Mascara is an essential part of any makeup routine. It draws attention to your eyes and complements everything from natural, everyday looks to full-glam makeup. While you’ve probably already found a favourite everyday formula, a waterproof mascara is worth keeping on hand for summer, weddings, vacations, and other occasions where heat, humidity, or tears might put your makeup to the test.
If you’ve never used one before, waterproof mascaras take the lash-enhancing formulas we know and love and make them more resistant to sweat, rain, swimming, humidity, and tears. They’re especially useful during the warmer months, but they’re also a smart choice for emotional events like weddings and graduations.
This guide rounds up the best waterproof mascaras available in Canada right now and highlights the key factors to consider before making your purchase. Let’s dive into our top five picks.
The Best Waterproof Mascaras
- Best Overall Waterproof Mascara: Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Waterproof Sky High Mascara
- Best Affordable Waterproof Mascara: CoverGirl Professional 3-in-1 Waterproof Mascara
- Best Luxury Waterproof Mascara: Dior Diorshow Overvolume Extreme Volume Waterproof Mascara
- Best Waterproof Mascara for Volume: Benefit Cosmetics BADgal BANG! Volumizing Waterproof Mascara
- Best Waterproof Mascara for Length: L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Waterproof Mascara
Our Top Pick for the Best Waterproof Mascara
Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Waterproof Sky High Mascara Review
What We Think of the Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Waterproof Sky High Mascara
If you love the original Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara, this waterproof version is an easy summer swap. Infused with bamboo extract and fibres, the waterproof formula boosts fullness and length without weighing lashes down; that means you’ll get dramatic definition without clumping. It’s also flake- and smudge-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about raccoon eyes. For added peace of mind, the formula is both dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested, making it suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
The unique Flex Tower brush is designed to coat every lash without tugging or pulling. Its 0.9 mm bristles are fine enough to catch and separate even smaller lashes, giving you enhanced definition with minimal effort.
All in all, the Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara is one of our all-time favourite formulas, especially for the warmer months. It lifts, separates, and adds volume while staying put through sweat, swims, storms, and even happy tears. Once you try it, you’ll never want to switch back.
- Performance: 5/5
- Usability: 5/5
- Price: 5/5
- Quality: 5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Waterproof Sky High Mascara
Reviewers are head over heels for the Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara, with many calling it the best mascara they’ve ever tried. They rave about the length, volume, and separation it delivers, as well as its long-lasting, waterproof formula. Many say they’ve repurchased it multiple times and plan to keep buying it.
Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Waterproof Sky High Mascara Pros and Cons
Buy If…
- You want length, volume, and separation.
- Long-lasting, waterproof wear is a priority.
- You prefer a flexible brush that’s easy to maneuver.
- You’re looking for a great drugstore mascara that won’t break the bank.
Don’t Buy If…
- You like building up multiple coats of mascara.
- You prefer a formula that stays fresh for longer between replacements.
Our Affordable Pick
CoverGirl Professional 3-in-1 Waterproof Mascara Review
What We Think of the CoverGirl Professional 3-in-1 Waterproof Mascara
If you love a more natural lash look and don’t want to spend a small fortune on waterproof mascara, this is the formula for you. It lengthens, darkens, and defines lashes in a single coat, giving you added length and separation without the risk of clumping. Designed for sensitive eyes, it’s hypoallergenic and safe for contact lens wearers, too.
The classic straight-bristle brush helps separate and define lashes without overcoating them. Its medium-sized design makes it beginner-friendly and helps you reach hard-to-coat areas, like the inner and outer corners, without smudging. With it, achieving a soft, feathery lash look is easy.
Long story short, the CoverGirl Professional 3-in-1 Waterproof Mascara is a solid budget-friendly choice that delivers a natural-looking finish and stays put through swimming, splashing, and unexpected rainfall. It’s buildable, comfortable to wear, and perfect for anyone who prefers a more subtle, everyday lash look.
- Performance: 4/5
- Usability: 5/5
- Price: 5/5
- Quality: 4/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the CoverGirl Professional 3-in-1 Waterproof Mascara
Reviewers have plenty of great things to say about the CoverGirl Professional 3-in-1 Waterproof Mascara. Many say it’s the perfect waterproof formula for anyone who prefers a more natural lash look but still wants added length and definition. A few reviewers found the formula a bit dry, and a small minority felt it didn’t fully live up to its waterproof claims, but the overwhelming consensus is that it’s a reliable staple worthy of repurchasing.
CoverGirl Professional 3-in-1 Waterproof Mascara Pros and Cons
Buy If…
- You want a more natural lash look.
- You want something to wear on light makeup days.
- You’re on the hunt for a beginner-friendly formula.
- You don’t want to spend more than $10
Don’t Buy If…
- You like dramatic volume and length.
- You prefer a silicone brush with more defined bristles.
Our Luxury Pick
Dior Diorshow Overvolume Extreme Volume Waterproof Mascara Review
What We Think of the Dior Diorshow Overvolume Extreme Volume Waterproof Mascara
This long-wearing waterproof mascara doesn’t come cheap, but it’s worth every penny. The formula coats each lash, giving you that coveted fanned-out look without the need for falsies. It’s also a great pick for those looking to care for their lashes. Infused with D-panthenol, it helps revitalize and strengthen lashes while lifting and volumizing. Once applied, it truly stays put, so you won’t have to worry about touch-ups throughout the day.
