I've spent the best part of my beauty career perfecting my "no makeup" makeup look, and if I'm being honest, more often than not, this doesn't involve mascara. I've tried some of the best mascaras out there, from affordable mascaras to tubing formulas and even mascaras for sensitive eyes, but I find that they make my makeup look a little too "done". Well, that was the case until I discovered a small collection of natural-looking mascaras that took my "no makeup" makeup game to the next level.

It seems that brands are becoming more aware that some of us want fluttery, natural-looking lashes for everyday. Don't get me wrong, I love a volumising mascara from time to time, but when I'm getting ready for work in the morning, I want something that enhances my look, like a "your lashes but better" finish, you know?

So, I made it my mission to test some of the best formulas that promised a natural-looking finish, and these are the six mascaras that delivered. It's a small edit, but I can confirm that every single formula truly deserves a place on this list. Keep on scrolling for my top natural-looking mascaras on the market...

The Best Natural-Looking Mascaras, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall Mascara: Merit Clean Lash Mascara, £24
• Best Brown Mascara: Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash Mascara, £29
• Best Affordable Mascara: L'Oréal Paris Paradise Mascara, £13
• Best Mascara for a Fluttery Effect: Refy Lash Sculpt, £22
• Best Tubing Mascara: Blink Brow Bar Lash Lift Tubing Mascara, £26

1. Merit Clean Lash Mascara

This Merit Beauty formula is one of my most-used mascaras, as it's so great for daily wear. Not only does it look chic, but the tubing mascara lengthens and lifts every lash without budging. Although the brush isn't small, it is great at coating and separating each lash for that natural, fluttery look that I love so much. Plus, it can easily be removed with just a bit of warm water.

2. Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash Mascara

I love using a brown mascara for a "no makeup" makeup look, as it's just that little bit softer. This one from Lisa Eldridge is my favourite, as the warm brown hue looks simply stunning. The formula itself delivers a featherlight finish for a natural, almost sultry result, but you could also build it up a bit if you wanted to. It's a little more expensive than others on the market, but trust me, it's totally worth it.

3. L'Oréal Paris Paradise Mascara

We all know that L'Oréal mascaras are some of the best on the high street, and this is my personal favourite for an everyday look. Don't be afraid that it has castor oil in it. Trust me, it doesn't smudge and never feels greasy. The formula is actually a great option for sensitive eyes. The brush is ideal for lengthening and defining the lashes, and the fluttery effect always earns me compliments.

4. Refy Lash Sculpt

This Refy mascara broke the internet when it launched thanks to the unique wand. However, it truly is amazing at creating a natural-lash effect. It can take a little while to get used to applying it, but the curved shape means that the wand coats every single lash with not a single clump in sight. It lengthens, separates and lifts the lashes, awakening the whole eye area whilst making it look as if you're barely wearing any mascara. Genius.

5. Blink Brow Bar Lash Lift Tubing Mascara

Tubing mascaras are great as they don't smudge, but are so easy to remove. One of my favourites for a natural lash look is this one from Blink Brow Bar. It comes in two shades and really lifts and lengthens the lashes whilst keeping them looking soft and fluttery. It's the sort of mascara that will have people second-guessing whether you've had a lash lift or if your natural lashes are just that good. Don't worry, your secret is safe with me.

6. Makeup By Mario Master Mascara

I keep this mascara in my makeup bag at all times. The reason why? One coat gives a super natural, soft finish, but, if suddenly you're heading out in the evening and want a more statement makeup look, it's easily buildable for a false-lash effect. It's just a great all-rounder that I know I can rely on daily. Plus, it doesn't clump and never smudges. 10/10.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Out of all the makeup brands out there, Merit Beauty is at the top of my list. Its minimalistic and effortless approach to beauty (not to mention its extremely chic packaging) makes it a total staple in mine and my fellow beauty editors' makeup bags. I'm already a huge fan of Merit Clean Lash (£24), the brand's very first mascara. So when I heard that Merit was launching a new volumising mascara, Clean Volume (£24), my interest was immediately piqued. I've been testing the new mascara over the past couple of weeks, so scroll on for my thoughts on whether it deserves a spot in your makeup bag.

Merit Clean Volume Mascara

Clean Volume is a tubing mascara designed to volumise lashes without clumping. Whilst many volumising mascaras feature a large wand with long bristles, Clean Volume has a notably more nimble, flexible comb wand. As someone with deep-set, hooded eyes, this is a total game-changer, as so many bulky wands ultimately transfer product onto my lids or under my eyes. However, it doesn't compromise on volume. This small comb wand, however, catches every lash and deposits just the right amount of product as you sweep it through, helping to give you defined yet full lashes and plenty of length, too. No spidery lashes here.

The tubing formula means that not only does it withstand flaking, smudging or crumbling throughout the day, but it removes effortlessly with just warm water—it just slides off your lashes between your fingertips.

Before and After

As you can see, this mascara delivers on its promises of volumising, without looking heavy or spidery. This is just with one coat, but if you're after a more dramatic effect, it's easily layered up for more intensity without turning clumpy. I like to curl my lashes prior to applying my mascara, and if you have short or straight lashes, I'd recommend not skipping this step.

Clean Lash vs Clean Volume

If you're stuck between which formula to go for, or want to know if you need Clean Volume in your makeup bag too, there are a few key differences to know. Clean Lash delivers a fluttery, natural-looking look, and features a classic bristled wand that gives a feathery-looking flutter. IMO, it's the perfect everyday mascara.

Clean Volume, on the other hand, delivers a more defined yet volumised look. Think more sleek and spiky in the best way. The wand is also flexible in comparison and features tiny bristles that are small yet mighty at delivering the pigment to your lashes. Whichever one you go for, you now have the option of black or brown in each.

Personally, I can justify having both in my makeup bag. Clean Lash remains my favourite everyday mascara, but come evenings when I want a bolder eye look, I'll definitely be switching to Clean Volume for more drama.

My Verdict

Having now tested Clean Volume after the past couple of weeks, I have to say I'm impressed. I'm usually not one for volumising mascara formulas (I personally favour lengthening and curling mascaras), however, Merit Beauty's innovative brush has converted me. It makes it easy to get fuller lashes without running the risk of overloading with too much product, and I also love how long and defined it leaves my lashes, too. It feels light and flexible on my lashes, without feeling heavy like some mascaras do. Oh, and it's a total dream to remove at the end of the day; it just melts away in the shower. If you're in the market for a new mascara that delivers on volume, then I'd highly recommend it.

Shop Clean Volume:

Shop Clean Lash:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

They say that the eyes are a window to the soul, and I'd add that eye makeup is a reflection of style. Whether you're a makeup maximalist or minimalist, onlookers catch a glimpse of your creative persona via the wash of colour splashed across your eyelids or the whisper of smoky eyeliner rimming your orbs. Your eyes don't just say that you're warm, inviting or not in the mood for talking—they also say that you have a good enough understanding of colour theory to know that rich burgundy shadow makes your brown eyes pop or that you made the conscious choice to go mascara-free to let your lipstick do the talking.

Since I'm always looking to reinvent my eye makeup, one of my first references is the French—what with their mystique, eclectically chic clothes and effortless beauty. Though Parisian women may be best known for their statement red lips, French makeup artist Violette Serrat calls one of her latest ventures, the Violette_Fr Plume Eye Shadow, one of the most authentic to her lifestyle.

"In a way, Plume Eyeshadow might be the most French-inspired formula we’ve created yet," says Serrat, the artist and brand's founder. ("After Bisou Balm," she clarifies.) "I’ve always been obsessed with the eyes in old French cinema—nothing too perfect or overly 'done,'" she explains, "just this soft, lived-in sensuality that makes you look more like yourself, but with a little mystery." Yes, there are cream eye shadow sticks, liquid shadows, and powder formulas galore, but Serrat found herself floundering when she tried to look for something sheerer, more foolproof, and perfectly French-friendly: meaning you can truly swipe and go.

"I realised there was nothing on the market that gave you that feeling in an effortless, intuitive way," she tells Who What Wear. To fill the gap, her team hit the cosmetics lab to cook up a cream-to-powder texture that offered the blending ease she sought with the smoky, gauzy finish she craved. "It has this incredible melt-to-matte effect that fuses with the skin and creates a soft veil of colour instead of something harsh or flat," she explains. In short, they're inherently immune to mistakes. In Serrat's words, the resulting blue-tinned, dreamy shadows that look closer to a trick of the light than a makeup product are things you could "build, smudge, and wear instinctively." Sounds like a French reverie.

The "French Girl" Approach

"For me, the 'French girl' approach is really about restraint," says Serrat. Sheer washes of colour and diffused colour sound easy-breezy but are typically the result of several ultra-thin layers blended into oblivion by a highly trained makeup artist. "I wanted to create a formula you could literally swipe on with your finger in two seconds and go. If you’re spending an hour in front of the mirror trying to perfect your eye shadow, you’ve already lost that effortless feeling," she adds. Effortless beauty should be effortless, no?

5 Ways to Wear the Plume Eye Shadows

Yes, I dedicated an entire paragraph of this piece to the French approach to beauty, but the secret is scarily simple—messy, hurried and virtually technique-less. However, I'm an American interpreting French beauty, so naturally I'm making things a bit more complicated. Keep scrolling to see the five ways I'm manipulating this shadow this summer.

Watercolour Wash

The first, and most authentic French technique, is the smudge-and-go. Thanks to these hazy, sheer shadows, you can rub the pad of your finger onto the cream powder and muss it onto your lids for that hazy wash of colour. "One trick I love is working the shadow onto the volume of the eye," says Serrat, referencing the centre of the lid. "I add to the centre of the eyelid, then focus depth into the crease and along the lash line, stretching it out toward the outer corner of the eye," she explains. "It gives the eyes this alive, smoky look that feels cinematic and sensual without looking overworked."

Colour Used: Pluie Violette

Hazy Liner

One of my favorite ways to do eye makeup is to accent the lash line with a soft flick of eye shadow, not liner. It's softer, making it suitable for daytime, but it can also be intensified for a deeper look once the sun goes down. (Or anytime you want, it's your world.) " I love taking a small brush and pressing it along the upper and lower lash lines, almost like a soft liner, then winging it out slightly," says Serrat. "It gives the eyes definition and depth but in a much lighter way than a classic eyeliner."

Colour I Used: Charbon Fumé

Soft Smoke

While I love tracing a clean wing with these soft shadows, the formula envelopes the eye in a seductive fog when smudged into the lash line. "I’ll use a combination of fingers and a brush to add colour across the eyelid, concentrating more depth in the outer corner and tracing it along the upper and lower lash lines," says Serrat. "Then, I’ll softly blend additional colour just above the natural crease to create the illusion of wider, more open eyes," she adds. This, she says, is a great way to "open" hooded eyelids.

Colours Used: Charbon Fumé and Bois Brûlé

Flash of Light

Think of eye shadow as an outfit: You can play with layers until the look feels right. "I’ll swipe on a shimmer shade of Plume Eyeshadow and finish with tiny accents of Lune Liner in the corners of the eyes to catch the light as the face moves," says Serrat. "I never want it to feel 'full glam,'" she states. "It should feel spontaneous, like the makeup became part of you." The key to one of these effortless yet undeniably cool looks is stepping outside your comfort zone—you won't find anything new there. "Makeup should feel expressive, not restrictive," she muses.

Colour Shown: Pluie Violette

Halo Eyes

I love a sultry halo eye after the sun goes down, and these shadows are especially suited for the occasion. The blendable cream pigments are easy to smooth over the eyes in a sheer wash, which creates a solid base for the rest of the look. With a small blending brush, I gently apply my deeper shade (in this case, Bois Brûlé) to the inner and outer corners of the eye, sweeping toward the centre but leaving a blank space in the middle. (Pro tip: Blend out any harsh edges with your fingers for a smoother look.) Selecting a shimmery accent shade, I'll coat the pad of my fingertip in the sparkling shadow and swipe it over the centre a few times to build intensity. From there, you can blend any rough lines with a fluffy brush—but don't overdo it, as the small imperfections are what keep these looks interesting.

Colours I Used: Orchidée Céleste and Bois Brûlé

More Effortless Single Eye Shadows to Try

If you've landed here, you might be wondering what eyeliners are best for brown eyes. As a brown-eyed beauty editor, I've usually played it safe with brown eyeliners and classic black eyeliner pencils to frame my eyes. However, in the spirit of trying new things, I've been wanting to experiment with some new shades on my eyes. So, I decided to ask legendary celebrity makeup artist Lisa Eldridge MBE for her advice on the best shades that suit brown eyes the best.

What Eyeliners Suit Brown Eyes?

"Brown eyes are diverse, so it depends on what shade they are," says Eldridge. "They can have a lot of warmth in them, or they could be more deep and neutral. For really dark brown eyes, I would use something like my Seamless Glide Eye Pencil in Betina, as that cool silver sparkle will offset the dark brown depth," she says. "For a dark brown eye that’s warm, shades like Enigmatic Olive would be great, as the golden pearls would highlight any golden or hazel reflections in the eye," she says.

Overall, it depends on the effect you're going for. Personally, I find brown liners great as a natural-looking eyeliner colour, and black eyeliners are perfect for creating a smoky eye look. After all, these shades are both naturally harmonious with deep eyes. However, if you want to make them pop, consider going for some contrasting shades to bring out their richness and depth. "With brown eyes, the contrast is what creates the colour pop," says Eldridge. "If you match your eyeshadow or eye pencil too closely to your eye colour, you won’t get that great contrast," she says. Look for jewel emeralds or sapphires for statement colours, or warm metallics, bronzes or golds that pair beautifully with darker eyes.

