Your morning ritual hits a wall when a dried-out wand leaves your lashes clumped and uneven. Achieving that fanned-out, dark finish feels impossible without the right formula.
You deserve a cleaner way to define your eyes. These best vegan mascaras 2018 picks prove you can achieve bold, striking volume without relying on traditional industry standards.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize ophthalmologist-tested formulas if your eyes tend to react to new makeup.
- Check the ingredient list for plant fibers if your primary goal is added length.
- Choose smudge-proof or waterproof labels if you live in humid climates or have oily lids.
- Confirm if the brush is fiber or molded plastic based on whether you prefer separation or intense coating.
- Consider travel-sized versions first to verify the formula works for your specific lash type.
| Minimalist Waste Champion |  |
Solid Vegan Plastic-Free Mascara | Entirely plastic free | Highly sustainable formula | Minimalist design | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Gentle Daily Performer |  |
Poppy Austin Organic Black Mascara | Hypoallergenic formula | Strong waterproof hold | Organic sourcing | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Budget Volume King |  |
Essence Lash Princess False Lash | Serious volume boost | Excellent lash separation | Cruelty free formula | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Soft Volume Enhancer |  |
Pacifica Vegan Collagen Fluffy Mascara | Plant fiber formula | Lightweight feel | Cruelty free | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Delicate Eye Specialist |  |
Gaya Cosmetics Sensitive Eyes Mascara | Ophthalmologist tested | Non irritating formula | Buildable application | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Smudge Proof Guardian |  |
Sandstone Scandinavia Hypoallergenic Mascara | Sweat resistant finish | Great lash separation | Hypoallergenic base | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Clean Beauty Icon |  |
ILIA Limitless Lash Mascara | Long wear time | Conditioning lash ingredients | Precision application | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Travel Ready Essential |  |
Pacifica Mini Stellar Gaze Mascara | Convenient travel size | Mineral based ingredients | Ophthalmologist tested | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Instant Lift Expert |  |
Pacifica Activist Volume Curl Mascara | Plant wax formula | Sustainable glass packaging | Curling power | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Clean Drugstore Staple |  |
Covergirl Lash Blast Cleantopia Mascara | Accessible drugstore option | High volume impact | Smudge proof wear | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Solid Vegan Plastic-Free Mascara
If you want to reduce your environmental footprint, this is your best option. It skips the traditional tube and brush system entirely, acting as a zero-waste solution for the conscious consumer.
The formula offers a clean application for those who prefer a back-to-basics approach. Just keep in mind that the lack of a built-in wand means you will need to supply your own applicator brush to get the look you want.
- Brand Name:Solid
- Formula Type:Vegan
- Additional Feature:Eliminates plastic waste
- Additional Feature:Compact design
- Additional Feature:Eco friendly ingredients
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Poppy Austin Organic Black Mascara
This mascara manages to combine organic ingredients with a reliable, waterproof finish. It is an excellent pick if you prioritize natural sourcing without sacrificing the staying power needed for a long day.
It performs well under pressure, but the waterproof nature means you should reach for a decent oil-based cleanser when the day ends. It does not budge, which can make removal a bit of a project.
- Brand Name:Poppy Austin
- Formula Type:Organic waterproof
- Size Volume:0.31 Fl Oz
- Additional Feature:Gentle on skin
- Additional Feature:Long lasting wear
- Additional Feature:Rich black pigment
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Essence Lash Princess False Lash
You get a dramatic, false-lash effect without the high price tag or animal ingredients. The fiber brush does an incredible job of separating your lashes while building impressive volume with every stroke.
It is a true workhorse, yet the formula can be slightly heavy if you apply too many coats. Stick to one or two layers for the best result.
- Brand Name:Essence
- Formula Type:Volumizing fiber
- Product Count:1
- Additional Feature:Paraben free
- Additional Feature:Oil free
- Additional Feature:Clump free brush
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Pacifica Vegan Collagen Fluffy Mascara
This mascara focuses on creating full, fluffy lashes by utilizing plant-based fibers. It feels lighter than traditional volumizing products, making it a great choice if you dislike that crunchy, stiff feeling.
The wand is designed to grab every lash, though it might require a bit of patience to build up the thickness. It provides a natural, soft look that works perfectly for the office.
- Brand Name:Pacifica
- Formula Type:Collagen infusion
- Size Volume:0.24 oz
- Additional Feature:Thickens and lengthens
- Additional Feature:Fluffy lash effect
- Additional Feature:Vegan ingredients
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Gaya Cosmetics Sensitive Eyes Mascara
If your eyes react to everything, this hypoallergenic formula is a safe haven. It provides a buildable look that manages to lengthen without causing any irritation or stinging.
