A quick and ageless make-up trick, mascara is arguably the cheapest and quickest way to lift and define your eyes. And yet knowing which one to buy is an elusive quest because there are so many different wands and formulations to choose from. 

Some give vavavoom volume, others coat eyelashes in natural looking, barely-there strokes. You can lengthen, separate, curl and lift with a mascara formulation in a multitude of colours and finishes including wash-off tubing mascaras and stay-put waterproofs.

Then there’s sustainability credentials to add to your wish list. Niche brands are leading the way here. Authored, the capsule makeup range by actor and influencer Tanya Burr has invented one of the first aluminium casings for her high-performance length enhancing mascara thus making it infinitely recyclable. 

Whereas make-up artist Gucci Westman’s Westman Atelier Mascara is free from typical toxic nasties without compromising on performance. While a host of brands from Urban Decay and Byredo have developed entirely vegan formulations for the conscious consumer. 

The mascara that will give you the effect you desire is largely down to the wand style which varies from odd shaped ball designs to conical, curved, fluffy and spiral brushes in a variety of widths, some super skinny for precise application, some fat and life giving. 

According to make-up artist Ruby Hammer, finding the mascara type that’s right for you is about more than just preference, you need to consider your eyelash type and know the wand’s specific function. Find your tailormade mascara from a few of our favourites, old and new, below.

6 key mascara types, and best products to buy

1. Large teddy brushes are best for giving volume to longer lashes. 
   We recommend: No7 Lash Extender Fiber Mascara, £14.95which gives thickness and added length.
2. Tapered brushes are great for adding drama to the outer lashes.
   We recommend: YSL Lash Clash Mascara, £29
3. Spiral brushes help to curl by lifting up and through straight lashes as you roll and brush through.
   We recommend: Urban Decay Wild Lash Mascara, £23
4. Thin brushes and combs work well on lower lashes or for defined separated lashes. 
   We recommend: Benefit Real Magnet Extreme Mascara £19.60
5. Curved wands separate the lashes creating a fan effect, therefore making eyes appear wider.
   We recommend: Lancome Lash Idole Mascara, £24
6. Ball brushes are ideal for defining those hard to reach areas like the lashes on the inner corners.
   We recommend: IT Cosmetics Hello Lashes Five in One Mascara, £18.40

This article is kept updated with the latest information.