Whatever eyeliner look you're going for, scroll ahead for the best eyeliner shades for brown eyes that will give them even more depth

Best Eyeliners for Brown Eyes

• Best Overall: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Eyeliner in Cocoa
• Best Olive Liner: Lisa Eldridge Seamless Glide Eye Pencil in Enigmatic Olive
• Best Shimmer: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner in Cinnamon
• Best Burgundy Liner: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Eyeliner
• Best Black Liner: Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Longwear Gel Liner in True Black

1. Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Eyeliner in Cocoa

2. Lisa Eldridge Seamless Glide Eye Pencil in Enigmatic Olive

3. Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner in Cinnamon

4. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Eyeliner

5. Glossier No.1 Pencil in Lapis

6. Kosas Soulgazer Intensifying Gel Eyeliner in Depth

7. Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Longwear Gel Eyeliner in True Black

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Is it me, or have we all fallen out of love with eye shadow palettes? I started my career in beauty circa 2016, where eye shadow palettes were the MVP of our makeup bags, and a cut-crease was the go-to eye shadow look, regardless of where you were going, and a 40-shade strong nude eye shadow palette was a must in your makeup bag. But over the past decade, heavy eyeshadow looks fell out of favour to natural-looking "no-makeup" makeup and pared-back eye makeup—maybe a quick swipe of an eye shadow stick, at a push.

However, as we move away from the "clean girl" aesthetic, it's hard to ignore the eyeshadow renaissance happening around us. Blue eye shadow is all over my feeds right now, and bolder eye makeup and eyeliner have been slowly trickling back into the runway shows after seasons of bare lids and sans-mascara lashes. But makeup trends aside, there's a place for a great eye shadow palette in everyone's makeup bag. Whether you favour natural everyday eye makeup or want to embrace a smouldering smokey-eye look, these are the very best eye shadow palettes for the job.

Best Eye Shadow Palettes

• Best Overall: Makeup By Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette (£55)
• Best Eye Shadow Quad: Hourglass Curator Eyeshadow Palette (£67)
• Best for Smokey Eyes: Victoria Beckham Beauty Eye Wardrobe (£72)
• Best Matte Eye Shadow Palette: Urban Decay Naked 2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette (£30)
• Best Affordable Eye Shadow Palette: E.l.f Perfect 10 Eyeshadow Palette (£11)

1. Makeup By Mario Master Mattes The Neutrals Eyeshadow

This is probably my most-used eye shadow palette, and it's a brilliant eyeshadow for my hooded eyes that look best with matte, neutral shades. It's just so easy to use, even if you're an eye shadow beginner, thanks to its careful edit of wearable shades all in versatile matte shades that allow you to create natural eye makeup through to smouldering evening looks. It comes in both a warm and neutral colourway, the latter of which is perfect for everyday eye makeup, IMO. It's packed with 12 natural-looking shades in silky soft powders that blend effortlessly, whether worn alone or combined. They're pigmented but easy enough to sheer out, and there's no fallout whatsoever. If you want an eye shadow palette that's a good all-rounder for lots of eye shadow looks, I highly recommend you go for this one.

2. Hourglass Curator Eyeshadow Palette Realist

If you're someone who always uses up a couple of favourite shades in a standard eye shadow palette, then a quad may be best for you. These curated palettes mean you won't end up with tonnes of unused shades, just the ones you want to wear. Hourglass's eye shadows are buttery-soft and blend effortlessly into the lids. Depending on the palette you choose, you get a mix of satins, mattes, metallics and shimmer, but if you want an all-matte palette, The Minimalist (pictured above) is my recommendation. It's perfect for throwing in my bag if I want to take my daytime makeup into a bolder moment for the evening. It's expensive, but I wear every single shade of mine, which I feel makes it a more worthwhile investment.

3. Victoria Beckham Beauty Eye Wardrobe

Victoria Beckham Beauty may be best known for its iconic Satin Kajal Liners, but if you want a concise palette that allows you to create the perfect smokey eye, then her curated Eye Wardrobes should be on your radar. These mini palettes make applying eye shadow so easy. Containing four shades in each palette, these quads span the most wearable neutrals to trend-forward blues and every shade in between, allowing you to create an array of eye looks. However, they're particularly good for creating evening eye-makeup looks and full glam moments. Victoria Beckham's favourite is Victoria, so I decided to follow suit and can confirm this palette is great for brown eyes, but as a neutral eye shadow palette for every eye colour too. The pigments are luxuriously buttery and blend to perfection every time.

4. Urban Decay Naked 2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette

5. E.l.f Perfect 10 Eyeshadow Palette

6. Chanel Les 4 Ombres Multi-Effect Quadra Eyeshadow

As luxury eye shadows go, Chanel's are unmatched. You'll find an array of palettes in the permanent collection, as well as seasonal limited-edition drops that feel like collector's items in their own right. Every palette contains two medium shades and two darker tones, which are designed to be worn and blended seamlessly to create both natural and bold eyeshadow looks. The pigments and texture are truly stunning and are worth the extra spend, but the compact itself feels like a treasure in your makeup bag, too.

7. Byredo Bibliophilia Eyeshadow Palette

Behold, this stunning eye shadow palette from Byredo. Its limited edition, so you'll have to act fast if you want it, but these shadows are unlike anything else I've tried. They're powder, but are so buttery soft they almost feel like a cream shadow to the touch, and they blend out into a velvety shadow with incredible pigments. This particular palette is inspired by the shades of a library, and contains mostly metallic and shimmer shadows, which span beautiful burnished coppers through to ethereal metallics to master gilded eye looks. And with 18 shades, there's plenty to experiment with in this eye shadow palette.

How We Tested

I tested each palette over a couple of months to see how well the formulas worked, as well as the shade range across each palette. I used them for everyday eye looks, as well as bolder evening eye makeup moments, to rate each one on its versatility. I also tested drugstore eye shadow palettes as well as the most luxurious ones to find the best across all budgets. Many of these palettes I have used for years, so I can vouch for their effectiveness and why they deserve a spot in your makeup bag.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

For as long as I can remember, I've always had watery eyes, and I've always loved eye makeup. However, the two don't go well together. All it takes is a slight gust of wind or a sudden change in temperature, and my watery eyes stream and ruin my makeup.

And if you're anything like me, you've probably had your eye makeup ruined on more than one occasion thanks to those rogue tears that seemingly come from nowhere and melt away eyeliner and eyeshadow in their wake. I've lost count of the number of times a soft, smoky wing has disappeared. I have watery eyes year-round, but with hayfever season in full swing right now, I've been on a quest to find out how to stop watery eyes from ruining my makeup, once and for all.

So, I enlisted the help of Dr Elizabeth Hawkes, a consultant oculoplastic surgeon and ophthalmologist, to find out the causes of watery eyes and how to stop them from ruining your eye makeup.

What Causes Watery Eyes?

"Blepharitis is the number one cause of dry eye, which is an umbrella term that encompasses lots of symptoms, i.e., redness or a gritty or foreign body sensation and, ironically, dry eyes as the eye makes excess tears when dry," says Dr Hawkes. "There can be many causes, such as allergies, medical conditions or as a result of certain oral medications, but it’s always best to see an eye specialist or an optician as there are subtle differences."

Blocked Tear Ducts: "If it’s just one eye, it could be a blocked tear duct. If you have a blockage, you will have a watery eye, which can be caused by trauma to the tear duct. It can be congenital or caused by an infection, but it needs a thorough assessment," says Dr Hawkes. "A common test eye specialists conduct is to ask patients if their eyes are watering indoors and outdoors. If they water indoors, it’s highly suggestive of blockage. If it’s a duct blockage, you need surgery, but it depends on what layer or level the obstruction is at, as this determines how invasive it needs to be," she adds.

Dry Eyes: "If it’s blepharitis and associated dry eye—watery eye syndrome—the mainstay of treatment is ironically with lubricating eye drops, which can be a tricky concept for patients to get their heads around," says Dr Hawkes. "This is because the more lubricated the ocular surface is, the less likely you are to trigger the lacrimal gland to produce tears." Eye drops can help to rehydrate the eyes and prevent them from overcompensating with excessive tears.

Allergies: "If it’s allergy-related, it needs to be investigated and looked at for the cause. Either way, there are lots of different eye drop options available to the different causes that can all treat the condition efficiently," she says.

Can Makeup Make Watery Eyes Worse?

Depending on the cause of your watery eyes, you may find that makeup can exacerbate symptoms. "Blepharitis is the most common cause, which causes blockage of the meibomian glands, which are specialised glands in between the eyelashes, that secrete an oily layer of tear film," says Dr Hawkes. "They open on the waterline, so when you apply eyeliner or mascara, you’re irritating and directly blocking these glands," she says.

"Generally, I would avoid using eyeliner on the waterline and use products suitable for sensitive skin. Clinique has a brilliant 'eye safety promise’ as the products undergo rigorous testing on how they affect the ocular surface, which not many brands do," she says. "Be cautious with application and always remove eye makeup properly, especially if you have sensitive eyes."

How to Stop Watery Eyes From Ruining Makeup

Preventing watery eyes is the key step to minimise the risk of them ruining your eye makeup, and there are some preventative steps you can take to reduce watery eyes.

Cleanse the Eyes: "Much like a thorough skincare routine and ensuring your skin is in a healthy condition to create a good base for makeup, proper cleansing and care of the eye is key here," says Dr Hawkes. "Ophthalmologists call it ‘lid hygiene’, and this is a must, removing in between the lashes morning and evening to ensure glands don’t get blocked," she says. "Optase Life Sensitive Eye Makeup Remover (£10) is a great one. It has no harsh surfactants that affect the lipid layer on the eyes and does a great job at thoroughly removing makeup."

Practice Good Makeup Hygiene: "Having good makeup hygiene is vital. This includes removing makeup properly, cleaning your brushes, not keeping mascara for years or using expired or dried-out products," she says. Typically, you should replace your mascara every 3-6 months, cream eyeshadows every 12-18 months and powder eyeshadows every 1-2 years. As a general rule of thumb, cream formulations tend to expire more quickly, so go through your makeup bag and check the expiry dates on the products you're using. Additionally, ensure you're regularly washing your makeup brushes, too.

Opt for Cream Eye Makeup: Whilst Dr Hawkes doesn't flag any particular ingredients to avoid in your makeup, she does favour cream over powder formulas. "Specific ingredients in makeup aren’t as important; however, I always advise cream-based eyeshadows and makeup, because powder particles might go into the eye and cause irritation," she says.

Eye Makeup to Avoid: Having spoken to makeup artists over the years, I've learned that it's best to avoid eyeshadows with glitter or shimmer, as they can cause fallout and further irritate the eyes. As for your lashes, tubing mascaras are great as they're long-wearing, but remove easily from the eyes with warm water. Waterproof mascaras are great for avoiding smudges; however, they are more difficult to remove, so look for a good eye makeup remover to fully remove them.

Look for Eye-Safe Brands: "Additionally, I recommend products and brands that have been tested, much like Clinique’s eye safety promise," she says. Look for brands and products that have been ophthalmologist-tested to minimise eye irritation. Additionally, if you're a contact lens wearer, Dr Hawkes says that this can cause problems in itself, so be very mindful to take extra care of your eyes. She also recommends avoiding eyelash extensions if you're prone to issues.

If your watery eyes persist, always seek medical advice. "If you leave anything too long, it can affect your vision, so it’s best to be safe and cautious when it comes to your eyesight," says Dr Hawkes.

How to Fix Eye Makeup

Whether it's a windy day or there is a high pollen count on an important occasion, there are times when smudged eye makeup just needs to be fixed. I've lost count of the number of times I've had my makeup professionally done for a wedding or special occasion, only for it to be ruined by my watering eyes. Here are my tips for fixing it.

Dab, don't rub: Avoid rubbing the area and instead dab with a tissue to remove any excess tears. Often, the area can become dry, so you can rehydrate the area with a sensitive skin-friendly eye cream. This will help to hydrate and soothe any irritation around the eyes. For quick fixes, a Q-tip can help clean up smaller smudges, or you can use a small makeup brush to tidy up smudged eyeliner wings.

Fix the Base: If the situation requires you to fully reapply the makeup, there are a few things you can do. Applying a little concealer can help create a gripper canvas for eye makeup, and it can then be fixed with a pressed setting powder to create a waterproof barrier. Applying with a puff rather than a brush is best to avoid particles from going into the eyes. Tap onto the skin to set the concealer.

Apply Eye Makeup: Waterproof eyeliners or long-wearing eyeshadows (such as cream-to-powder formulas) will provide the best wear. You can also apply a small amount of powder eyeshadow over a cream formula to set your eye makeup. Just ensure the area is fully dry from tears; otherwise, the eye makeup won't adhere. Then, you can apply a setting spray to help lock it in (just keep your eyes closed when you're misting, of course!).

Carry the Essentials: Keep some of your core products with you in case it needs fixing or topping up throughout the day. Alongside your makeup, eye drops or mists can help refresh the eyes throughout the day, and sunglasses are useful for shielding eyes from gusts of wind, or even hiding smudged eye makeup as a last resort.

Best Products for Watery Eyes

I might be a makeup artist (and a beauty editor), but up until a few years ago, I could never get my eyeshadow to last longer than one hour, tops. I put it down to my oily eyelids (those of you with oilier complexions will relate) and assumed I had to say goodbye to eyeshadow altogether.

It’s not that I hadn’t heard of primers before (specifically, eyeshadow primers), it was that I was yet to come across one that actually worked. Whether I used a powder formula or eyeshadow stick over the top, my eye makeup still creased almost straight away.

However, when my friend wouldn’t stop raving about the Nars Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base, I thought, maybe I should give this product another go. So, when we were getting ready for a night out, I applied a generous helping of her go-to eyeshadow primer, and lo and behold, my eye makeup stayed in place after hours of bar hopping around Soho.

I wouldn’t go as far as to say it was a pivotal moment in my life, but it did feel good to know that I could actually wear eyeshadow again. So much so that over the past month, I’ve made it my mission to test more of the most popular eyeshadow primer formulas, and have created a concise edit of products that truly work. Intrigued to know more? Just keep on scrolling.

