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19 Tubing Mascaras for Super Long Lashes That Won't Smear or Smudge, According to Editors and Experts

Raccoon eyes are a thing of the past.

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best tubing mascara
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I have the world's most oily eyelids, so most traditional mascaras—yep, even ones labeled "long-wearing" and waterproof mascaras—end up smudging or smearing by the end of the day. That was until I tried tubing mascara. Instead of coating your lashes with thick layers of pigment like regular mascara, tubing mascara wraps each lash in water-resistant, tube-like polymers (kind of like a little cap that washes off). It sounds weird, but these tubes make your lashes look really good—and they stay looking really good for hours.

But the key to finding the best tubing mascara lies in more than just the formula: Many times, the actual mascara is great, but the brush may not be right for the look you want. “It really comes down to the wand applicator to give you the difference of a lengthened, curled, or voluminous look,” Los Angeles-based celebrity makeup artist Jenna Nicole has told Cosmo. So, in addition to personally testing and reviewing each tubing formula, we also considered the mascara wands, evaluating the size, shape, and bristle length to compile a list of the best tubing mascaras for whatever type of lashes you wanna rock.

Our top picks for the best tubing mascaras:

Keep scrolling for the full list of our top 19 tubing mascaras—from brands such as e.l.f, Glossier, L'Oreal, and more—plus expert info on how to choose a tubing mascara and the benefits of using a tubing mascara over a conventional one.

1
Best Tubing Mascara for Length and Definition

Milani Highly Rated Lash Extensions Tubing Mascara

Highly Rated Lash Extensions Tubing Mascara

Pros

  • Tapered wand helps lengthen even the shortest lashes
  • Made to lift and hold a curl

Cons

  • Formula is very wet, so it can smudge during application

You might break up with your lash tech after you decide to give this tubing mascara a try. Each swipe creates long, defined lashes that can hold a curl all day. Shea butter and castor seed oil deliver conditioning and strengthening benefits too.

  • Benefits: Length, lift
  • Shades: Black, brown

One shopper says: "I LOVE this stuff. I'm already on my third bottle. Creates such pronounced lashes, and has gotten me so many compliments. Also super gentle on my lashes, so if you're someone that tends to lose a lot of lashes when you wash your makeup off, this is for you!"

2
Best Tubing Mascara for Dramatic Lashes

Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

Pros

  • Provides all-day volume without flakes or smudges
  • Thickens all lash types

Cons

  • On the pricey side

This multitasking tubing mascara consistently outperforms other popular options when it comes to how well it volumizes, lengthens, and defines. Since it's not quite as wet as other formulas on this list, it's easy to layer on for a full, dramatic lash look without clumps or smudges.

  • Benefits: Volume, length, definition
  • Shades: Black

One shopper says: "This is definitely the best mascara I have used. It makes my blonde invisible lashes look so amazing! I only need one coat, and they look long and full. Most mascaras end up on my face by the end of the day, but I've never had one issue with this mascara doing that. This is a tubing mascara, and I'm very impressed with how it performs and looks on my lashes. This is a winner! My new favorite for sure."

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3
Best Tubing Mascara for Curling and Lengthening

Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara

Badi Lash Mascara

Pros

  • Gives straight lashes dramatic curl and volume
  • Easy to build up for more drama

Cons

  • Some testers find that the formula flakes mid-day

Designed to give all lash types long-lasting lift and dramatic volume in just one swipe, this mascara is a true makeup hero. It features a tiny, spiky ball at the tip of the wand that helps sweep even the shortest and most stubborn lashes skyward.

  • Benefits: Curl, volume, length
  • Shades: Black

One shopper says: "I've noticed in the last few years that my lashes have become straighter, and they refuse to hold a curl—I've found that a lot of mascaras are great at adding volume or length, but keeping my lashes from drooping has been a struggle. So, when I tried this, I was genuinely shocked at how this mascara gives my lashes so much length, and actually keeps them lifted. "

4
Best Smudge-Resistant Tubing Mascara

e.l.f. Lash XTNDR Mascara

On Sale
Lash XTNDR Mascara

Pros

  • Offers smudge-proof length and definition, even on hot days

Cons

  • Some might favor a bolder, more dramatic look

For less than $10, this vegan and cruelty-free mascara offers long, fluttery lashes that won't flake or smear all day. The finish is pretty natural, no matter how much you layer on, which makes this pick ideal for minimal makeup days.

