumizing and lengthening
- Cruelty-free
- Non-clumping and flaking
Table of Contents
What Causes Short, Thin Lashes?
Short, thin eyelashes can be frustrating, especially when you see others with long, voluminous lashes.
There are a few known factors that can contribute to this issue.
Genetics
One of the primary causes of short, thin eyelashes is genetics. Just like the hair on your head, the length and thickness of your eyelashes are largely determined by your genes.
If your family members have naturally short lashes, you’ll likely have them too.
Age and Health Conditions
The natural aging process can cause thinning of lashes, just as it can affect the hair on our scalp.
Among these factors are hormone level changes where estrogen and progesterone levels decrease, which can lead to changes in hair growth patterns and decreased blood flow to our hair follicles which impact the health of lashes.
Medications
Certain medications can also impact the health and growth of your lashes.
For example, chemotherapy can lead to lash thinning or loss because the drugs work by targeting rapidly dividing cells in the body.
This is because chemotherapy not only destroys cancer cells but may also harm healthy cells, such as hair follicle cells.
Habits
Some habits like rubbing your eyes, using harsh makeup removers, or pulling off your lashes can damage your natural lashes and make them appear shorter and thinner.
Diet
Like all other body parts, your lashes require certain nutrients to grow strong and healthy.
A diet lacking essential vitamins and minerals can diminish your lashes’ health. For example, a deficiency in vitamin B7 can lead to hair and lash thinning.
This is because vitamin B7 is responsible for supporting the production of keratin — the protein that forms the structure of all our hair, including lash hair.
Similarly, a lack of vitamin C can affect collagen production, which is essential for healthy lash growth.
Tips on Finding the Top Mascara for Short Lashes
Finding the top mascara for short lashes can be a bit of a challenge, but there are a few features you can take note of to find the perfect product.
Formula
- Lengthening — Lengthening mascaras contain fibers and peptides that attach to your lashes, making them appear longer.
- Lightweight — Heavy formulas tend to weigh down short lashes, making them appear even shorter. Lightweight formulas, on the other hand, will not weigh down your lashes and will help hold the curl.
- Conditioning — Short lashes don’t have as much time to develop the same strength and durability as longer lashes; that’s why they are more prone to breakage. A conditioning mascara can help promote healthy lash growth because it contains proteins, vitamins, and natural oils that help moisturize and strengthen lashes.
- Smudge-proof and waterproof — Short lashes tend to smudge easily, so it’s important to choose a mascara that will stay in place all day without smudging or flaking.
Wand Type
- Short and precise bristles — A wand with small and precise bristles will allow you to coat each lash individually, including shorter ones that are harder to reach.
- Curved or angled shape — A curved or angled wand can help lift and curl your lashes, which is beneficial for short lashes that tend to look straight and flat.
- Thin and flexible wand — If the wand is thin and flexible, it will allow for easier reach of every lash, even the tiniest ones in the inner corners of your eyes. A flexible wand will also be gentler and less likely to cause breakage.
Top Mascaras for Short Lashes
We’ve curated a list of 15 mascaras perfect for adding length, volume, and definition to even the tiniest lashes.
Scroll down to find the perfect mascara for you!
Give your short and thin lashes the length and volume they need with this vegan 2-in-1 mascara and primer from Honest Beauty!
Key Benefits: Gives ultimate lash length; has great staying power; hydrating
Features:
- Cruelty-free
- Made without harsh chemicals
- Infused with moisturizing jojoba esters
This is definitely one of the best mascaras for short, thin lashes on the market that you need to get your hands on!
The Honest Beauty 2-in-1 Extreme Length Clean Mascara and Lash Primer is perfect for anyone who wants longer, more defined lashes without clumping or flaking.
Thanks to its built-in primer, you can create an even base to enhance the mascara’s staying power.
If you ask us why this product is among our top mascaras for short lashes, one of the deciding factors is its nourishing ingredients, like jojoba esters, which help condition and strengthen the lashes.
The formula is also vegan and cruelty-free, so it’s an excellent option for anyone conscious about the products they use.
Best of all, this product has a brush with a tapered shape that allows you to reach even the tiniest lashes in the corner of your eyes and bristles that are soft and flexible, which allows for easier application and doesn’t irritate the eyes.
Looking for an affordable mascara that gives you long and fluffy lashes without wearing falsies? We found the best product for you!
Key Benefits: Volumizing and lengthening; non-clumping and non-flaking; long-lasting
Features:
- Cruelty-free
- No harsh chemicals
- With a cone-shaped fiber brush
Get ready to achieve more defined and dramatic lashes with this amazing mascara product!