The Best Eyeshadow Primers, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall: Nars Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base, £26
• Best Hydrating Formula: Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eye Primer, £23
• Best for Creasing: Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion, £24
• Best Lightweight Formula: Too Faced Shadow Insurance, £21
• Best for an Even Skin Tone: Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer, £30

1. Nars Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base

I mean, I had to start with Nars, didn't I? This is, hands down, the best eyeshadow primer I have ever used. The doe-foot applicator makes it easy to swipe straight onto the lid, and although the product comes out white, it dries down to a clear matte finish, perfect for prepping your eyes for any number of colourful eyeshadow looks. If I'm doing a heavier makeup look or plan to be out all day (or night), this is the product I reach for, as it really keeps my eyeshadow in place. If you have oily eyelids, I couldn't recommend it enough.

2. Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eye Primer

If your eyelids are on the drier side, but you still want to use a primer, I recommend this one from Milk Makeup. A blend of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and aloe water, this formula is hydrating and creates a smooth, long-lasting base for eyeshadow. The clear formula and doe-foot applicator make it a dream to use, and if you've tried Milk Makeup primers before, then you'll know just how effective this is.

3. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion

This primer is somewhat of an icon in the makeup world, but as someone who had never tried it before, I was skeptical about whether it would actually work. As it turns out, it really does. The packaging is a little smaller than others in this roundup, so it's a great one for travelling (there is also a smaller travel-size tube available). It also comes with a doe-foot applicator so you can swipe it straight onto the lid, and the formula is a light beige colour, but undetectable once dry. I loved testing this primer because it was great at minimising creasing throughout the day. I applied a nude powder eyeshadow on top, and it had barely creased by the time I got home from work. Very impressive considering my eyeshadow has normally creased by the time I walk through the office door in the morning.

4. Too Faced Shadow Insurance

If you're looking for a creamy yet lightweight option, Too Faced's Shadow Insurance has got you covered. It has this gorgeous, velvety texture that glides onto the skin, creating a smooth, long-lasting base for your eyeshadow. Plus, it smells incredible, like a summer holiday in a bottle. I'll definitely be reaching for it this season when the hot weather threatens to ruin my makeup.

5. Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer

6. Makeup by Mario Master Mattes LW Cream Eyeshadow

Again, not technically an eyeshadow primer, but an incredible product to help your eye makeup last. I first started using this Makeup By Mario product as intended, a liquid eyeshadow, but quickly realised it also made a great base for powder eyeshadow products. It has a matte finish and a long-lasting formula, and comes in a range of neutral shades.

What Is an Eyeshadow Primer?

An eyeshadow primer is similar to a normal makeup primer, helping that gorgeous, glowy makeup look you've spent ages on last longer. However, as the name suggests, these primers are specifically designed for the eyelid area. "Eyeshadow primers are a necessary part of my makeup prep on set because they keep eye shadows in place," explains Sara Wren, director of artistry at Milk Makeup. "Eyeshadows often don’t show up, fade or can crease over the course of the day, but a good primer will prevent that from happening."

As Wren explained to me, most primers come in liquid or cream form, and some contain pigment to help even out the eyelid area. "My favourite eyeshadow primers are colourless—they won’t change the payoff of the product that I apply on top."

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Everyone has their own very specific preferences when it comes to their mascara. Some want a lengthening mascara, whereas others prefer a volumising formula to add bulk to each lash. Some swear by flexible comb wands, whereas others will only let bristle wands near their eyelashes. Personally, I'm all for curling mascaras to help my stubbornly straight eyelashes. However, I've always found it hard to find a mascara that keeps them standing to attention all day long. And that's where lifting mascaras come in.

Previously, I would usually rely on a waterproof mascara to lock the curl in place; however, let's be honest. They can be a pain to remove without a good makeup remover. Some curling mascaras work for me, but some just don't cut it for my stick-straight lashes. However, lifting mascaras do all the heavy lifting, keeping the lashes up from the root for a wide-eyed look.

However, with so many mascaras around, it can be hard to find one that really works. Thankfully, I'm able to test so many mascaras for my job as a beauty editor, so I've listed the best lifting mascaras I've tried below. Trust me, your eyelashes won't flop with these lash-lifting formulas.

Best Lifting Mascaras

• Best Overall: Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara (£28)
• Best Affordable Mascara: L'Oréal Paris Big Deal Mascara (£14)
• Best Lash Lift Mascara: The Ordinary Lash Curl Finisher (£9)
• Best Luxury Mascara: Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara (£31)
• Best Lengthening Mascara: L'Oréal Paris Telescopic Extensionist Mascara (£14)

1. Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara

Honestly, I love all of Lancôme's mascaras, but when it comes to lifting and holding a curl, this is the best one. The curved, flexible wand glides through lashes, lifting, lengthening and defining each one with a silky, featherlight formula that feels soft and comfortable to the touch. One coat delivers a subtle, lifted finish, while a second adds extra drama without any clumping in sight. It’s not the most volumising option out there, but if you lean towards a more naturally defined lash look, you won't be disappointed.

2. Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara

You may have heard a lot of hype around the Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara, and I'm here to tell you that it's justified. Featuring a flexible comb with two bristle lengths, the shorter side works to lift lashes from the root, while the longer, comb-like bristles help to lengthen and separate, and it keeps your lashes lifted all day. It's not technically a tubing mascara formula, but it completely melts away with just warm water between your fingertips, and it's a great mascara for sensitive eyes, too. Available in both black and brown, this mascara is packed with lash-conditioning ingredients like shea butter and beeswax to help keep lashes soft and healthy.

3. L'Oréal Paris Paradise Big Deal Mascara

I couldn't believe my lashes when I tried this mascara. Admittedly, I've layered up with a few coats of the L'Oréal Paris Paradise Big Deal Mascara here, but just look at the lift! The bendy wand scoops the lashes up for instant lifting, and it holds in place all day long. It's a great all-rounder that lengthens, curls, lifts and volumises without clumping or looking spidery. Honestly, it rivals some of the more expensive mascaras I've tested, and I'm never without a tube now.

4. The Ordinary Lash Curl Finisher

Okay, The Ordinary Lash Curl Finisher isn't technically a mascara. But if you want the look of a lash lift, but without wearing anything heavy on your lashes, then you have to try this clear mascara. You simply curl your lashes with an eyelash curler, then sweep the clear formula from root to tip, and it locks in the curl all day to make you look like you have naturally curled and lifted lashes. There's a slight tackiness to it if you apply too much, but one coat is enough to hold the curl and give some subtle definition.

5. Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara

In case you hadn't already guessed, Lancômes mascaras are amongst some of my favourites, so the second one from the brand in this list, the Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara, is also deserving of a spot in your makeup bag. In comparison to the original Lash Idôle, this one delivers a more dramatic, false lash effect. It lifts lashes up with lasting hold in addition to achieving a generous curl, length and volume for a doe-eyed flutter. I find one coat is more than enough for a dramatic look.

6. Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara Waterproof

Whenever I'm asked for a good waterproof mascara that also delivers on curl and lift, this is the one I recommend. The curved wand of this Dior mascara scoops the lashes up from the root with generous lift and curl, and is easily layered depending on whether you prefer a defined and lengthened look, or something more dramatic with multiple coats. Waterproof formulas such as this one are a great choice if you have stubbornly straight lashes, as the long-wearing formulas work even harder to lock in a curl, ensuring your lashes don't droop throughout the day.

7. Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

I adore just about any Hourglass makeup product that launches, but Hourglass mascaras are next-level. This was one of the first mascaras I tried that truly kept my curled lashes lifted for the entire day. Yes, it has a luxurious price tag to match the formula, but if you want to invest in a luxury mascara, then you won't be disappointed. The flexible wand lengthens, lifts and defines each lash, and it stays put throughout the entire day. It's also a tubing formula, so it removes effortlessly at the end of the day with just warm water.

9. Rimmel Wonder'bond Lash Filler + Hyaluronic Mascara

Rimmel Wonder'bond Lash Filler + Hyaluronic Mascara is one of the best high street mascaras I've tried in the past year, and it has the added bonus of being an incredible nourishing formula for your eyelashes. The curved brush hugs the base of the lashes and grabs onto each and every one to define, lengthen and lift with zero clumps. The only downside? It can be prone to transferring onto the lids, so it's something to be mindful of, especially for hooded eyes.

10. L'Oréal Paris Telescopic Extensionist Mascara

11. Benefit Badgal Bang! Volumizing Mascara

If it's volume and lift that you're after, then you can't go wrong with any of the Benefit mascaras, but the Bad Gal Bang Mascara is in a league of its own. "If a volumising mascara is what you're after, this is the one to invest in," says deputy beauty editor, Grace Lindsay. "I would go as far as to say that this is the best mascara Benefit has ever created, but if you prefer a more natural look, then this probably isn't for you." It really does keep your lashes lifted and curled for the entire day and night, ensuring you look wide-eyed from application to removal at the end of the day.

How We Tested

As beauty editors, we've tested hundreds of mascaras between us, so we've found the best lifting mascaras that get the job done. And as a beauty editor with stubbornly straight eyelashes that struggle to stay lifted with even a curling mascara, I've put each of these lifting mascaras through their paces. I evaluated the overall look of the mascara and how it performed with lengthening, curling and volumising, but most importantly, I took note of which ones held my curl and kept my lashes lifted all day long. Each mascara was worn over several months to ensure its effectiveness.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I'm a beauty editor who is incredibly fussy about her eyebrows generally, but especially so when it comes to eyebrow pencils. If it doesn't have a micro-fine tip, it's not going in my makeup bag.

You see, I find so many makeup brands' brow pencils to be far too thick and chunky for my liking. They have their place for shading and creating shape, of course. But as someone with thick yet unbalanced brows, I require a few precision strokes to balance them out before I coax them into place with my brow gel.

Which is why I've always favoured a few delicate strokes from a micro-fine nib to fill in sparse areas, without looking like I've drawn on my brows. The 2016 era may be rearing its head as a comeback beauty trend, but I won't be revisiting the dip-brow look, thank you very much.

Micro-fine brow pencils allow you to achieve the most natural-looking "no makeup" makeup effect when it comes to your brows. If you favour a natural brow look or a feathery finish, they're perfect for adding definition, stroke-by-stroke, without ever looking heavy. I personally love them for creating balance in my brows (I know eyebrows are meant to be sisters, not twins, but mine don't look related at all) by adding a few strokes at the front of my left brow, which is more sparse, and creating more of an arch in my right brow to make them look more symmetrical.

As well as fine strokes, I also want a brow formula that's not going to melt off after five minutes of being on the London Underground or smudge when sat in the park. The good news is that I've tried a lot of eyebrow pencils in my quest for the finest nibs, so I'm sharing the (very few) that met my high expectations below.

Best Micro-Fine Brow Pencils

• Best Overall: Glossier Boy Brow Arch (£24)
• Best Micro Pencil: Morphe Nano Brow Pencil (£11)
• Best Natural-Looking Pencil: Merit Beauty Brow 1990 (£21)
• Best Affordable Pencil: E.l.f Ultra Precise Brow Pencil (£7)
• Best Brow Pen: L'Oréal Paris Infallible Faux Brow Tint Pen (£12)

1. Glossier Boy Brow Arch Pomade Pencil

This is, hands down, the finest brow pencil I've come across. The angular nib itself is slender, and you can use the sharp edge to create feathery brow hairs, or use the flatter side to shade and fill in areas, too. The pencil itself also has a flat canvas on the brush lid, so you can use it to sharpen the edge of the nib after a few uses. I love it because it allows me to create realistic brow hairs to shape my brows and add definition to sparse areas where other brow pencils are just too thick. I have nothing bad to say about it, other than it runs out quite quickly and makes it quite expensive for the price. That being said, I'm still willing to part with my money for it. My biggest claim to fame is that when I interviewed Gracie Abrams, she told me I had "great eyebrows", and this was the brow pencil I was wearing.

2. Morphe Nano Brow Pencil

The brow pencil is brilliant for the price, and I've repeatedly purchased it several times. The micro-fine tip (which is just 0.9 mm—can you believe it?) delivers the finest of strokes without dragging, so you can replicate brow hairs with precision. It effortlessly glides onto the skin and offers just the right amount of pigment, so you don't need to press hard. I love it to fill in sparse areas at the front of my brow without it looking blocky or heavy, but you can layer it up for a full look too. A great staple for your makeup bag if you want a pencil that you never have to sharpen to get a precise tip. Trust me, your brows will look so feathery and soft that people will wonder if you've done brow lamination.

3. Victoria Beckham Beauty Babyblade Eyebrow Pencil

I'm a lover of Victoria Beckham Beauty; its products never miss. The same goes for this brow pencil. Featuring a slanted, angled nib, you can create precision definition or fill in exactly where you need it for a natural-looking brow. The pigment is creamy enough to glide on without effort, yet it's sturdy enough to hold up and last throughout the day. Many brow pencils feel flimsy, but, in true VB fashion, this feels luxurious in the palm of your hand. You can also use the flatter side of the nib to shape your brows and add architecture to your brows.

4. Merit Beauty Brow 1990

Merit Beauty's ethos is rooted in effortless beauty, so it makes sense that its brow pencil is one of the easiest brow pencils to use, and also the most natural-looking, too. The gel formula is very soft, so it glides on without any effort, and the fine nib allows you to draw delicate brow hairs strand by strand for a feathered finish; the spoolie gently diffuses the pigment for a natural-looking result. The chrome packaging it's housed in makes it a chic addition to your makeup bag as well.

5. Refy Brow Pencil

Refy really put brow products on the map (its Brow Sculpt is basically brow lamination in a bottle), and the brow pencil is a worthy addition to your makeup bag. The pencil has a good creaminess to it, so it's easy to create tiny brow strokes without having to press hard (no dragging here) and it is easy to diffuse with the spoolie brush on the other end to create naturally full brows in seconds.