  • Benefits: Length, definition
  • Shades: Deep brown, soft black, pitch black

One shopper says: "This mascara is great if you are looking for clean definition. I have bought several tubes of this mascara and I can honestly say it will last all day with no smudging or flaking! I live in a humid climate and I have worn this on several Disney World trips in the summer - including water rides- and it lasts all day. "

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Eyelectric Extreme Lengthening Mascara

Pros

  • Comes in a mesmerizing array of shades

Cons

  • Some testers wish the formula was more volumizing

This mascara's shade range is enough to leave us speechless—there's a shimmering violet, rich indigo, shocking teal, plus your standard brown and black. The formula is worth calling out too, though. It's super lengthening and stays in place all day without flakes.

  • Benefits: Length
  • Shades: Indigo, brown, teal, black, violet

One Cosmo editor says: "I own both the brown and indigo shades of this mascara, and I'm so impressed with both. The brown is a true, warm-toned brown—not a dark brown that's basically black—which makes it look incredibly natural on my light-colored lashes. Meanwhile, the indigo is electric." —ARIEL WODARCYK, FREELANCER BEAUTY WRITER

KUSH High Roll Clean Tubing Mascara

Pros

  • Makes lashes super long and defined
  • The wand makes it easy to coat bottom lashes

Cons

  • Not available in brown

If clumpy-looking lashes are your mortal enemy, you'll love this lengthening and defining mascara. The tubing formula captures each individual lash for definition and drama, with a water-resistant finish. It's also infused with nourishing hemp oil to keep lashes soft and oh-so-battable.

  • Benefits: Length, definition, volume
  • Shades: Black

One shopper says: "One of the few mascaras I trust to stay on! Wore this to the beach, the pool, etc. and it didn’t budge. The biggest wear test would have to be when I wore it to a laser PRP procedure a couple of weeks ago for my retina, and it didn’t smear. Plus it makes me look like I actually have some lashes!"

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7
Best Vegan Tubing Mascara

Tarte Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara

Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara
Now 32% Off

Pros

  • You don't need very much for a lengthening effect
  • Long-wear formula doesn't smear or smudge

Cons

  • Takes a minute to dry down
  • Tube can feel a bit heavy

If you're in the market for a cruelty-free, vegan makeup product, this here is your bb. Formulated with polymers that give a super long-lasting and lengthening effect, this tubing mascara is one of my all-time favorites for extra-long lashes that don't smear or run.

  • Benefits: Length
  • Shades: Black, brown

One shopper says: "I've always struggled with thin, straight lashes and I always thought the solution was multiple coats of mascara. Well if that is also your problem, I'm here to tell you to stop searching. This mascara is not only buildable, but it also lengthens without adding the extra clumps. Possibly the best mascara Tarte has created!"

On Sale
MakeWaves Lengthening + Curling Clean Mascara

Pros

  • Wand is perfectly shaped to lift lashes with each coat
  • Clean formula

Cons

  • Requires multiple layers for a dramatic lash look
  • Some testers say the formula can be a bit dry

OK, listen up: Not only does the formula of this tubing mascara take the cake as our best overall pick, but the wand is also a winner. Made with three different types of bands, the wand lengthens and defines each and every lash. Basically, this tubing mascara is gold.

  • Benefits: Volume, length, definition
  • Shades: Brown, black

One shopper says: "It gives my lashes such a cute shape! I love that the formula is buildable yet lightweight. I haven’t had any issues with smudging as I have oily skin. Also, I am absolutely in love with the fact that the ingredients are non-toxic. Would definitely recommend it as this has become one of my new makeup staples!"

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9
Best Inexpensive Tubing Mascara

Essence Bye Bye Panda Eyes! Mascara

Bye Bye Panda Eyes! Mascara

Pros

  • Great price and comparable, if not better, than more expensive alternatives
  • Long-wearing formula is totally smudge-proof

Cons

  • Applies wet and takes a little bit to dry and set
  • Some testers say the formula is prone to clumping

This may be the least expensive tubing mascara on the list, but that doesn't mean it's the least effective. Five bucks and a few swipes later, and this long-lasting, smudge-proof tubing mascara will leave your lashes looking thicker, longer, and more defined (no eyelash primer required).

  • Benefits: Length
  • Shades: Black

One shopper says: "It gives you volume, length, and comfort all for a great price. I've used $25 mascaras that don't even come close to this quality." Another reviewer writes, "it's like wearing false lashes without all of the hassle!"

Lash Curling Mascara in Jet Black

Pros

  • Tested to last on lashes for 24 hours
  • Reviewers love how easy the removal process is

Cons

  • A few testers say the formula is on the drier side
  • On the expensive side for a mascara

One time, halfway through a date, I went to the bathroom and noticed that my mascara had completely smudged underneath my eyes. Not a cute look, and I definitely could have avoided it if I had used this tubing mascara. It's on the pricey side, yes, but the formula doesn’t budge, so it won’t give you raccoon eyes (bless), but it will give you long, wispy lashes, thanks to the brush.

