11 Best Paraben-Free Mascaras To Make Your Eyes Pop
Get a full, fluttery effect with these natural, waterproof & affordable mascaras.
Diane Howard, RN, is a certified cosmetic nurse and the founder of Esthetic Finesse. She has received extensive training under esteemed physicians and nurses in the valley. After recognizing that esthetic medicine demands a creative mastery akin to that found in other art forms, Diane established Esthetic Finesse to showcase her exclusive brand of beauty services.
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Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
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Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
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It is truly a mess when your eye makeup products start harming the skin around your eyes when you only want to look fab with dense lashes. Since mascaras are a staple product, it feels incomplete as it adds the extra flair your eyes need. But sometimes, they tend to harden the lashes too much, make them break off, or worse still, cause reactions that even you didn’t see coming. Well, getting the best paraben-free mascaras is your answer if you are still stuck in a dilemma of finding safe beauty options.
Why not pick something good for yourself and our planet? Parabens in makeup products are still under debate as many question their impact on hormones. They may sometimes trigger other side skin issues or, even worse, contribute to the development of tumors. It is not worth the risk to continue using ingredients that have the potential to cause harm to you in the long run. That is why we have prepared a list of 11 paraben-free mascaras that will help you look glamorous, all while knowing that your skin and eyes are safe.
In This Article
Get Gorgeous Lashes With Our Fav 11 Paraben-Free Mascaras
1. Best Fade-Proof:essence Lash Princess Sculpted Volume Mascara – Black
Make your lashes look long and dramatic with this paraben-free clean mascara that is formulated to sculpt each lash and make your eye make up look absolutely gorgeous! The brush is made of fiber bristles and is slightly tapered so that it can coat each lash with the product and add volume and definition to your lashes. Never have to worry about your mascara running, fading or clotting up as this product offers long wear, making this perfect for those who do not have the time for constant retouches. Ditch the hassle of using fake lashes to get dreamy eyes as this mascara gives you lash extension in a simpler manner. And apart from being free of parabens, this also has no gluten and is free of animal cruelty.
Pros
- Gives a sculpted look
- Tapered fiber brushes for easy application
- Gives volume
- Gives the look of faux lashes
- Does not clot
- Does not fade away
- Does not flake
- Long-lasting wear
- No gluten
- No animal cruelty
Cons
- The product might appear to be too dry for some.
Pro Tip2. Best Sweat-Proof:Endlessly Beautiful All Natural Mascara – Black
What is better than a mascara that just makes your lashes look better? A vegan mascara that actually makes your lashes look and feel better in the long term, of course. This organic mascara is smooth to apply and lends instant volume to your lashes by thickening and lengthening each of them, without flaking, smudging, or clumps. If you have sensitive skin, this paraben-free mascara is your best friend as it is non-toxic and is free of harmful ingredients too. It nourishes and moisturizes your lashes with ingredients such as chamomile and vitamin E. This not only lasts long but is also water and sweat proof, which means you can wear it every day and take this mascara for a swing even when you hit the pool or the gym. Being free of gluten and animal cruelty are added benefits of using this mascara.
Pros
- Thickens lashes
- Adds volume
- Long lasting
- Smooth to apply
- Water resistant
- Sweat-resistant
- No gluten
- No animal cruelty
- Vegan
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with sensitive eyes
Pro Tip3. Best Volumizing:Urban Decay Perversion Mascara
This paraben-free mascara promises to give you bigger and bold lashes. The product is hyper-pigmented to give you a bold black color and the criss-cross bristles of the applicator wand ensure the lashes are lengthened. Designed to volumize, this mascara coats each lengthened lash separately to give you a well-defined look. No clumps ensure a clean finish too. The mascara is super creamy that lets you build volume by applying multiple coats and does not dry up or appear flaky. One of its ingredients called hairdensyl also ensures that your lashes are conditioned and nourished as it contains a mix of proteins and amino acids. Meanwhile, honey adds hydration and a combination of hydrolyzed elastin and collagen stimulate the follicles of your lashes so that they naturally grow in length. You can also check out this reviewer’s experience in this YouTube video to get a detailed review about this product.
