9 Top Mascaras From Sephora for Beautiful Lashes 

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase.

A mascara is a must-have item to complete any makeup routine.

However, finding the right one is not always easy, especially if you’re relatively new to makeup.

If you’re looking for a retailer that sells high-quality mascaras, we recommend checking out Sephora. Their website is known for its reliability and extensive selection of top-notch brands in the beauty industry.

Four black mascaras on a beige surface.

Now you may wonder, “Which product is the top mascara from Sephora?”

With the vast array of options available, navigating the site can initially feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not used to it.

Moreover, it can only recommend products based on your product search history, not on actual product reviews or specific qualities.

To assist you in your search, we have curated a list of the top mascaras available at Sephora.  Read on to find out the top ones available!

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
Editor's Choice
  • Hourglass brush
  • High volume
  • Wet formula
Lancôme Définicils High Definition Mascara
Premium Pick
  • Wet formula
  • Short bristles
  • Straight and slim wand
Caliray Come Hell or High Water Volumizing Tubing Mascara
Budget Pick
  • Easily removable
  • Buildable coverage
  • Lightweight

What To Look for in a Mascara From Sephora

Ease of Application and Removal

The top mascara should be easy to apply. Otherwise, it would make mascara a nightmare to use every time.

We recommend finding a mascara with an ample-sized wand that’s not too long for application. This gives you more control over how (and how much) you apply. 

You can also choose a mascara with a curved wand to make application easier. This will lift the base of your lashes and allow for an even coat on your freshly curled lash strands.

On the other hand, the ease of mascara removal will depend on your preferences and your usual method of application.

Longevity

The right mascara should not only make your eyes pop, but it should also last the whole day. After all, you don’t want to spend good money on mascara that wears out by lunchtime. 

So we suggest getting a smudge-proof or waterproof mascara to ensure it sticks. 

However, do be careful of potentially harmful ingredients that are used in these products.

These include ingredients like benzalkonium chloride (BAK) or formaldehyde (FA). These preservatives may help your mascara last longer, but they may also harm your lashes.

In addition, while many manufacturers don’t include it in the label, many mascaras contain poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs).

These also keep your mascara water-resistant and long-lasting. However, some experts say that they may have adverse effects on your health, leading to an increased risk of issues like diabetes, obesity, and endocrine problems. 

On the other hand, we only have limited studies regarding PFASs. Thus, we can’t draw a definitive conclusion about their health risks.

Nonetheless, it’s better to be careful. We recommend using water- or sweat-resistant products only during special events that last the whole day or night.

So we recommend using a site like EWG to research the product you want before buying it.

We also recommend using washable mascara if you have sensitive skin. The mascara is washable if you can remove it effortlessly with a makeup remover. This makes it easier for the mascara to be removed, preventing skin irritation.

But if you prefer something longer-lasting and less prone to smudging, we suggest getting a water-resistant one but using it sparingly.

Drying Speed

A good mascara should strike a balance between setting quickly enough for you to go out after your makeup routine and drying slowly enough to allow for the application of multiple layers.

Ideally, a good mascara should dry between 30 to 45 seconds. This should allow you to apply a second coat after the first without having it dry completely.

Limited Clumping

Lots of mascaras come with thick formulas. However, while these may accentuate your lashes, they can also make them look clumpy. 

Additionally, the top mascara should give you ample coverage while keeping clumping to a minimum. If that’s not enough, you may also use lash primers to limit clumping.

Brand Reputation

It’s also important to consider the brand you’re buying your mascara from. Make sure to buy them from established companies that have a good reputation. 

Regardless of what you buy, make sure to do your research about the product and brand you’re buying.

The Top Mascara From Sephora: 9 High-Quality Options for a Finished Look

1
Benefit Cosmetics BADgal BANG! Volumizing Mascara

We love this product for its resistance to water and sweat! It also lengthens and adds volume to your lashes, making you look great while feeling like you’re wearing no makeup.

