In the ever-evolving world of beauty, finding the perfect mascara can be akin to searching for a needle in a haystack. Among the myriad options available, clear mascara often stands out for its subtlety and versatility. Whether youâre aiming for a natural look, want to tame your unruly brows, or need a product that enhances and holds the curl of your lashes, clear mascara can be a true beauty savior. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the best clear mascara to hold curl.
Top Picks
- Clear Curl is a transparent gel mascara with Aloe Vera and Collagen that conditions and grooms, eyelashes and brows
- Define and lift your lashes while getting a lovely natural âwet-lookâ
- Perfect polished eylashes with a ''no-makeup'' look
- Lightweight gel that contours and defines brows while providing all-day hold and conditioning
- Dries quickly without feeling sticky or getting flaky. No white residue in eyelashes or brows
- LASH & BROW GEL: Never run out of our best-selling clear, brushable gel for your lashes and brows with this value makeup set! Itâs never been easier to get your eyebrows and lashes into shape.
- NATURALLY DEFINES & SEPARATES HAIRS: This dual-ended clear eyebrow gel and mascara helps you naturally define and separate brows and lashes for a glossy, well-groomed look.
- LONG-LASTING FORMULA: This long-lasting gel formula is designed to stay put all day while nourishing your brow and lash hairs with conditioning agents.
- HOW TO USE: Apply the Clear Mascara to the lashes from root to tip. Can be worn alone or under mascara. Brush the Clear Brow Mascara through eyebrows to groom and set brows. Can be worn alone or as a finishing gel after applying brow color.
- SKIN-LOVING INGREDIENTS: All e.l.f. products are made from skin-loving ingredients you want, minus the toxins you donâtâall at good-for-you prices. All e.l.f. products are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and leaping bunny certified.
- Sculpts Brows: This clear brow mascara makes it easy to sculpt brows to perfection. Create your perfect style and enjoy a strong hold without added color or tint.
- Defines Lashes: Use this clear mascara on your eyelashes for added definition that makes lashes look fuller with a strong hold.
- Conditioning Ingredients: Blended with Soy Protein and ProVitamin B5, this clear mascara helps to condition the brows and lashes while providing a strong and comfortable hold.
- Primer plus Top Coat: Use this clear mascara as a topcoat to finish off a look, or as a primer to layer your makeup over for even more intense effects.
- Cruelty-Free and Vegan: Wet n Wild makeup products are never tested on animals and are always cruelty-free.
Why Clear Mascara?
Before diving into the specific products, itâs worth understanding why clear mascara is a valuable addition to your makeup collection. Unlike its pigmented counterparts, clear mascara offers a natural look, making it ideal for those days when you want to go makeup-free but still need a little grooming. Itâs versatile, often doubling as a brow gel, and itâs less prone to clumping or flaking. Clear mascara is also perfect for a no-makeup makeup look, providing definition without the drama.
Tips for Using Clear Mascara
While clear mascara is relatively straightforward to use, there are a few tips that can help you get the most out of it:
- Curl Your Lashes First: To achieve the best results, always curl your lashes before applying clear mascara. This will help the mascara hold the curl better and give your lashes a more lifted appearance.
- Apply Multiple Coats: If you want a more defined look, apply multiple coats of clear mascara. Just be sure to let each coat dry before applying the next to avoid clumping.
- Use as a Brow Gel: Clear mascara is not just for your lashes. Use it to tame and set your brows for a polished look.
- Layer Under Regular Mascara: For an extra lift, you can layer clear mascara under your regular mascara. This can help hold the curl and add extra definition to your lashes.
Best Clear Mascara to Hold Curl
1. Maybelline Great Lash Clear Mascara
Maybellineâs Great Lash Clear Mascara is a cult favorite and for good reason. Known for its iconic green and pink packaging, this clear mascara does not disappoint when it comes to holding curl and enhancing the natural beauty of your lashes. The formula is gentle and suitable for contact lens wearers and those with sensitive eyes. It effectively separates lashes, giving them a defined look without any clumps.