6. E.l.f Ultra Precise Brow Pencil

You can always rely on E.l.f as an affordable beauty brand for a trusty product that won't make your bank account cry, and this ultra-fine brow pencil is great for sketching brow-like strokes to fill in your brows. The shade range is limited, but if you want to spend under £10 on your brow pencil, this won't disappoint. The formula isn't so creamy that it slides off; instead, it has just the right amount of sturdiness to create precise definition that won't fade by lunchtime.

7. L'Oréal Paris Infallible Faux Brow Tint Pen

Prefer a brow pen over a brow pencil? This forked one draws on ultra-thin strokes, and once dry, it won't budge. Even after swatching it on my hand in the morning, it still remained in place at the end of the day (I had to scrub it off with my cleanser). The two-pronged tips make it quick and easy to fill in brows, but you can also flip the pen to the side if you prefer to work with single strokes. My top tip would be to store the nib facing down to ensure an even flow of pigment when you come to draw on your brows.

8. Clarins Wonder Brow

"As a regular gym goer and swimmer, I can safely say this formula held on for dear life, clinging to my brows and skin no matter how hard I sweated. The nib is slightly chunkier than others, but I don't mind that, as I have very thin brows, which need lots of filling in," says contributor Perdita Nouril.

9. Rimmel Proffessional Eye Brow Pencil

"There is something quite magical about this brow pencil in that the formula is super soft but never looks waxy or fake, and given its price point, it's a real steal. However, its staying power isn't as long as some of the others. For that, I need to follow with extra lashings of brow gel," says Perdita.

10. Brow Aid Master Brow Trio

"If you're not really sure where to start with brows, then I can't recommend this enough, as it takes the guesswork out of your routine. Combining the key steps of shaping, defining and setting, the trio helps create fuller-looking, groomed brows with a natural finish. Whether you prefer a soft, brushed-up look or something more sculpted, it’s a streamlined kit that covers the essentials without cluttering your makeup bag," says Perdita.

How We Tested

As a beauty editor, I've tried hundreds of brow pencils. To find the best micro-fine eyebrow pencils, I wore each of them for several months, testing them for the size of the nib and brow strokes, how well the formula wore throughout the day and the shade range available. I tried a variety of formulas from brown pencils to brow pens to find the very finest brow pencils that deliver natural-looking results. I also reached out to fellow beauty editor Perdita Nouril to get her opinion, as her needs are different to mine in that coverage is a priority.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I'm a beauty editor who has probably tried upwards of 50+ mascaras in my lifetime, and I'm incredibly fussy about them. I want a lengthening mascara, but I also want a curling mascara formula that lifts and holds my stubbornly straight lashes. Most don't make the cut, so it takes something special to have a permanent spot in my makeup bag.

But, one of the few mascaras I really do swear by is the Ilia Limitless Mascara (£29). In fact, I'd say that it's one of the best Ilia makeup products I've tried, and I love a lot of its products. Scroll ahead for everything you need to know.

Ilia Limitless Mascara Review

The Formula and Brush

Coming in both black and brown mascara formulas, it boasts an array of lash-nourishing ingredients such as shea butter and beeswax that help to soften and condition the lashes as you wear it. And whilst it's not technically a tubing mascara, it does remove easily like one with some warm water and your usual cleanser.

The wand features a flexible comb brush, which has two different lengths of bristles. One side features short bristles, which help to lift lashes up from the root, and the other side has longer comb-like bristles, designed to lengthen and separate the lashes. This makes it super helpful for customising your lash look, whether you want a natural-looking flutter or want to layer up for a bolder effect.

The Application

After curling my lashes with an eyelash curler, I find that this mascara does a great job at keeping my lashes lifted and curled throughout the day. After just a few sweeps through my lashes, it does a great job at lengthening and separating for a fanned-out effect. I'd say that one coat gives a natural-looking result, but if you require more drama, you can get more volume if you layer it up. But what I love the most is that it feels lightweight and soft to the touch on the lashes; it never feels heavy.

Before and After

Here are my lashes with just one coat. I'm amazed at the lengthening and defining effects in just a couple of sweeps through my lashes and, to my surprise, it actually held my curl in place right until I came to take it off in the evening. It's quite a feat for my stubbornly straight lashes, as I find so many mascaras make my lashes flop halfway through the day.

My Verdict

Overall, I'm so impressed with this mascara. It lengthens, curls, separates and holds my lashes in place all day without smudging or flaking, and it never feels heavy on my easily irritated eyes. The comb wand makes it easy to achieve a natural look, but is easily layered up if you want more drama from your mascara. It's not the most volumising formula I've tried, but if you're after a great everyday mascara that's also a total dream to remove at the end of the day, this might be the mascara for you. I've been wearing the black formula; however, it also comes in a brown shade if you want a more subtle hue on fair lashes. In short, I'm very impressed.

Shop Now:

Last night, the stars were out in full to celebrate the 98th Academy Awards, and the Oscars red carpet was nothing short of spectacular. From show-stopping fashion looks to monochromatic makeup and gothic waves galore, there were many trends to note, but one makeup look in particular kept me up all night, desperate to share it with everyone I know.

As a makeup artist and beauty editor, I've written extensively about choosing the right eye shadow for your eye colour. Recently, I shared my favourite brown eye shadows for blue eyes, as they never fail to make them stand out. However, on last night's red carpet, Chase Infiniti wore an unexpected eye shadow colour that made her hazel eyes pop like never before.

Matching her makeup to her custom Louis Vuitton dress, the One Battle After Another actress wore lilac eye shadow as she stepped out on the red carpet, and there's no denying that this was the perfect colour to take her makeup look to the next level.

Paired with glowing skin and a simple glossy lip, the purple hue enhanced her features beautifully, and I think we can all agree that the colour complemented her hazel eyes in all the right ways.

The great thing about this look is that it's not that complicated, either. As you can see, Infiniti's makeup artist, Amber D (@amberdmakeup), focused on the inner corner of the eye (another trick to make your eye makeup pop), while also blending the purple shade all over the lid for a subtle wash of colour. She used a Louis Vuitton eye shadow for the look, from the brand's 450 Cosmic Dreams Eyeshadow Palette (£190).

Below, I've linked some more of my favourite lilac eye shadow shades to help you re-create the look, because let's face it: nothing says spring like a pop of purple. If you have hazel eyes, I recommend trying this makeup trick asap.

Shop Lilac Eye Shadows:

They say the eyes are the windows to the soul, but they’re often the first place to reveal how well we’ve slept, too. After a restless night, it’s usually our eyes that give the game away. From puffiness and dehydration lines to dark circles, there’s often no hiding the signs of too little shut-eye. And even with the best eye creams to hand, the delicate skin around our eyes can still become irritated, leaving behind noticeable redness. Which is why I like to keep a brightening eyeliner pencil in my makeup bag on those mornings when I want to look wide-awake and fake a good night's sleep.

Brightening waterline eyeliner pencils are a quick and easy way to fake a well-rested look. Unlike traditional liquid eyeliner or eyeliner pencils that have dark pigments, these neutral-toned liners are designed to glide along the waterline (the strip of skin between your lashes and your eyeball), where they help neutralise redness and disguise the telltale signs of a bad night’s sleep. They can also make your eyes appear bigger and brighter (as someone with hooded eyes, it's my go-to for making my eyes look bigger), or give any eye look a little extra impact.

Here, I’ve rounded up the best options to keep in your makeup bag for the mornings when coffee alone just won’t cut it. These are the best waterline eyeliners for bright and perkly eyes in an instant.

Best Brightening Eyeliners

• Best Overall: Victoria Beckham Beauty Instant Brightening Waterline Pencil, £31
• Best for Sensitive Eyes: Clinique High Impact Eyeliner in Beaming Beige, £25
• Best Dual-Ended Eyeliner: Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-Eyes Liner Duo in Black, £26
• Best Affordable Eyeliner: E.l.f Smoky Kohl Eyeliner in Beige Flag, £4
• Best Waterproof Eyeliner: Rimmel Scandal'eyes Waterproof Eyeliner in Nude, £5

1. Victoria Beckham Beauty Instant Brightening Waterline Pencil

You might be familiar with the iconic Satin Kajal Eyeliners, but this creamy, ivory-toned formula from Victoria Beckham Beauty glides effortlessly along the lower lash line. Infused with soothing aloe vera and ginseng, it also helps nourish the lashes. Victoria herself often pairs it with her signature smokey eye, so I'm following her lead.

2. Trish McEvoy Eye Brightener Pencil in Shell

3. Clinique High Impact Eyeliner in Beaming Beige

4. Sculpted By Aimee Brighten & Define Kohl Eyeliner Pencil Duo in Rust/Nude

5. Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-Eyes Liner Duo in Black

6. E.l.f Smoky Kohl Eyeliner in Beige Flag

7. Fenty Beauty Fine Linez Eyeliner Pencil in Naked Beach

Prefer a retractable eyeliner that you don't have to sharpen? Then this is a great option, and it even includes a smudging sponge on the other end in case you want to create a diffused line on the upper lash line. But it does a great job as a waterline eyeliner too. It leans slightly warmer and peachier in comparison to the other liners in this article, so it's better suited to warmer complexions. However, it's very long-wearing and doesn't transfer.

8. Rimmel Scandal'eyes Waterproof Eyeliner in Nude

9. Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil Multi-Use Pencil in Boundless Bisque

When it comes to award-show glamour, I drink up every detail of the looks that make our best dressed lists. Though every event plays host to a showstopping assortment of red carpet ensembles, from the stunning gowns to the trendsetting hairstyles, the stars save their best for the Oscars, and the 2026 show is shaping up to have some of the best beauty looks I've seen in a minute.

Don't get me wrong. I love a classic updo and perfectly manicured hands. However, the one thing that sets my soul on fire is red carpet makeup—so much so that I asked my fellow beauty editors to fan-cast our favorite nominees' makeup looks for the evening. The one thing we didn't see coming was the monochrome-makeup trend that suddenly yet swiftly took center stage, and I'm simply itching to re-create these looks myself. Below, see the matchy-matchy lip and eye moments from Jessie Buckley, Emma Stone, Renate Reinsve, and more that played oh so perfectly with their Oscar-worthy gowns.

Not to toot my own horn, but I did predict Buckley's red-lip look. The Best Actress nominee matched her scarlet lips to her two-toned Chanel gown, making this look an instant classic. I theorize that the vermillion accents could be a sweet nod to her character Agnes Shakespeare's signature red frock, but that's just me.

Wunmi Mosaku's deep-sea turquoise gown caught my eye immediately, but her shimmering shadow made me stay. The Sinners star matched her sparkling custom Louis Vuitton gown with a pop of reflective teal eye shadow on the inner corners of her eyes, which happens to be one of 2026's top red carpet trends, according to our senior beauty editor Jamie Schneider's robust reporting. If you want to replicate her exact look, pick up Louis Vuitton's La Beauté LV Ombres Eyeshadow Palette in Beige Memento and Force of Nature.

According to Chase Infiniti's makeup artist, Amber Dreadon, the actress's custom Louis Vuitton dress was the ultimate source of inspiration. Dreadon describes the look as "whimsical, light, and effortlessly youthful," according to a press release, and kept skin and subtle pops of color at the center. She used the LV Ombres Eyeshadow Palette in Cosmic Dreams to craft Infiniti's soft lilac eye before accenting her pillowy pout with the LV Rouge Satin Lipstick in Kiss the Sky.

Do my eyes deceive me, or did Emma Stone match her shimmering, floor-sweeping Louis Vuitton gown with a frosted eye? According to a press release, the star's gown was hand-embroidered—which, by my logic, requires a makeup look with the same painstaking detail. The Bugonia star wears the LV Ombres Eyeshadow Palette in Beige Memento, which features an icy ivory shadow that I'd bet my next paycheck she slathered all over the eye.

Sinners' Li Jun Li has been taking the 2026 award season by storm with her extravagant red carpet looks, though I'm particularly entranced by her matching red moment tonight. Perhaps inspired by the fiery aesthetic of her heavily nominated film, the actress tied in her red Gaurav Gupta dress with cherry-colored glam, including bright-red lips and berry-hued blush.

Renate Reinsve has been dominating award season in the style category, but my eyes were on her red lip (and sculptural hip-high slit) tonight. Perfectly matching her custom Louis Vuitton gown is her matte LV lipstick in orange-red Vuittamine, which I'm adding to my cart as we speak.

In my opinion, a good makeup look is all about enhancing your natural features, especially when it comes to eyes. Those with green eyes will love purple and plum eye shadow shades, whilst those with brown eyes will gravitate more towards bold blue and earthy green tones. However, if you have blue eyes, then brown eye shadow will be your new best friend. But what type of brown eye shadow should you be looking for?

As a beauty editor and makeup artist with blue eyes, I've tested hundreds of options over the years, from eye shadow palettes to eye shadow sticks, and I've created a concise edit of my go-to shades that always make my eyes pop. I also caught up with Bobbi Brown senior pro artist Zara Findlay to get her opinion on the best brown eye shadows for blue eyes, so keep scrolling for our tips, tricks and top picks.

Why Is Brown Eye Shadow a Good Choice for Blue Eyes?

"Brown eye shadow is a great choice for blue eyes because it enhances the natural contrast, helping the blue appear brighter and more defined," explains Findlay. "It’s also an incredibly versatile shade that works beautifully across different skin tones."

Which Brown Eye Shadows Should Someone With Blue Eyes Look For?

I think we can all agree that with so many brown options on the market, it can be hard to narrow them all down. However, Findlay has some tips. "To really make blue eyes stand out, I recommend browns with warm undertones, such as coppery browns or rich chocolate shades. These tones add warmth around the eye and help intensify the blue, making the colour pop."

Of course, once you've got the correct undertone, you'll also want to choose between powder, cream and liquid formulas. This all comes down to personal preference, but Findlay tells me that powder shadows tend to look softer and are easier to build, whilst cream formulas tend to deliver a stronger pigment and are quicker to apply.