Primary Benefits: Long-lasting and water-resistant; buildable formula; weightless

Features:

  • Uses aero-particles made from space technology
  • Has a custom brush that separates the lashes
  • Contains panthenol for lash conditioning

If you want length, volume, and something that stays on even after a workout, this one’s for you!

 

The BADgal BANG! by Benefit Cosmetics is one of the top mascaras at Sephora if you want a long-lasting formula.

It’s water-resistant and sweat-proof — great for ladies who want to look put together even when they’re working out at the gym.

It’s also ideal for those who love to apply multiple layers. That’s because the formula is made with aero-particles, which makes it buildable and light, so you’ll get all the benefits of volume without the weight!

The wand’s bristles can also help you separate each lash and apply the product evenly. However, this mascara is better at lengthening your lashes rather than volumizing them. 

Moreover, its long-lasting nature makes it a bit difficult to wash off, even with makeup remover.

2
Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara

This mascara truly curls all types of lashes. Whether they’re short or straight, this mascara will curl them all.

Primary Benefits: Curls and conditions your eyelashes; does not clump

Features:

  • Curved brush for more efficient curling
  • Contains provitamin B5 and serine for conditioning and protection
  • Bristles separate your lashes

Many mascaras offer to curl your lashes, but only a few can deliver the curling power of the  Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara.

 

This is the top mascara at Sephora for those with lashes that are resistant to curling. Its wand has custom hooks that you can clasp onto your lashes to curl them like hair rollers effectively.

While it isn’t the most lengthening mascara, it does give you a natural look because its formula is not thick.

It’s also great at preventing your lashes from clumping together. Finally, it has ingredients like vitamin B4 and serine to help condition your lashes. 

However, when it comes to volume and length, this product doesn’t quite stand out compared to other options. It’s also a bit more expensive compared to mascara alternatives that offer more benefits. 

3
Benefit Cosmetics They're Real! Lengthening & Volumizing Mascara

The Benefit Cosmetics They're Real! Lengthening & Volumizing Mascara applies evenly, lasts the whole day, doesn’t smudge, and gives you a finished look — what more could you need?

Primary Benefits: Doesn’t clump; has a lash-lifting effect; lasts long

Features:

  • Flexible wand
  • Custom domed-tip brush
  • Bristles separate lashes

This mascara is incredibly easy to control and highly effective in separating the lashes, resulting in a polished and finished look.

 

Many of the top mascaras from Sephora come from Benefit Cosmetics; this one, in particular, provides the best application experience. 

A black mascara tube and a black mascara brush.

That’s because the wand is flexible and has staggered bristles that separate your lashes to make them look wider. You can use its bristles to apply the product evenly for a more finished look.

However, it may be a little hard to remove because of its long-lasting formula.

4
Caliray Come Hell or High Water Volumizing Tubing Mascara

Lifted lashes will never come at the cost of clumps, smudges, or an impossible-to-remove formula again.

Primary Benefits: Non-clumping; anti-smudging; easy to remove 

Features:

  • Contains conditioning argan oil
  • Buildable coverage
  • Lightweight formula

A lightweight mascara that helps you achieve fuller and longer lashes, and the best part is it's surprisingly easy to wash off.

 

Mascaras shouldn’t clump or smudge just to maintain volume. That’s why Caliray’s Come Hell or High Water is considered the top mascara from Sephora by many people. 

Using this product can help you build layers of mascara onto your lashes without making them look thick or chunky. You can also wear it all day because it’s lightweight. Plus, it keeps your lashes lifted until nighttime.

Best of all, the mascara easily comes off because it’s not oil-based, so you can easily remove it by applying warm water.

However, while Caliray is generally non-clumping, it does get slightly clumpy after a few hours.