  • Benefits: Curl, length
  • Shades: Black

One shopper says: "I love this mascara for its natural look and the fact that it never ever smears, no matter what. I've tried other mascaras but always come back to this one."

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11
Best Volumizing Tubing Mascara

Kevyn Aucoin The Volume Mascara

The Volume Mascara
Credit: Courtesy Image

Pros

  • Gives lashes volume without being clumpy
  • Thin wand makes it easy to coat tiny lashes in your inner and outer corners

Cons

  • The actual product in the tube may dry out rather quickly
  • On the pricey side

This tubing mascara will give you some major Bambi eyelashes. Seriously, you’ll have people wondering if you’re wearing fake lashes. The teeny-tiny bristles grip your lashes for intense volume and length, while the jojoba oil in the formula keeps ’em soft and shiny.

  • Benefits: Volume, length
  • Shades: Black

One shopper says: "This went on beautifully, lengthened, thickened, and coated every single lash on the very first pass. It removes like a dream with just warm water and slight rubbing," they added.

Double Extend Lash Extension Effect Mascara

Pros

  • Dual-ended formula includes a primer and mascara
  • One of the more affordable options on the list

Cons

  • Some testers say it has a somewhat sticky texture
  • Some reviewers say the formula flaked on them

Yes, this dual-ended tubing mascara requires you to apply two different products—an eyelash primer and then a tubing mascara—but the results are so GD impressive that I doubt you'll mind. The primer is infused with panthenol and ceramides to condition lashes, while the little tubes in the mascara cling to lashes to provide a dramatic lengthening effect.

  • Benefits: Volume
  • Shades: Black, blackest black

One shopper says: "This mascara is my favorite. I have very thin, blonde eyelashes and most mascara never seems to really do anything for me, but this one builds up and thickens my eyelashes in an instant."

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13
Best Tubing Mascara for Defined Lashes

MAC Extended Play Gigablack Lash Mascara

On Sale
Extended Play Gigablack Lash Mascara

Pros

  • Doesn't transfer to the lids and great for lower lashes
  • Great for anyone who likes a natural lash look

Cons

  • Focuses more on lifting, coating, and separating each lash rather than volume
  • Some testers say the formula can be a bit difficult to remove

Your new go-to product? This tubing mascara. Not only do the short, dense bristles grip and lift every lash, but they also work to separate and coat ’em. The result? Lashes that are defined but still look natural.

  • Benefits: Length, curl, definition
  • Shades: Black

One shopper says: "My mascara always transfers to my lid, but NOT this one! I've been using this for years on my lower lash line, the formula is very black and it stays put."

Pretty Big Deal Tubing Mascara & Peptide Lash Serum

Pros

  • Totally smudge-proof
  • Helps improve your natural lashes with peptides

Cons

  • If you prefer a dramatic look, this won't give you that va-va-voom effect
  • Some testers say it can start to flake after a few hours of wear

This three-in-one tubing mascara gives your lashes lift and length, keeps them shiny and healthy thanks to ashwagandha (a plant-based ingredient rich in antioxidants), and strengthens your natural lashes with a peptide complex too. The effect? Lashes that look instantly gorgeous and better with time.

  • Benefits: Condition, length
  • Shades: Black

One shopper says: "I’m never impressed by mascaras, so I never expect anything great, but this has been the only one that works for ME. It doesn’t smudge on my lid or flake off, nor does it get clumpy."

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15
Best Tubing Mascara for Curling Lashes

Caliray Come Hell or High Water Volumizing Tubing Mascara

Come Hell or High Water Volumizing Tubing Mascara

Pros

  • Long-lasting and water-resistant
  • Applies super smooth and easy

Cons

  • May weigh down finer lashes
  • Some testers say the formula can feel a bit wet on lashes

If you’re going for a doe-eyed, va-va-voom look, this tubing mascara is a smart choice. The bristles have wavy brush fibers, so you’re able to catch, coat, lift, and curl each lash. For extra curl and volume, focus on applying your mascara to the base of your lashes to lift them up.

  • Benefits: Curl, definition, length, volume
  • Shades: Black

One shopper says: "[This mascara] goes on so smoothly and comes off easier than any mascara I’ve had before," writes one reviewer, adding that it stays on all day, and when they want to remove it, they choose to use oil-free makeup remover as it does the job quick and easy!

16
Best Everyday Tubing Mascara

Glossier Lash Slick

Lash Slick
Credit: Courtesy Image

Pros

  • Absolutely no clumping thanks to the thin, separating bristles
  • Never smudges or flakes

Cons

  • If you prefer a bold look, this is not for you
  • Some testers say it doesn't do much for short, straight lashes

This mascara from Glossier is one of my all-time favorite mascaras. It gives lashes natural-looking length and definition (TBH it doesn't even look like mascara, just really good natural lashes) thanks to tiny tubing fibers and a lightweight, flexible formula. Plus, it comes in two shades—an inky black and warm chocolate-y brown that I personally love.