The Overvolume brush works serious magic on lashes. It features petal-shaped bristles that boost volume, fine bristles that catch even the shortest lashes, and precision bristles at the tip to help define every lash. Paired with the high-performance waterproof formula, it makes it easy to achieve intensely pigmented, lifted, voluminous lashes that last from morning to night.
All in all, the Dior Diorshow Overvolume Extreme Volume Waterproof Mascara comes at a premium price, but if you’re picky about your mascara, the investment makes sense. Its innovative brush effortlessly coats every lash, while the rich, long-wearing waterproof formula delivers dramatic results that stand up to heat, humidity, and long days — meaning more fun in the sun and fewer touch-ups.
- Performance: 5/5
- Usability: 5/5
- Price: 3/5
- Quality: 5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Dior Diorshow Overvolume Extreme Volume Waterproof Mascara
Reviewers are singing the praises of the Dior Diorshow Overvolume Extreme Volume Waterproof Mascara. It boasts an impressive average rating of 4.5 stars on Sephora Canada, and users rave about its creamy, lash-lifting formula. Many say it delivers exceptional separation, definition, volume, and long-lasting waterproof wear. While some take issue with the premium price tag, most agree the performance justifies the investment — an expected trade-off for a luxury beauty product.
Dior Diorshow Overvolume Extreme Volume Waterproof Mascara Pros and Cons
Buy If…
- You want dramatic lift, volume, and definition.
- You’re looking for a highly pigmented formula.
- You want something that nourishes your lashes.
- You love a unique brush.
Don’t Buy If…
- You prefer a more natural look.
- You don’t want to spend a lot.
Our Pick for Adding Volume
Benefit Cosmetics BADgal BANG! Volumizing Waterproof Mascara Review
What We Think of the Benefit Cosmetics BADgal BANG! Volumizing Waterproof Mascara
Firmly in the luxury camp — but slightly less expensive than Dior — is the Benefit Cosmetics BADgal BANG! Volumizing Waterproof Mascara. This waterproof take on the brand’s cult-favourite formula is designed to withstand the elements while delivering major volume without weighing down your lashes. The secret? Ultra-light aero-particles that create dramatic volume without the heaviness. The formula also features ProVitamin B5 to help condition lashes.
Pair that with the Big Slimpact! brush, and you’ve got a match made in makeup heaven. It offers 360-degree reach, making it easy to coat your inner and outer lashes, as well as your lower lashes, without smudging. The slim, tapered brush features flexible silicone bristles that are lightweight and easy to maneuver.
To sum things up, the Benefit Cosmetics BADgal BANG! Volumizing Waterproof Mascara is the perfect option for anyone who craves va-va-voom lashes but doesn’t want to rely on falsies during the summer. The long-wearing formula, easy-to-use brush, and conditioning ingredients make it a standout choice for bold, voluminous lashes.
- Performance: 5/5
- Usability: 5/5
- Price: 4/5
- Quality: 5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Benefit Cosmetics BADgal BANG! Volumizing Waterproof Mascara
Reviewers who love bold, voluminous lashes can’t get enough of the Benefit Cosmetics BADgal BANG! Volumizing Waterproof Mascara. They say the rich formula coats lashes beautifully, delivering instant drama and impressive staying power. A few reviewers mention there’s a bit of a learning curve because of the thicker formula, while others wish it delivered a little more length along with the volume. Overall, though, most say it’s well worth the purchase.
Benefit Cosmetics BADgal BANG! Volumizing Waterproof Mascara Pros and Cons
Buy If…
- You want showstopping volume.
- A thicker formula appeals to you.
- You want something lightweight but layerable.
- You’re looking for a waterproof mascara that holds a curl.
Don’t Buy If…
- You want to add length to your lashes.
- You want a formula that’s easy to work with.
Our Pick for Adding Length
L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Waterproof Mascara Review
What We Think of the L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Waterproof Mascara
L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Mascara has been a fan favourite since the early 2000s, and its waterproof counterpart is just as impressive. Like the original, it excels at adding length, making even the shortest, straightest lashes appear longer and more lifted. It’s also fragrance-free, ophthalmologist- and allergy-tested, and suitable for sensitive eyes.
The flexible precision brush features a unique two-sided design. One side lengthens, while the comb side separates lashes to help prevent clumping and create a beautifully defined look. Together, they leave lashes looking long, lifted, and perfectly fanned out.
In short, the L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Waterproof Mascara delivers impressive length with reliable waterproof wear. The trusted formula and innovative separating brush make it easy to achieve long, defined lashes without battling clumps. It’s a true winner in our books.
- Performance: 5/5
- Usability: 4/5
- Price: 5/5
- Quality: 5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Waterproof Mascara
Reviewers who prioritize length above all else in a waterproof mascara consistently rave about the L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Waterproof Mascara. They say it lifts even the straightest, most stubborn lashes while delivering impressive length and clean separation. It may not be the best choice if you’re after dramatic volume, but it’s an excellent option for long, fluttery lashes. The budget-friendly price tag is a bonus.
L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Waterproof Mascara Pros and Cons
Buy If…
- You love a lengthening mascara.
- You love a brush that can define and separate.
- You want a buildable formula that holds a curl.
- You don’t want to spend a lot.
Don’t Buy If…
- You want a volume-boosting formula.
- You don’t want to layer on multiple coats.