5
Dior Diorshow Mascara

The Dior Diorshow Mascara is a non-clumping, non-flaking, buildable, and volumizing product that’s also great for sensitive eyes because it contains mostly natural ingredients.

Primary Benefits: Non-clumping and non-flaking formula; buildable and volumizing; non-transferring

Features:

  • Air-lock system
  • Formula includes microfibers and a waxy texture
  • Contains 90% natural ingredients

If a wide-eyed and natural look is what you’re going for, then there’s no better product than the Dior Diorshow Mascara.

 

The Dior Diorshow Mascara is one of the top mascaras on Sephora that adds volume to your lashes while keeping them looking natural. This is because its formula is infused with microfibers.

It features an air-lock system, preventing the formula from changing as you use it. The product has a waxy texture that coats the lashes for buildable volume. Plus, it’s non-clumping, even if you apply it in multiple layers. 

Moreover, it doesn’t transfer or flake even during hot summer days. Best of all, the product’s natural ingredients make it great for people with sensitive skin who can’t find a non-irritating mascara.

It also comes in a unique blue color, making it stand out from the rest.

However, this mascara is quite a bit more expensive than its alternatives. It also has a big wand which may be difficult to use for some people.

6
Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Lengthening Mascara

This product truly adds wonderful volume if you use it correctly, and the packaging feels luxurious and premium.

Primary Benefits: Volumizing; anti-flaking; easy to use

Features:

  • Vegan, cruelty-free, and gluten-free formula
  • No flaking
  • Flexible wand

A premium product that delivers equally premium volumizing results.

 

When it comes to achieving full thickness and volume, this product is the top mascara from Sephora. Its formula truly delivers on its promise to lengthen and volumize your lashes for an “instant extension” look.

In addition, it doesn’t flake, and it has short bristles, making it less prone to clumping. The product also comes in premium packaging, which may be a factor for some people.

However, the mascara does need multiple coats to achieve better volumizing results. Moreover, it’s expensive and a bit hard to remove compared to other products.

7
Lancôme Définicils High Definition Mascara

The Lancôme Définicils High Definition Mascara doesn’t flake and lengthens your lashes tremendously as it can easily reach their roots easily.

Primary Benefits: Lengthening, non-flaking; non-smudging

Features:

  • Wet texture
  • Short bristles
  • Straight and slim wand

Premium lengthening with a wetter formula that gets the job done.

 

If you’re looking for a top-brand mascara, we recommend the Lancôme Définicils. It’s one of the top lengthening mascaras that doesn’t smear or smudge.

The product also volumizes your lashes and doesn’t flake over time. Plus, it washes off easily using makeup remover, oil, or balm.

However, the wet texture can be a bit hard to get used to if you’re accustomed to drier formulas. It’s also a bit prone to clumping.

8
Milk Makeup Kush High Volume Mascara

It's volumizing, long-lasting, and formulated with clean ingredients, making it a great choice for sensitive skin.

Primary Benefits: Volumizing; long-wearing; clean formulation

Features:

  • Weighted packaging
  • Criss-cross, medium bristles that catch each lash
  • Recyclable packaging

A clean, eco-friendly product that does everything a mascara should.

 

We recommend the Milk Makeup Kush High Volume mascara if you’re looking for a reliable, cruelty-free mascara.

It does everything a mascara should, like volumizing lashes through a buildable formula. It’s also not prone to flaking and lasts the entire day. 

Moreover, the mascara is smudge-proof and is easy to remove with a cleanser or remover. It even goes above and beyond by having a clean formulation and recyclable packaging.

However, the product gives some slight clumpiness to your lashes when you apply it.

9
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

It provides intense volumizing and curling to your lashes without the pain of clumping, flakiness, or smudging.

Primary Benefits: Lengthening; curling; conditioning

Features:

  • Hourglass brush
  • High volume
  • Wet formula

A truly close-to-perfect mascara.

 

Many people worry about whether their mascara will last through a hot day. However, if you’re using Sephora’s best-selling mascara, that won’t be a problem.

