The 11 Best Curling Mascaras for Lift and Lash Definition

My lashes are stubbornly straight. For years, I thought an eyelash curler was the only answer, but I’d watch my hard work fall flat within an hour. It was so frustrating.

Then I realized the mascara formula is just as important as the curling tool. A mascara that’s too wet or heavy will weigh your lashes down, undoing the curl instantly. The best curling mascara has a lightweight formula that lifts, grabs, and holds lashes in place all day.

So I went on a mission. I tested dozens of mascaras—from drugstore finds to high-end splurges—to find the ones that actually deliver on their curling promises. These are the ones that truly work.

 

 

Our Top Picks

Essence Lash Princess Curl & Volume Mascara

You really can’t beat this mascara for just $5. It gives my lashes an amazing curl and a surprising amount of volume without costing a fortune. I was shocked by how well it performs.

It has great staying power, too. I can go all day without it smudging or flaking under my eyes. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, which is always a bonus.

The Downside: It takes a little longer to dry than some other formulas, so be careful not to blink too hard right after you put it on.

 

 

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

This mascara is all over social media for a reason, and it costs around $14. The flexible brush grabs every single lash and stretches it to insane lengths. It gives a fanned-out effect that really opens up the eyes.

If you have straight lashes, this stuff is incredible at holding a curl all day long. It adds length and lift without getting clumpy.

The Downside: I’ve noticed it can sometimes transfer onto my lids, especially if I have oily skin or it’s a humid day.

 

 

Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Curling Mascara

At about $25, this one is a classic for a reason. The “Hook ‘n’ Roll” brush is curved to perfectly grip and lift your lashes, almost like a tiny roller for your eyes. It gives a beautiful, clean curl.

I can even skip my eyelash curler when I use this mascara, which is saying a lot. It holds the curl from morning to night without drooping, even on my short, straight lashes.

The Downside: This is another one that can take a minute to fully dry down.

 

 

Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara

This mascara costs $25 and it’s famous for its tubing technology. Instead of painting your lashes, it forms tiny tubes around them, which gives you incredible length and definition. It genuinely looks like I have lash extensions when I wear it.

The best part is how it comes off. You just need warm water and gentle pressure, and the tubes slide right off. No smudging, no flaking, and no harsh makeup remover needed.

The Downside: While it’s amazing for length and curl, it doesn’t provide a ton of dramatic volume.

 

 

Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara

For around $29, this is my favorite clean mascara. My eyes can be pretty sensitive, and this lightweight formula never irritates them. It’s made with beeswax and shea butter that feel really gentle.

The brush is dual-sided, which is super smart. One side is for building volume, and the other is for separating and adding length. It gives a really pretty, natural-looking curl that lasts all day.

The Downside: I’ve found it can sometimes flake a tiny bit by the end of a very long day.

 

 

L’Oréal Voluminous Panorama Washable Mascara

This drugstore find is about $16 and it delivers a serious false-lash effect. The brush has bristles of different lengths, so it catches every single lash and fans them out for a wide-eyed look. It’s great for contact lens wearers like me.

It’s a great mascara for curling lashes because it lifts them up and holds them there without feeling stiff. It promises 24-hour wear and it really doesn’t smudge or flake.

The Downside: If you try to apply too many coats, it can start to look a little clumpy.

 

 

MAC Cosmetics Extended Play Gigablack Lash Mascara

This one goes for $28 and is another awesome tubing mascara. The formula is super lightweight, so it lifts and curls without weighing my lashes down. It’s a true, deep black that makes lashes pop.

I reach for this on long days because I know it won’t budge for a solid 16 hours. It’s also ophthalmologist-tested and safe for sensitive eyes, and it washes off easily with warm water.

The Downside: It’s not waterproof, so it won’t hold up through a swim or a sad movie.

 

 

Maybelline Colossal Curl Bounce Mascara

For around $10, this is a powerhouse for lashes that just won’t stay curled. Maybelline calls it “memory curl” technology, and whatever it is, it works. My lashes stay lifted and bouncy all day long, no curler needed.

The curved brush helps to scoop up the lashes from the root, giving them a great curl while also adding some decent volume and separation.

The Downside: The formula can feel a little heavy on the lashes compared to others.

 

 

Clinique High Impact High-Fi Full Volume Mascara

This mascara is about $29 and it’s all about the volume. It’s infused with tiny fibers that build up on your lashes, making them look incredibly thick and full—they claim up to 230% more volume.

Even with all that volume, it does a fantastic job of holding a curl. It defines each lash really well without making them look clumpy or spidery. It’s also tested for sensitive eyes.

The Downside: The formula is not waterproof, so you’ll have to be mindful of that.

 

 

Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara

At $30, this is a bit of a splurge, but it’s my go-to for a feathery, natural look. The formula is a gel that feels totally weightless, so it lifts and fans out lashes without ever weighing them down.

The curl it provides is really impressive and lasts all day. You can easily layer it for more length and volume, and it stays perfectly separated and clump-free.

The Downside: On really hot and humid days, I’ve noticed it can smudge a little bit.

 

 

What to Look for in a Curling Mascara

Finding the best curling mascara for your lashes can feel like a chore, but it’s totally worth it. The right wand shape and a formula that isn’t too heavy can make all the difference. Look for curved wands that help lift from the root and lightweight formulas that won’t make your curl fall.

Don’t give up on your straight lashes. Whether you need something for sensitive eyes, a tubing formula for easy removal, or a budget-friendly option that performs like a luxury brand, there’s definitely one out there for you. One of these might just be it.