As we get older, the way we approach beauty changes, especially when it comes to finding the right mascara. Thinning lashes, sensitivity, and the need for something that actually works without causing irritation are common issues many of us face. With so many mascaras out there, it’s hard to know which ones are worth the hype and which ones will end up being a letdown.
To get around this, we decided to get together with beauty reviewers, cosmetologists, and beauty enthusiasts to try out some of the most popular mascaras on the market to see which ones really deliver. Our goal was to find a mascara that not only adds volume and length but also treats our lashes gently.
What we found was a mixed bag. Some mascaras were decent, doing a pretty good job of giving our lashes a boost. Others, though, didn’t quite live up to their promises, leaving us with clumps, smudges, or just plain disappointment. But during our testing, one mascara really stood out—a product that surprised us with how well it worked, especially for those of us dealing with the challenges of aging lashes. Read on to find out what we liked and didn’t like about each mascara we tried. Hopefully, this will help you find the one that’s just right for you.
RUMI VolumeCare+ Mascara
As we explored various mascaras, VolumeCare+ Mascara quickly became a favorite among our group. This mascara is specifically designed for mature women experiencing thinning lashes due to age, and it truly delivers on its promises. From the first application, it’s clear that this mascara is different. It’s formulated with nourishing peptides and biotin, which not only provide immediate volume and length but also support the appearance of healthier, stronger lashes over time.
One of the standout features is its clump-free and buildable formula. It glides on smoothly, coating even the shortest lashes without clumping or flaking. The brush is perfectly crafted to reach every lash, adding lift and definition that lasts all day. And for those with sensitive eyes, the hypoallergenic formula is a huge plus—it’s gentle, yet effective, and doesn’t irritate or cause any discomfort.
We were particularly impressed with how well VolumeCare+ held up throughout the day. Despite tears, sweat, or even a little rain, it stayed put without smudging, yet it was still easy to remove at night with just warm water. This makes it a great choice for everyday wear, especially for those who want a mascara that can keep up with life’s challenges while caring for their lashes.
Westman Atelier’s Eye Want You Mascara definitely grabs attention with its sleek packaging and promises of clean beauty. The plant-based ingredients and the fact that it's designed for sensitive eyes are big selling points, especially as we get older and start paying more attention to what we put on our skin. The idea of a mascara that can go from natural to full and fluttery with just a few swipes sounds fantastic.
But here’s the thing—while it does a decent job of lengthening and defining, it just doesn’t deliver the kind of volume that some of us are looking for. Even after layering it on, the boldness just wasn't there. And then there’s the price—$45! That’s a huge amount to spend on mascara, especially when it doesn’t even last all day without smudging or flaking. Sure, it’s easy to wash off, but at that price, we were expecting something that wouldn’t need touch-ups before the day is over.
So, while it’s still a fair option for those who prioritize clean beauty and have sensitive eyes, it’s hard to justify spending that much when there are other mascaras out there that do more for less.
PrimeLash Mascara is a popular choice among women over 50, and it’s easy to see why it has garnered a loyal following. Designed specifically for mature lashes, this mascara aims to lengthen, volumize, and define lashes that may have become shorter and thinner with age. The formula is hypoallergenic, which is a big plus for those with sensitive eyes, and it’s water-resistant, so it holds up well throughout the day without smudging or flaking.
However, while PrimeLash delivers on many fronts, it does have some drawbacks. The formula can feel a bit heavy on the lashes, particularly if you’re used to lighter, more natural-feeling mascaras. Some of our testers noted that it took a bit longer to dry than they preferred, which could lead to accidental smudges during application. Additionally, although it promises to nourish lashes over time, we didn’t notice a significant improvement in lash health during our testing period.
PrimeLash is available in a few shades, including a soft black that is less harsh than typical mascaras, making it a good option for those looking for a more natural look. However, if you’re after dramatic volume or length, this might not be the mascara for you.
After trying Boom Bright, it’s clear that this mascara delivers on its promise of being age-appropriate and gentle. The soft black color is flattering, especially for those with silver hair, offering a subtle definition that enhances natural beauty without being overly dramatic. The mascara’s lightweight, buildable formula allows for a natural look with one coat, or a more defined look with multiple applications. The silicone brush is a great size for reaching every lash, ensuring even coverage without clumping.
While the mascara’s moisturizing properties are a plus, it may not provide the dramatic volume and length that some users are accustomed to with other mascaras. The scent, while pleasant for some, might be unnecessary for those who prefer fragrance-free products. Additionally, because it’s not waterproof, it may not be the best choice for those looking for long-lasting wear in humid conditions or during emotional moments.
This tubing mascara is designed to coat each lash in a flexible, water-resistant tube that lengthens and defines without clumping or flaking. It’s particularly popular for its easy removal process—you just need warm water and a gentle swipe to take it off, which means no harsh rubbing or tugging at your lashes.
During our testing, we found that this mascara does a solid job of adding length and definition. The brush is designed to grab even the tiniest lashes, giving a fanned-out effect that is hard to achieve with regular mascaras. However, some of our testers felt that while it excels at lengthening, it falls short on adding volume. If you’re looking for thick, dramatic lashes, this might not deliver the intensity you’re after.
Another point to consider is that while the tubing technology is great for avoiding smudges and flakes, it might not be ideal for those who prefer a more traditional mascara feel. Some users also noted that the formula can dry out more quickly than other mascaras, which could be a downside if you don’t use it regularly.