Pros
- Hyper pigmented
- Great bold color
- Volumizing
- Lengthening
- No clumps
- Creamy texture
- Buildable volume
- Full bodied texture
- No animal cruelty
Cons
- Contains gluten
4. Best Hypoallergenic:Fifth & Skin Naturlash Mineral Mascara
Those with sensitive skin and eyes often struggle to find the right kind of cosmetics but your quest for a good paraben-free mascara that is also suitable for your skin ends here. Made with natural ingredients, this paraben-free mascara is hypoallergenic and therefore, suitable for most people. So, if you have issues such as blepharitis, sensitive eyes, dry eyes or even struggle to wear mascara with your contact lens, then this is the right mascara for you. Not only is the application of this mascara smooth and easy, it also uses a lengthening formula to make your lashes look nicer. Formulated with botanicals with no toxic ingredients, the mascara is also free of GMO, animal cruelty, gluten, and preservatives. Prolonged use can also lead to better looking lashes that are longer and thicker. Plus, this can double up as an eyeliner by simply using a different brush. With so many benefits, this one has to be on your list of favorite mascaras without paraben.
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Hypoallergenic
- Can be worn with contact lens
- No GMO
- No gluten
- No preservatives
- No mercury
- No petroleum
- No dye
- Water resistant
- Doubles up as eyeliner
Cons
- May create clumps in some cases
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 781 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
5. Best Anti-Aging:PÜR Fully Charged Mascara
There is nothing better than a mascara packed with anti-aging powers and this paraben-free mascara is just that. While the mascara is infused with peptides that help in preventing the early appearance of lines and wrinkles around the sensitive area of your eyes, this product also does not forget its main job, which is to give you fabulous lashes. The applicator ensures that each of your lashes is coated properly with the mascara so that they look thick and long. This paraben and sulfate-free mascara is also loaded with hydrating and nourishing ingredients such as ceretin complex, chamomile, aloe vera, shea butter, vitamin E, and sodium hyaluronate. An in-house test revealed that the mascara offered visible results immediately after application and retained its curl for long. Brownie points for also being free of animal cruelty, gluten, and BPA. Check out this tester’s experience of using this mascara in this YouTuber’s video.
Pros
- Anti aging benefits
- Smoothens creases
- Lengthens lashes
- Volumizes lashes
- Hydrates and nourishes
- No gluten
- Cruelty-free
- No BPA
- Contains peptides that reduces lines and wrinkles
- Clinically tested
Cons
- Might appear to be flaky for some
"This mascara's formula elongates lashes, giving them a fuller, more dramatic look. The well-designed applicator spoolie also ensures there are no clumps. This mascara also has good staying power, even through hot summer days. It's a good option for those seeking ethical beauty without sacrificing performance."
6. Best Waterproof:Pacifica Beauty Aquarian Gaze
Looking for a no-nonsense paraben-free mascara that also does the job of making your eyes look good? Pick this product that promises long wear and is also a paraben free waterproof mascara. Apply this mascara in the morning to get long, thick lashes that last you all day, even when you run short of time to make any retouches. This mascara is loaded with ingredients such as coconut oil, vitamin B, and kelp that hydrate and nourish your lashes. The wand is 100% vegan and its brushes softly separate your lashes so that each of them is coated with the mascara to make your peepers look beautiful. Forget worrying about using mascara on sensitive skin as the ingredients used in this product are natural and non toxic, while also being free of phthalates, silicone, mineral oil, and petrolatum. Check out a reviewer’s experience of using this clean beauty product in this YouTube video.
Pros
- Long lasting
- Waterproof
- Gives long and thick looking lashes
- 100% vegan wand
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Natural ingredients
- Non toxic
- No phthalates
- No silicone
- No mineral oil
- No petrolatum
Cons
- The texture of the product might feel a little dry for some.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 440 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
7. Best Lengthening:Physicians Formula Organic Wear Mascara
There cannot be a healthier and safer option than a product made by physicians and Physician’s Formula Organic Wear Mascara is exactly that. Made by a brand that propagates the concept of healthy beauty, this is a no-paraben mascara made up of pure ingredients that are of 100% natural origin and 70% organic. The list of ingredients boasts the goodness of aloe vera, orange juice, cucumber extracts, biopolymers of natural origin, rice protein, and tapioca starch. This mascara is also Ecocert certified. But the natural goodness in this product also gives you an amazing look for your lashes that help in defining each of them. With no clumping or smudging, enjoy this non-toxic, cleaner mascara without any worry. Brownie points for even making the applicator wand organic!
