As women age, their eyelashes naturally undergo changes: they can become thinner, lose their pigment, and become more fragile. This means that finding the right mascara can be a more involved process. According to Dr. Diane Hilal-Campo, a board-certified ophthalmologist and founder of Twenty/Twenty Beauty, "As you age, your eyelashes become sparser. They can also turn gray, and they may not grow as long because the lash growth cycle tends to shorten." Furthermore, eyes can become more sensitive, and lashes may feel drier. Therefore, mascaras formulated with nourishing ingredients such as vitamin E and hyaluronic acid, and free from drying alcohols or irritants like parabens, are often preferred.
To simplify the search for the best mascaras for mature lashes, a comprehensive approach was taken, involving consultations with eye-care experts, analysis of ingredient lists, and testing of top-rated mascaras tailored for older women. The top overall pick, Well People Expressionist Pro Mascara, is noted for its lightweight formula that does not clump, smudge, or run, offering a natural, everyday appearance. The selection also includes options specifically designed for thinning lashes and budget-friendly drugstore choices that rival luxury brands in performance.
Top Mascara Picks for Older Women
Here is a breakdown of the best mascaras for women over 50, considering various needs:
Best Overall: Well People Expressionist Pro Mascara
Pros: Does not flake, clump, or irritate; lightweight.
Cons: Requires multiple coats for dramatic volume.
The Well People Expressionist Pro Mascara is particularly effective for those with short, sparse, or hard-to-reach lashes, especially at the inner corners. Its slim wand is designed to grip even the smallest lashes, coating them with nourishing ingredients like castor and sunflower seed oils, while providing a subtle lengthening effect. This mascara is not intended for a dramatic "falsies" look but is highly recommended for those seeking a touch of flair without eye irritation. Our tester, Rivkah Yisrael, a 70-year-old retired nurse, described her lashes as appearing lengthened, separated, and very natural-looking, with no flakes or specks. She also noted its weightless feel and lack of odor, finding the brown shade particularly flattering for daytime wear. She continues to use it daily.
Most Natural-Looking: Twenty/Twenty Beauty Clean Sweep Mascara
Pros: Achieves a perfect balance between natural and dramatic; smooth application.
Cons: Some flaking after several hours; can become clumpy; has a slight odor.
Formulated by ophthalmologists, this mascara contains nourishing ingredients beneficial for mature lashes, including hydrating hyaluronic acid, soothing vitamin E, and biotin, known for strengthening hair and lashes. These hydrating and strengthening components help improve lash condition over time, while the pigment subtly camouflages graying lashes. Our tester found it easy to apply, non-irritating, and noted that it came off with just water. However, she did observe some clumping during application and subsequent flaking, advising to scrape excess product off the brush to prevent this.
Best for Thinning Lashes: Fenty Beauty Hella Thicc Volumizing Mascara
Pros: Adds volume and length; does not flake; easy to remove.
Cons: Can clump if the wand is not adequately scraped before application.
Whether lashes are thinning due to aging or previous damage from lash extensions, this mascara is designed to enhance their appearance. The lightweight, easy-to-apply formula glides on smoothly and provides a significant transformation for sparse lashes with minimal product. Our tester reported no eye irritation, an appearance of increased length, and no specks on her face. She also noted that it did not make her lashes feel heavy and provided good separation, being easily removed with water.
Best for Sensitive Eyes: Clinique High Impact Mascara
Pros: Paraben-free; clump-resistant; suitable for contact lens wearers.
Cons: Pricey.
As eyes can become more sensitive with age, and for those who wear glasses, careful selection of eye products is crucial. This mascara builds volume and lengthens lashes while remaining stable on the eyes. It is allergy-tested, fragrance-free, and features a soft brush, which is a significant advantage for comfortable application. Glamour contributor Charlotte Twine praised its wispy, layering, and non-clumpy qualities. She noted that while the first coat offered a natural, wispy look, subsequent layers built up to a thicker, fluffier appearance without clumping. Despite having sparse lashes, she found Clinique's mascara effectively made them visible without appearing goopy.
Clinique High Impact Shadow Play
Best Tubing: Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara
Pros: Nourishing ingredients leave lashes soft; removes easily; does not clump.
Cons: Can feel heavy with multiple coats; some reviewers report flaking.
Tubing mascaras are an excellent choice for mature eyes as they lengthen lashes without smudging and can be removed with just warm water. This vegan option is also suitable for sensitive eyes, according to Dr. Janelle Davison, OD. The smooth, conditioning formula is ideal for those seeking volume without smudging. The tip of its wavy brush helps to reach small lashes in the corners. This mascara is recommended for a full-face look and removes easily with a gentle cleanser and water, requiring no harsh scrubbing.
Best Non-Clumping: CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara
Pros: Adds volume without clumping; defines and separates lashes.
Cons: The thick brush may not effectively grab lower lashes; some reviewers found it difficult to remove.
This clean and affordable formula defines and separates lashes without creating clumps. Dr. Davison approves of its budget-friendly price, absence of parabens, and inclusion of nourishing argan oil. It has garnered numerous positive reviews, with users describing it as a "holy grail" product that leaves lashes looking "full and clump-free." It is also free from potentially irritating ingredients like sulfates, talc, and mineral oil.
Best Water-Resistant: Tower 28 Make Waves Mascara
Pros: Easy to remove; does not irritate or flake; buildable.
Cons: Does not hold a curl well.
Recommended by Dr. Davison, this vegan, water-resistant mascara stays put without the difficulty of removal associated with traditional waterproof formulas. The double-sided, curved wand separates lashes, adds length, and reaches even the shortest ones. It is free from fragrance, fibers, alcohol, and silicone, making it a suitable option for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mascara for Mature Eyes
What should you look for when shopping for mascara for older women?
Dr. Hilal-Campo advises choosing mascaras that prevent "raccoon eyes" or smudging, as this can be unflattering on mature skin. She recommends avoiding waterproof formulas due to potential irritation and difficulty in removal. Prioritizing nourishing, paraben-free options suitable for sensitive eyes is also key.
What are some tips for thickening lashes?
Maintaining healthy and hydrated lashes is essential, according to Dr. Hilal-Campo. This involves gentle cleansing, possibly with hypochlorous acid to manage bacteria, and using natural oils like argan oil to hydrate the lash shafts and make them appear fuller. Applying a lash primer before mascara can also help create the illusion of thicker lashes.
How do you apply mascara on mature eyes?
Dr. Hilal-Campo suggests starting with an eyelash curler to lift the lashes. Apply mascara by sweeping upwards towards the tips, working from the inside out. For the outer corners, turn the wand vertically and use only the tip to coat the lashes. For lower lashes, apply sparingly, using the wand vertically and focusing on the tips, especially at the outer corners. Clean up any smudges with a cotton swab lightly dipped in makeup remover.
How do you gently remove mascara for older women?
Dr. Hilal-Campo recommends using a preservative-free micellar remover applied to a microfiber cloth. Hold the cloth against the eye for about 30 seconds before gently wiping. Her preferred product is Optase Life Sensitive Eye Makeup Remover.