Looking for the best mascaras on the market? Through trial and error, smudge eyes and black tears the RUSSH Editors have found the ones we keep coming back to.

Natalie Petrevski

Fashion Editor

Maybelline’s Define-A-Lash Mascara

Mascara is a product I don’t usually wear often - marked for ‘special occasions’ and the times I have the energy to actually put eye-makeup on. My pet peeve has always been removing it, along with the fact I’m prone to panda eyes as I rub my face a lot - so it’s best I usually steer clear of it on my day-to-day. The one time I got a lash lift though was a really wonderful period for me. But alas, when those special occasions and events do arise, my humble go-to is Maybelline’s Define-A-Lash Mascara. Readily available from Priceline or any chemist, it leaves me with minimal clumps and I love the non-fluffy-rubbery brush. It’s easy to control and guide for as much or as little definition as I want.

Mia Steiber

Digital Content Director

I have hooded eyes. And as anyone with hooded eyes knows, mascara is everything. So naturally I have a lot to say on the topic of best mascaras. I have a few favourites and all for different purposes.

Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes

My OG, forever baddie will always be Lights, Camera, Lashes from Tarte. The brush is thick enough to curl, but not so thick as to smear mascara all over your eyelids. The formula lengthens and thickens but never clumps. It also keeps your lashes separated, instead of clumping them all together. I love the brush on this one so much that whenever I finish a tube, I wash and keep the brush as a spoolie.

Glossier Lash Slick

Next, I have to agree with Elle that Glossier Lash Slick is a fab choice if you’re after a natural look. This mascara never overloads or weighs down your lashes with product. I use this one after I’ve had a lash lift. It’s great for adding a little bulk and colour without making you look like you’re actually wearing makeup.

Ardell Faux Mink Multi-Layering Mascara

Ardell’s Faux Mink Multi-Layering Mascara is another fab favourite. The formula is tacky from the get go, unlike most other mascaras which are a little too wet at the beginning. The tackiness gives it a lot of hold so you can really curl your lashes sky high. The brush is a winner too. It’s flat so you can apply with the bristled side and lift with the flat side.

Kat Von D’s Go Big Or Go Home Mascara

Lastly I adore Kat Von D’s Go Big Or Go Home Mascara. The brush gives you the most fluttery, lovely lashes. The formula is packed with nourishing oils so it’s a lot nicer to your lashes than other mascaras. I love using this one in summer when I swim a lot and my lashes could use extra TLC. One note, I find it works better if you start with a lash primer.

Elle Presbury

Market & Beauty Director

Glossier Lash Slick

I don’t often wear mascara. Usually opting to get my eyelashes tinted instead - it's easier, less messier and makes cleaning your makeup off at the end of the day much simpler. Though if I am going out or feeling especially in the mood to go an extra mile I opt for Glossier’s Lash Slick mascara. First of all, the brush perfectly coats and separates the lashes. Almost curling them in the process of application. And then the formula… it doesn’t move once applied. No smudged shadow half way through the night. It also contains tiny fibres that build the lashes - making them appear longer and thicker. And when all is said and done it washes off easily with a micellar water. 

Diorshow Iconic mascara

A special mention to Diorshow Iconic Sequins mascara however. I recently got sent the limited edition black mascara and when it comes to the special mention? It also contains glitter. Not yet available, the product will hit the shelves on Aug 30 and I am waiting for the perfect moment to leave the house in it.

Megan Nolan

Digital Operations Manager

Max Factor’s False Lash Effect mascara

I’ve been wearing mascara every day since I was 16 which means I refuse to pay for anything I can’t buy at Priceline or my local supermarket. Whilst I used to swear by a curved, super fluffy brush Max Factor’s False Lash Effect mascara has completely turned me. It’s the exact opposite of everything I was used to, with a silicone (rubber) brush and quite short bristles. Honestly though, it does the trick. Perfect as an every day mascara - it stays well all day and doesn’t go on too thick so you keep that natural look. Also super easy to get off with no smudging. I use this mascara for going out too just by going over it a couple of times to give a bolder look.

Ella Jane

Production Coordinator

Clarins Wonder Perfect Mascara

Similarly to Elle, I’ll always opt for consistent lash tinting instead of mascara, but in the case that I’ve either gone a long time between tinting or simply want more drama in my life, I’ll turn to the Clarins Wonder Perfect Mascara in Perfect Brown. With red hair, fair skin and quite a lot of eyelash, a true black can often look a little intense, particularly in daylight, so brown is the ticket for me. The mascara itself is nothing out of the ordinary. Good brush, separates well, isn’t too ‘wet’ and stays put when you need it to. It’s just that ‘perfect brown’ that gets me every time.

Image credits:
Photography by Natalie Petrevski
Elle Presbury: image via Instagram
Mia Steiber: image via Instagram
Megan Nolan: image via Max Factor
Ella Jane: image via Instagram