If there’s one thing I’m always telling friends that aren’t in the beauty industry, it’s that one product you can definitely save money on in your makeup routine is mascara.
In my time as a beauty writer, I have probably tested hundreds of new mascara launches. And while I’ve been impressed by some higher-end formulas, I have never tried anything which gave a finish I couldn’t replicate with one that’s half the price.
If you ask around, I genuinely believe most people’s holy grail mascara can be picked up from a high street brand. L’Oreal has one of the most extensive ranges for mascaras at the lower end of the budget, and as you’ll see below, there’s something for every lash need at the brand, whether you want length, curl or volume.
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Something I also just want to point out is the importance of replacing mascara regularly, which is easier to do with an affordable tube. Most mascaras need to be replaced every 6 months for the best hygiene – no one wants out-of-date makeup near eyeballs.
Wondering if your mascara is on its way out? You’ll likely find it’s drier than when you bought it, and a bit flaky. If this is the case, one of these bestselling L’Oreal options is sure to suit you for a top-up.
The best L’Oreal mascara for every lash need
So, which is the best L’Oreal mascara? I’ve got the complete low-down.
Best L’Oreal Mascara for volume: L’Oreal Paris Air Volume Mega Mascara, £10.99
I sometimes think that the marketing behind mascaras can be a bit gimmicky and this one describes the formula as having a ‘whipped’ texture. However, in this case you can believe the hype, as it’s genuinely noticeable.
The product plumps up the look of your lashes with no clumping and isn’t heavy or spidery on.
The fibrous brush is quite dense and big, so apply it to your bottom lashes with caution.
Best L’Oreal Mascara for lift: L’Oreal Paris Pro XXL Lift Mascara, £12.99
The tapered brush on step one of this duo mascara allows you to brush right from the root of your lashes. The formula is designed to layer up so you can do a few coats without it looking clumpy.
I love to mix and match the steps depending on the drama that I want for my look, and they really do serve different purposes, making it a versatile purchase.
Best L’Oreal Mascara for lash care benefits: L’Oreal Castor Oil-Enriched Paradise Volumising Mascara, £12.99
Castor oil is renowned for its nourishing and strengthening benefits for hair, so its inclusion in this mascara is a welcome touch.
We often wear mascara for eight solid hours a day (more than enough time for ingredients to work), so it’s surprising that more mascaras don’t include care benefits.
Alongside these benefits, you get mega volume with a buildable and flake-free formula. Win, win.
Best L’Oreal Mascara for bottom lashes: L’Oréal Paris Telescopic False Lash Effect Mascara, £11.99
Bottom lashes can be a faff to coat with mascara; a specific wand and a lot of patience are needed to give them length without making a mess of things.
This wand and brush are the perfect shape for top and bottom lashes. Thin with short spikes, you can gently lengthen and volumise without the worry of transferring onto your skin; crucial if you’ve already done your shadow and liner.
Best L’Oreal Mascara that’s waterproof: L’Oréal Paris Air Volume Mega Mascara 01 Black Waterproof, £11.99
I’m not a fan of waterproof mascaras because in general, I find them way too hard to remove. But while this doesn’t smudge with tears or even in the pool, it comes off easily with warm water thanks to clever tubing technology.
This is a godsend if using balms or oils on your eyes can get a little too stingy. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic too.
Best L’Oreal Mascara for coating every lash: L’Oreal Paris Unlimited Pro Volume Bendable Mascara, £8.97
If you have new growth or baby lashes that never seem to grow, this mascara will grab every single hair.
I have a real problem getting to my inner corners, but this wand is dainty enough not to obstruct you on your quest for longer lashes.
And as if that wasn’t enough, it bends too, so you can approach your lashes from any angle you please. Fun!
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