This budget-friendly mascara for short, thin lashes has gained popularity thanks to its ability to provide a false lash effect without falsies!
The wand of the Essence Lash Princess Mascara is designed with a conical shape that tapers towards the end, allowing for easy and precise application to even the tiniest of lashes.
The formula is also buildable, so you can add multiple coats without worrying about clumping or flaking.
One of its standout features is that it’s free of fragrances, oils, alcohol, and parabens that may irritate the eyelashes after every application.
Wear long and volumized eyelashes all day long with this well-loved mascara from Rare Beauty!
Key Benefits: Volumizes fine or sparse lashes; non-clumping; all-day wear
Features:
- Vegan
- Castor oil-infused formula
- Safe for all eyes
Don’t miss out on this cruelty-free mascara that guarantees longer-looking lashes!
This mascara from Rare Beauty is one of the top mascaras for short, thin eyelashes. It comes with a unique and asymmetrical brush that allows you to coat every lash, even the smallest ones in the inner corner of your eyes.
Its formula is also incredibly buildable, so you can achieve everything from a natural-looking lash to a more dramatic and voluminous look. Also, it’s vegan and ophthalmologist-tested!
Another great thing about this product is that it’s long-wearing and doesn’t smudge or flake throughout the day. Plus, it doesn’t irritate sensitive eyes!
Fall in love with this popular mascara that has a specialized brush that catches and lifts every lash!
Key Benefits: Water-resistant; lifts and curls up lashes; lash conditioning
Features:
- Infused with pro-vitamin B5 and serine
- Comes with a “hook ’n’ roll” brush
- Leaves a satin finish
This product has been a cult favorite among beauty enthusiasts, and it’s easy to see why!
This mascara is a must-have because it has a roller lash wand with a unique “hook and roll” design that catches and lifts every lash, making it perfect for those with short and straight lashes.
The brush separates the lashes nicely, preventing clumps and giving them a fanned-out look.
Its formula is also worth noting because it is infused with pro-vitamin B5 and serine, which are known for their lash-conditioning benefits.
We particularly love how easy it is to remove this mascara, unlike other long-wearing mascaras that can be tough to take off.
A gentle swipe of makeup remover and it comes right off without leaving you with residues and panda-looking eyes!
On a hunt for a good mascara for short lashes? Don’t sleep on this lengthening mascara from L’Oreal!
Key Benefits: Lengthens up to 60%; waterproof; intense pigmentation
Features:
- Suitable for sensitive eyes
- Cruelty-free
- With a thin and silky formula
Get that coveted lash curl with this must-try mascara!
This lengthening mascara is an absolute must-have for anyone who wants longer and fuller lashes without wearing lash extensions or falsies.
It features a unique brush that separates and lengthens each lash, giving you a bold and defined look that lasts all day.
The carbon black color it has provides intense pigmentation that makes your lashes pop and make it look dramatic.
And despite the saturated color, its formulation won’t hurt your eyes because it has been tested by ophthalmologists and has proven suitable for those with sensitive peepers.
What we also love about this product is that you can wear it for an entire day, and it won’t flake or smudge, even if you accidentally rub your eyes.
Achieve your lash goals with this high-quality mascara formula that offers instant lift and volume!
Key Benefits: Instant lift and volume; clump- and smudge-proof; conditioning
Features:
- Infused with white tea extract
- Sulfate-free
- Comes with a curved wand with 360 micro-bristles
Don’t hesitate to try out this product that lives up to its claims!
Lancôme has long been known as one of the trusted brands in the beauty industry, and that’s why when it promises to deliver dramatic volume and lift to your lashes, it’s honestly easier to believe!
It comes with a specially designed brush with a 360 micro-bristle curve that grips and evenly coats every lash from the shortest to the longest without clumping or smudging.
This product also has a lightweight gel formula that doesn’t weigh on lashes, leaving them feathery soft. It is also infused with white tea extract that provides conditioning and antioxidant care.
Achieve longer lashes and say goodbye to panda eyes with this high-quality mascara from Clio!
Key Benefits: Creates super lash curls; smudge- and smear-proof; stays all day
Features:
- Designed with a powerful gel layer
- Vegan
- Washable formula
Enjoy the dramatic curl during the day and don’t worry about residues after washing at night with Clio Superproof Mascara!
We found a top-performing mascara designed to give you length and curl for the best of both worlds.
