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If you are still looking to add volume or color to your lashes, water-based mascara is an option.
They are also the only punch in of mascara that is safe to use with lash extensions.
Byrdie / Amelia Manley
An oil-based mascara would break down the glue and loosen the extensions, adds makeup artist Brigitte Reiss-Andersen.
Water-based mascaras have other benefits too.
They also come off more easily and dry faster than oil-based/waterproof mascaras.
We asked celebrity makeup artists for their best product recommendations and added a few of our own.
Meet the Experts
Our Top Picks
How Do I Know if a Mascara Is Water-Based?
A water-based mascara will typically list water (aqua) as the first component on its ingredients list.
Water-based formulas are often easy to remove, do not contain chemicals and arent usually labeled aswaterproof.
Best Overall: Benefit Cosmetics BADgal BANG!
Key features:Contains ProVitamin B5 for for added thickness and strength |Size:0.14 oz.
It coats beautifully but won’t give you much else.
It’s great for anatural look," says Jamie Greenberg.
“It’s reliable because it works on literally everyone.
It can be layered and layered again, and it’s jet black.”
Key features:Conditions, thickens lashes for a natural look |Size:0.43 oz.
“The black is super black and incredibly rich.
Plus, the brush is incredibly full for building tons of volume.”
Key features:Non-drying formula enriched with B5 pro-vitamin |Size:0.2 fl.
Key features:Defines, lengthens, conditions |Size:0.23 oz.
It is ophthalmologist-tested and safe forcontact lenswearers.
Key features:Vegan, gluten-free and nut-free |Size:0.22 oz.
It is a good option for those looking for subtle or natural-looking results.
Key features:smudge-resistant, no fragrance, dermatologist-tested, ophthalmologist-tested |Size:0.29 oz.
When used correctly, water-based mascara should be safe for eyelash extensions.
Water-based mascara is recommended after having had alash lift.
Water-based formulas are more gentle and won’t weight your lashes down like an oil-based mascara would.
Water-based mascaras tend to be water-resistant but not waterproof.
Our team also incorporated their own personal experiences testing products in their own lives.
