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9 Of The Best Smudge-Proof Mascaras To Withstand Water, Sweat And Humidity
The ELLE team spill their winning mascaras for the beach, the gym and beyond
Finding the best smudge-proof mascaras to withstand summer's unpredictable weather, high humidity and all the exciting things the warm season has to offer (long nights dancing, splashing in the pool...) is a tall order.
The best, tried and tested, smudge-proof mascaras
While it is far easier to go mascara-free when you're being active (no one needs showstopping lashes at a barre class), for those who do want to have a little something on their lashes, there's thankfully plenty of modern formulas that boast exceptional staying power. From navy blue mascaras to brown ones, there's a smudge-proof version for everyone.
These smudge-proof mascaras are also great for anyone that simply wants lashes that stay lifted, lengthened and volumised throughout the day without any touch-ups or the risk of smearing. Plus, they're great for special occasions such as weddings, too.
How to find the best smudge-proof mascaras
Tubing mascaras are incredibly popular amongst beauty editors. These formulas use polymers that 'wrap' around the lash hairs to form a 'tube' that curls, lifts and elongates. While waterproof formulas may last the longest and often hold a curl better, tubing formulas come off easily with warm water so you don't have to tug at your lashes.
When shopping for your next mascara, do consider the wand, too. Tapered and slim wands tend to work better for smaller eyes, while chunkier wands suit larger eyes. Comb-like bristles will separate and define lashes, but a full bristled-brush can create more volume.
With mascaras, it's often a lot of trial and error, which is why high street mascaras are a great place to start. If jet black lashes appear too stark against your complexion, opt for a brown mascara.
There are some useful hacks for longer-lasting, lengthened lashes. The classic trick of curling before applying mascara always helps to give sparse and straight lashes extra lift, but if smearing is your main concern, try dusting a small amount of setting powder on your under-eyes and eyelids to absorb any excess oils.
There's really no such thing as a one-size-fits-all mascara since we all seem to require different things for our lashes, so we went straight to the ELLE team to find out what their favourite smudge-proof mascaras are.
The best smudge-proof mascaras for summer, tried and tested
Medina Azaldin is the beauty editor of ELLE and Harper's Bazaar UK, working across print and digital features. She has more than seven years journalism experience and has previously written for Red and Good Hoousekeeping. When she's not demystifying the latest skincare ingredient, sniffing out the next big perfume trend or uncovering the science behind wellness practices, you'll most likely find her in Hatchards Piccadilly or watching a crime series with her cats. Oh, and she's a competitive cheerleader, too.


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