I've been testing some of the best brown eye shadows for blue eyes below, so keep on scrolling to shop my favourites.

The Best Brown Eye Shadows for Blue Eyes

• Best Eye Shadow Overall: Merit Solo Shadow in Midcentury, £23
• Best Cream Eye Shadow: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick in Hazelnut, £30
• Best Liquid Eye Shadow: Armani Eye Tint in Cashew, £33
• Best Cool-Toned Eye Shadow: Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette, £30
• Best Eye Shadow Palette: Victoria Beckham Eye Wardrobe in Cocoa, £72

1. Merit Solo Shadow in Midcentury

This is the Merit Beauty eye shadow I reach for daily. I tend to go between two shades: Midcentury and Brun. Midcentury is a subtle, warm, everyday colour, whereas Brun is a little darker. If I'm doing an evening look, I'll use Brun in the crease of my eye for a little more definition, but you'll usually find me wearing Midcentury all over the lid. The creamy texture glides onto the eyelid and blends like a dream. Plus, you can build it up depending on your desired finish. It's a cream-to-powder formula, but if you have oily eyelids like me, I recommend using an eye shadow primer to help keep it in place.

2. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick in Hazelnut

3. Armani Eye Tint in Cashew

I'm a big fan of the Armani Eye Tints, and I recently got my hands on the shade Cashew, the perfect brown for everyday wear. I thought a liquid eye shadow would be my oily eyelids' worst nightmare, but this dries down to a natural finish and actually lasts surprisingly well. Don't get me wrong: I did experience a little bit of creasing after a while, but nowhere near as much as I expected. It's definitely a subtle brown, but I really like how it brings out the blue in my eyes (if I do say so myself).

4. Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette

5. Victoria Beckham Eye Wardrobe in Cocoa

Speaking of outstanding eye shadow palettes, I'd have to rate this Victoria Beckham Beauty one as my favourite. Not only does it look chic, but the selection of chocolate-brown shades is unmatched. A word of warning: these eyeshadows are so pigmented that a little goes a long way. The only downside is that because of this, I find I have to blend them quite quickly, but the result is always worth it.

6. Rimmel Wonder'Last Shadow Stick in 002 Choco Shimmer

7. Yves Saint Laurent Couture Mini Clutch in 710

How chic is this? If you like a bit of luxury, YSL won't let you down. This brown eye shadow clutch features three shimmery shades and one matte option, and the warm tones are ideal for blue eyes. It's the palette I reach for whenever I'm creating an evening makeup look. Similar to the Victoria Beckham Beauty palette, these shadows are very pigmented, so I recommend starting with a small amount and building each shade up as you go.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As a beauty editor with a decade of experience writing about beauty and testing beauty products for a living, I'm in a privileged position to write about the best new beauty launches each and every month. Although it's always exciting to try new innovations and beauty brands, I firmly believe that some of the best products are from the heritage beauty brands that have stood the test of time. And when it comes to the best mascaras, I'd argue that Lancôme's mascaras are some of the very best of all time.

Before I started working in the beauty industry, I'd often go to the Lancôme beauty counter to choose a new mascara. And between top-ups of Juicy Tubes (IYKYK), I gradually purchased my way through all of the Lancôme mascaras on offer, from Définicils to Hypnôse. I loved them then, and I still love them now. And alongside these classic beauty hall icons, Lancôme has since launched more mascaras that are deserving of a spot in your makeup bag. Take Lash Idôle, which several of my colleagues call their favourite luxury mascara ever. And even those of us with the most sensitive of eyes count these as the best mascaras for sensitive eyes or contact lens-wearers, too.

Whether you're after a lengthening mascara, a curling mascara, or a volumising mascara (or one that does all three), these are the best Lancôme mascaras that are worth your attention.

Best Lancôme Mascaras, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall: Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara
• Best Volumising Mascara: Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Mascara
• Best Lengthening Mascara: Lancôme Lash Idôle Flutter Mascara
• Best Curling Mascara: Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara
• Best Buildable Mascara: Lancôme Hypnôse Custom Wear Volumising Mascara
• Best Natural-Looking Mascara: Lancôme Définicils High Definition Mascara

1. Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara

Editor review: It's hard to pick a favourite out of Lancôme's mascaras, but for me it has to be the Lash Idôle Mascara. Featuring a flexible curved wand, it effortlessly lengthens, curls, lifts and defines each and every lash with a silky, lightweight formula that's soft to the touch. One coat gives the effect of a lash lift, but two coats allow you to achieve a more dramatic effect without any hint of clumping. It's not the most volumising mascara around, but if you prefer a naturally defined look to your lashes, then you'll absolutely love it too.

2. Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Mascara

Editor review: If you're familiar with the original Hypnôse formula, then consider Hypnôse Drama Mascara as her more dramatic sister. Featuring a large S-shaped curved wand, the bristles have deep reservoirs that load up on the volume as you sweep it through your lashes. In just a couple of swipes, you have a wide-eyed, volumised look that might get your false-lash accusations. It plumps up every lash and delivers brilliant length and curl, too. Lovers of a natural-looking mascara, scroll on!

3. Lancôme Lash Idole Flutter Mascara

Editor review: I'd consider this mascara in my top three favourites. I personally favour a long and fluttery effect that remains natural-looking for my day-to-day mascara, and this magic wand ticks all the boxes. The wand is flexible but isn't super bendy, so it has just enough resistance to push and lift the lashes up whilst delivering incredible length, thanks to the 480 short micro bristles that extend each lash to its full potential. The result is a natural-looking flutter that's great as an everyday mascara look.

4. Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara

Editor review: New to Lancôme's mascara offering is the new Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara, and if you seek curl and lasting hold, then this is the mascara for you. I have stubbornly straight lashes that often flop by the afternoon, but this formula keeps them standing to attention right until I come to take it off in the evening. It has a large curved wand that captures every lash to curl and lift them upwards, and it also does a great job at volumising and lengthening them too. I was surprised at just how lightweight this mascara felt on my eyes, too. My only criticism is that the wand is quite large, and so if you have smaller or hooded eyes, you need to be careful not to get the product on your lids.

5. Lancôme Hypnôse Custom Wear Volumising Mascara

Editor review: Hypnôse is arguably Lancôme's most iconic mascara formula, and it's still good now as when it launched in 2004. What makes it so good? It's extremely versatile. One coat gives you defined yet beautifully volumised lashes, but you can layer it up for more intensity without a hint of clumping. It's a great all-rounder, delivering length, definition, volume and curl all in one. You can even layer on another coat over dry mascara throughout the day, and it never turns spidery. Your lashes will always stay defined and fluttery.

6. Lancôme Définicils High Definition Mascara

How I Tested

I've been wearing Lancôme's mascara for years now, but for this specific review, I wore the brand's most-loved mascaras and newer formulations to put them to the test. I wore each mascara for a couple of days, evaluating how well each lengthened, volumised, curled and defined my lashes. I also took into account how well the mascara lasted throughout the day and whether the formula smudged or irritated my eyes.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As a beauty editor, it's my job to spot beauty trends for a living. And this week, my eyes have been firmly on the emerging spring makeup trends we're going to see for the season ahead. As I write, we're in the middle of fashion month and awards season, and both the runways and red carpets have been offering up countless beauty moments that I just know are going to shape how we'll be doing our hair and makeup before long. And don't get me started on the spring/summer 2026 beauty trends starting to come through now. In short, there is inspiration aplenty.

However, it's not just the trends on the runways, red carpets or our feeds that shape the emerging makeup trends. Many beauty trends are born out of product launches themselves. As a beauty editor, hundreds of new beauty launches land on my desk each month, and, behind each new product, brands dedicate huge resources to finding out what consumers like you and I really want in our makeup bags. And so they can often be quite telling about the emerging makeup trends we'll see in the coming months.

After hours of scrolling through celebrity beauty moments and testing new products, I'm ready to share my findings. Ahead, I've rounded up the spring makeup trends that you'll absolutely want to try for yourself this year. This is all makeup inspiration you'll need for the season.

1. Leading-Lady Blush

After consistent years of placing blush high on the cheeks to sculpt the face, it's returning to where it's actually meant to be: on the apples of the cheeks. Bold blush has been dominating for a while now, but we're instead seeing more natural-looking flushes that look like you're naturally blushing. It's also impossible to ignore the influence thatWuthering Heights has had on our blush application in recent months, and a glance at the recent red carpets reveals that this blush placement is returning once again.

Worn lower and centralised on the apples of the cheeks, it emulates a natural flush from spending time outside, and we can expect to see more Brontë-blush-inspired looks as we head into spring, perfectly timed with the rise of matte and powder products that deliver a second-skin hint of colour to your complexion.

Shop the Trend:

2. Blurred Lips

For a long time, lipstick has often felt far too fussy and high-maintenance. But for spring, beauty brands have been ushering in a new era of sheer-matte lipsticks and lip liners that softly sculpt and deliver a soft-focused, blurred finish. Celebrity makeup artist Nina Park has pioneered the blurred lip look, where she artfully sculpts her clients' lips with various shades of liner. However, you needn't have the artistic hand of a makeup artist to get in on the look. Merit's Signature Lip Blush and Violette_FR's Bisou Balm come in sheer-matte finishes that add a tint of colour for a "just bitten" effect, whilst Rhode's Peptide Lip Shade effortlessly contours the lips for a blurred result.

Shop the Trend:

3. Skincare Hybrids

With the promise of warmer days ahead, it's only natural that we want to trade in the heavier foundations of winter for lighter bases come spring. And, thankfully, skin tint, tinted SPF and concealer formulations are harder-working than ever before. This new wave of skincare-makeup hybrids does so much more than conceal. Take Outside In's Silk Serum Foundation, which applies like a weightless serum but self-sets into a light-diffusing base, whilst delivering hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier. Or Merit's The Uniform, which has become our beauty team's go-to tinted SPF as the temperature rises.

Shop the Trend:

4. Suede Bronzer

Just like cream blushers, cream bronzers have dominated our makeup bags for seasons now. However, it's impossible to ignore the flurry of baked bronzers launching for spring 2026. Powder bronzers often get a bad rap for being heavy or glitzy, but newer formulations are more buttery and softer than ever before. Rather than looking flat on the skin, they instead lend a matte, suede-like texture and soft-focus finish. The best part? Once the weather warms up, they won't melt off your skin!

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5. Au Natural Brows

Between the rise in brow lamination and fluctuating brow trends of the past decade (we've had 2016 dip-brows, bleached brows and the return of the skinny '90s brow), it seems we're finally leaving our brows well and truly alone this season. Going hand-in-hand with the continuation of "no makeup" makeup or undone waves, I'm seeing more and more brows looking seemingly untouched, both on the red carpets and the runways.

Besides having a great brow tech on speed dial, there are now plenty of brow pencils and brow gels that neatly groom and shape your arches to a naturally enhanced effect. Glossier's Boy Brow Arch and Merit's Brow 1990 pencils have some of the smallest nibs I've ever seen to mimic a microbladed effect, and L'Oréal Paris' Infallible Brow Lamination Gel coaxes even the most stubborn hairs into place with lasting hold.

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6. "Charred" Eyeliner

As I write, Gucci's autumn/winter 2026 show is still firmly in my mind, where lead makeup artist Sam Visser sent models down the runway with heavy, smouldering, kohl-rimmed eyes that would be the envy of any party girl. After seasons of barely there eye makeup, no mascara and next-to-no eye shadow on the eyes, you can take this as your sign to pick up an eyeliner and have fun with eye makeup again. Is it the most springlike makeup trend? Perhaps not. But it does feel like a refreshing eye-makeup trend. If you find black too harsh, try a brown eyeliner instead. And you can't go wrong with a Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner.

Shop the Trend:

It's a wild confession for a beauty editor, but I've never been an eyeliner fan. Whether I've opted for sleek cat-eye flicks, smudged kohl for a smoky effect, or precision waterline definition, it always comes away looking a little too harsh and stark. While I love what liner does for the eyes on others, I’ve always wanted that definition to feel softer and more effortless on myself. Last year, I discovered brown eyeliner and brown mascara, both of which completely changed my makeup routine. Brown gives definition and shapes, but in a gentler way that enhances rather than overpowers—it quickly became my everyday staple.

This year, though, I’ve found a new obsession: burgundy eyeliner, which might seem strange at first, but on the eyes it actually reads far subtler than you’d expect. Like brown, it offers soft definition, but in addition, the warmth of the rich red undertones makes my green eyes look brighter and more vibrant. If you’ve ever found black too severe but still want your eyes to stand out, I'm making the case for burgundy being the perfect in-between.

Ahead, I've rounded up the best burgundy eyeliners I've tried, as well as the expert tips and tricks on how to choose your eyeliner and how to use burgundy eyeliner.

The Best Burgundy Eyeliners

1. Best Overall: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner in Bordeaux
2. Best Gel Eyeliner: Kosas Soulgazer Intensifying Gel Eyeliner in Bewitch
3. Best Felt Tip Eyeliner: Fenty Beauty Flyliner in In Big Truffle
4. Best Crayon Eyeliner: Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Gel Eyeliner in Compassion
5. Best Pencil Eyeliner: Makeup Forever Artist Colour Pencil in Boundless Berry

1. Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner in Bordeaux

2. Kosas Soulgazer Intensifying Gel Eyeliner

3. Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Longwear Gel Eyeliner in Compassion

4. Makeup Forever Artist Colour Pencil in Boundless Berry

5. Fenty Beauty Flyliner in In Big Truffle

6. Yves Saint Laurent Lines Liberated Eyeliner in Unrestricted Plum

7. Sephora Collection Waterproof Eyeliner in Matte Burgundy

8. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Eyeliner

9. Pixi Endless Silky Eye Pen in Very Berry

10. Kiko Milano Unlimited Precision Automatic Eyeliner and Kohl in Spicy Burgundy

11. Sweed Satin Eyeliner in Margaux Bordeaux

What to look for when choosing a burgundy eyeliner?

