If there's anything that every cool girl seems to have down, it's the no-makeup makeup look. The thing about no-makeup makeup is that you just look effortlessly put-together, and you would never be able to tell you're wearing makeup at all at first glance. I'm a big fan of no-makeup makeup, but there's one hitch—mascara.
I am not someone who can go without mascara. My eyelashes are unfortunately pretty short, and naturally, they stick straight out instead of holding a curl like I want them to. Jet-black mascara can ruin the illusion of not wearing makeup, though. Here's where clear mascara comes in.
Clear mascara is truly a game changer for anyone like me who wants to look put-together but still wants people to think that maybe, just maybe, they're not wearing makeup at all. The best thing about clear mascara is that it holds a curl so much better than your lashes otherwise would. Before you pop on a clear mascara, curl your lashes to give yourself an eye-opening effect. Then, apply clear mascara for definition. You'll end up with dreamy lashes that look like they might be natural-looking extensions.
My current favorite eyelash curler:
Shop clear mascara:
Best Overall Clear Mascara: Great Lash Clear Mascara
Never sleep on the classics. This clear Great Lash formula is a perfect option for anyone who wants more lash definition.
Customer review: "I don't like normal mascara and this gives the perfect amount of lift. It doesn't look like mascara, more like you have a lash lift. "
Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Diamond Mascara
With peptides, vitamin E, and mineral water, this formula conditions lashes while it imparts tons of definition.
Customer review: "The best clear mascara I've found yet. It really helps define lashes and make them look naturally thicker and longer."
Honest Beauty Honestly Healthy Lash Tint in Clear
Castor oil is known as one of the best ingredients for hair health, so adding it to a clear mascara is genius for healthy lashes. This formula also has jojoba esters, mung beans, and red clover oil, which aid in conditioning and nourishing eyelashes.
Customer review: "I hate traditional mascara. I hate that regular mascara always flakes into my eyes and I hate how waterproof mascara is so hard to get off. This is the best of both worlds! It doesn’t flake but comes off with makeup remover or a makeup towel so easy. It is so lightweight and feels like nothing but it gives that extra boost to your lashes. I absolutely love this and am a lifelong fan now."
Covergirl Professional Natural Lash Mascara
This clear mascara comes with a curved brush, which helps amp up curl. The gel formula helps separate and define lashes.
Customer review: "I cannot wear mascara on a regular basis because of allergies. Even hypo-allergenic mascaras cause itching. I tried clear mascara because my dermatologist recommended it. Coupled with a good lash curler, it helps my lashes look fuller, and does not cause itching. I'm thrilled."
Perricone MD No Makeup Mascara
Aptly named, this mascara helps you get the perfect no-makeup look. Infused with actives like biotin and avocado oil, it doubles as a conditioning, growth-encouraging treatment.
Customer review: "I actually get compliments when using this product on my lashes. One acquaintance I had not seen in a while asked if I had eyelash extensions."
Ere Perez Aloe Gel Lash & Brow Mascara in Clear
Packed with aloe vera, this mascara helps give you soft, fluffy lashes. It's also waterproof, so you don't need to worry about your lashes losing steam halfway through the day.
Customer review: "I have naturally long and full eyelashes as well as full eyebrows, and I love how this mascara accentuates my lashes and shapes my brows without making either darker. Truly a 'no makeup look' that enhances your natural beauty!"
E.l.f. Cosmetics Clear Brow & Lash Mascara
At $3, this multitasking product is a true steal. It helps make your lashes look longer while separating them. Vitamin B, vitamin E, and algae extract work to help your lashes feel healthy and strong.
Customer review: "Works really well! I never wear makeup and I like the natural look."
Clarins Lash and Brow Double Fix Mascara
This waterproof and smudge-proof formula is designed to curl, lengthen, and volumize. With a lash-boosting complex, it works as a treatment too.
Customer review: "Love this product! I don't like waterproof mascara as I find it difficult to remove and rough on my eyes. Clarins Lash and Brow Double Fix makes lashes and brows waterproof and comes off with soap and water."
Essence Lash & Brow Gel Mascara
Use this on your lashes and brows to define and separate. It lasts all day and applies easily.
Customer review: "Leaves my lashes and eyebrows set but still flexible and doesn't leave any white flakes after drying."
Dr. Hauschka Brow and Lash Gel
Use this as a primer for colored mascara or on its own for perfectly defined lashes every time. It also does wonders for brows.
Customer review: "I use this on my lashes to give a little volume for quick trips out when I don’t want to wear makeup. It is good for separating and adding a bit of shape to my lashes."
Other essential no-makeup makeup products:
This article was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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