Best mascara for older women to achieve long and luscious lashes

If you're looking for a mascara to meet all of your lash needs, the Lancôme Lash Idôle Volumising Waterproof Mascara helps you achieve a full fanned-out effect while also lifting your lashes. It feels light on the lashes, making it comfortable to wear, and it's easy to see why this highly-rated waterproof mascara is one of Lancôme's best sellers. People who have used it found the curved brush very effective in providing easy lash coverage with a glossy black look. Due to the dramatic finish it offers, some reviewers feel that it is a bit difficult to remove. So, you might want to take the makeup removers you own into consideration while opting for this product. As a product that is also tested under ophthalmological control, you can be rest assured that this mascara will be soothing for sensitive eyes and suitable for those who wear contact lenses too.

The Lancôme Lash Idôle Volumising Waterproof Mascara was tested by our Beauty and Wellness writer Akhila Thomas and she said: “This product definitely adds a lot of definition, length and volume to my lashes. What stands out is that the effect is visible from the roots so that it gives a more natural, fuller look. The curved wand helps with curling and lifting the lashes. There is no clumping and the product stays on the whole day, even on hot summer days when I’ve been out travelling, so it is definitely sweatproof. As a budget friendly option, this mascara is a must-have if you are looking to have long-luscious lashes that last all day.”

Enriched with castor oil to help improve the growth of lashes, the L’Oréal Castor Oil-Enriched Paradise Volumising Black Mascara coats individual eyelashes for maximum definition. You can ease your worries about clumping as the soft fibre brush does a thorough job of separating and enhancing your lashes. While this brush feels pleasant during application, some reviews say that it felt too big for use. So, if you prefer smaller brushes, this might be something to consider while thinking about this product. The formula is smooth and applies effortlessly to create a fuller, thicker appearance which is perfect for older lashes that could be lacking volume and lift.

Most dramatic and voluminous lashes come at the expense of several coats which means applying a lot of the product on your lashes. This makes it important to choose a gentle mascara that is not going to leave your eyes watery or irritated. If you have sensitive eyes and lashes that could use a bit more length and definition, then this UKLASH Lengthening Mascara can help make your eyes look stunning. A reviewer who is 51 years old has shared that she has never been more pleased with how her lashes look and that she no longer needs extensions. 

She also confirmed that it is tear-proof and sweat-proof. The water-resistant formula is also enhanced with Carnauba and Candelilla waxes to hold your lashes in place and Glycerin to hydrate. The curved silicone brush helps to achieve even application and shape your lashes the way you want. As a paraben-free and vegan-friendly option, this mascara can be the best companion to glam up your sensitive eyes.

L’Oréal Paris Paradise is a top choice for older women seeking a lash-lifting mascara that delivers both volume and length. Designed for sensitive eyes, this mascara provides 20 times more volume and up to twice the length, as confirmed by product testing. Its ultra-soft brush ensures smooth application, gliding effortlessly over lashes without flaking.

The formula is enriched with castor and rose oils, known for their lash-nourishing properties. These oils make lashes feel softer and more supple over time. This mascara enhances lashes with intense volume and spectacular length, whether applied lightly for a natural look or layered for a bolder effect.

The application is simple—just brush from root to tip, layering as needed for maximum impact. It is ophthalmologist-tested, making it a gentle yet effective choice for those with sensitive eyes.
One customer praises its smudge-proof formula, stating, “My favourite thing about this mascara is that it doesn’t smudge or end up all under your eyes. It works well with the primer that’s sold separately," but they go on to add that the mascara feels slightly clumpy when you apply it.

For those looking for a mascara that enhances, nourishes and lasts all day, L’Oréal Paris Paradise is an Amazon's Choice recommended product, with around 6,000 reviews, at a very reasonable price.

If you’re looking for a mascara with a softer feel, then the Full N' Soft Mascara from Maybelline, with thousands of reviews backing the product on its effectiveness, is definitely worth a try.

Our Beauty and Wellness writer Akhila Thomas tested this mascara and she said: “This product is great at separating lashes while also adding length and definition. The formula is super soft and it does not clump at all. As a result, it is possible to add several layers for a more dramatic look without your lashes looking clunky. I also noticed that it gives a natural lift to your lashes.” Overall this mascara is great for daily use and easy on the pocket to pull off soft and well-defined lashes.

This vegan-certified, cruelty-free mascara combines mascara and lash treatment in one. Infused with caffeine, biotin, castor oil and arginine, it nourishes and conditions lashes while delivering natural flutter, volume, curl and definition.

The long-lasting, transfer-proof formula ensures that it won’t run or smudge throughout the day. A customer review praises its natural finish, stating, “I like a natural-looking mascara, and this is great. I’ve tried so many over the decades, but this one is really nice, goes on well and doesn’t ever clump.”

While some users were hoping for a more dramatic effect, this Amazon’s Choice product remains a great option for those seeking a lightweight, nourishing and long-lasting mascara. This Amazon's Choice recommended caffeine-infused vegan mascara is worth a shot.