This mascara promises to be non-smudging, curl-holding, long-lasting, and ultra-volumizing, making it an excellent choice for women looking for a high-quality mascara that delivers stellar results.
One of the exceptional features of this mascara is that it has a uniquely curved brush that mimics the natural shape of the eye. With this, you can easily apply mascara to every lash, even the tiny corner ones!
It’s also worth noting that despite its long-lasting formula, it’s also easy to remove at the end of the day using any regular makeup remover.
Achieve your dream of eye-catching lashes with one of the best mascaras for short, thin lashes from Carabet!
Key Benefits: Lengthening and volumizing; clump-free; smudge-proof
Features:
- Cruelty-free
- Has a petite wand
- Lightweight formula
Say goodbye to lackluster lashes and bonjour to the transformative magic of this top-quality mascara!
Want to find out what is the top mascara for thin lashes? Be sure not to skip this top-selling mascara from Cabaret known for its lengthening and volumizing abilities!
The wand is a defining feature of this mascara as it is petite and densely packed with bristles that grab onto every lash, separating and defining them while adding volume and length.
The formula is also buildable, so you can easily layer it for a more dramatic effect.
One of the things that sets this product apart from the rest is its ability to hold up well throughout the day. Even if you wear it for 10 consecutive hours, you won’t experience smudging, flaking, or clumping!
Lengthen and nourish your lashes from root to tip with this high-quality mascara from Julep!
Key Benefits: Strengthening and hydrating; defining and lengthening; clump-free
Features:
- Infused with vitamin B5, aloe juice, and beeswax
- Has a unique microbrush
- No harsh ingredients
Flaunt those camera-ready lashes from morning ’til night, thanks to this well-loved mascara!
It’s easy to fall in love with this unique product from Julep that lengthens and defines lashes while promoting lash health!
One of the lovable features of this mascara is its brush. It is designed to lengthen individual lashes with its tiny microfibers that adhere to your lashes to add that coveted length and volume.
Also, it is infused with natural extracts such as vitamin B5, aloe juice, and beeswax that nourish and strengthen your lashes, promoting lash health over time.
What’s more, it’s free of harsh chemicals, so you can rest assured that you’re not exposing your delicate eye area to anything harmful. A huge plus, isn’t it?
Get the boldest and blackest black lashes ever with Stila!
Key Benefits: Pumps up lash curl and volume; clump-free; long-wearing
Features:
- Clinically tested
- Blended with soft waxes and lash conditioners
- Has curved wand and crimped brush bristles
Dare to stand out from the crowd with long and volumized lashes you can achieve by using Stila HUGE Extreme Lash Mascara!
Don’t sleep on this highly rated product that promises to deliver intense volume and dramatic length to your lashes!
With its fantastic formula infused with soft waxes and lash conditioners and a curved wand with crimped brush bristles, you will get the bold, black, eye-catching lashes you’ve been dreaming of!
In terms of wear, it stays put all day long without smudging, flaking, or fading, so you can wear it confidently, knowing that your lashes will look just as good at the end of the day as they did in the morning.
Also, among its standout features is that this product contains a clinically-tested formula, so it’s safe for those with sensitive eyes and those who wear contact lenses often.
Got sensitive eyes and short lashes? Bid goodbye to your fear of wearing mascaras with Bestidy’s Silk Fiber Mascara!
Key Benefits: Hypoallergenic; smudge- and clump-proof; gives incredible volume and length
Features:
- Cruelty-free
- No harsh chemicals
- Has a soft-bristled wand
Truly one of the best mascaras for short, thin lashes and sensitive eyes that you need to try now!
If you’re looking for a top-notch but affordable mascara that does the job of both lengthening and volumizing your lashes, this product is perfect for you!
Its mascara wand is designed to be flexible and soft, which helps in coating every lash evenly. Also, this product is easy to apply and can be built up to your desired level of volume and length.
If you’re big on formulas that are cruelty-free and with no infused harsh chemicals, then you can count on this one. Apart from being waterproof, it is also perfect for those with sensitive eyes or allergies.
Have those sensational, fully fanned-out lashes without spending a dime with Maybelline’s washable mascara!
Key Benefits: Lengthening and volumizing; clump-free; all-day wear
Features:
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Buildable liquid ink formula
- With curved fanning brush
Go for natural-but-better lashes with this popular and budget-friendly mascara!
Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Washable Formula is a popular choice for those seeking an affordable yet high-quality mascara option.
This mascara is known for its unique wand that is shaped like a spoon, which helps to lift and curl lashes for a wide-eyed, fluttery effect.