With any colour of eyeliner, texture is everything. As makeup artist Lucy Hart advises, “Look for something that’s creamy and easily glides onto the skin. Ideally, you want a formula that is able to be blended initially, but has good staying power once it has set.” A liner that tugs will never give that soft, diffused finish, but at the same time, longevity matters—especially if you’re wearing it along the lash line or waterline. A pencil with enough softness to smudge, but that locks in place afterwards, will give you the most fuss-free application.

Who does burgundy eyeliner suit?

If you have green eyes as I do, burgundy eyeliner is particularly transformative. “Burgundy eyeliner predominantly suits green eyes but also blue eyes, as it makes the eye colour pop and look more vibrant,” says Hart. And if you're hesitant, don't be. “As scary as it seems it actually looks super subtle when it’s on,” she reassures. Rather than being a statement colour in itself, the red undertones contrast with these cooler shades, simply serving to intensify your eye colour.

How do you use burgundy eyeliner?

Application can be as understated or as bold as you like. “Either smudge a pencil in the waterline or glide along the upper lash line and smudge with a brush for a worn-in and effortless effect,” recommends Hart. For everyday wear, pressing the colour into the upper lash line subtly creates the illusion of thicker lashes and enhances eye colour. For more impact, blend it slightly outward for a soft haze rather than a sharp flick. The key is aiming for a lived-in liner effect, not a graphic shape, giving you definition without the severity of black liner.

How We Tested

When testing these burgundy eyeliners, we evaluated pigmentation, how smoothly each formula applied, and how easily they blended before setting. Longevity was monitored, noting any smudging, fading or transfer, and we also considered how flattering each shade looked on various eye colours, alongside value for money, packaging, price point, and overall ease of use.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I don’t know whether it’s all of the amazing red carpet beauty looks that we’ve been treated to recently or spring’s imminent arrival giving me the urge to try something new, but despite actively avoiding most eye makeup on a daily basis (yes, even mascara), I have recently been tempted to up my liquid eyeliner game. You see, there are few makeup trends that I admire more than a razor-sharp feline flick. It adds definition, lifts and opens eyes and basically elevates your entire makeup look by adding instant polish. However, historically, my attempts have led to wonky wings, uneven thickness and on more than one occasion, having to remove all of my makeup entirely and start again.

This time, though, I decided to call on some experts to steer me in the right direction. You see, as a beauty editor, I have tested many of what are considered to be the best eyeliners, but it seems they can sense my fear. And what I’ve learned is that a confident hand can make all the difference. Once that’s in check, finding the right formula is a bit like a science experiment—you need exactly the right combination of pigment, a tip or brush with the right balance of control and flexibility, and something that’s going to stay put once you’ve put in the hard work. So, where to start? Scroll ahead for the best liquid eyeliners I've tried, as well as pro tips from makeup artists on how to apply liquid eyeliner.

The Best Liquid Eyeliners

• Best Overall: Lisa Eldridge Kitten Flick Liquid Eyeliner (£25)
• Best Waterproof Eyeliner: Lancôme Idôle Ultra Precise Waterproof Liner (£25)
• Best Versatile Eyeliner: Valentino Beauty Eyeliner (£37)
• Best for Oily Eyelids: Maybelline Tattoo Liner Ink Pen Eyeliner (£9)
• Best for Fine Lines: 19/99 Beauty Liquid Pen Eyeliner (£22)
• Best for Beginners: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner (£21)

1. Lisa Eldridge Kitten Flick Liquid Eyeliner

2. Lancôme Idôle Ultra Precise Waterproof Liner

3. Maybelline Tattoo Liner Ink Pen Eyeliner

4. 19/99 Beauty Liquid Pen Eyeliner

5. Valentino Beauty Dual-Ended Eye Liner

6. Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

7. Clinique High Impact Easy Liquid Liner

8. Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Matte Liquid Liner

9. Chanel Le Liner De Chanel

10. Dior Diorshow Liquid Liner

11. NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner

What to Look For

When searching for the best liquid eyeliner, it’s important to consider the overall makeup look that you’re trying to create. “If you want a really dramatic look, or that full Amy Winehouse-inspired flick, then you should opt for a liquid liner with more surface area and a thick nib,” explains makeup artist Elaine Lynskey. “If you want a more natural definition, then opt for a finer nib.”

Skill level also plays a part in the type of liquid eyeliner that you might feel most comfortable using. Makeup artist Scarlett Burton recommends a liquid liner with a felt tip end for beginners. “It’s quite sturdy and gives me the most control,” she explains. “However, I do love a gel point style liner too, applied with a thin art brush, which lots of pros use as they are often a lot thinner and more precise than makeup brushes.”

How to Apply a Liquid Eyeliner

Of course, narrowing down your perfect liquid eyeliner is all well and good, but how do you actually go about applying it? Well, when creating the perfect line, there’s one clear rule: “You must look directly into a mirror with no squinting, head tilts or side-eyes,” says Lynskey. This is particularly important if you're doing eyeliner on hooded eyes. She also recommends using a pressing motion rather than a drawing one. “By pressing the side of the liquid applicator, rather than dragging along the tip, you have more precision and control to create a smooth shape,” Lynskey explains. “If you want to create a sharp point, then you can use the nib.” And if you’ve made any errors, Lynskey swears by a little bit of moisturiser (not micellar water) on the end of a fine cotton bud to tidy up with.

For total beginners, Burton recommends prepping with a pencil eyeliner first. “If it’s a real struggle, then creating the line and wing with a pencil first can be easier to master, and it’s more forgiving if things go wobbly,” she explains. “Then just trace over it with your liquid liner, and you’ve got your perfect shape.”

How We Tested

As a beauty editor, I’ve tested hundreds of liquid eyeliner formulas over the years, and these are the ones that I personally rate for their ease of use (as mentioned, my application skills leave much to be desired!), longevity and flexibility to create different thicknesses of line. I also called on my fellow beauty editors for their picks and makeup artists to share their must-have liquid eyeliners from their kits.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts, including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Ask any beauty editor about their favourite beauty products, and nine times out of 10, you can be sure that the Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liners will be mentioned. Our team has tried a lot of eyeliners, but nothing tops Victoria Beckham Beauty's. In fact, VB herself is no stranger to gracing our feeds with a step-by-step tutorial for how she achieves her signature smoky eye (she's a big fan of her Satin Kajal Liner in Cocoa, FYI), but in a recent Instagram video, she actually traded in her usual brown eyeliner for something very unexpected.

Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner in Fig

We're used to seeing VB wearing her signature smoky eye in brown tones (her favourite shades are Cocoa, a rich matte brown, and Cinnamon, a shimmering bronze shade). However, in a recent Instagram video, she forwent the brown tones in favour of purple hues in her eye makeup tutorial.

She showed her step-by-step using her new Eye Wardrobe eyeshadow palette colourway in Orchid (£72), which features purple tones from lilac through to aubergine that she applied to her eyes to create a smouldering purple smoky eye. "I have been desiring these kinds of purply, mauvy tones for quite some time. I find they're really, really flattering, work on all different eye colours, and I'm ready to update my smoky eye, and give it a fresh, a fresh look for 2026," says Beckham in the video.

Then, to finish off the look, she pulled out her Satin Kajal Liner in Fig (£33), a rich, matte purple, to define her eyes. "Now, the last thing I'm going to do before I apply Vast Lash (£33) is I'm going to take my Fig Satin Kajal Liner, and I'm going to use it on the inside, along the waterline," she says in the video. "Sometimes, I also go on the inside of the upper part of the eye as well. If I'm going out at night and I want a super intense eye, this is a great colour," she adds.

As a fellow brown-eyed person who also gravitates towards brown eyeliners and eyeshadows, I was intrigued, and so I took this as a sign to try the Fig Satin Kajal Liner for myself. And I have to say, I'm glad I did. I'm a colour-phobe when it comes to my eye makeup, so trying a purple eyeliner certainly put me out of my comfort zone. But I was actually really enamoured by the purple hue. It complements my brown eyes, making them look more golden, and is actually pretty wearable thanks to the matte finish. Thank you, VB, for getting me out of my makeup rut.

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Shop More Satin Kajal Liners:

For a long time, I totally overlooked eyeliners in my makeup routine. You see, as a teenager, there was nothing I loved more than lining my eyes with a dark kohl liner. These days, however, I'm all for a more subtle look, and many eyeliners scare me (especially when doing makeup on my hooded eyes—it can often look just too heavy). Which is why I've been on the hunt for the best natural-looking eyeliners lately.

I know, 2016 makeup, with its full-glam cut creases and defined eyeliner wings, may be threatening a comeback in 2026, but until I pluck up the courage to pick up a liquid eyeliner again, I'm following the softly-diffused, smoky wings and barely-there brown eyeliner that makeup artists such as Nina Park have made so popular right now. It's the ideal way to add definitionto your eyes whilst still retaining the "no-makeup" makeup effect.

So I've been putting the most natural-looking eyeliners to the test to find the ones that offer just the right amount of definition, whether you're tightlining, creating a smoky wing or lining your lids. Scroll on for my tried and tested favourites, as well as the tips to make your eyeliner look as natural as possible.

Best Natural-Looking Eyeliners, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner in Cocoa (£33)
• Best for Smudging: Jones Road The Best Pencil in Brown (£24)
• Best Brightening Eyeliner: Victoria Beckham Beauty Instant Brightening Waterline Pencil (£31)
• Best Affordable Eyeliner: Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eyeliner Pencil in Sable Brown (£3)
• Best Waterproof Eyeliner: Charlotte Tilbury Rock 'n' Kohl in Barbarella Brown (£25)

1. Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner in Cocoa

The Satin Kajal Liners are easily one of Victoria Beckham Beauty's best products because they're just so versatile. The soft pencils glide effortlessly and can be used in multiple ways, but are particularly great for adding soft definition to your eyes, whether you're tight-lining or creating a softly-diffused wing to add natural-looking definition. The Satin Kajal Liner in Cocoa is the best shade if you're after natural-looking eyeliner, thanks to its rich brown hue in a soft-matte finish.

2. Jones Road The Best Pencil in Brown

This Jones Road pencil liner glides onto the eyes smoothly, depositing bold pigment without dragging whatsoever. And of course it's good; legendary makeup artist Bobbi Brown created it. The formula is buttery soft, so it can be smudged to create soft definition around your eyes without looking heavy. I highly recommend the brown shade for the most natural-looking, "no-makeup" makeup results.

3. Victoria Beckham Beauty Instant Brightening Waterline Pencil

4. Beauty Pie Gel Eyeliner in Turkish Coffee

5. Charlotte Tilbury Rock 'n' Kohl in Barbarella Brown

If you want a waterproof and totally indestructible eyeliner, then you really can't do much better than Charlotte Tilbury's formula. It boasts an impressive wear-time of 10 hours on the waterline and a huge 28 hours on the lids. Once this is set in place, it won't budge, so it's also ideal for sensitive or watery eyes as it won't smudge or transfer. I'd recommend going for Barbarella Brown for the most natural-looking shade.

6. Lisa Eldridge Seamless Glide Eye Pencil in Ground Coffee

7. Glossier Boy Brow Arch

You're probably wondering what a brow pencil is doing in this buying guide, but hear me out for a second. Glossier's Boy Brow Arch has an angled nib that is so incredibly fine that it makes it perfect for adding subtle definition exactly where you need it. I love using this one in a brown tone to apply to the very inner corners of my eyes to lightly enhance my eyes with just a hint of colour. It's also one of the best brow pencils I've tried for creating realistic brow hair strokes, but I love to use it as a natural-looking eyeliner too.

8. E.l.f. Smoky Kohl Eyeliner in Plum and Go

9. Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eyeliner Pencil

10. Ilia Clean Line Gel Eyeliner in Dusk

11. MAC Eye Kohl in Costa Riche

12. Kosas Soulgazer Intensifying Gel Eyeliner in Depth

How to Apply Eyeliner

For the most natural-looking eyeliner, there are a couple of methods that will ensure it looks as seamless as possible. "Tightlining is your best friend for a seamless, natural lash look," says Lielle Neury, Eyelash Emporium lash ambassador and celebrity make-up artist. "Tightlining is an eyeliner technique that involves applying eyeliner to the upper waterline, the area right under your upper lashes, to create the illusion of thicker, fuller lashes. It’s a subtle way to define your eyes and enhance your lash line without a noticeable line of eyeliner," she says. For this technique, soft kohl pencils are best.

Additionally, opting for brown eyeliners is also best for a softer, more natural-looking result, as black eyeliners can sometimes look too harsh. Eyeliner pencils, unlike liquid eyeliners, offer a more natural-looking formula that delivers a soft, blendable line. In contrast, liquid eyeliners are designed to produce a defined, crisp edge. And if you're after a refreshed look, beige or off-white eyeliner pencils can be applied on the lower waterline to neutralise redness and fake a wide-eyed look.

How We Tested

With hundreds of eyeliners passing by our beauty desk, we've tested all the very best eyeliners around and have taken notes of the ones that deliver the most natural-looking results. We've tried kohl pencils, gel eyeliners and just about every pencil eyeliner out there to see how natural-looking the results were, as well as testing them for their versatility and lasting power on the eyes.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

When it comes to mascara, everyone has different preferences. Some favour a lengthening mascara, others want a volumising mascara formula, whilst others swear by tubing mascaras, or mascaras for sensitive eyes. As for myself, I religiously use curling mascaras, but I also swear by waterproof mascaras, which are not only brilliant for holding a curl, but come with so many benefits too.

"Waterproof formulas contain waxes and silicones to repel moisture, so they can feel thicker, whereas standard mascaras are more water-soluble and have a lighter texture," says Dior makeup artist Jamie Coombes. "It has more staying power, making it ideal for long events and all-day wear with less smudging and transfer. It's ideal for watery eyes, as it's less likely to smudge or run," he says.

