Did you know there’s a difference between smudgeproof mascaras and waterproof mascaras? You can use the best or splurge on the most expensive waterproof mascara out there, but if you have naturally oily skin around the eye, those racoon eyes will be here to stay.
Read on to find out why waterproof mascara may not be the best for you!
Do you look like that when you cry?
Or like that by mid-day, every day?
Well, well, the first lady probably needs a waterproof mascara while the second lady, a smudgeproof mascara.
The first time I got to know that they differ was at the cosmetic counters at DFS Galleria Singapore. Even though I use waterproof mascara and don’t rub my eyes, I always had small black circles on the undereye caused by mascara smudging and flaking on the skin. A high-end mascara must be the means to the end of my mascara woes, I thought.
Without any brand in mind, I wandered into the cosmetics arena. A friendly MUA came up to me and asked if I needed help, and the rest they say, is mascara history. LOL.
I was recommended the Anna Sui Super Black Volume Up Mascara, which to this day is still my favorite mascara. It comes in a pretty tube with a handle shaped like a flower about to bloom. It does an excellent job of volumizing sparse eyelashes that look naturally thick and smells of a sweet rose garden. Here’s my review on what I think is the best waterproof and smudgeproof volumizing mascara. Ironically, there is no mention of ‘smudgeproof’ or ‘waterproof’ on the Anna Sui Mascara tube or box.
Around me were many other brands of mascaras and I pointed to Helena Rubenstein, asking why not that. The MUA then told me the difference between mascaras that are smudgeproof and those that are water-resistant.
I think it is necessary and extremely useful to know that waterproof and smudgeproof mascaras are made for different purposes so that you won’t waste money on a mascara that does not serve your needs. Now let’s get started!
What is waterproof mascara?
Waterproof mascara is resistant to water and tears. Some people may still want their eyelashes mascara-fied (LOL) even when swimming so choosing a mascara that is water-resistant is a must. I’m guessing these swimmers keep their heads out of the water or don’t wear swimming goggles.
Because you never know when you will cry or get caught in the rain, it is good to apply waterproof mascara on a daily basis. Well, unless you have an oily eye area, which will then require a smudgeproof mascara.
Recommended Waterproof Mascara:
Dior DiorShow Waterproof Mascara
Maybelline Volum’ Express The Falsies Waterproof Mascara
What is smudgeproof mascara?
Unless you plan on getting your face wet, I recommend using a smudgeproof mascara if you have an oily eye area. Especially in countries where humidity levels are always on a high (Lovely Singapore!), your skin secretes more oil and eyelashes get greasier too. A smudgeproof mascara is more resistant against oil and sweat.
I don’t ever do this, but some say that non-smudge mascara creates less of a mess than water-resistant mascara if you accidentally rub your eyes!
Recommended Smudgeproof Mascara:
NYX Cosmetics Long & Full Lash Waterproof Smudge Proof Mascara
Waterproof or smudgeproof mascaras can be hard to remove with a water-based makeup remover. When removing such mascara, use an oil-based makeup remover for the eyes. Most oil-based makeup removers are now formulated to be gentle on the eyes and lips while removing all traces of eye makeup.
Reviews on makeup removers:
- Biore Makeup Remover For Eye & Lip
- Silkygirl Hydra Clean Makeup Remover
Summary
Waterproof or Water-resistant mascara
- Resistant to water and tears
- Recommended for swimming
Smudgeproof or Sweat-proof mascara
- Resistant to oil and sweat
- Recommended for people living in hot and humid environments
So it really doesn’t matter if your mascara is from a drugstore brand (Maybelline, L’Oreal, Rimmel) or from a high-end one (Anna Sui, Lancome, Dior). Just remember to use the right type of mascara! =)
What is your favorite smudgeproof or waterproof mascara?
