Drugstore Mascara and Liner Picks for an Easy Everyday Eye
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A good mascara and a liner you can control are all most everyday eye looks need. The drugstore classics have stuck around for a reason: they’re consistent, easy to find and easy to replace.
Here’s which classic to pick depending on whether you want volume, length or a winged line.
Quick picks
- Best for volume: L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara, Blackest Black
- Best for length: L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Mascara, Washable Blackest Black
- Best liquid liner: NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner, Black
1. A Cult Drugstore Mascara for Fuller Lashes
L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara, Blackest BlackAvailable on AmazonSee price →See on Amazon →Best for volume. Best for: Thin or sparse lashes that need fullness.
A long-running drugstore staple with a volume-maximizing brush that’s designed to separate and build every lash. L’Oréal describes the formula as clump-free and smudge-resistant.
Wiggle the brush at the root, then sweep up. Add a second coat while the first is still wet.
What we like
- Builds noticeable volume
- Clump-free, smudge-resistant formula (per the brand)
- Easy to find and repurchase
Keep in mind
- Not waterproof in this version
- Volume formulas can feel heavier on straight lashes
2. A Lengthening Mascara That Washes Off Easily
L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Mascara, Washable Blackest BlackAvailable on AmazonSee price →See on Amazon →Best for length. Best for: Long, separated lashes and easy removal.
The flexible brush has two sides: the flat side lengthens and the comb side separates lash by lash. It’s a washable formula, so it comes off with your usual cleanser.
Place the brush at the lash base and sweep up to the tips.
What we like
- Lengthens and separates
- Washable formula for easy removal
- Dual-sided brush
Keep in mind
- Less volume than Voluminous
- Washable formulas may smudge in humid weather
3. A Flexible-Tip Liquid Liner for Easy Wings
NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner, BlackAvailable on AmazonSee price →See on Amazon →Best liquid liner. Best for: Beginners learning a wing or tightline.
A waterproof, matte black liquid liner with a precise, flexible brush tip. Draw lightly for a thin line or press down for a bolder wing.
NYX lists up to 24-hour wear. It’s also vegan and cruelty-free.
What we like
- Flexible tip for thin or bold lines
- Waterproof, matte black
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Keep in mind
- Waterproof formula needs an oil-based remover
- Felt tips dry out if left uncapped
Side-by-side comparison
| Product | Type | Best for | Removal | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L’Oréal Voluminous | Mascara | Volume | Regular remover | See on Amazon |
| L’Oréal Telescopic | Mascara | Length, separation | Washable | See on Amazon |
| NYX Epic Ink | Liquid liner | Wing, precise line | Oil-based remover | See on Amazon |
FAQ
How often should I replace mascara?
Most experts recommend replacing mascara around every three months, or sooner if it dries out or smells different.
Washable or waterproof mascara?
Washable mascara is gentler to remove day to day. Waterproof is better for humid days, workouts or emotional events.
How do I stop liquid liner from smudging?
Apply it to a primed, oil-free lid and let it dry fully before opening your eyes wide.
The bottom line
Choose L’Oréal Voluminous for fullness or Telescopic for length and easy removal, then add NYX Epic Ink if you want a clean wing. All three are classics you can repurchase easily.
