BEAUTY

January 20, 2026

Which Mascara Should You Be Using? Let’s Break It Down

Mascara should be the easiest step in your makeup routine. One little tube. A few swipes. Done!

But the minute you start shopping for one, it’s like — wait, what? Lifting. Lengthening. Curling. Thickening. Tubing. Waterproof. Washable. Film-forming. Suddenly, you’re standing there thinking, Why is this harder than finding jeans?

So let’s talk about what actually matters, what doesn’t, and which mascaras really work — especially now that our lashes don’t behave the way they used to.

Looking for more makeup recommendations for mature skin? Check out these posts next: Best Makeup Primers for Mature Skin, The Best Concealers for Mature Skin, and 5 Makeup Mistakes That Make You Look Old.

What Color Mascara Should I Wear?

For most women, black is still the easiest, safest choice. It defines your eyes, gives contrast, and makes lashes stand out — which helps more and more as brows and hair get lighter.

That said, if black feels too harsh on you, especially during the day, a deep brown can be very pretty. It still gives definition, just in a softer way.

For me? I’m blonde, but I still prefer black. I’ve tried brown and even espresso shades, but they don’t give me enough pop. And honestly, the older I get, the more eye definition I feel I need — not less.

Currently, I use L’oréal Paris Voluminous mascara paired with L’Oréal Pairs Lash Boosting Primer. You apply the primer first ( it’s white), then the black mascara over top to make your lashes look longer, fuller, and plumper.

If you’re feeling a little adventurous, colored mascaras are back — and they’re much more wearable than they used to be. Plum looks great on green or hazel eyes. Navy can really brighten blue eyes and make the whites look whiter.

Just treat colored mascara like a statement lipstick. Let it be the star and keep the rest of your makeup simple.

 

Does the Brush Shape Actually Matter?

I’ve always wondered about this, and yes — the brush makes a big difference in how mascara looks on your lashes.

Here’s a quick comparison:

• Big, fluffy brushes = volume. Great if your lashes are thinning or you want drama. I like the one from Jones Road Mascara.

• Curved brushes help lift and curl. These are my favorites because my lashes tend to droop. 

• Tapered or cone-shaped brushes are great for corners and shorter lashes.

• Rubber or plastic wands with short bristles are good for separating. I like these for a final coat if things start looking clumpy.

• Hourglass-shaped brushes are designed to grab every lash and fan them out.

There’s no one “best” brush. It really depends on your lashes and what you want them to do. If you want lift, look for curved. If you want volume, go thicker. If your lashes are short, smaller brushes give you more control.

Does Curling Mascara Actually Work?

In my experience, it kind of works, but not totally.

Curling mascaras do help a bit because they are made with a special formula that is supposed to hold shape better. I’ve tried plenty, and they can be pretty good— but none of them work as well as an actual eyelash curler.

If your lashes are straight or point downward (mine do), a curler makes a huge difference. You may have to try a few to find one that works with your eye shape. I’m currently using the Tweezerman Promaster eyelash curler, which is better for almond and deep-set eyes, rather than the Tweezerman Procurl Eyelash curler, which is better for round eyes.

Always curl before mascara — never after. That’s a good way to lose lashes, and at our age, they don’t always come back quickly… or at all. I use a gentle pump for about 10 seconds instead of squeezing hard.

I’ve heard good things about heated curlers, but my lashes are thinner and more delicate since menopause, so I’ve stayed away.

Bottom line:
If your lashes already have a natural curl, a curling mascara might be enough. If not, a curler plus a lifting mascara is the winning combo.

Tubing vs Regular Mascara: What’s the Difference?

Tubing mascaras are a little different. Instead of painting your lashes, they form tiny tubes around each one.

The big benefit? No smudging. No flaking. And they come off easily with warm water and gentle pressure.

If you deal with under-eye smudging, watery eyes, or sensitive skin, tubing mascaras can be a game-changer. They’re also much easier to remove, which is a big plus if your lashes are fragile.

Regular mascaras give you more drama and flexibility, but they usually need makeup remover to come off.

Go tubing if:

• Mascara always smudges on you

• You have oily lids or watery eyes

• You want easy removal without tugging

Go regular if:

• You like a more dramatic look

• You layer multiple coats

• You don’t mind using a remover

Waterproof vs Not: Do You Really Need It?

It’s tougher to remove, and over time, that can be hard on your lashes. That said, it’s great for:

• Weddings

• Hot, humid days

• Beach days

• Straight lashes that won’t hold a curl

For everyday wear, regular or water-resistant formulas are easier on your lashes. When you do use waterproof, be gentle when removing it. Let the remover sit for a few seconds before wiping.

Mascara Brands That Work on Mature Lashes

Here are some favorites that either I have used and liked, or hear great things about from women over 40:

Tubing Mascara I Trust

• Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions: This one has a cult following for a reason. It gives length, definition, and zero smudging. The. The brush is precise, and it removes with just warm water.

• Caliray Come Hell or High Water Mascara: Clean, tubing formula that’s great for everyday wear. It’s lightweight and gives fluttery length without clumps.

• Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara: A newer tubing option that’s lightweight and great for everyday use. It gives soft length and definition without flaking or smudging. The slim brush works well on shorter lashes and lower lash lines.

 

Volumizing and Lengthening Favorites

• Lancôme Lash Idôle: Lifts, separates, and adds volume without looking clumpy. The curved brush hugs your lashes perfectly.

• Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl: A curling formula with a big impact. This one holds shape and adds lots of drama.

 

Waterproof Options for Special Occasions

• L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof: Drugstore holy grail. Adds volume and length, holds curl all day, and doesn’t budge.

• Maybelline Sky High Waterproof: Long, separated lashes with lots of lift. It layers well and stays put.

 

Best Brown Mascaras

• Ilia Limitless Lash in Soft Black or Brown: Clean formula that still performs. The dual-sided brush helps you build definition without bulk.

• Clinique High Impact Hi-Fi Mascara in Black/Brown: Easy to wear, soft definition, and very gentle on sensitive eyes.

  The Last Word:

  The right mascara doesn’t just make your lashes look better — it makes your whole face look more alive. If your mascara isn’t doing much anymore, it might be time for a different formula or brush. And I’m always up for testing new ones, so tell me — what’s your favorite mascara right now?