Pros
- Uses goodness of botanical and fruit extracts
- No clumping
- No synthetic preservatives
- No smudging
- Volumizing
- Lengthening
- No harsh chemicals
- Buildable
Cons
- Contains magnesium aluminium silicate
"This is a good chemical-free option. It's gentle on the eyes, doesn't clump, and the brand is cruelty-free too. The formula applies smoothly and is suitable for everyday wear."
8. Best For Matte Look:Honeybee Gardens Bellissima Volumizing Mascara
Get rich color and amazing-looking lashes with this paraben-free mascara formulated to give you extra oomph with volumized lashes. The product is light and does not clump or smudge, despite your busy schedule and hectic day. Plus this is certified free of animal cruelty and free of parabens and gluten, making this mascara a great choice for the planet and you. Get enhanced lashes that look full, beautiful, and black with this matte black formula that you can coat every single eyelash to give you that dream look. Wear this mascara to date night or a party and flaunt your bold lashes confidently.
Pros
- Rich color
- Matte black look
- Very light on lashes
- Does not clump
- Does not fade
- Quick-drying
- Certified cruelty free
- Certified free of glutens
- Gives a fuller look to the lashes
Cons
- Not suitable for those looking for a waterproof mascara
9. Best For Fake-Lash Effect:Pupa Milano Vamp! Waterproof Mascara
Look like a bombshell with this paraben-free mascara that also gives you volumized lashes to die for! The product is resistant to a host of agents such as water, humidity, and high temperature, which basically means that you will not have to worry about your mascara bringing you down as you strut about town living your best life. The unique formula adds dramatic volume to the lashes and gives them the effect of faux lashes without the hassles involved in using them. The soft and dense fibers that make up the bristles of the wand help in great application so that each lash is generously coated with product. But this balances looking good and feeling good as the mascara is not just free of parabens but is also tested safe by ophthalmologists. With so many benefits, this has to be one of your favorites.
Pros
- Intense volume
- Fake lash effect
- Water resistant
- Humidity resistant
- High temperature resistant
- Soft and dense bristles for effective application
- Tested safe by ophthalmologists
Cons
- Might be a little difficult to remove and might require eye make up remover
"I've repeatedly come back to this mascara, and for good reason. It keeps lashes separated without smudging or flaking throughout the day. The waterproof aspect holds up incredibly well, and a good quality remover is necessary to get rid of the lasting formula."
10. Best Allergy-Free:La Roche-Posay Toleriane Mascara Extension
If you have sensitive skin and eyes and have given up on finding a mascara that is not just free of parabens but is also suitable for your allergies, this mascara is going to be your new best friend. Designed by a dermatologist-recommended brand for those with ultra sensitive skin and allergies, this paraben-free mascara not only makes your lashes look gorgeous but also smoothens and strengthens them. The color covers each lash, adding lots of volume and making your eyelashes look visibly longer and thicker. The double-sided brush also helps in making application easy and effective. Being free of fragrance and being tested for allergies and by ophthalmologists are great features you’ll find in this mascara.
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Allergy-tested
- Tested by ophthalmologists
- Free of fragrance
- Smoothens and strengthens
- Double-sided brush for better application
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Some might find the product a little heavy on their lashes.
11. Best Clump-Free:CODE BEAUTIFUL VLM Volumising Lengthening Mascara
Get glossy, beautiful lashes that look voluminous in a giffy with this paraben-free mascara that is also infused with the goodness of vitamins and waxes. These natural elements nourish your eyelashes, keep them strong, and help them grow as well. You never have to worry about your mascara running at the gym with this mascara’s water resistant formula that has you covered. A brush with full bristles assures you of easy application to get longer, thicker eyelashes. No clumping and no flaking are great add ons too. Plus this is cruelty free and uses a vegan formula, making this mascara a conscious choice.
