15 Best Cruelty-Free Mascaras Of 2023 To Add To Your Beauty Cabinet

Today’s consumers are very conscious of the environment and are switching to clean beauty products. You can now add both length and volume to your lashes without feeling guilty of harming the animal world with the best cruelty-free mascara. Cruelty-free products are no longer expensive or less effective than their counterparts. With the world getting more conscious and looking for better alternatives, several brands are now offering cruelty-free beauty products.

A mascara is an essential part of your eye makeup kit. But it is also important for today’s consumers to have a clear conscience while looking beautiful. Check out the 15 best cruelty-free mascaras that define your lashes without harming your furry friends.

15 Best Cruelty-Free Mascaras Available Now

1. Best Overall: essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara – Black

4.3

Image: Essence Cosmetics

BUY ON AMAZON | $4.99

Like falsies but don’t like how they weigh your lashes down? The essence Lash Princess Mascara is here for you. It defines each eyelash individually to offer a bold, dramatic look. You get an instant false lash effect with a single coat. You can also build up the volume with extra coats. This mascara stays on all day long without fading or flaking. Plus, it comes with a conic fiber brush to reveal bold lashes without clumping and suits oily, dry, combination, and normal skin types. Take a look at this video to know more about the product.

• Adds dramatic volume
• Long-lasting results
• No clumping
• Instant false lash look
• No fading
• No flaking
• Gluten-free
• Vegan
• No parabens
• No synthetic fragrances

Cons

• Difficult to remove

Pro Tip

Do not forget to curl your eyelashes before applying mascara. Hold the curler for 8 to 10 seconds, and move in an upward motion. Then, apply mascara to hold your curls.

2. Best Cruelty-Free Mascara For Intense Volume: Covergirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara – #800 Very Black

4.4

Image: Covergirl

BUY ON AMAZON | $6.34

Covergirl’s Lash Blast Volume Mascara gives you ten times more volume than other regular mascaras while defining eyelashes individually. This instant-blast mascara gives fuller and volumized lashes without flaking and clumping while separating lashes. The brand does no animal testing and has a Leaping Bunny certification from Cruelty-Free International. You may check more about this product in this video.

• Instant volume
• No flaking
• No clumping
• Even coating

Cons

• Dry formula

Pro Tip

Avoid pumping your mascara. The in-and-out motion of pumping forces air into the tube, speeding up the drying process of the product. Instead, dip once, then wipe away any extra product with a tissue.

3. Best Cruelty-Free Mascara For Fuller Lashes: Vivienne Sabó Paris Cabaret Premiere Artistic Volume Mascara

4.2

Image: Vivienne Sabó Paris

BUY ON AMAZON | $19.95

This classic curling mascara from Vivienne Sabó Paris gives you fuller lashes in a single coat. This lightweight, clump-free natural mascara is long-lasting and smudge-proof. It does not flake and is transfer-resistant. It also comes with a little applicator that coats every single lash uniformly and leaves behind a lash-lift effect. This mascara is easy to use and can be removed effortlessly with a makeup remover.

• Lightweight
• Smudge-proof
• Long-lasting
• Clump-free
• Easy to apply
• Lash-friendly removal
• Non-damaging
• Soft, natural effect

Cons

• Thick formula

4. Best Multipurpose Cruelty-Free Mascara: Honest Beauty Extreme Length Mascara

4.1

Image: Honest

BUY ON AMAZON | $17.99

The Honest Beauty Extreme Length Mascara is a two-in-one mascara plus primer that volumizes and defines your lashes. Its genius primer creates an even base and provides rich, intense color with every coat. The gentle formula made from clean ingredients does not irritate sensitive eyes. This bold mascara provides an even coating with specially molded bristles to define the eyes. Additionally, it contains natural ingredients, like jojoba esters to moisturize and condition the lashes. Check out this video to learn more.