A tube of too faced better than sex mascara sitting on top of a marble table.

That’s because this mascara lasts the whole day while keeping your lashes looking bold and striking. It volumizes, lengthens, and separates your lashes well, as a good mascara should.

Moreover, it even curls your lashes, making them look even sexier than most mascaras can. Overall, it makes your lashes look beautiful without overdoing it.

It’s also easy to remove, which is rare for mascaras that can provide so much thickness. However, the formulation is a bit wet and can be hard to get used to.

Nonetheless, with all its benefits and great qualities, it may be the top mascara from Sephora.

Tips and Tricks To Apply Mascara Perfectly

Applying mascara correctly can save you a lot of trouble (and makeup remover). Check out these tips to help you make them look perfect.

Tip #1: Curl Your Lashes First

Before applying mascara, you may want to do some prep work on your lashes.

Curling your lashes before applying your mascara prevents you from getting product all over your curler, whether heated or manual. It also gives you something to work with before you apply the product. 

With that said, remember to concentrate on curling the corners and roots of your lashes to give you the best lift.

Tip #2: Consider Using Lash Primer

Using a primer on your eyelashes keeps the mascara in place and makes it last longer. It may also help lengthen your lashes. However, remember to apply it before applying the mascara to achieve the best results.

Tip #3: Apply Your Mascara From Root to Tip

Start by applying your mascara from the roots of your lashes. As you work your way outward to the tips, be sure to wiggle the wand to ensure even product distribution.

Another tip to add more volume is gently blinking onto the mascara wand while applying the product. Moreover, using three layers of mascara is ideal, as going over three layers may make your lashes look flaky.

Finally, apply mascara on your lower lashes only using the end of the wand. This will help reduce clumping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sephora a Good Mascara Brand?

Sephora Collection, Sephora’s proprietary brand, is a decent mascara brand if you purchase the right product. 

For example, the Big By Definition Mascara is affordable. It can also thicken your eyelashes without excessive clumping.

Some popular products under the Sephora Collection also include the LashCraft Big Volume and the Big By Definition Mascara.

Can You Wear Mascara Every Day?

It’s fine to wear mascara daily as long as you choose a non-waterproof, washable mascara that won’t cause any irritation or pose significant health risks.

If you want a mascara product for everyday wear, we recommend the following from our list: 

  • Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real!
  • Caliray Come Hell or High Water
  • Diorshow 24h Buildable Volume
  • Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions
  • Lancôme Définicils
  • Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

Additionally, it’s important to remove mascara properly each night to avoid damaging your lashes. Extended wear can lead to infections and disrupt the natural tear film protecting your eyes.

How Often Should You Change Your Mascara? 

It’s best to replace your mascara every three months. After that period, they tend to dry and clump up. They also become less effective at providing lash coverage.

Up Your Eyelash Game With Sephora’s Top Mascaras

There are tons of wonderful mascaras on the Sephora website. In fact, they even sell some of the most coveted ones on the market.

Additionally, finding the top mascara from Sephora isn’t too difficult because there are many good options.

The key decision is determining which qualities to prioritize. Do you prefer long-lasting and waterproof formulas, or are you more inclined toward lightweight options that are easier to remove?

Once you figure out your preferences, you can easily narrow down the options without too much trouble. Regardless, you shouldn’t be dissatisfied if you do the right research. 

Want To Know More About Mascaras and Eyelashes?

Check these out:

Author

  • Ashley Pena

    Ashley Pena brings over 13 years of seasoned writing and editing expertise, fortified by her Bachelor of Science in Management. Esteemed in the beauty domain, her content captivates readers with its depth and authenticity. While she navigates a broad spectrum of beauty trends, Ashley shines particularly as our resident K-beauty guru. Her articles are a harmonious blend of passion and profound knowledge, inspiring readers on their unique beauty journeys.

    View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *