The Best Waterproof Eye Makeup

Photo: Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images

Tears flowing at a sad movie or your best friend’s wedding are expected, but you don’t want your eye makeup doing the same thing. Waterproof eye cosmetics should be in the beauty arsenal of every gal who wants to look fresh as a daisy during weepy occasions and in steamy summer weather. A number of waterproof eye products get the thumbs-up from beauty experts.

Mascara

When “Good Housekeeping” magazine tested 12 mascaras for their waterproof properties, Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof Mascara came out on top. In fact, this lash enhancer is so superior at shielding water and preventing smudges, it was the official mascara for the 2008 U.S. Olympic synchronized swimming team. These gals must look stunning popping out of the pool, so this mascara is sure to beat back a few tears and beads of sweat. “Allure” magazine offers other good bets: CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Blasting Waterproof Mascara, L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Waterproof Mascara and Estee Lauder Sumptuous Waterproof Bold Volume Lifting Mascara.

Eyeliner

Waterpoof mascara is only half the battle when it comes to cry-proof lashes. You also need a liner that will resist moisture. “InStyle” magazine gives its approval to MAC’s gel liner for its melt-proof qualities, while “Allure” recommends Smashbox Limitless Liquid Liner Pen as a superior waterproof liner. “Good Housekeeping” put waterproof eyeliners to the test, too, and gave the gold star to Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner. The testers raved about its ability to adhere to the skin without smudging or smearing when wet.

Eyeshadow

The key to eyeshadow that won’t melt into a mess is starting with a waterproof primer. “InStyle” recommends NARS eyeshadow base to lock your shadow in place. Pick a cream-to-powder shadow to keep it from migrating, recommends “Cosmopolitan.” Or dust on some light translucent powder after applying your shadow to secure it on your lids. Go easy on the shadow. “Cosmopolitan” suggests applying several thin layers instead of piling on the shadow. You’ll look fresher, even in high humidity or a drenching rainstorm.

Tips

For an extra dose of waterproof insurance, skip the mascara on your bottom lashes. You’ll look more natural and will have less smearing to worry about. Because waterproof eye makeup does its job so well, it can be a challenge to remove the stuff. But guess what? “Good Housekeeping” tested waterproof eye makeup removers, too. Almay Moisturizing Eye Makeup Remover Pads was voted the best. And you won’t shed a single tear about the price. At a cost of just 15 cents per eye, it’s a winner in the budget-friendly category, too.