• Lifts the lashes
• Dermatologically-tested
• Ophthalmologist-tested
• Gentle formula
• Smooth coating
• Paraben-free
• Silicone-free
• Mineral oil-free
• Paraffin-free
• Artificial fragrance-free

Cons

• Thin and narrow applicator brush

5. Best Plant-Based Cruelty-Free Mascara: Milani Highly Rated Mascara

4.2

Image: Milani

BUY ON AMAZON | $10.97

Milani’s Highly Rated 10-in-1 Volume Mascara features an iconic formula to add intense body to your lashes in a single coat. This lengthening mascara comes with a state-of-the-art precision brush that evenly coats the lashes from root to tip to provide sleek and even saturation. Its comb separately covers every single lash to define and add volume. The plant-based formula conditions the lashes without flaking and smudging.

• Even coating
• Conditions the lashes
• Smudge-free
• No flaking
• No clumping
• Instant curl and lift
• Paraben-free
• D5-free
• TEA free
• Alcohol-free
• Perfume-free

Cons

• Difficult to remove

6. Best Curling Cruelty-Free Mascara: Stila HUGE Extreme Lash Mascara

4.3

Image: Stila

BUY ON AMAZON | $25

The Stila HUGE Extreme Lash Mascara works on multiple fronts to give you curled eyelashes with intense lift and volume. It lengthens the lashes without clumping them to reveal a long-lasting bold and intense look. This cruelty-free mascara features a blend of soft and flexible waxes, including lash conditioners, to enhance the lashes without damage. Its curved application wand has crumpled bristles for easy application. This clinically tested, natural mascara is suitable for contact lens-wearers.

• Adds instant volume
• Smudge-proof
• Long-lasting
• Easy to apply
• Clump-free
• Waterproof
• Sweat-resistant
• Intense black color
• Non-irritating
• Cruelty-free
• Paraben-free

Cons

• Thick formula
• Uneven coating

7. Best Lengthening Cruelty-Free Mascara: Endlessly Beautiful All Natural Mascara – Black

3.9

BUY ON AMAZON | $21.95

The All-Natural Mascara from Endlessly Beautiful is made with a nourishing blend of chamomile, coffee powder, and vitamin E. It a volumizing product that instantly provides thick and long eyelashes. This conditioning mascara has a water-resistant, long-staying formula that is free from smudging, clumping, and flaking. Its non-toxic formula does not contain harsh additives and suits sensitive eyes. This mascara is easy to apply and remove using a makeup remover.

• Long-lasting
• Water-resistant
• Sweatproof
• Easy to apply
• Easy to remove
• Smooth application
• No smudging
• No flaking
• No clumping
• Non-toxic
• Gluten-free
• Vegan
• Paraben-free
• No artificial colors
• Artificial fragrance-free

Cons

• May irritate the eyes

Pro Tip

Avoid wearing water-resistant mascaras daily as they may dry out the lashes and cause them to fall out.

8. Best Drugstore Cruelty-Free Mascara: NYX Professional Makeup Doll Eye Mascara – Extreme Jet Black

3.5

Now 10% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $18.95

The NYX Professional Makeup Doll Eye Mascara is made from a rich blend of natural oils and vitamin E oil that nourishes the eyelashes. The nylon fibers of the brush lengthen the lashes to create a dramatic look. Its waterproof volumizing formula is gentle on the eyes and provides fuller and enhanced lashes.

• Lengthens the lashes
• Waterproof
• Easy to apply
• Gentle formula

Cons

• Clumpy finish

9. Best Cruelty-Free Mascara With Precision Applicator: Wet N Wild Mega Length Mascara

4.1

Now 13% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $3.28

This mega-length mascara from Wet n Wild adds definition to your eyelashes to reveal a fuller and volumized look. It is enriched with the goodness of vitamin E to moisturize, condition, and protect the lashes. The mascara comes with a precision comb brush to coat the lashes from root to tip. Also, its ophthalmologically tested formula is safe for contact lens-wearers.

