For those seeking a softer or more natural eye makeup look, brown mascara has surged in popularity, with brands such as L’Oreal Paris, Glossier, Hourglass, YSL, and even Lush offering alternatives to classic black. Opting for one of the best brown mascaras can “add definition to the lashes, without overpowering the face or making it obvious you’re wearing mascara,” explains international makeup artist Pamela Cochrane, who has crafted iconic looks for Lana Del Rey.
“It can also make the eyes appear brighter and more youthful,” she adds, which is why brown mascaras are a staple in many makeup bags.
Just a few years ago, finding a good range of brown mascara formulations was much trickier. As a fair-skinned and freckly redhead, I have exclusively worn brown mascaras for years. Today, there is an almost overwhelming variety of formulations and price points to choose from, which is why I have collated the best brown mascaras below.
The best brown mascaras for 2026 are:
- Best overall: Lisa Eldridge kitten lash mascara in burnt umber – £29
- Best budget buy: L’Oreal Paris panorama mascara in brown – £14
- Best waterproof: No7 pro artist instant impact waterproof volumising mascara in brown – £18
- Best for volume: YSL lash clash extreme volume mascara in brown – £33
- Best for length: Tower 28 makewaves lengthening and volumizing mascara in drift – £20
1. Lisa Eldridge kitten lash mascara in burnt umber – Best brown mascara overall
With a soft yet warm brown hue, Lisa Eldridge’s kitten lash mascara in burnt umber was easily the best brown mascara I tried and the one I have continued to wear since testing. Much of that comes down to its multitasking ability. Unlike others that focus solely on volume or length, this formula defines, curls, and lifts lashes without feeling heavy or crunchy.
It has a slightly reddish undertone that complemented my auburn hair while still reading as brown. With no smudging, flaking, or clumping, it was pretty much faultless. At £29, it is on the pricier side, but the sleek gold packaging and well-designed wand make it worth the extra expense. It is water-resistant rather than waterproof, yet it stayed in place during a workout and in the rain. Removal was easy with micellar water or eye makeup cleanser. The only negative was that it could sometimes pick up too much product at the end of the wand, especially on first uses, so wipe the brush on the tube to avoid applying too much.
2. L’Oreal Paris panorama mascara in brown – Best budget brown mascara
If you want to spend no more than £15 on a mascara, the L’Oreal Paris panorama mascara is the best budget brown mascara I tested. It is not only one of the most affordable but also has one of my favourite wands. The wand tapers towards the end, making it easy to reach the corners of your lashes and coat bottom lashes. The bristles catch each lash, providing separation, length, and volume.
This mascara is drier in a good way, not dispensing too much product. It feels lightweight and has a buildable formula that avoids clumping. One coat gives a natural look, while two amp up the impact. The only negatives are that it is not vegan-friendly or cruelty-free, and it is one of the darker brown hues, which may not suit everyone.
3. No7 pro artist instant impact waterproof volumising mascara in brown – Best waterproof brown mascara
No7’s pro artist instant impact volumising mascara is available in waterproof and regular formulations, both equally good. I tested the waterproof version through a sweaty workout and rain showers, and it did not smudge, flake, or move. The thinner wand coats lashes evenly for a natural look. However, given its name, it was not as volumising as expected, adding definition but little curl or volume. Still, it is a reliable waterproof brown mascara. It is well priced at £17.95, but Boots often runs deals that bring it to £10 or less.
4. YSL lash clash extreme volume mascara in brown – Best volumising brown mascara
With a large fluffy wand, YSL’s lash clash extreme volume mascara adds immediate volume and impact. Several light layers work better than one thick coat to avoid clumping. Two coats were the sweet spot for me, with an extra layer for nights out. Even with multiple layers, lashes felt soft and feathery without being weighed down.
The formula lasted over 10 hours without smudging or flaking. However, it was one of the trickier formulations to remove, requiring a dedicated bi-phase eye makeup remover and several passes. It may not be best for sensitive eyes.
5. Tower 28 makewaves lengthening and volumizing mascara in drift – Best lengthening brown mascara
Tower 28’s makewaves mascara provides excellent length from a vegan and cruelty-free formula. It has a natural finish but can be built up without looking spidery. It feels lightweight, does not flake or smudge, and is easy to remove with any cleanser, making it ideal for sensitive eyes. The curved wand may take some getting used to, but it can be flipped to coat lower lashes evenly.
6. Beauty Pie wrap star tubing mascara in classic brown – Best tubing brown mascara
Beauty Pie’s wrap star is a standout tubing mascara. Tubing formulas coat lashes in water-resistant polymer tubes, making removal easy with just warm water—no rubbing or dedicated remover needed. This is great for sensitive eyes or oily eyelids. The mascara did not budge or flake and stayed on until removed. It works well for lengthening and separating lashes, though it does not add much volume. The slightly darker brown adds definition without being harsh, making it a favourite everyday brown mascara.
7. Lush naked mascara in earth – Best solid brown mascara
Lush’s solid mascara is an eco-friendly choice that comes with three separate wands, allowing you to switch between looks. At £12, it is affordable and vegan-friendly. It takes some trial and error to use—lightly wet the tip of the brush before placing it into the mascara. Use less water than you think to avoid mess. On lashes, it feels nourishing rather than dry or flaky, and it is easy to remove. The finish is subtle, making it more of an everyday or no-makeup makeup style.
8. Hourglass unlocked instant extensions mascara in espresso – Best luxury brown mascara
Hourglass’s tubing mascara is a top luxury pick. It can be removed with warm water and has a beautiful brown hue that complements blue eyes, auburn hair, and fair complexions. It lengthens, separates, and curls lashes with a precise brush that works on top and bottom lashes. The premium price reflects the quality of the weighty tube and intricate wand. It is also vegan-friendly and cruelty-free.
9. Kiko maxi mod mascara in brown – Best brown mascara for lower lashes and precision
For those who struggle with lower lashes or need precision, KIKO’s maxi mod mascara is a game changer. The unique wand allows for precise application without smudging under the eyes. It makes lashes look thick and separated. As it is waterproof, it takes more effort to remove, but the reasonable price and availability in other fun shades (plum, electric blue, metallic green) make it a great choice.
Your questions about brown mascara answered
What is the best brown mascara?
My favourite overall is the Lisa Eldridge kitten lash mascara, as it defines, curls, and lifts all in one, leaving a fluttery and lightweight effect. For volume, choose YSL lash clash extreme volume mascara. For lengthening, Tower 28’s makewaves wand is best. For budget, L’Oreal Paris panorama mascara is my go-to.
How I tested brown mascara
I applied the same number of coats (one then two) to my natural lashes over several days, assessing staying power, ease of use, and value for money. I noted clumping, smudging, flaking, and removal difficulty.
How to choose the right shade of brown mascara for fair skin?
“For fair skin, a softer brown works best as it looks more natural and flattering,” says Pamela Cochrane. “Choose a slightly warmer or chestnut-toned brown to brighten the eyes. Very dark browns can appear almost black and feel harsh against lighter colouring.”
How to choose the right shade of brown mascara for your eye colour?
“For blue, green, or light grey eyes, a warm brown mascara makes the eyes pop,” says freelance makeup artist Lucy Meyer. “For darker blue or brown eyes, a brown black is a softer alternative to black. For grey-haired beauties, a brown black or ash brown mascara gives subtle enhancement while looking natural.”
