Take it from someone who has short, stubby eyelashes… mascara is a Godsend! Which is why as a makeup lover, I’m always thrilled to find the best over the counter mascara options, either online or at my favorite retail stores.
If you love your mascara as much I do then, you will probably love the affordable options that are available in the market today. But with so many choices and features, it can be quite overwhelming and can get difficult to choose just one best water based mascara.
Mascara tubes are known to be the most demanded product in the makeup business, after lipstick. This is why it’s wise to invest in mascaras that are lighter on the wallet but impactful on the lashes.
Listed below are the best over the counter mascara:
1. L’Oreal Paris Voluminous lash paradise waterproof mascara:
Customers absolutely love this safe mascara brand because it’s super easy to apply and provides intense length along with the good definition. Since its waterproof, it remains for the entire day and can truly stand the test of time. 
Priced at 8.97 dollars, you can find this mascara on Amazon.
2. Maybelline Volum’ Push Up Angel Mascara:
This mascara lives up to its name, with just two coats your eyelashes will begin to feel light and look fluttery, just like apparent angel wings. You can achieve that false lash effect, without all the messy aftermath of glue. This mascara lasts the entire day without being flakey and leaving bits all over your face.
Priced at 7.12 dollars, you can find this mascara on Amazon.
3. CoverGirl Mega Volume Mascara:
This mascara is loved by teenagers because it’s easy on the eyes and the pocket. You can achieve thicker, longer and voluminous lashes at just 9 dollars; the formula does not clump your lashes. This product is available on Amazon.
Priced at 6.89 dollars, you can find this mascara on Amazon.
4. CoverGirl LashExact Mascara:
At 9 dollars this mascara is a fan favorite; it’s available at target and online retail stores like Amazon. It has been voted as the best mascara among tweens and teens because it glides on smoothly while separating each lash.
Priced at 8.07 dollars, you can find this mascara on Amazon.
5. Jordana Best Lash Extreme Volumizing Mascara:
At a stunning price of 4 dollars, this product is the most affordable mascara on this list. It is preferred by customers because it rivals the expensive mascaras that are priced at 24-30 dollars. This mascara has really good staying power and comes off easily too; no aggressive scrubbing required!
Priced at 5.22 dollars, you can find this mascara on Amazon.
6. CoverGirl Queen Collection False Lash Drama Waterproof Mascara:
If you have stubby short lashes, then this mascara is perfect for you. It will take your lash game to the next level. This product will maximize the volume with just one coat. All this at a price of 8 dollars.
Priced at 4.66 dollars, you can find this mascara on Amazon.
7. Rimmel Glam’Eyes Mascara:
According to the reviews on Online retail stores like Amazon and beauty blogs, this product is hailed for its brush. The reviews state that the brush does a good job at separating lashes, adding length, and volume. For a drugstore formula, it lasts the entire day. You can purchase this mascara for 16 dollars on Amazon.
Priced at 78.12 dollars, you can find this mascara on Amazon.
8. Maybelline The Colossal Volum’ Express Washable Mascara:
As far as the best over the counter mascara goes, this one takes the top spot. I have seen first-hand how amazing the results are, and it really gives the impression that you are wearing falsies with just two coats. This product is decently priced at 5 dollars and is easily available at any drugstore or even on Amazon.
Priced at 5.69 dollars, you can find this mascara on Amazon.
9. Maybelline Lash Discovery Washable Mascara:
This mascara is loved by customers mainly because of the thin brush; it makes the application really easy and the wand is easy to maneuver, so you can touch upon even the tricky limp lashes and give them a much-needed lift. It is available for five dollars.
Priced at 7.77 dollars, you can find this mascara on Amazon.
10. L’Oreal Paris Double Extend Beauty Tubes Lengthening Mascara:
Prized at 7 dollars this mascara is amazing because you get the benefits of two separate tubes but for the price of one. The white side is for separating and lengthening the lashes; while the red side is for creating volume.
Priced at 8.89 dollars, you can find this mascara on Amazon.
11. Pacifica Stellar Gaze Length & Strength Mascara:
This product is a bit pricey but it is one of the best over the counter mascara product that is vegan and cruelty-free. This mascara goes on really smoothly and naturally.
Priced at 10.49 dollars, you can find this mascara on Amazon.
12. Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara:
Beauty gurus everywhere swear by this product; ‘Go big or Go home’ seems to be the theme with this mascara and no one would argue otherwise. It gives that perfect curled look that lasts throughout the day. This product will require a good makeup remover though, preferably oil based one. The product is priced at 7 dollars.
Priced at 8.99 dollars, you can find this mascara on Amazon.
13. Maybelline Great Lash Washable Mascara:
This mascara may as well be inducted into the ‘make up hall of fame’ because it is a classic. For just 5 dollars, women from all over America love this product. It is loved by all because it does not flake, applicable for sensitive eyes, and provides great definition too.
Priced at 4.29 dollars, you can find this mascara on Amazon.
Conclusion:
To be honest, these mascaras will actually make you realize that you can spend less money and still get quality products. Hopefully, the above list on the best over the counter mascara helps you choose the mascara that suits you the most, happy shopping!