• Ophthalmologically tested
• Precise coverage
• Easy to apply
• Safe formula
• Sulfate-free
• Gluten-free
• PETA certified

Cons

• Very dry formula

10. Best Flake-Proof Cruelty-Free Mascara: Wander Beauty Mile High Club Volume And Length Mascara

4.2

Now 12% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $22.97

Wander Beauty’s Mile High Club Volume And Length Mascara has a deep black formula with an intense color pay-off. It lifts and curls the lashes to provide a fuller and volumized look in a single stroke, while a precise applicator evenly covers the lashes. This mascara contains skin-nourishing ingredients to strengthen the lashes with every use. The flake-proof, smudge-proof, and water-resistant formula makes it a perfect choice for all-day wear. Castor oil, trehalose, and peach leaf extract strengthen the lashes and promote growth.

• Waterproof
• Flake-free
• No smudging
• Easy to wear
• Easy to remove
• Promotes lash growth
• Long-lasting
• Ophthalmologically tested
• Paraben-free
• Phthalate-free
• Gluten-free
• No synthetic scents
• Mineral oil-free

Cons

• Tiny wand

11. Fifth & Skin Naturlash Mineral Mascara

4.1

Image: Fifthandskin

BUY ON AMAZON | $23.95

The multipurpose Naturelash Mineral Mascara from Fifth & Skin works as mascara and a liner. Just dip an eyeliner brush into the formula and swipe it over the eyelids to get a rich eyeliner effect. Its silky-smooth formula adds length and volume to your lashes while promoting thicker, fuller growth with constant use. The mascara is entirely waterproof and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for sensitive eyes.

• Versatile
• Hypoallergenic
• Non-irritating
• Waterproof
• Easy to remove
• Long-lasting
• No clumping
• Sustainable formula
• Gluten-free
• Petroleum-free
• Mercury-free
• Paraben-free
• Dye-free
• Lead-free
• Preservatives free
• GMO-free

Cons

• Thick formula

12. Almay Thickening Mascara

4.3

Now 33% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $9.98

The Almay Thickening Mascara reveals thicker and fuller lashes without smudging and clumping. This ophthalmologically-tested mascara features a specially designed brush that provides an even coating on the lashes. It is enriched with vitamin B5 and aloe vera to condition the lashes, and its gentle formula suits contact lens-wearers and sensitive eyes.

• Smudge-free
• Clump-free
• Conditioning effect
• Hypoallergenic
• Easy to remove
• Fragrance-free
• Flake-free
• Quick-drying

Cons

None

13. Pacifica Beauty Aquarian Gaze Water-Resistant Long Lash Mascara – Absyss

4.2

Now 30% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $9.8

The Aquarian Gaze Water-Resistant Long Lash Mascara from Pacifica Beauty is a long-wear mascara with a water-resistant and transfer-proof formula. It is infused with the benefits of coconut oil, kelp extract, and vitamin B that lengthen, strengthen, and volumize the lashes. Moreover, the super plush brush precisely coats each lash to reveal a fuller look.

• Long-lasting
• Easy to apply
• Vegan
• Paraben-free
• Phthalate-free
• Silicone-free
• Mineral oil-free
• Gluten-free
• Peanut oil-free
• Triclosan-free

Cons

• Clumps and smudges

14. ILIA Natural Limitless Lash Mascara

4.3

BUY ON AMAZON | $26.99

With Ilia’s Natural Limitless Lash Mascara, you get perfectly lifted and curled lashes. It is made from a nourishing blend of organic carnauba waxes, butter, and fortifying arginine to condition the lashes while keeping them hydrated throughout the day. The dual-sided applicator wand has short bristles to curl the lashes, while longer bristles lift them. Its buildable formula is flake-free and ophthalmologically tested to suit contact lens-wearers and sensitive eyes.

