Why I'll never spend more than $25 on this beauty essential

As someone with a serious makeup rotation who spends a fair chunk of her paycheck at Sephora, I've spent the last 13 years testing and trialling makeup products for personal research.

Over the years, there's been one major takeaway: never, ever spend your hard-earned money on expensive mascara. I've tried countless high-end mascaras, from Too Faced Better Than Sex to various Lancôme and Dior formulas. But after all that, I've come to the conclusion that drugstore mascaras are where it's at.

In fact, I recently converted my mum, who had always splurged on high-end mascaras without ever being fully satisfied, to a more affordable option. She was absolutely thrilled with the results, and now we're both believers in the power of a great, budget-friendly mascara

So when it comes to affordable and effective mascaras, my 13 years of 'research' has led me to these, and these only.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara Washable

Buy it for $12.49

The Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara has not only gone viral on TikTok, but it's also my personal favourite. This mascara gives you thick, voluminous lashes without clumping. Its unique fanning brush, with ten layers of bristles, separates and defines each lash while adding length and volume. Infused with rose oil, the formula keeps lashes soft and supple, creating a full look.

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

Was $25.99, now $15.55

The Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara has also gone viral on TikTok, and for good reason. The formula is lightweiht, smudge-resistant, and doesn't flake throughout the day. It features a flexible brush that bends to coat each lash from root to tip, helping to lift and separate lashes for a fuller, more defined look. It also removes easily with water or makeup remover.

L'Oréal Paris Voluminous Mascara Black

Grab it for $18.90

The L'Oréal Paris Voluminous Mascara Black is formulated to build volume and create lashes that are up to 5 times fuller. The formula helps condition and protect lashes while preventing clumping and keeping them soft. It coats lashes evenly, adding thickness and curl for a full, bold look. It provides deep, rich black colour for a dramatic effect, and the formula prevents flaking throughout the day.

e.l.f. Cosmetics Big Mood Mascara

Buy it for $14

The e.l.f. Cosmetics Big Mood Mascara features an hourglass wand that coats and volumises each lash in one go. You can easily layer for added volume and lift without clumping. The formula is smudge and flake-resistant, offering long-lasting wear. Enriched with jojoba wax, it helps maintain a lasting curl while providing an even, full finish.

Essence Lash Princess Effect Mascara Black

Yours for $7

The Essence Lash Princess Effect Mascara is another great drugstore option. It features a conic-shaped fibre brush that gives the lashes length and volume. It comes in an ultra-black formula that gives a dramatic look and long-lasting curl.

Milani Highly Rated Lash Extensions Mascara

Was $26.99, now $18.89

Milani Highly Rated Lash Extensions Mascara provides length and lift with intense volume, thanks to its innovative polymer-based formula. It wraps around each lash for all-day wear without flaking or clumping, and easy removal at the end of the night. Infused with nourishing shea butter and castor seed oil, it also helps moisturise and care for your lashes.

L'Oréal Telescopic Carbon Black Mascara

On sale for $24.98

The L'Oréal Telescopic Carbon Black Mascara is designed to lengthen lashes by up to 60 per cent and separate each lash. The flexible brush features a flat side to lengthen and a comb side to separate for a defined, magnified look. The intense black pigment delivers a bold effect, while the formula remains clump-free, flake-free, and smudge-free. It's also easy to remove and allergy-tested for sensitive eyes.

MCoBeauty Xtendlash Tubing Mascara

Grab it for $28

Now, I know this mascara isn't exactly under $25, but this MCoBeauty mascara is worth it. It boosts length, curl, and volume without smudging or flaking. Its water-resistant formula forms tiny 'tubes' around each lash for long-lasting definition and hold. It's lightweight and glossy, and stays put all day without clumping. With sales happening often, you'll be able to score this mascara at half price if you're patient.

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