If you’ve never been blessed with naturally long lashes, then the MAC Extended Play Lash Mascara could be your saving grace.

This mascara was tested by our Beauty and Wellness writer Akhila Thomas and she said: "The super thin wand and petite bristles allow you to get right to the root of the lashes so that you can really enhance the length from bottom to top. The small size of the brush also helps to avoid accidental brushes against your skin around the eyelashes. This is also helpful while applying mascara on your lower lashes to avoid mistakes.”

“While it might take a few coats to get the look you are after, you can be free from worry about the content of the product as it is tested by ophthalmologists. The thin formula and creamy texture feels light and it also comes off quite easily.”

There’s nothing worse than a mascara that gives you ‘panda eyes’, especially if you’re older, as it can also get stuck in the fine lines around your eyes. The Lash Power Mascara from Clinique can ease your worries as it stays on for 24 hours and stays through sweat, heat, rain and tears. 

The unique brush design effortlessly reaches even the tiniest lashes, creating a beautifully lengthened and defined look. The lightweight formula glides on smoothly, delivering natural-looking volume without clumping. It is buildable for added intensity without feeling heavy. Also, this mascara is ophthalmologist-tested, making it a gentle yet effective option for those with sensitive eyes.

Our Beauty and Wellness writer Akhila Thomas tested the The Lash Power Mascara from Clinique and she said: “This mascara can give a real glamourous look that can last throughout the day. This is a great investment to restore the youthful lift and definition of your lashes. The formula is lightweight and thin to allow layering without any clumping, flaking or smudging. It leaves your lashes looking fuller and more defined all day. However, the product is a bit smaller in quantity which may leave you having to restock more often."

Maybelline New York Lash Sensational in Very Black is the ultimate long-lashes mascara for older women, delivering volume, definition, and intense pigment for a striking yet sophisticated look. Featuring Maybelline’s iconic Layer-Reveal brush, this mascara is designed with six different bristle lengths to capture even the tiniest, previously unnoticed lashes. The result? A layered, multiplied effect that makes lashes appear longer, fuller, and more defined.

Unlike traditional formulas, Lash Sensational uses a low-wax composition, ensuring intense black pigmentation without clumping or sticking lashes together. This allows for a smooth, buildable application that enhances each lash without weighing them down. Tested on 238 real women, the results speak for themselves—90% agreed that this mascara reveals multiple layers of lashes, adds volume, and creates a multiplied lash effect.

For those seeking longer, thicker-looking lashes without sacrificing definition or comfort, Lash Sensational is a top choice. As the UK’s #1 mascara, it provides a long-wearing, high-impact finish that keeps lashes looking bold and beautiful all day long.

Customer reviews across the web highly praise Maybelline for being the best mascara they've ever used. The unique design of the brush makes for a dramatic effect, as one user comments: "This is the best mascara. It doesn't clump and lashes have plenty of volume." However, some individuals might find the brush a bit too big and hard on their eyes.

If you are looking for a mascara that will give your lashes a sculpted look with added length, definition and volume, then My Mascara from Sculpted by Aimee is sure to elevate your eye make-up with minimum effort and maximum glam.

Our Beauty and Wellness writer Akhila Thomas tested this mascara and she said: “My lashes got an instant definition as it added a lot of length, volume and colour. Since the wand curves in a way that allows you to apply the product from the root to the tips, it almost had the effect of a liner as well as my upper waterline looked darker too. The formula feels light and you can add as many layers as you wish without the risk of looking clumpy.” The mascara is also enriched with provitamin B5 that is gentle on the eyes, while conditioning and moisturising your lashes.

Max Factor’s False Lash Effect Supreme Recharge mascara instantly gives you fuller, thicker lashes, making them look seven times more voluminous. Plus, regular use makes your lashes look healthier in just four weeks.

The special brush coats every lash for a bold, defined look, while the keratin-rich formula helps keep your lashes strong.

This mascara is also refillable, helping reduce plastic waste by 70%. Instead of buying a whole new mascara, you can just replace the inside tube—saving money and helping the environment!

Apply using the tip of the brush for small lashes in the inner corners, then use the full brush to coat longer lashes for maximum volume and beautifully sculpted lashes.

Bear in mind we're linking to the refill that goes a gorgeous gold tube. Simply pop out the empty tube and brush, click in the new refill, and you're good to go!

Several customer reviews comment on this mascara having a gel-like consistency: "I was really surprised that it was a long smooth coating with a sort of smoothing gel feel," as one review describes. It's very effective at enhancing blonde eyelashes and gives a dramatic look. Albeit, this might not be ideal if you're looking for more of a natural look.

Rimmel Extra 3D Lash is one of the most popular volumising mascaras, highly rated with over 26,000 reviews and an Amazon’s Choice recommendation. Designed to define, lengthen, and curl lashes without clumping, it provides an effortless way to achieve a fuller, more lifted lash look.

The 3D brush ensures every lash is captured, coated, and lifted, while the smudge-proof formula in extreme black enhances your eyes without flaking or smearing. Infused with hydrating ingredients and Vitamin E, this mascara creates a smooth, healthy-looking finish, keeping lashes soft and conditioned.