Plus, waterproof mascaras can see you through all sorts of concerns and occasions, making them a bulletproof option to have in your makeup bag. Personally, I love them for my hooded eyes, as other mascaras tend to smudge and transfer onto my browbone.

"Waterproof mascaras are ideal for contact lens wearers or for those with more watery eyes. They're also great for active sports, such as the gym, as it repels sweat and moisture," says Coombes. "It’s Ideal for any situation where you need lash makeup to last for everyday wear, such as an all-day event like a wedding, where you may shed a tear or two, or when you're on holiday in hot, humid conditions," he says.

To help you find the best waterproof mascara for you, I've rallied our editors to test all the waterproof formulas out there. Scroll ahead for the ones we rate the highest.

Best Waterproof Mascaras, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall: Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara Waterproof (£37)
• Best Affordable Waterproof Mascara: L'Oréal Paris Volume Million Lash Waterproof Mascara (£12)
• Best Lifting Waterproof Mascara: Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara (£29)
• Best Tubing Mascara: Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara (£34)
• Best Luxury Waterproof Mascara: Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Waterproof (£37)

1. Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara Waterproof

Coombes' favourite is this mascara, which just so happens to be one of my all-time favourite waterproof mascaras too. "My favourite is Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Waterproof; it's not too heavy, doesn’t budge and the wand separates the lashes perfectly," he says. The curved brush hugs the base of the lashes to lift them into a beautiful curl that stays in place all day, and it does a great job at defining and lengthening for a wide-eyed effect. The waterproof formula is bulletproof, so you ideally need an eye makeup remover to melt it away. But I've worn it to the gym, shed happy tears and worn it in humid climates and it breezed through them all easily.

2. L'Oréal Paris Volume Million Lash Waterproof Mascara

"One of my all-time favourite mascaras is the L'Oréal Paris Volume Million Lashes Mascara; however, during the winter months, my eyes can get quite dry and, in turn, quite watery, so I prefer to opt for the waterproof formula," says junior beauty editor, Grace Lindsay. "This isn’t the kind of mascara that will give a super natural, fluttery effect, but it’s incredible at separating the lashes and providing a voluminous finish. When using the waterproof version, I tend to apply two coats, and love going about my day without worrying that my mascara will be everywhere by the end of it. Yes, it can be a little harder to remove, but I recommend an oil-based cleanser to help break it down," she says.

3. Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara

Whilst this mascara isn't technically a waterproof mascara, it is one of the most long-wearing formulas I've tried, with the added benefit of it being really easy to remove compared to traditional waterproof formulas. It removes with warm water, so you might not want to wear it on a swim or spa day, but I feel it deserves a place amongst the best waterproof mascaras if you dislike how hard most of them are to take off. It feels lightweight and silky on the lashes, and the dual-sided comb is perfect for lengthening, lifting and volumising the lashes. It doesn't smudge or crumble, and is easily layered for a bolder look. It's one of my favourite Ilia beauty products, hands down.

4. Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

"I'm one of those silly people who constantly has mascara smudged around their eyes because I have convinced myself I don't like waterproof formulas. Why? Simply because I am too lazy to remove them properly. However, in more recent years, I have found that a great tubing formula is the perfect middle ground, and this is probably the best one I have ever used," says beauty director Shannon Lawlor. "Not totally waterproof, but not prone to smudging either, this Hourglass formula wraps lash strands in 'tubes' of product—they bind to the lash and do not budge. Well, not until you really work some water in at least, and then those tubes slip off each strand like little mascara worms. After a full day's wear, I can confirm it didn't smudge at all, but after 15 hours of wear, I did start to see some flaking. In my opinion, though, if you want seriously lengthened lashes sans smudging, Hourglass Unlocked is the way to go," she says.

5. Chanel Le Volume De Chanel Waterproof Mascara

"Whilst I’m usually open to trying new things, I’m pretty averse to trying a mascara that isn't the Chanel Le Volume," says acting deputy editor, Rebecca Rhys-Evans. "I have before, of course (in the name of beauty!), but none come close to competing for me. Chanel Le Volume does as the name suggests—it creates volume from the root and separates the lashes to the point where every single one could be counted. It doesn't clump, and the wand is neat, so I rarely manage to smudge it against my lids. I also find that it lasts longer than other mascaras. Some I try are brilliant for 3-4 weeks, but quickly dry out and flake around my eyes after a couple of hours. And, I've found the waterproof version provides the same, but I must admit I save it for particular occasions instead of everyday use (summer holidays, or a wedding where I just know I'll be crying!). Whilst I usually go for black, the brown shade is a particularly lovely chocolatey tone, and looks soft and natural with sun-kissed skin," she says.

6. Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara

I actually discovered this Maybelline mascara version after picking up the waterproof formula by mistake in my local drugstore. But since trying it, I've been converted. If you love the incredible lengthening and lifting from the original formula, then you'll get even more hold from the waterproof version. It's so lengthening that my lashes almost touch my eyebrows when I wear it! But it has the bonus of being smudge- and flake-proof, so it will see you through even the rainiest downpours or humid weather.

7. Lash Lash Idôle Waterproof Mascara

"I consider this to be the holy grail of mascaras," says deputy editor Maxine Eggeneberger. "No flaking, no clumping, no smudging, just serious length, definition, volume and curl. I also like the wand and brush shape—its narrow design was ideated to reach even the smallest of lashes on either side of your eye, creating a wide fan-like flutter. Honestly, I don’t know why you’d ever need to buy another mascara," she says.

8. Beauty Pie The Perfect Waterproof Mascara

I've always found it tricky to find a good waterproof mascara that delivers a natural-looking effect. But Beauty Pie's The Perfect Waterproof Mascara is exactly what I've been looking for. It delivers just the right amount of volume, length and curl to make you look like you're naturally blessed with beautiful lashes with zero clumps. Oh, and it also comes in brown, too.

9. Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara

10. Benefit Badgal Bang Waterproof Mascara

11. YSL Volume Effet Faux Cils Waterproof Mascara

How to Remove Waterproof Mascara

Waterproof mascaras need a little more help when it comes to removing them, says Coombes. "Use an oil-based eye makeup remover, such as Dior Beauty Eye and Lip Remover (£32 ) he says. "Soak a cotton pad, lay it over the lashes with the eye closed, and rest it on the lashes for a few seconds to dissolve the mascara. Then gently sweep down the lashes to avoid pulling them, and repeat until removed. Then, using your regular cleanser, wipe away any remaining residue from the eye area." An oil cleanser is also helpful for breaking down stubborn waterproof mascara.

How We Tested

Our editors tried the very best waterproof mascaras, from budget brands to luxury formulas, over the past couple of months. We put them to the test at the gym, in rainy and humid weather, and even to weddings to test how well these waterproof mascaras held up. We also rated them on how well they lengthened, volumised and curled our lashes, noting if they smudged or flaked throughout the day and seeing how easy each one was to remove.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

A good concealer does far more than cover imperfections—with the right formula and application technique, it can transform the entire complexion. Illuminating concealers in particular are a makeup artist staple thanks to their ability to brighten, lift and subtly perfect the skin without masking it. Whether it’s muting dark circles, softening shadows or adding a fresh, light-reflective finish, the right formula can make skin look healthier and more awake in seconds. But not all illuminating concealers are created equal, and knowing how to choose and apply them makes all the difference.

Celebrity makeup artist Emily Clarkson stresses that technique is just as important as product choice. “Placement and texture are important when it comes to concealing, as adding too much or the wrong product can emphasise the area,” she explains. “For example, you wouldn't use an illuminating concealer on spots or scars that you don't want to draw attention to.”

What Are Illuminating Concealers?

Illuminating concealers are designed to brighten and enhance the skin rather than simply conceal. Unlike heavy, matte formulas, they often contain light-reflecting pigments that diffuse shadows and add a soft glow, making them ideal as an undereye concealer or around the nose. “The goal isn’t to hide the skin completely, but to reflect light in a way that makes the complexion look smoother, fresher and more awake," says Clarkson.

What to Look for in an Illuminating Concealer

When shopping for an illuminating concealer, texture is key. Look for hydrating, creamy concealer formulas that won’t settle into fine lines, especially for the delicate under-eye area. Clarkson recommends pairing “a hydrating eye cream teamed with a brightening concealer” for the most flattering result. Coverage level also matters—sheer to medium works best for illumination, whilst thicker formulas are better reserved for blemishes. Shades with subtle pink or peach undertones can help counteract darkness, while overly shimmery finishes should be avoided if you want a natural glow rather than sparkle.

How to Apply an Illuminating Concealer

For under-eyes, Clarkson prefers using her ring finger, warming the product on the back of the hand first so you don’t over-apply. “The under eye is so delicate and usually an area where you find concealer will sit in fine lines,” she explains. She also advises applying concealer after foundation and any cream products to avoid using too much. For an extra-natural finish, she recommends mixing concealer with a pea-sized amount of moisturiser to sheer it out even further for controlled coverage and a more skin-like glow.

The Best Illuminating Concealers

1. Best Overall: Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat Illuminating Pen, £32
2. Best for Natural Makeup: Milk Makeup Sunshine Under Eye Tint + Brighten, £26
3. Best for Every Day: Sculpted by Aimee Brighten Up Concealer, £16
4. Best for Mature Skin: Sisley Stylo Lumière Highlighter Pen, £54
5. Best for Shade Range: Fenty Beauty Bright Fix Eye Brightener, £22

1. Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat Illuminating Pen

2. Milk Makeup Sunshine Under Eye Tint + Brighten

3. Sculpted by Aimee Brighten Up Concealer

4. Sisley Stylo Lumière Highlighter Pen

5. Fenty Beauty Bright Fix Eye Brightener

6. Saie Hydrabeam Sheer Brightening Under Eye Concealer

7. Kosas Revealer Super Creamy and Brightening Concealer

8. MAC Studio Radiance 24hr Luminous Lift Concealer

9. Rare Beauty Positive Light Under Eye Brightening Concealer

10. Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer

11. Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer

12. Armani Luminous Silk Concealer

13. Erborian Super BB Concealer

How We Tested

Each illuminating concealer was tested across multiple skin types and concerns, including dark circles, dryness and redness. We assessed texture, coverage, wear time and how products sat on bare skin, over foundation, and throughout the day. Particular attention was paid to creasing, brightness and overall skin finish.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Finding the perfect eye-makeup remover shouldn’t feel like a personal odyssey, but if you wear mascara and have sensitive eyes, you already know it absolutely can be. I’ve spent years testing formulas that promised to be gentle, only to end up with watering eyes, stinging lids or residue all over my contact lenses. And on the other end of the spectrum are the removers that are soothing, but require so many cotton pads and so much rubbing that the whole process becomes a chore. That fine line between comfort and efficacy is exactly what can make finding the best eye makeup remover a tough task.

We talk endlessly about long-wear formulas in makeup—the waterproof mascaras, the 24-hour eyeliners, and the no-fade shadows, but what we sometimes forget is that long-wear makeup doesn’t just disappear. It has to come off, and the more durable your eye makeup, the smarter and harder-working your remover needs to be. The last thing you want at the end of a long day is a formula that has you scrubbing at your lashes with a flannel, or that leaves a tell-tale smudge in the morning because it didn’t finish the job.

For anyone (but those of us with reactive eyes in particular), the ideal remover needs to check three very specific boxes at once: quick and easy to use, effective at breaking down waterproof formulas and long-lasting pigments and soothing enough to avoid redness, stinging, or irritation. You’d think this trifecta would be standard by now, but in actual fact, finding a formula that nails all three is surprisingly rare.

I tested a wide range of eye-makeup removers, from pharmacy staples to luxe bi-phase blends and newer hybrid formulas to find the ones that actually deliver. Whether you’re someone who wears a single coat of mascara or you’re committed to a full-glam eye-makeup look, there’s an option here that will melt your makeup away without compromising the delicate skin around your eyes.

Why Is It Important to Remove Eye Makeup Properly?

"It's really important for your eye, eyelash and eyelid health to remove makeup correctly," says ophthalmology advanced clinical practitioner, Bridie Bukorovic-Shipman. "The immediate eye area is a very well-balanced ecosystem, in that we have little oil glands in between each eyelash that produce oil. This area is also home to microscopic mites that live on the skin and eat the oil we produce. If this oil isn't removed or if you get a buildup of oil due to poor eye hygiene and not removing eye makeup properly, this can cause problems."

In addition, Bukorovic-Shipman advises that leaving mascara and eyeliner on for too long can block the oil glands, leading to congestion along the lash line, which then results in an overpopulation of mites, which causes irritation and redness, and can lead to sore, dry eyes and problems with lash growth. "Eyeliner is particularly important to remove because it's right at the base where the mites live, but this also means it can be harder to remove," she adds.

How Should You Choose an Eye Makeup Remover?

"The best eye-makeup removers to use are bi-phase or oil-based formulas, which can remove oil-based debris and break down waterproof makeup," says Bukorovic-Shipman. "These are much more gentle on the eye, and because they're so effective, you don't need to scrub at the eye area, which can itself cause irritation."

"Providing that you have no allergy to tea tree, a tea tree oil-based eye-makeup remover can be great as the ingredient is particularly effective against the mites, but be sure to use an eye-specific product as tea tree can cause irritation itself," she adds. "And above all, make sure everything you use is ophthalmologist-approved, as this will mean it is at the right pH for the eye and is less likely to sting or cause any problems."

How Should You Remove Eye Makeup?

Bukorovic-Shipman recommends soaking your cotton pad in the remover and hold it on each eyes for 30 seconds in order to melt the makeup off rather than rubbing at the eye. "For particularly stubborn makeup along the water line, use a cotton bud to weave in between lashes and along the lash line."

