10 Of The Best Affordable Mascaras In Australia That Won't Break The Bank

10 Affordable Mascaras For Sky-High, Feathery Lashes That Won't Break The Bank

When it comes to lash lacquer, mascara can cost anywhere between single and triple digits, depending on the brand and where you buy it.

And while it may be tempting to pick up a high-range mascara, makeup artists and celebrities are beginning to join us in the supermarket aisle, often opting for more affordable offerings. Drugstore mascaras have risen in the ranks, thanks to the endless options that are both high quality and won't break the bank.

Generally, luxury brands have the benefit of using higher quality ingredients within their formulas that drugstore mascaras cannot usually afford. After all, brands like Chanel, Dior, Charlotte Tilbury or Chantecaille have higher funds to develop the design of the brush to create the ultimate application effect.

Of course, an expensive price tag doesn't always mean the best quality— drugstore mascaras are being credited for extremely effective formulas, for a fraction of the cost.

Whether it's a luxury brand or from the drugstore, different mascaras will create different effects depending on your lash length and type. For those blessed with long lashes, a curling formula is the best choice to enhance your natural length.

If you have straight lashes that struggle to curl, a curling formula is also a viable option. And for short lashes, a thin brush with dense bristles is ideal for catching every lash during application.

Below, check out a range of mascaras that will add volume, depth, length and colour to every lash length (for just a few dollars).

Main image: @hungvanngo

1. Paradise Mascara by L'Oreal Paris

This mascara from L'Oreal adds both volume and length, creating definition in your lashes. The whipped formula is made with castor oil, an ingredient that allows for soft and lengthy lashes without any flaking or clumping. Your lashes will be fully coated after one application and the product lasts throughout the day, with no smudging.

Paradise Mascara by L'Oreal Paris, $14.97 at Adore Beauty.

2. LashBlast Volume Mascara by Covergirl

Reach for this tube when you don't want to deal with any clumps. This mascara also has a supremely volumising formula, leaving your lashes looking dense, dark and dramatic without adding any weight. The brush and formula work together to max out every single eyelash, leaving you with the ultimate big lash look. This mascara will leave your eyes looking open, even if you don't have naturally curly or long eyelashes.

LashBlast Volume Mascara by Covergirl, $9.47 at Priceline.

3. Lash Sensational Washable Mascara by Maybelline

The wand in this mascara is made from 10 layers of bristles, working to highlight every single lash and therefore perfect for those with short lashes. The liquid formula replicates a false lashes look with a high drama effect.

Lash Sensational Washable Mascara by Maybelline, $11.47 at Priceline.

4. Super Length Mascara by Revlon

The mascara is ideal for lengthening, including a brush and formula combination that builds with every application to create a dramatic look. The consistency of the formula is creamy and silky with strong black pigmentation which adds to the lush look. The brush has a tapered tip, making it easy to apply and to nail the lengthening effect.

Super Length Mascara by Revlon, $13.50 at Chemist Warehouse.

5. Volum' Express The Falsies Mascara by Maybelline

This cult classic is known for creating volume but it's also one of the best curling mascaras on the market. We can blame the specially designed, spoon-shaped wand that latches on to every lash and applies and even coat every single time. The formula also lasts all day without smudging and holds the lashes well.

Volum' Express The Falsies Mascara by Maybelline, $9.97 at Priceline.

6. Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara by Essence

Retailing for only $7 and with over 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, this mascara does not mess about. The perfect alternative to lash extensions, this product provides both length and volume in a deep black colour.

Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara by Essence, $7 at Priceline.

7. Total Temptation Mascara by Maybelline

This mascara darkens and volumises lashes and will provide an open eye look without needing to apply any eyeliner or eyeshadow. The formula is mixed with coconut oil, giving off a delicious scent whilst providing nourishment to your lashes throughout the day. Apply once for a soft look or go for repeat applications to create a more dramatic style.

Total Temptation Mascara by Maybelline, $9.90 at Chemist Warehouse.

8. Exhibitionist Mascara by Covergirl

The hourglass-shaped brush works to lengthen and separate lashes to create a full and defined look. No flaking or smudging here either, as the smooth formula keeps the mascara set all day long. As a plus, this product is cruelty-free and vegan.

Exhibitionist Mascara by Covergirl, $11.97 at Priceline.

9. So Fierce! Mascara by Revlon

Much like its name, Revlon's So Fierce! Mascara is perfect for quick intensity to any eye makeup look. Not only does it lift lashes, but it also lengthens and volumises lashes to brow-scraping heights. The formula is clump-free, smudge-proof and flake-proof and boasts 24 hours of lasting time, so you can look your best going from boardroom to bar.

So Fierce! Mascara by Revlon, $9.87 at Chemist Warehouse.

10. LashBlast Flourish Mascara by Covergirl

This creamy formula prevents dryness and includes ingredients such as papaya, coconut and avocado oils to nourish lashes whilst providing a gentle hydration. The Flourish Mascara is buildable and volumising without risking flaky lashes or breakages.

Flourish by Lash Blast Mascara by Covergirl, $9.97 at Big W.

Kate Atkinson

Katie Atkinson is a contributor to marie claire Australia.

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