The gel formula is lightweight yet effective in holding the curl throughout the day. It works wonders as a brow gel too, taming and setting brow hairs in place. Users often praise its versatility and the natural look it provides. This mascara is a staple for many beauty enthusiasts due to its affordability and performance.
2. CoverGirl Professional Natural Lash Mascara
CoverGirlâs Professional Natural Lash Mascara is another excellent option for those seeking a clear mascara that holds curl. The product promises to provide a natural look while giving your lashes a lift. The formula is hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive eyes, making it a safe choice for daily use.
One of the standout features of this mascara is its brush. The applicator is designed to coat each lash evenly, ensuring they remain separated and curled throughout the day. The gel consistency is perfect for a natural look, and itâs also an effective brow tamer. Users often appreciate the long-lasting hold and the way it enhances the natural curl of their lashes without adding any weight.
3. e.l.f. Clear Brow & Lash Mascara
e.l.f. is known for providing quality beauty products at an affordable price, and their Clear Brow & Lash Mascara is no exception. This dual-ended product is designed for both lashes and brows, making it a versatile addition to your makeup bag. The formula is lightweight and helps to hold curl effectively, giving your lashes a natural, lifted appearance.
The applicator is designed to separate and define each lash, ensuring a clump-free application. The gel formula dries quickly, setting your lashes and brows in place for the day. Users often highlight its staying power and the natural finish it provides. Itâs particularly praised for its dual functionality, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option.
4. Physicians Formula Organic Wear Clear Mascara
For those who prefer organic and natural beauty products, Physicians Formula Organic Wear Clear Mascara is a top choice. The formula is 100% natural and free from harsh chemicals, making it suitable for sensitive eyes. Itâs also eco-friendly, featuring recyclable packaging and a brush made from recycled materials.
This clear mascara excels at providing a natural look while effectively holding the curl of your lashes. The formula includes nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and cucumber extract, which help to condition and strengthen your lashes over time. Users appreciate the gentle formula and the way it enhances their natural lashes without any irritation.
5. Essence Lash & Brow Gel Mascara
Essence is another brand known for its affordable yet effective beauty products. Their Lash & Brow Gel Mascara is a clear gel formula that works wonders for holding curl and taming brows. The formula is lightweight and dries quickly, ensuring your lashes and brows stay in place throughout the day.
The applicator is designed to coat each lash evenly, providing a natural, clump-free look. The gel formula is also effective in taming and setting brows, making it a versatile addition to your makeup routine. Users often highlight the long-lasting hold and the way it enhances their natural lashes without any stiffness or flaking.
Can clear mascara really hold a curl?
Yes, clear mascara can hold a curl effectively, especially when used correctly. While it may not provide the same dramatic effect as pigmented mascaras, clear mascara is formulated to enhance and maintain the natural curl of your lashes. The key is to ensure that your lashes are properly curled before application and to choose a high-quality clear mascara with a good holding formula.
Is clear mascara safe for sensitive eyes?
Most clear mascaras are designed to be gentle and suitable for sensitive eyes. Brands like Maybelline, CoverGirl, and Physicians Formula offer clear mascaras that are hypoallergenic and free from harsh chemicals, making them safe for those with sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers. Always check the productâs ingredients and reviews if you have specific sensitivities.
Can the best clear mascara to hold curl be used on eyebrows?
Absolutely! Clear mascara is a versatile product that works well as a brow gel. It helps to tame and set your brows in place, giving them a polished look. Many clear mascaras, like the e.l.f. Clear Brow & Lash Mascara, are specifically designed for dual use on both lashes and brows. This makes clear mascara a convenient and multi-functional addition to your makeup routine.
What mascara is good for curling?
Finding the perfect mascara that excels at curling can make a significant difference in your makeup routine, providing you with lifted, defined lashes that enhance your eyes. A good curling mascara not only lifts and curls your lashes but also maintains that curl throughout the day. Hereâs a detailed look at some of the best curling mascaras on the market, their features, and why they stand out.
Best Curling Mascaras
1. Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara
Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash is a top choice for those seeking dramatic curl and lift. This mascara features a unique Hook ânâ Roll brush that grabs, separates, lifts, and curls lashes. The formula contains provitamin B5 and serin, ingredients known for their lash-conditioning benefits.
