The Best Mascaras for a Smudge-Proof Summer!
Tested in Miami—Survives Sweat, Saltwater, and Sizzling Humidity
Let’s get one thing straight: I love living in Miami. The sunsets are gorgeous, the cafecito is strong, and yes, we do know how to survive a Category 4 hurricane with one hand while applying lip gloss with the other. But if there’s one thing I still haven’t made peace with after all these years, it’s the humidity. That sticky, hair-frizzing, makeup-melting Miami air is not for the faint of heart—or for your average mascara.
Luckily, I’ve road-tested more waterproof mascaras than I can count, all in the name of avoiding raccoon eyes by noon. So whether you’re beachside in Malibu, melting in Manhattan, or just heading out on a steamy summer night, these mascaras won’t budge. Trust me, they’ve been through it all—sweat, saltwater, mojitos... even the occasional ugly cry.
Here are my top picks for mascaras that can take the heat (and the humidity) like a true Floridian.
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Best Overall
Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara: If I had a dollar for every time this mascara saved me from a smudgy lash disaster, I’d be rolling in it. The brush is oversized and plush, coating every single lash with a formula that glides on like silk. It's waterproof, sweat-proof, and somehow still feels featherlight. I’ve worn this on 95-degree days with 90% humidity—and she didn’t flinch. $30
Best Clean Beauty
ILIA Limitless Lash Lengthening Mascara: On days when I want fluttery, defined lashes without compromising my clean beauty goals, I reach for this. The dual-sided wand separates beautifully, and the formula—which includes keratin, shea butter, and beeswax—keeps my lashes nourished and lifted. It’s gentle enough for my sensitive eyes, and yes, it survives both tears and tan lines. $29
Best Iconic
Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara: You know that kind of glamour that feels effortless but actually took effort? That’s what Diorshow delivers. This backstage staple gives major volume and length while staying pristine all day. I wore it to a wedding last summer and danced until midnight—no smears, no flakes, just lash drama worthy of the red carpet. $35
Best Cult Favorite
MAC Stack Waterproof Mascara: This one lives up to the hype. I’ll wear a single swipe on casual days, but when I want that “I could be wearing falsies but I’m not” effect, I layer it on and it never clumps. The brush separates lashes so beautifully, though I will warn you: those bristles are spiky! Take your time applying and you’ll be rewarded with lashes that are long, defined, and smudge-free even after a day in the Miami sun. $29
Best Natural-Looking
Milk Makeup Rise Lifting + Lengthening Mascara: Not every summer day calls for full glam. When I want that fresh, clean “I woke up like this” look, I grab this. The curved wand hugs my lashes and gives them just enough definition to make my eyes pop without going full drama. Bonus: it never flakes, even when I’m hopping from brunch to the beach. $28
Best Tubing Formula
Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions: This one is my daily go-to formula. If you’ve ever wished for lash extensions without the hassle, this tubing mascara is chef’s kiss. It grips each lash from root to tip, creating serious length and definition—without smudging, flaking, or giving you that dreaded under-eye shadow halfway through the day. The formula holds up surprisingly well in heat and humidity, and I like that it rinses off easily with warm water. Plus, it comes in five shades, which feels refreshingly non-basic. $26
So, there you have it—my ultimate summer mascara guide, straight from the Florida heat and humidity. Whether you’re hitting the pool or just trying to make it to happy hour without a smudge, these mascaras have your lashes covered.
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