At an affordable price, this is a great everyday mascara. While some users find it separates and curls beautifully without clumps, others mention it can be slightly clumpy. However, as a budget-friendly option, it remains a hugely popular choice for those looking for volume, definition, and long-lasting wear.

As you grow older, you might also become more wary about how products affect your eyes, and this mascara is perfect if you have sensitive eyes and lashes that could do with a little more definition and lift. From the sustainable brand Green People, this highly-rated Volumizing Mascara is organic and free from harmful ingredients. Ideal for sensitive eyes, this natural mascara is made up of various organic ingredients like Sunflower Oil, Carnauba Wax and Beeswax that have also been sustainably sourced. Customers who have been tearing up, experiencing watery eyes and red eyes when using mascara have stated that this product is very gentle, mild and easy on sensitive eyes.

Green People’s Volumizing Mascara was tested by our Beauty and Wellness writer Akhila Thomas who said: “This product is great for curling and lifting your lashes and the best part is that it holds well to maintain the effect for the whole day. Adding length to your lashes is probably not its best feature, but it definitely adds more colour and definition. It is also waterproof and feels light on your lashes.” 

Your worries about thinning lashes can end with this product that can give you a natural lift and fuller look, reminiscent of the 60s retro make-up looks you once wore.

The Revolution Big Lash Reloaded Volume Mascara was tested by our Digital Writer Arabella Horspool and she said: “As a regular user of Revolution's foundation, I decided to try their Makeup Revolution Big Lash Reloaded Volume Mascara, and I'm so glad I did. The wand has a large handle, which makes it easy to grip, and the brush is quite big, so you can see exactly where it's going.

I already have long lashes but as they are quite light, they aren't as visible when I'm wearing makeup, but the mascara highlights them nicely. It certainly makes my lashes look even longer but not clumped together.

The liquid is easy to apply and flows smoothly onto the lashes, but I find that due to the wide angle of the brush, it can sometimes be tricky to reach the smaller lashes towards the inner corner of the eye. However, it isn't waterproof, so it's easy to remove when needed.

If I'm going out for the day and want my mascara to stay in place, I use a waterproof mascara over my Revolution one, which holds it in place (although I've found that this is best done as soon as you apply a coat of the Revolution one—before it's fully dry—to prevent clumping).”

If you love (or loved) using fake lashes but find they’re just too heavy for your eyes now, then the 'They're Real' Mascara from Benefit can help you get back that look. Promising bigger and bolder-looking lashes, this mascara's long-wearing formula gives your lashes the fanned-out effect that fake lashes give. Reviews rave about its ability to add definition, volume and length without clumping. 

It is also waterproof, making it suitable for long wearing, and adds a dramatic lift to your lashes as well. However, reviewers also share that you need to apply it quickly if you are going for several layers, as it dries pretty fast. But this is made easy by a brush that catches enough product to complete both eyes with one dip if necessary, according to several customers. By enhancing the length, thickness and definition of your lashes, this mascara is perfect to complete your look for occasions that need you looking glamorous.

Trusted brand Elizabeth Arden has developed this vitamin-rich Grand Entrance Mascara for nourished and high-impact lashes. If you are looking for a product that not only enhances the look but also nourishes your lashes, then this mascara that is rich in olive and rice bran can keep your eyelashes in good condition. A reviewer with very sensitive eyes and who also suffers from allergies frequently shared that this mascara has been very gentle on her eyes while also being water-proof. 

With proven results, the alternating wedge-shaped discs and conical bristles help to separate your lashes and add definition. Some reviews warn about a clumpy finish, but this can be avoided by careful application and in terms of length and volume, this mascara does not disappoint. Some also found that the curved wand was difficult to manoeuvre around the lower lashes without smudging. So if this could be a concern for you, it might be worth looking at other options as well.

Bobbi Brown’s number one mascara, the Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye Mascara, is brilliant for building bold lashes from the root upwards. The flexible, medium size brush allows for you to layer it up without going clumpy.

This mascara was tested by our Beauty and Wellness writer Akhila Thomas and she said: “The wand and brush is absolutely brilliant for separating the lashes while also adding length and definition. My lashes looked naturally more defined and luscious after just a single coat. The formula is not too thick which makes it easier to apply more layers.

The raven black shade that is amplified by the kohl-pigmented formula helps to make your natural eye colour pop. If you are looking to flaunt a smoky eye look that does not need to be retouched every now and then, then this mascara can help you get the look that will have your eyes looking glamorous through sweat, water and humidity."

As a mascara that can leave you with fabulous lashes while also nourishing them from the roots to strengthen them, the IT Cosmetics Superhero Super Black Mascara is a great option for mature women.

Our Beauty and Wellness writer Akhila Thomas tested this mascara and she said: “The wand definitely makes things easier, with the brush catching each and every one of your lashes with the product. The final result is long, defined and voluminous lashes making it great for those with sparse lashes The formula is enriched with polymers, collagen and biotin which helps to strengthen and condition. "