The curved brush design mimics the shape of a curling wand, allowing it to catch even the smallest lashes and curl them from root to tip. The formula is long-lasting, providing up to 12 hours of curl without any flaking or smudging. Users often rave about its ability to hold a curl and the noticeable difference it makes to their lash length and volume.
2. LancĂ´me HypnĂ´se Doll Lashes Mascara
LancĂ´me HypnĂ´se Doll Lashes Mascara is another excellent option for curling and lengthening lashes. This mascara features a cone-shaped brush designed to coat every lash evenly, especially the hard-to-reach ones at the corners of the eyes.
The formula is lightweight yet buildable, allowing you to achieve a wide-eyed, doll-like look without weighing down your lashes. It holds a curl exceptionally well and provides a clump-free application. Users appreciate the way it lifts and separates lashes, creating a flattering, doe-eyed effect.
3. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara is renowned for its volumizing and curling properties. The hourglass-shaped brush is designed to hug your lashes and provide an even coat, lifting and curling them to dramatic heights.
The formula is enriched with film-forming polymers and collagen, which help to thicken and curl lashes while keeping them flexible. Itâs a highly pigmented formula that adds both volume and length, and itâs known for its long-lasting hold. Users often highlight its ability to maintain a curl all day and the dramatic effect it has on their lashes.
Tips for Maximizing Curl with Mascara
To get the most out of your curling mascara, here are a few tips:
- Use an Eyelash Curler: Before applying mascara, use an eyelash curler to give your lashes an initial lift. Hold the curler at the base of your lashes and gently squeeze for a few seconds, then move to the middle and tips of your lashes for a natural curl.
- Wiggle the Wand: When applying mascara, wiggle the wand at the base of your lashes and then sweep upwards. This technique helps to coat each lash evenly and enhances the curl.
- Layer Your Mascara: For a more dramatic curl, apply multiple coats of mascara. Allow each coat to dry slightly before applying the next to avoid clumping.
- Waterproof Formulas: Waterproof mascaras tend to hold a curl better than regular formulas. If maintaining curl is a priority, consider using a waterproof version of your favorite mascara.
- Proper Removal: Gently remove mascara at the end of the day with a good quality makeup remover. Avoid rubbing or tugging at your lashes to prevent breakage and maintain lash health.
Can curling mascara be used without an eyelash curler?
Yes, curling mascaras are designed to lift and curl lashes on their own, thanks to their specially designed brushes and curling formulas. However, using an eyelash curler beforehand can enhance the effect and provide a more pronounced curl. If you prefer not to use an eyelash curler, look for mascaras with curved brushes and strong curling formulas, such as Benefit Roller Lash or LancĂ´me HypnĂ´se Doll Lashes Mascara.
How can I make my curled lashes last longer?
To make your curled lashes last longer, consider using a waterproof mascara, as it tends to hold curl better. Additionally, ensure that your lashes are clean and dry before curling and applying mascara. Avoid heavy, oily eye creams that can weigh down your lashes. Using a lash primer can also help to hold the curl and extend the wear of your mascara.
Is waterproof mascara better for holding curl?
Yes, waterproof mascara is generally better at holding curl because it has a more robust formula that resists moisture and maintains its shape throughout the day. However, it can be more challenging to remove and may require a stronger makeup remover. If you have sensitive eyes or prefer a gentler option, look for a long-lasting, non-waterproof formula designed for curling.
The Bottom Line on the Best Clear Mascara to Hold Curl
Clear mascara is a versatile and valuable tool in any makeup collection, providing a natural look while enhancing and holding the curl of your lashes. Whether youâre aiming for a no-makeup makeup look or simply need a product to tame your brows, clear mascara offers the perfect solution. Brands like Maybelline, CoverGirl, e.l.f., Physicians Formula, and Essence offer some of the best options on the market, each with their unique benefits and features.
Incorporating clear mascara into your daily routine can help you achieve a polished and defined look effortlessly. With the right product and a few simple tips, you can ensure your lashes and brows stay in place and look their best all day long.