• Lightweight
• Buildable
• Flake-free
• Long-lasting
• 99% natural
• Safe formula
• Gluten-free
• Synthetic scent-free
• Soy-free
• Easy to remove

Cons

• Strange fragrance

15. Gaya Cosmetics Vegan Mascara

4

Now 27% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $18.95

The Gaya Cosmetics Vegan Mascara has a luxurious formula with an intense color pay-off. Its buildable formula has a rich texture that conditions the lashes while adding volume. The curved wand evenly spreads the product over the lashes for a natural elongated effect without clumping. Plus, the formula is smudge-proof, ophthalmologically-tested, and 100% vegan.

• Ophthalmologically tested
• Vegan
• Long-lasting
• No clumping
• No smudging
• Buildable volume
• Gentle and safe
• For every skin type
• Smudge-proof silicone brush
• Easy to apply
• Easy to remove
• Paraben-free
• No waterproof toxins

Cons

• Dry formula

Before diving into the world of cruelty-free mascaras, here is a buying guide that can help you in finding the right product.

Things To Consider Before Buying A Cruelty-Free Mascara

Before investing in a cruelty-free mascara, don’t forget to consider the following points:

• Verify The Brand

Before you splurge, make sure the brand is a certified cruelty-free company. You can do that by checking the product label for the Leaping Bunny or PETA logo. Also, the online cruelty-free database can come in handy while shopping online.

• Staying Power

Some mascaras wear off quickly, so look for a cruelty-free mascara that provides long staying power. You can check online reviews to learn all about the effectiveness and staying power of the mascara you want to purchase.

• Smudge-Proof

To prevent raccoon eyes, opt for a waterproof or smudge-proof mascara that won’t melt away and ruin your eye makeup.

• Skin Type

If you have sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses, look for hypoallergenic mascaras that won’t irritate your eyes or skin.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Shalini Roy is a makeup enthusiast and loves trying different makeup products. She believes that eye makeup can enhance women’s look entirely. Shalini has gone through hundreds of online reviews and to compile the list of the best cruelty-free mascaras. She has considered skin type, staying power, and smudge-proof formulas to shortlist the best ones for her readers. These products can add volume and length to your lashes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can you tell if a mascara is truly cruelty-free?

You can tell if mascara is cruelty-free by looking at the certified bunny logo on the product packaging.

Is it OK to wear mascara every day?

Yes, you can wear mascara every day. Cruelty-free mascaras contain skin-friendly ingredients that do not make your lashes break or fall even if you use them daily.

Is there a mascara that is good for your eyelashes?

Yes. An animal-friendly, vegan mascara that does not contain harsh ingredients is good for your eyelashes. If you have thin lashes, look for a lightweight mascara with additional skin care benefits.

How long cruelty-free mascaras last?

Cruelty-free mascaras last you up to 24 hours.

Are cruelty-free mascaras water-resistant?

Yes. Some cruelty-free mascaras, such as the Endlessly Beautiful All Natural Mascara and Wander Beauty Mile High Club Volume And Length Mascara are water-resistant.

Recommended Articles

• Best Cruelty-Free Eyeliners You Should Get Your Hands On!
• Best Cruelty-Free Eyeshadows
• Top Under-Eye Primers For Wrinkles To Make You Look Youthful
• Best Cruelty-Free Drugstore Mascaras
• Best Vegan Mascaras For Fuller And Enhanced Lashes

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Danielle Wilkinson BrucklacherLicensed Cosmetologist

   

Danielle obtained her cosmetology license from MTI College and continued with her education in Makeup Artistry at Bellus Academy. She then began session styling for weddings and special events, including celebrity occasions. With 14 years of experience, Danielle has made herself available in salons for color services and offers on location services, including professional fashion styling, in Southern California.more

Shalini RoyBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Shalini Roy has a Master's degree in English literature from Pondicherry University. She is an ambivert whose expressions have found their way in writing. She channels her passion for all things fashion and makeup to write engaging content related to beauty and lifestyle and has two years of experience. She first found her penchant for writing through poetry and serving...more