One of the most impressive aspects of this mascara is its staying power. Despite being a washable formula, it stays put all day without flaking or smudging.
It is also easy to remove with your preferred makeup remover, so you don’t have to worry about any residue sticking around.
Enjoy soft and thick-looking eyelashes all day and night with this volumizing mascara from MILK!
Key Benefits: Hydrating and strengthening; gives high volume and lifted lashes; non-clumping
Features:
- Free of harsh chemicals
- Has a wand with unique crisscrossing bristles
- Cruelty-free
This ultra-pigmented formula will surely transform your lashes and attract gazes from everyone.
This amazing product claims to provide both volume and length to your lashes, all while being smudge-proof and flake-free.
This mascara’s brush — with its unique crisscrossing bristles that hug individual lashes — is unlike any other, providing an even coat of product without clumping.
Additionally, the mascara is vegan and free of harsh chemicals such as parabens, silicones, alcohol, coal tars, and fragrances, making it an excellent choice for sensitive eyes and those who prioritize ethical beauty products.
While this product is a bit more expensive than some other mascaras on the market, its quality and the brand’s commitment to sustainability and clean beauty make it a worthwhile investment.
We found your superhero mascara that can volumize and condition short and sparse lashes all in one swipe!
Key Benefits: Volumizing and lengthening; conditioning; long-lasting
Features:
- Infused with collagen, biotin, and peptides
- With super black pigment
- Buildable formula
Be sure to try out this lash-loving and lengthening mascara!
If you’re looking for a conditioning mascara that will give you longer and fuller lashes with one coat, you might want to check out the IT Cosmetics Superhero Elastic Stretch Volumizing Mascara.
One of the things that makes this product stand out is its ability to stretch and lengthen each lash. The brush is designed to reach even the tiniest lashes, coating them with the perfect amount of product.
It also has a super black pigment that gives a fuller and more dramatic effect that makes your eyes look bigger and brighter.
Lastly, it is infused with lash-enhancing ingredients that support healthier-looking lashes, like collagen, biotin, and peptides.
Get your hands on this award-winning 2-in-1 lash primer and mascara duo from RevitaLash to achieve luxurious-looking lashes!
Key Benefits: Hypoallergenic, enhances length and volume; conditioning
Features:
- Cruelty-free
- Double-ended volume set
- Infused with biotin and soft flex polymers
This luxury product nourishes as you wear them on your lashes!
RevitaLash Cosmetics is a renowned brand known for its high-quality and effective products that enhance and boost the natural beauty of the eyes, and its double-ended primer-and-mascara is no exception!
This two-in-one product is designed to enhance the natural beauty of your lashes, making them look fuller, longer, and more voluminous.
It’s formulated with a nourishing blend of biotin and soft flex polymers that helps strengthen and protect your lashes from daily wear and tear.
One of the great things about this product is that it’s suitable for all skin types and gentle enough for use on sensitive eyes because it doesn’t contain oil, parabens, phthalates, fragrance, and gluten.
You can read our full Revitalash review here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Use Lash Primer Before Applying Mascara on Short Lashes?
Yes. You can use lash primers to create a smooth and even base for your mascara to adhere to. This can help prevent clumping, improving the overall appearance of your lashes.
Lash primers are especially important when using mascara on short lashes, as clumping can make them appear shorter and less defined.
Also, using a lash primer can help extend the wear time of your mascara, which is important if you want to keep your short lashes looking voluminous and defined throughout the day.
Is It More Appropriate To Curl My Short Lashes Before Applying Mascara?
Yes, we would highly recommend curling your short lashes before applying mascara.
Curling your lashes is an essential step in making your eyes look larger, and your lashes appear longer and more defined, especially if you have short lashes that may not be as visible or defined as longer lashes.
When curling your lashes, it’s important to use a good-quality lash curler and be gentle when using it to avoid damaging your lashes.
We recommend curling your lashes before applying mascara because applying it after will cause lashes to stick together and clump.
Got Short Lashes? Not a Problem!
We featured 15 top-quality mascaras with various features, such as those with conditioning formulas, lengthening fibers, and curling wands.
Did you find the top mascara for short lashes from our fantastic collection?
Be sure to try the mascaras on our list because we are excited to see a beauty like you wow everyone with those volumized and fanned-out lashes!
Looking for More Lash Tools and Products?
Check them out here:
- 9 Lash Primers to Pair With Your Favorite Mascara
- 5 Heated Eyelash Curlers + Tips For Long-Lasting Results
- 10 Cruelty-Free Mascaras