For those looking for a softer or more natural eye makeup look, brown mascara is becoming increasingly popular, with brands such as L’Oreal Paris, Glossier, Hourglass, YSL and even Lush all offering up alternatives to the classic black hue. 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 make-up artist Pamela Cochrane, who just so happens to be behind some of Lana del Rey’s most iconic looks.
“It can also make the eyes appear brighter and more youthful,” she says, which is why brown mascaras are a staple in many a makeup bag.
Just a few years ago it was much trickier to find a good range of mascara formulations in brown, and I would know – as a fair skinned and freckly redhead, I’ve exclusively been wearing brown mascaras for the past few years. Nowadays there is an almost overwhelming variety of formulations and price points to choose from, which is why I’ve collated the best brown mascaras below.
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The best brown mascaras for 2026 are:
- Best overall – Lisa Eldridge kitten lash mascara in burnt umber: £29, Libertylondon.com
- Best budget buy – L’Oreal Paris panorama mascara in brown: £13.99, Boots.com
- Best waterproof – No7 pro artist instant impact waterproof volumising mascara in brown: £17.95, Boots.com
- Best for volume – YSL lash clash extreme volume mascara in brown: £33, Lookfantastic.com
- Best for length – Tower 28 makewaves lengthening and volumizing mascara in drift: £20, Sephora.co.uk
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