  • Benefits: Length, definition
  • Shades: Black, brown

One shopper says: "My favorite mascara and the only one I use! It's not clumpy, easy to take off, looks natural, and keeps my lashes long and luscious all day."

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17
Best Water-Resistant Tubing Mascara

Blinc Original Tubing Mascara

Original Tubing Mascara

Pros

  • Water-resistant and long-lasting
  • Ideal for lengthening and volumizing lashes

Cons

  • Can be very wet upon application, and takes a few minutes to dry
  • Some testers say it takes a few tries before you get used to the formula

If it's not broke, don't fix it, right? This is the OG tubing mascara, and the formula truly works to add both volume and length without smudging or flaking. It’s also water-resistant, i.e., just water alone won’t remove it from your lashes. So if you need a good cry, don’t worry about streaking.

  • Benefits: Volume, length
  • Shades: Black, brown

One shopper says: "It doesn’t smudge at all when you rub your eyes, but comes off very easily when you wash [your face]. This stuff is AMAZING and lengthening!"

18
Best Lengthening Tubing Mascara

Merit Clean Lash Lengthening Tubing Mascara

Clean Lash Lengthening Tubing Mascara

Pros

  • Lengthens and separates the lashes with little to no clumps
  • Formula is made with clean ingredients

Cons

  • Doesn't give a ton of volume
  • Not for anyone wants a super dramatic lash look

If you want your lashes to look great every day without an extensive routine or eyelash extensions, you need to swipe on this tubing mascara ASAP. The brush helps separate and coat your lashes, giving you a beautiful, your-lashes-but-better look. It’s perfect for a night out (or, like, any time you run into your ex and want to look amaze).

  • Benefits: Definition, length
  • Shades: Black

One shopper says: "This is the mascara I have been searching for—one that lasts long and doesn't flake. The brush is fluffy and gives a stunning amount of length with no clumping!"

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19
Best Tubing Mascara for Sensitive Eyes

Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara

Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara

Pros

  • Formula has a ton of different shades
  • Super easy to layer and buildup

Cons

  • Can come out clumpy in some instances
  • Not available at mass beauty retailers

If you have sensitive skin or eyes and the *thought* of new products makes you shudder, you'll be pleased to know this Thrive Causmetics mascara was specially formulated with sensitive peeps in mind. Plus, it makes lashes look super thick and lush and won't flake or smudge for hours and hours. Oh, and it's one of the few (if not only!) tubing mascaras on the market that is available in a ton of fun hues.

  • Benefits: Length, definition
  • Shades: Black, brown-black, berry-brown, blue, purple, green, pink

One shopper says: "THE BEST MASCARA EVER, I often woke up in the morning with leftover mascara, leaving my eyelids irritated, from other brands—this is the first mascara that doesn’t cause irritation!"

Is tubing mascara better than regular mascara?

line breaker

It comes down to personal preference when deciding which type of mascara is better. Regular mascara uses wax and pigment, which tends to flake easier. However, because conventional mascara makes up the majority of the mascara market, there are a ton of options.

On the other hand, tubing mascara uses a polymer that wraps around each lash to create a tube, hence the name. The tubes flake less, last long, are water-resistant, and are great for those with sensitive skin. Tubing mascara is also easy to remove—just soak a cotton round in warm water, and the little tubes will slide right off. (FYI, they are water-resistant to cold water but not to warm, hence the easy removal.)

In short, there are pros and cons to each—it's just about finding a formulation that works best for you.

Headshot of Siena Gagliano
Siena Gagliano
Associate Editor
Siena Gagliano is the associate editor at Cosmopolitan, where she primarily covers beauty, fashion, travel, and lifestyle. Wanna know how to get the best brows of your life? gotchu. What about how to find the best fashion deals of the season, the softest sheets on the market, or exactly how to use retinol without irritating your skin? Check, check, and check. Before joining Cosmopolitan, Siena was a writer at Bustle and several other media outlets. As her 2024 goal, she has vowed to find the best (extra) dirty martini NYC has to offer—and yes, that means ~attempting~ to try every cute cocktail spot in the city (hit her up with some recs, pls). Follow Siena on Instagram for a behind-the-scenes look at that magazine life.
Lettermark

Ariel Wodarcyk is a freelance beauty and wellness writer based in New York City. Her work has appeared in Cosmo, ELLE, Good Housekeeping, Popsugar, and Makeup.com. Outside of work, you can find her hunting down signature scents for loved ones and scouring PerfumeTok. 

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