Pros
- Offers glossy look
- Volumizes
- Lengthens
- No clumping
- No flaking
- Cruelty free
- Vegan
- Travel-friendly
- Water resistant
- Nourishes with vitamins and wax
- Full bodied bristles on applicator brush
Cons
- Might take some time to dry
"This mascara delivers longer, fuller lashes without flaking or smudging, even when tested against a swim. Its non-sticky texture is comfortable to wear. Its smooth application and lash-separating brush are bonuses. It's a gentle mascara for a natural look that withstands everyday challenges."
Now that we have looked at the 11 best paraben free mascaras, here is how to pick the right one for yourself.
What To Look For In Paraben-Free Mascaras
- Ingredients
Check out the list of ingredients of every paraben-free mascara and try to also avoid ingredients such as alcohol, chemical preservatives, synthetic fragrances, and glutens. While most paraben-free mascaras are already a safe choice, you can also choose better by avoiding the above-mentioned ingredients. Additionally, try and invest in mascaras from recognized clean brands to be sure of their high-quality formulations.
- Duration of wear
While most conventional mascaras stay on for a few hours, there are many that are specifically designed to be long-lasting so that you do not have to worry about retouching if you have a busy day. Some also have added benefits such as not clumping and flaking, which help a mascara to stay on your lashes longer. Also look for fade-proof, transfer-proof, and tear-proof formulas.
- Infused with nourishing conditioners
Some mascaras are infused with plant and fruit extracts that not only make the product more beneficial but also help in keeping your lashes hydrated and conditioned. The common ingredients that help in improving the health of your lashes are aloe vera, vitamin E, and cucumber extracts.
- Kind of applicator wand
While most conventional mascaras have a basic wand or brush, some are also designed to make using the product better. Some have curved brushes for easier application while some have denser bristles and fibers so that the product can easily coat each eyelash. Some brushes are also completely vegan so that they can be picked without guilt by vegan users.
The Bottom Line
Traditional mascaras might tend to harden the lashes or even worse, make them break or fall off. If mascara is a staple in your everyday makeup routine, you should invest in the best paraben-free mascaras. These are safe for your eyes and will not cause any irritation. When it comes to non-toxic and natural mascaras, many brands are coming up with safe and super-effective options that have come a long way since their goopy days. The essence Lash Princess Sculpted Volume Mascara – Black stands out for its sculpted volume effect, providing a fuller and lifted look to the lashes, while the Pupa Milano Vamp! Waterproof Mascara can withstand water, sweat, and humidity. You can also try the Urban Decay Perversion Mascara for its long-lasting formula that delivers intense black volume and length to the lashes. The mascaras listed in this article give your lashes a sculpted look, add volume, and are waterproof, devoid of synthetic chemicals, and do not clump on application. Go through the ingredients list, the duration of wear, and the kind of applicator before investing in your next tube.
Why Trust Stylecraze?
The author, Srijani Roy Chowdhury, is a makeup enthusiast and writes well-researched product reviews for StyleCraze. She has curated this list of paraben-free mascaras for people who prefer avoiding this preservative in their makeup products. She conducted hours of research and an in-depth analysis of customer reviews, ingredients list of the products and the brand websites to prepare the list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are parabens in mascara bad?
Yes, parabens in mascara are harmful because they might disrupt endocrine, mess with your body’s hormones, and are likely to cause cancer.
Should an older woman wear paraben-free mascara on her bottom lashes?
Older women should not use paraben-free mascara on lower lashes as it will draw attention to spots and wrinkles and make them heavy.
Is it okay to wear paraben-free mascara every day?
Yes, it is safe to wear paraben-free mascara every day.
Can you wear paraben mascara if you have blepharitis?
No, wearing paraben mascara may cause inflammation and worsen your skin condition.
Are all natural mascaras paraben-free?
Yes, all-natural mascaras are paraben-free and made of organic, clean ingredients.
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