My Top 5 Tried-and-Tested Mascaras That Truly Delivered

When it comes to building a makeup collection, finding the right mascara can be a game-changer. For me, it’s not just an accessory – it’s essential. I rarely wear eyeshadow or eyeliner, so mascara is what truly brings my eyes to life. Whether I’m heading out for a casual brunch or preparing for an evening out, mascara is the one product I never skip.

But with so many options on the market, claiming to lift, lengthen, volumize or curl, it’s easy to get lost in the beauty aisle. I’ve fallen for celebrity-endorsed mascaras more times than I’d like to admit, only to be left disappointed. That’s why I decided to share my personal, no-nonsense ranking of mascaras that actually impressed me. These are products I’ve used long enough to know their strengths – and their flaws.

In this post, I’ll take you through my top five favorite mascaras, each selected based on personal experience, not hype. From brush shape to formula to overall performance, these mascaras stood out in different ways. Let’s dive in.

These are the standards I hold my mascaras to – and believe me, I’ve tested plenty. Out of them all, five products made the cut. Some I loved immediately, while others grew on me with time. So, here are the mascaras I trust and return to.

1. Nanolash Mascara 

This mascara changed the game for me. It’s rare to find a product that delivers in every area, but Nanolash somehow does it all. What’s even better is that it comes in two tailored versions:

• Nanolash Volume Up Mascara – great for adding depth and fullness to lashes
• Nanolash Length & Curl Mascara – perfect for lift and definition

I actually own both and switch between them depending on my mood or occasion. What’s consistent in both formulas is the impressive wear time – no smudging, no flaking, even after a full day. I’ve even worn this in a sauna, and it didn’t budge. No joke.

The brush is another standout feature. It’s made of silicone and is expertly shaped to reach every lash. I especially appreciate how buildable the formula is. One coat gives a natural enhancement, while two or three coats create a dramatic, faux-lash effect.

Nanolash mascara quickly earned a permanent spot in my makeup bag. For me, it’s the best mascara I’ve ever used.

2. Lashcode Mascara 

Coming in at a close second is Lashcode, a mascara that impressed me with its smooth, velvety formula and clean finish. It gives lashes a refined, elongated look, making it ideal for both daily wear and more sophisticated looks.

The wand is quite similar to Nanolash’s – slim and precise – which makes it easy to coat each lash individually without creating clumps. The formula also contains lash-conditioning ingredients, which makes this product feel more like a hybrid of makeup and lash care.

It’s a bit more understated than Nanolash, but sometimes that’s exactly what you want. When I’m aiming for a polished look without too much drama, this is the mascara I grab.

3. Clarins Be Long Mascara 

This mascara made it into my top five thanks to its precision wand and lengthening effect. Clarins Be Long Mascara really does make your lashes look longer, and the brush is a dream for detail work. It’s slender and reaches even those tiny inner-corner lashes.

However, the formula is on the watery side, which made layering a bit tricky. It took a while to dry, and I had to be careful not to blink too soon after applying it. Once it set, the result was lovely – but I definitely wouldn’t use this in a rush.

I think it’s worth trying if you have the patience for a more delicate mascara. It worked well for me on days when I could take my time with makeup.

4. Maybelline Great Lash Mascara

This one has been on the market forever, and I finally gave in to the curiosity. Maybelline’s Great Lash has a huge fan base, and I can see why – it’s affordable, easy to find, and does a decent job at defining lashes.

However, I found its staying power lacking. While it gave a good initial lift and color payoff, the formula smudged after a few hours, especially under the eyes. The brush is simple and separates lashes fairly well, though I felt it could be longer for more effective coverage.

If you’re on a tight budget, it might be worth checking out, but it’s not my top pick for reliability.

5. L’Oreal Panoramic Curl Mascara 

The last mascara on my list is L’Oréal Lash Paradise, which offers a noticeable boost in both length and volume. The formula is rich and dramatic, perfect for evening looks. What I particularly liked is how full my lashes looked after just one coat.

However, the wand is quite large and fluffy, which made precise application a bit difficult, especially around the corners. If you have smaller eyes or shorter lashes, you’ll need to be careful during use.

It’s a solid choice when I want bold lashes, but it’s not my go-to for everyday wear. Still, it’s a reliable product with impressive results when used right.

So, Which Mascara Should You Choose?

At the end of the day, the perfect mascara depends on your needs. Do you want volume, length, curl – or all three? Do you prefer a precise wand or a fluffier brush? What kind of finish do you like – natural or dramatic?

If you’re still unsure where to start, I wholeheartedly recommend Nanolash. Whether you pick the Volume Up or the Length & Curl version, you’re getting a high-quality product that won’t let you down. From daily errands to special occasions, it’s the mascara that consistently delivers.

And remember: perfection might be subjective, but when it comes to mascaras, the best one is the one that makes you feel your best.