I’ve Tested 100+ Mascaras & These Lengthening Formulas Are the Closest to Lash Extensions

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Lengthening mascaras are the next best thing if you want long and strong lashes without extensions. As their name suggests, these mascaras are all about creating longer lashes and use specific formulations (including some ingredients that actually promote eyelash growth) and applicator brushes to help achieve the look. But, as someone who prefers natural-looking makeup, I don’t like the idea of globbing on layer upon layer of mascara and instead am all about finding the best mascaras that will add length and volume in just a couple of swipes. 

After years of trial and error, I have a few go-to lengthening mascaras that I keep on regular rotation in my makeup bag—including one tried and true formula I’ve sworn by for over a decade. See my top picks for the best lengthening mascaras, plus what makes a lengthening mascara superior ahead. 

Best Lengthening Mascaras at a Glance 

• Best Lengthening Mascara Overall: Lancôme Lash Idôle Flutter Extension Lengthening Mascara, $30
• Best Lengthening Mascara at Target: Benefit Cosmetics Fan Fest Mascara, $29
• Best Natural Lengthening Mascara: Saie Mascara 101 , $26
• Best Clump-Free Lengthening Mascara: Tower 28 MakeWaves Mascara , $20
• Best Lengthening Mascara for Everyday: ILIA Limitless Lash Mascara , $29 
• Best Volumizing and Lengthening Mascara: Too Faced Better Than Sex Volumizing & Lengthening Mascara, $29

What to Look for in Mascara for a Lengthening Effect

When shopping for lengthening mascaras, Suzy Gerstein, a New York City-based makeup artist, says to look for “ones with fibers that will create the illusion of longer lashes or a slender brush that really finds and coats each individual lash.” She also notes that product description terms can also help you narrow down your mascara selection and find the ones that are truly lengthening. “There are so many formulas tailored to lash needs—terms like ‘sky-high’ and ‘flutter’ in the title tend to indicate lengthening rather than volumizing formulas.” 

Celebrity makeup artist Jessi Butterfield also recommends paying close attention to the wand. “Select a wand with distinctive bristles and an easily maneuverable size for all that detail work,” she explains. Additionally, she says lash conditioning ingredients are a huge bonus for wearing long lash looks on repeat since these keep your lashes long and strong. 

What Types of Mascaras to Avoid if You Want to Lengthen Lashes

If you want to lengthen your lashes, Gerstein says to stay away from waterproof formulas because those can actually lead to lash breakage. Butterfield also recommends avoiding dry formulas and chunky wands. “While both are perfect for creating instant and buildable volume, they are a long-lash kryptonite,” she explains.  

How to Apply Lengthening Mascara

If you want to achieve a long-lash look, Butterfield says don’t be afraid to unleash your inner artist and have some fun with the application process. “Place [the] brush at the root of the lash and wiggle back and forth to ensure full coverage and ample definition,” she explains. From there, Butterfield recommends pulling the wand through the lasts to the ends and in the direction you want each lash to stay—and don’t forget those lower lashes. “Balance is important for a lash look,” she notes. “Lower mascara pulls everything together, so don’t skip it.” 

The Best Lengthening Mascaras That Double As Eyelash Extension Alternatives

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