CanGro’s Long Lashes Lengthening Mascara is a product that promises a lot on paper—longer, thicker, and fuller-looking lashes with a formula that’s both waterproof and plant-based. As mature women who have tried various mascaras over the years, we were intrigued by the added benefits of peptides and vitamins designed to nourish and strengthen lashes. The idea of a mascara that not only enhances the appearance of lashes but also contributes to their health is certainly appealing, especially as we age and our lashes become more delicate.
However, despite these promising ingredients, our experience with this mascara was somewhat mixed. While it did provide some length and definition, the results were not as dramatic as we had hoped. The 4D fibers, while intended to add volume, sometimes clumped together, making it challenging to achieve a smooth, even application. The waterproof claim was also a bit of a letdown; we noticed smudging by the end of the day, particularly in more humid conditions.
Moreover, the mascara’s formula, while gentle, did not seem to deliver on its lash-growth promises during our trial period. It’s possible that longer use might yield better results, but for those of us looking for immediate impact, this mascara fell short. At its regular price of $49, this is a rather hefty investment for a product that delivers only moderate results.
Victoria Beckham’s Future Lash Mascara promises a luxurious lash experience with a focus on clean ingredients and high performance – at a huge price, too. This mascara is designed to lift, lengthen, and condition lashes while offering long-lasting wear without smudging or flaking.
In our experience, Future Lash somewhat delivers on its promise of creating lifted, well-defined lashes that last throughout the day. The mascara applies smoothly, and the micro-bristle brush does a solid job of catching most lashes. However, while it performs well, it may not be the best option for those who need extreme volume or a more dramatic look. Additionally, some testers found that it doesn’t hold up as well in very humid conditions, and the price point is definitely on the higher side for a mascara.
Urban Decay’s Perversion Mascara is a decent choice for those seeking bold, dramatic lashes. It boasts an ultra-creamy formula that is designed to lengthen and volumize, delivering a deep, rich black color that stands out. The brush is designed to separate and define each lash, allowing for buildable coverage without clumping. This mascara is particularly known for its ability to create feathery, fanned-out lashes that remain soft and flexible throughout the day.
During our testing, we found that while it doesn’t flake, it can smudge slightly in more humid conditions or after a long day. Additionally, some might find that the formula is a bit too intense for everyday wear, especially if you prefer a more natural look. A few of us found it slightly awkward to apply, with the shape of the brush feeling a bit off. The mascara also contains marine collagen and honey extract, which are intended to nourish lashes, but this might not be a significant draw for everyone.
Revant Cosmetics’ Length & Volume Mascara is marketed as an affordable option specifically designed for mature women. The mascara promises to lengthen and volumize lashes while avoiding clumping, flaking, and smudging. It features a unique formula combined with a tapered wand to ensure that even the thinnest lashes are coated and lifted. The product is also formulated with natural ingredients like beeswax and plant extracts that aim to hydrate and promote lash growth.
However, despite its claims, our experience with this mascara was somewhat underwhelming. While it did an adequate job of lengthening and lifting lashes, it fell short on delivering the kind of dramatic volume that many users might expect. The formula is lightweight, but it can struggle to stay put, especially in humid conditions, leading to some smudging by the end of the day. The price point is attractive, but the performance doesn't quite match up to the more premium mascaras on the market.
The Always There Waterproof Mascara from Laura Geller is designed to provide long-lasting wear, with a formula that promises to be smudge-proof, flake-proof, and of course, waterproof. This mascara is marketed towards those who need their mascara to stay put all day, no matter the conditions. With an ultra-creamy formula, it aims to build and lengthen lashes with each stroke, while the specially designed brush helps to separate and define each lash.
In our testing, this mascara performed reasonably well in terms of staying power. It does a good job of resisting smudging and flaking, even in humid or wet conditions. The brush is also a standout feature, making application straightforward and effective at catching even the smallest lashes. However, while it excels in longevity, it can feel a bit heavy on the lashes after multiple coats, and the removal process requires a bit more effort due to its waterproof nature. This might be a downside for those who prefer a more lightweight, everyday mascara or who want a quicker and easier removal process.
As we age, our beauty routines naturally evolve to meet the changing needs of our skin, hair, and, of course, our eyelashes. What worked for us in our 20s and 30s might not deliver the same results in our 40s and beyond. The key to feeling confident and beautiful at any age lies in embracing these changes and choosing products that enhance our natural beauty, rather than trying to fight against time.
For mature women, finding the right mascara is more about selecting a formula that respects the delicate nature of aging lashes than just finding one that adds volume or length. Thinning lashes need nourishment, and sensitive eyes require gentle, non-irritating ingredients. A great mascara should enhance what you have, without causing breakage, irritation, or discomfort.
Eyelashes are often overlooked in the broader conversation about aging, but they can make a significant difference in how we feel about our appearance. The right mascara can lift not only your lashes but also your spirits, giving you that little extra boost of confidence. It’s important to prioritize products that work in harmony with your body’s natural changes, providing both immediate beauty benefits and long-term care.
In our journey to find the best mascaras for mature women, we've discovered that the right product can help you feel more like yourself, only better. And while there are many options out there, finding that perfect fit—like the VolumeCare+ Mascara for us—can make all the difference in your daily routine. Beauty in your 40s and beyond isn’t about masking who you are; it’s about enhancing the features that make you uniquely you.