I think it would be helpful to let you know the background before I tell you my favorite mascara. I have long lashes, but they are straight, light brown, and thin. The main thing I need from my mascara is a darker color (brown or black brown is best), more voluminous, and to hold a curl. I do not do waterproof. Ever. I never need it! Plus, I can't stand those plastic bristles. What genius thought that up? They clump like crazy! I have to have the traditional spoolie-type wand.
Ok, on to my favorite mascara: I love
Loreal Full Definition Voluminous in Black-Brown. That is the best drugstore brand I've ever used. I haven't really tried tons of mascaras. I've done Maybelline Great Lash, Clinique High Impact, Clinique Lash Doubling, Almay, and Maybelline Full N Soft and this is my favorite out of all of those.
Why I like it:
1. It's easy to apply and isn't clumpy
2. It comes in black-brown, which is a big plus
3. Doesn't smuge.
4. Easy to remove.
5. Holds a curl.
6. Doesn't flake.
However, I cannot purchase it any more, as I'm only buying cruelty-free cosmetics now.
I am currently trying
Tarte's Lights, Camera, Lashes! I like it so far, I think I'll like it even more a few weeks in when it dries a bit. I don't like the smell yet, but hey, it's better than having an artificial fragrance, right? I really like it so far.
Why I like it:
1. It's healthy for my lashes
2. It's natural
3. It's cruelty-free
4. It holds a curl
5. It volumizes
6. It darkens
7. Doesn't flake
I'm just sad it doesn't come in brown or even black-brown.
I have lots of mascaras I want to try: Physician's Formula Organic Wear Fake Out being one, and maybe some of the NYX mascaras, as they came out with new colored ones. We'll see! I'm still working on it!