The finish is designed to be subtle and defined rather than overly dramatic. It is the perfect daily companion if you prefer an understated, polished look over bold, clumpy volume.
- Brand Name:Gaya Cosmetics
- Formula Type:Hypoallergenic
- Additional Feature:Suitable for sensitive eyes
- Additional Feature:Natural appearance
- Additional Feature:Cruelty free
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Sandstone Scandinavia Hypoallergenic Mascara
Humidity and sweat are no match for this smudge-proof formula. It excels at keeping your lashes looking clean and lengthened throughout the entire day, even in challenging conditions.
The wand is specifically shaped to ensure precise lash separation. While it holds up beautifully against moisture, it remains easy to wash off with warm water at the end of the day.
- Brand Name:Sandstone Scandinavia
- Formula Type:Hypoallergenic
- Additional Feature:Smudge proof
- Additional Feature:Lengthening effect
- Additional Feature:Ideal for sensitive eyes
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ILIA Limitless Lash Mascara
This is a high-performing choice that offers a 12-hour wear time while actively conditioning your lashes. It is like a serum and a mascara combined into one elegant tube.
The brush is unique, featuring two sides to help you lift and curl with precision. It stays put, though the formula is slightly thinner than traditional waxes, so it may not provide extreme, thick volume.
- Brand Name:ILIA
- Formula Type:Conditioning clean
- Additional Feature:Smudge resistant
- Additional Feature:Lifts and separates
- Additional Feature:Safe for sensitive eyes
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Pacifica Mini Stellar Gaze Mascara
This travel-sized option gives you the same mineral-based benefits as the full-size version in a package that fits anywhere. It is an ideal companion for your gym bag or carry-on.
The formula provides a solid balance of length and strength. Because the tube is small, it is great for quick touch-ups while you are out and about.
- Brand Name:Pacifica
- Formula Type:Mineral
- Additional Feature:Strengthening formula
- Additional Feature:Lightweight
- Additional Feature:Vegan friendly
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Pacifica Activist Volume Curl Mascara
Housed in a sustainable glass bottle, this mascara uses plant waxes to lock in a curl that lasts. If your lashes tend to fall flat, this will give them a much-needed lift.
It provides a decent amount of volume without weighing the hair down. The brush is designed to grab the root of your lashes, acting like a corset for your fringe to hold everything in place.
- Brand Name:Pacifica
- Formula Type:Volumizing wax
- Size Volume:0.24 oz
- Additional Feature:Instant curling
- Additional Feature:Vegan brush
- Additional Feature:Ophthalmologist tested
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Covergirl Lash Blast Cleantopia Mascara
This mascara brings a clean, vegan formula to the accessible drugstore aisle. It creates a bold, volumized look that rivals more expensive options, making it a reliable pick for your makeup kit.
The formula is designed to be smudge-proof, which is a rare treat for a standard volumizing mascara. It performs reliably, though the brush is quite large and takes a moment to master.
- Brand Name:Covergirl
- Formula Type:Volumizing vegan
- Product Count:1
- Additional Feature:Extreme black pigment
- Additional Feature:Clean ingredients
- Additional Feature:Smudge resistant
Frequently Asked Questions
Does vegan mascara smudge more easily than traditional brands?
Modern vegan formulas perform just as well as their counterparts. While some early versions struggled with longevity, current plant-based waxes provide excellent hold. If you notice smudging, it is often due to the oils in your eye cream. Apply your moisturizer well before your makeup to ensure a clean, dry base.
How do I remove vegan mascara without damaging my lashes?
Use a gentle oil cleanser or micellar water to break down the formula. Soak a cotton pad and hold it against your closed eyelid for thirty seconds. This method allows the product to dissolve fully. Avoid rubbing, which can weaken your lashes and lead to premature breakage.
Are fiber-based vegan mascaras safe for contact lens wearers?
Fiber mascaras can sometimes cause irritation if loose particles fall into your eyes. If you wear contact lenses, look for formulas that lock the fibers into a gel base. These formulas keep the fibers contained so they stay on your lashes. You get the added length without the debris.
Can I find a truly waterproof vegan mascara?
Yes, many brands now offer long-wear options that resist sweat and humidity. These formulas often use fruit-derived waxes to create a protective barrier. Be prepared to use a dedicated makeup remover for these products. Standard face wash rarely removes them completely.
Why does my mascara dry out so quickly?
Most mascaras dry out because air enters the tube during application. Avoid pumping the wand in and out, as this forces air into the bottle and accelerates the evaporation of the formula. Instead, swirl the wand inside the tube to pick up product. This simple habit will extend the life of your mascara significantly.
