The 19 Best Lengthening Mascaras of 2023

(Image credit: Rosdiana Ciaravolo)

last updated 24 August 2022

With masks sticking around for the foreseeable future, we're laser-focused on keeping our eye makeup game sharp. If we're covering up the parts of our face we usually use to flex our favorite products—dewy foundation for a a flawless complexion, pretty blush on your cheeks' apples, a sick red lipstick that doesn't budge—it's still vital to play up what lies above our cheekbones. That means it's all about strong brows and the kind of bold, big, fluttery eyelashes that can only be created by one of the best mascaras.

But when it comes to making your lashes stand out, the solution isn't one-size-fits-all. Different eye shapes and lash situations require different techniques (those of you with hooded lids know exactly what I'm talking about), which is why we're here to steer you in the right direction. Volume always makes eyes pop, and a nice curl can open up the gaze and enhance your makeup—but if there's one thing everyone can use more of when it comes to their lashes, it's length. The illusion of longer lashes can complement a dramatic smokey eye or amp up an otherwise simple makeup look. And for those who worship at the alter of eyelash extensions and can't keep up their routine through the pandemic, a new lengthening formula that helps fake faux lashes can make you feel like your old, extended self again. Here, the cult classic lengthening mascaras and brand-new releases we can't get enough of.

Benefit Cosmetics They're Real! Magnet Extreme Lengthening Mascara

If Benefit's They're REAL! has been in your makeup collection for years, you're going to love the extra-lengthening option.

Thrive Causmetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara

No time for lash extensions? No problem. This mascara from Thrive Causemetics is here to answer your prayers. This flake-free formula is Dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested and approved.

ITEM Beauty By Addison Rae Lash Snack Clean Lengthening Mascara

This under-$20 mascara from Addison Rae's makeup line, ITEM BEAUTY, offers dramatic clump-free length for a mega-black look that lasts without smudging or flaking off. Conditioners like castor seed oil and glycerin will make your lashes feel so soft.

ILIA Limitless Lash Lengthening Mascara

This weightless-feeling pick from ILIA leaves your lashes looking lifted and feeling soft thanks to the inclusion of shea butter.

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

Among the list of TikTok-approved mascaras is this one from Maybelline. The special brush is designed to get to every single lash for a fanned-out look from every angle.

Saie Mascara 101 Lengthening and Lifting

This mascara from Saie is made using 100% naturally-derived ingredients, including Australian beeswax and shea butter.

Tarte Maneater Mascara

This all-in-one pick from Tarte has more than 1,500 five-star reviews on Ulta's website. Some users even claim that it's the best mascara they have ever used.

L'Oréal Telescopic Mascara

There's a reason that L'Oréal's Telescopic Mascara has been a best-seller over the last decade. This classic formula delivers massive length to give you a clean look.

Honest Beauty Extreme Length 2-in-1 Mascara and Lash Primer with Jojoba Esters

This award-winning mascara from Jessica Alba's brand, Honest Beauty, is a must-buy because it contains mascara *and* primer in one smart formula. This cruelty-free formula is also EWG certified.

Chantecaille Faux Cils Longest Lash Mascara

A powerful lash peptide included in this mascara from Chantecaille makes your lashes look better naturally. While it provides volume, the real winner here is the clump-free length that it gives you.

Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Lengthening Mascara

Hourglass dreamed up this paraben-free and vegan formula and honestly, I'm obsessed. Every single lash is evenly coated for maximum effect

COVERGIRL Exhibitionist Stretch & Strengthen Mascara

COVERGIRL is one of my personal favorites at the drugstore thanks to their selection of no-B.S formulas and easy-to-love results. it promises 60% longer lashes and a lightweight formula that slides on without getting all over the place.

essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara

Go on TikTok for even a minute or two and you'll no doubt see this mascara from essence pop up. Users on the app claim it gives an uber-dramatic look and costs only $5 bucks. It's a win-win.

Lash Star Full Control Mascara

If you're like me, your preferred mascara look changes on a daily basis. Luckily, this double-sided mascara from Lash Star lets you customize your finished look. A custom-engineered skinny brush gets right to the root of your lashes for immediate lift.

Sephora Collection Size Up Mascara

Don't overlook Sephora's own collection when browsing the site! This Size Up Mascara promises a combination of volume and length for easy, all-day wear.

wet n wild Mega Length Mascara

This mascara is priced at just over $2, so it's well worth it to stock up on more than one tube. With over 2,700 five-star reviews on Amazon, it's clear that the internet loves it.

The Good-For-Your-Lashes Pick

bareMinerals Strength & Length Serum-Infused Mascara

If you want to make your lashes look better from the inside out, this mascara is for you. It's full of a red clover peptide serum that will make your eyelashes feel stronger over time.

MAC Cosmetics Extended Play Gigablack Lash Mascara

Who doesn't live a product from a classic brand like M.A.C? This mascara is sweat- and humidity-resistant for a look that lasts, no matter what your day has in store for you.

NUDESTIX Lash Lengthening Mascara

For full, feathery lashes, consider this option from NUDESTIX. If you have sensitive eyes, this pick won't budge throughout the day and cause irritation in the process.

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Julia Marzovilla is the Fashion E-Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she reviews the latest launches from fashion and beauty brands, finds the best on-sale items around the internet, and interviews experts to find the best products in any category to share with her readers. She also creates shopping guides that span every vertical on the site as an expert in everything from the best laptop bags to the best laser hair removal devices.

In her near decade of experience, Julia has both written for several top outlets in the E-Commerce space and worked at major fashion labels. Prior to joining the Marie Claire team, she contributed similar shopping stories to sites such as Bustle, InStyle, The Zoe Report, Who What Wear, and worked as the Trending Fashion and News Writer STYLECASTER. You can find her across the internet at @JuliaMarzovilla. In real life, you can find her creating shopping guides for her friends, cooking or baking in her too-small kitchen, or buying tickets for the next time Harry Styles is in town.

Julia has a Bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in Journalism from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California. She lives in New York City, her hometown.

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