This Underhyped Makeup Brand Makes the Best $5 Mascaras—I Swear By These 4

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(Image credit: @shawnasimonee)

This might be a weird way to start this article, but even as a beauty editor, I don't consider myself a mascara connoisseur. In fact, I don't spend more than a few minutes putting on mascara, and I don't layer on too many coats. It's appalling, I know. Honestly, I prefer mascara that gets the job done quickly and doesn't leave me feeling like I need to apply a thousand coats or use the best lash curler money can buy to achieve the look I'm going for. One drugstore-priced brand, in particular, aligns with my mascara values. Most of its formulas cost only $5 but create a gorgeous, natural length and lift on the lashes. Enough said, right? Well, if you're not convinced, let me first tell you that I'm talking about Essence Cosmetics—the hero drugstore brand that delivers quality at a low price. You may even remember when the brand's Lash Princess mascaras went viral for this exact reason.

While Essence now offers more mascara options beyond its Lash Princess formulas, I thought I would test a few more out and narrow down my favorites. After all, I know I can't be the only one who likes spending only $5 on mascara while still ensuring I'm buying the best formula. Keep scrolling if you're a kindred spirit and vibe with this sentiment. I'm sharing my thoughts on all of Essence's best mascaras below.

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(Image credit: @shawnasimonee)

Volume Booster Lash Primer

Lash Like A Boss Instant Volume & Length Mascara

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(Image credit: @shawnasimonee)

Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara

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(Image credit: @shawnasimonee)

Bye Bye Panda Eyes! Tubing Mascara

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(Image credit: @shawnasimonee)

Another Volume Mascara, Just Better

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(Image credit: @shawnasimonee)

More Mascaras I Love

Up Next: Celebrity Makeup Artists Just Told Me to Buy This Mascara at Target

Shawna Hudson
Associate Beauty Editor

Shawna Hudson has worked in editorial for over six years, with experience covering entertainment, fashion, culture, celebrities, and her favorite topic of all, beauty. She graduated from California State University, Fullerton, with a degree in journalism and has written for other publications such as Bustle, The Zoe Report, Byrdie, Elite Daily, Mane Addicts, and more. She is currently an associate beauty editor at Who What Wear and hopes to continue feeding her (completely out-of-control) beauty obsession as long as she can. Stay up to date on her latest finds on Instagram @shawnasimonee.