The Best Eye-Makeup Removers

1. Best Overall Eye-Makeup Remover: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Eye Makeup Remover
2. Best for Sensitive Skin and Eyes: La Roche-Posay Respectissime Waterproof Gentle Eye Makeup Remover
3. Best Affordable Eye-Makeup Remover: Sephora Collection Express Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover
4. Best Luxury Eye-Makeup Remover: Chanel Démaquillant Yeux Intense Gentle Biphase Eye Makeup Remover
5. Best Multi-Tasking Eye-Makeup Remover: Glossier Milky Oil Dual-Phase Waterproof Makeup Remover
6. Best for Waterproof Eye-Makeup: Origins Well Off Fast and Gentle Eye Makeup Remover
7. Best for Sore and Irritated Eyes: Optase Tea Tree Oil Eyelid Cleansing Gel

1. Bioderma Sensibio H2O Eye Makeup Remover

2. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Respectissime Waterproof Eye Make-Up Remover

3. Sephora Collection Express Waterproof Makeup Remover

4. Chanel Démaquillant Yeux Intense Gentle Biphase Eye Makeup Remover

5. Glossier Milky Oil Dual-Phase Waterproof Makeup Remover

6. Origins Well Off Fast and Gentle Eye Makeup Remover

7. Optase Tea Tree Oil Eyelid Cleansing Gel

How We Tested

To find the best eye makeup removers, we tested each product over several weeks on a range of skin and eye sensitivities, makeup types and daily routines. We used the removers on light, everyday makeup as well as long-wear and waterproof formulas to assess speed, effectiveness and residue. We considered texture, scent, ease of use and any irritation or stinging.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If you've read any of my articles, then it will come as no surprise that I'm a huge fan of Victoria Beckham Beauty. From the Satin Kajal Liners to the new Foundation Drops, there isn't one product that I don't love. However, with the launch of the star's new Netflix series, I've become a little bit obsessed with VB's own makeup looks. In particular, her brown smoky eye.

The pop-star-turned-fashion-designer is known for her signature eyeshadow look, and we have it on good authority (from VB's personal makeup artist, Francesca Abrahamovitch, no less) that she uses her iconic Satin Kajal Liner in the shade Cocoa religiously. In fact, Abrahamovitch told our beauty director, Shannon, that she uses Satin Kajal in Cocoa combined with the brown hues of Eye Wardobe, also in Cocoa, to achieve Victoria's signature brown smoky-eye look.

And now, just in case there was ever any doubt as to how VB nails that chic eye look, the brand has launched a Cocoa collection—and I'm excited.

What's in the Victoria Beckham Beauty Cocoa Collection?

Inside this set is basically everything you need to create a brown smoky eye à la Victoria Beckham. It comes with VB's favourite Cocoa Satin Kajal Liner (easily one of the best brown eyeliners ever), alongside the new Cocoa Pavé Jewel Liner, which has a shimmery finish that is perfect for Christmas.

Alongside the two eyelines, you'll also find the cult Cocoa Eye Wardrobe, a chic eyeshadow palette with four buttery shades, ranging from a shimmery nude to a matte chocolate brown.

Victoria Beckham recently wore a smoky-eye look to the Victoria Beckham world premiere in London.

To finish things off, VB has also released a new version of the popular Future Lash Mascara in Cocoa, offering a softer, brown mascara that pairs perfectly with the products above.

"My everyday Satin Kajal Liner shade, Cocoa, has become a global cult staple and our #1 shade. Now we celebrate Cocoa like never before with our new Eye Wardrobe and Future Lash for a complete Cocoa look," Victoria Beckham says on the new collection. "It’s a decadent chocolate-y brown eye that is deep, dimensional and universally irresistible."

How to Use the Victoria Beckham Beauty Cocoa Collection

I recommend starting off with the Cocoa eyeshadow palette in order to re-create VB's signature look. Take the lightest shade and apply this to the inner corner of the eye before blending the deeper shades into the crease to create some definition. If you want a slightly bolder effect, Victoria’s favourite technique is to wet a liner brush with a small amount of water and dip this into the eyeshadow before applying the product to the lid.

Then, take your Satin Kajal Liner and apply it to the lash line and waterline, using the smudger on the end of the pencil to blend the product out and create that smoky effect. Abrahamavitch has revealed to us before that she tends to smudge Cocoa onto Victoria's upper lash line and even up to the outer corners to create the smokiness. Finally, apply a layer of the brown mascara to your lashes for a soft yet defined finish.

Shop the Victoria Beckham Cocoa Collection:

Shop More Victoria Beckham Beauty Favourites:

Here at Who What Wear, we take our beauty recommendations very seriously. We know that makeup isn't a one-size-fits-all kind of thing, so even though a celebrity might swear by a certain product, we always make sure to test it out ourselves to see if it's worth the hype. So, this week I decided to put Hailey Bieber's favourite under-eye corrector, the Kosas Revealer Extra Bright Serum Powered Color Corrector, to the test to see if it would help with my pesky dark circles.

If you're not yet familiar with an under-eye corrector, this product is slightly different from your usual concealer. I like to think of it more as a dark circle treatment. Although it looks similar to an under-eye concealer, it comes in a range of colour-correcting tones that help to neutralise the shadows under your eyes.

The Kosas corrector is loved for its creamy formula, and Bieber herself praises its ability to add luminosity to your skin. As someone who is just getting over a nasty cold, my dark circles are looking particularly bad at the moment, so I thought it was the perfect time to put this product through its paces. Keep on scrolling to see how I got on.

The Formula

Like many Kosas products, this formula focuses on your skin health. It is packed with peptides and hydrating botanicals, so it's great if you suffer from dry skin like me. It has also been designed with sensitive skin in mind, so you don't have to worry about it irritating the delicate area around your eyes.

The creamy formula has a serum-like feel, and works to reduce discolouration and add radiance. You can use it by itself like Bieber likes to do, or you can layer it under your concealer for a more seamless finish.

The Shades

As mentioned, this product comes in a range of colour-correcting shades. There are five options on offer, from pink to deep red hues, depending on your skin tone. Bieber uses the shade "Magic", a very light pink, but I opted for "Illusion", which has a hint of peach to help neutralise the blue tones under my eyes.

The Application

Thanks to the creamy formula, this product is a dream to apply. I have struggled over the years to find a suitable under-eye corrector, as my skin is really dry, but this blended into my complexion in seconds and was practically undetectable. I like to use my ring finger or the Hourglass Vanish™ Seamless Finish Concealer Brush (£39) to pat the product into my skin for a natural look.

The Results

Honestly, I did not expect to love this product as much as I do. I have always suffered from blue discolouration around my eyes, and this under-eye corrector made it practically disappear. Even without concealer over the top, my under-eyes appeared brighter and more radiant. Believe it or not, even my boyfriend commented on how good my skin looked.

However, the thing I loved the most was just how creamy the formula was. I think under-eye correctors and concealers can be so hit or miss, as a lot of products can cling to dry skin (I sometimes need to use an eye cream first), but this created a smooth, hydrated base for the rest of my makeup look.

The only downside I experienced when testing this product was some creasing near the end of the day. I recommend using a small amount of product to start with, as using too much can definitely contribute to this. I also recommend setting the corrector (and your concealer) in place with powder, too. While this was a bit of a shame, as someone who has tested hundreds of makeup products over the years, I'm yet to find an under-eye corrector that is completely foolproof, and would happily overlook a little bit of creasing for the brightening effect that this gives.

Shop Kosas Revealer Extra Bright Serum Powered Color Corrector

Shop More Under-Eye Correctors

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As far as seasonal makeup trends go, I have to say I have a bit of a soft spot for autumn. Above all, I'm partial to the darker colour palettes (brown, terracotta, plum and dark reds) that replace the pastels—I'm a sucker for an autumnal lip.

Elsewhere, my blushers and eyeshadows get a makeover too, with moodier shades and richer textures taking centre stage. Similar to how the season brings my trench coat and leather jacket back into the picture, my makeup shifts gears too—going hand-in-hand with my wardrobe.

According to Martyna Parzniewska, regional makeup artist at Armani Beauty, "What feels fresher this season is the play with texture and placement: blurred, velvet lips instead of crisp lines, glossy lids in deeper shades, and monochromatic looks using one colour family across eyes, cheeks, and lips."

"There’s also a growing trend of incorporating softer, muted shades (like taupes and mauves) as an alternative to the traditional fiery autumn palette, giving a more modern and wearable twist," she adds.

"It's very much the TikTok era of mixing aesthetics—a little 'clean girl', a little 'mob wife', layered together until it feels new again," says NARS field trainer Eliana Cavallo.

Ready to revamp your makeup bag in keeping with the most recent autumn makeup trends? Below is your definitive guide, including expert advice from top MUAs.

What Are This Year's Biggest Autumn Makeup Trends?

"The smoky eye is an autumn staple, but this year, a softer smudged liner and tight-lining give a nod to the '90s grunge," shares Jamie Coombes, Dior Makeup International Pro Artist. "I love using the Diorshow Stylo to achieve this look," he adds.

According to Coombes, "In the cooler months, bronzer will continue to be everyone’s go-to for warmth. Whether it be a cream or powder, it instantly gives a warm glow to the complexion. Bronzers such as our Dior Forever Nude Bronze can be layered with blush to create a duo colour effect."

As far as 2025 makeup trends go, he also points out that this year, "complexions are more blurred with a satin, soft focus finish instead of [strictly] matte or dewy skin."

"We will also see more natural cool tones on the eyes, contrasting the warmer traditional brown shades. Eyeliner is adopting a wine shade of dark red and burgundy," he adds.

1. Mocha Mousse

As far as brown shades go, mocha-inspired hues are unbeatable during autumn. "Mocha is the softer side of sculpting. It warms the skin and frames the eyes with minimal effort. Think of it as 'latte makeup', but deepened for autumn—neutral and flattering," says Cavallo.

According to Parzniewska, "This soft, neutral brown flatters most skin tones and works beautifully as an everyday shade." Just as suitable for a minimalist look as it is for a more dramatic ensemble (especially when paired with a brown liner).

2. Bordeaux Red

Elegant and timeless, Bordeaux red is a great statement choice (especially when paired with a matching mani).

"This shade is the ultimate autumn classic for lips, bringing sophistication and drama. To modernise it, try a blurred stain effect rather than a sharp lip line or tap it lightly onto cheeks for a wine-flushed look," says Parzniewska.

Apart from the lips, Cavallo also recommends using this colour on the eyes—"It instantly elevates a look from simple to statement, bringing elegance with a vampy twist," she says.

3. Pumpkin Spice

Now, this wouldn't really be an autumn colour trends edit without the iconic pumpkin spice. Equal parts soft and warm, this universal shade can instantly zhuzh up any look.

"Pumpkin spice is your terracotta, warm orange, spice tones, creating a glowing, cosy warmth to your makeup look," shares Coombes. "Peachy nude shades can be paired with bronzer for a slightly flushed appearance," he adds.

Elsewhere, Parzniewska says, "Orange-based tones can be especially striking as a bold matte eyeshadow, or softened as a burnt orange blush to create that cosy, sunlit glow."

4. Olive Moss

Less striking than a classic green, olive-toned makeup is a great choice for those of us who want to step out of our comfort zone, but are a bit intimidated by bolder colour choices. According to Parzniewska, "Olive is the understated neutral that feels very modern."

"Smudged softly on the eyes, it nods to the grunge revival aesthetic while still reading polished. It's unexpected, but chic in exactly the right way," she says.

"Olive moss reminds me of forest green, both earthy and full of life. It is best for the eyes as a pop of colour complemented by warm browns. I love it as an eyeliner on hazel and brown eyes; it enhances the amber tones of the iris," explains Coombes.

5. Vintage Mauve

A cross-seasonal favourite shade, mauve is a foolproof choice for both everyday makeup and an all-out dramatic look.

"This romantic, dusty purple brings softness while still feeling seasonal. It works beautifully as a monochromatic look—try it on lips and cheeks together—or as a transition shade to blend deeper eye colours seamlessly," says Parzniewska.

"On lips, it's the viral 'your lips but darker' effect; on cheeks, it's a delicate flush that pairs with anything. It has that nostalgic, vintage-filter effect," shares Cavallo.

6. Neutral Taupe

A flexible shade for any occasion, taupe adds a subtle wash of pigment, without feeling too over-the-top. "Taupe is the 'quiet luxury' of eyeshadow shades—cool, sculpting and sophisticated," says Cavallo.

"It creates depth without heaviness—the perfect base for a polished 'clean-girl' eye that still feels intentional," she adds.

According to Parzniewska, "Its grey-brown undertones make it a versatile base for cool-toned autumn looks." She suggests using it "as a soft smudged eyeliner for a 'lived-in' smoky effect."

One of the most common questions I get asked as a beauty editor is: "How do I stop my mascara smudging?" And the truth is, I've always been in the same camp as you. As someone with hooded eyes, my mascara often ends up transferring onto my upper lids. Similarly, some mascaras tend to crumble and flake underneath the lower lids, too.

It doesn't matter whether you're using a luxury mascara or an affordable mascara; it seems some of us are cursed with our eye makeup smudging. And even with the most careful application, it can still end up in places it wasn't intended. It's one of my biggest beauty bugbears.

To put a stop to mascara smudging once and for all, I enlisted the help of celebrity makeup artist, Lan Nguyen-Grealis, to share her expert tips.

Prep Your Skin

There are a few things that can cause your mascara to smudge. But what you might not have considered is how much your skincare can play a part, particularly if you have oily skin or are prone to oily eyelids. "One of the most common reasons for smudging can be oily eyelids where the mascara transfers," says Nguyen-Grealis.

If you're used to wearing a heavier eye cream or moisturiser around your eyes, consider switching to a lightweight formula instead. Oily or greasy skincare around the eyes can tamper with your eye makeup, so look for lightweight eye serums, gel eye creams and oil-free moisturisers to help prevent things from slipping and sliding. And if you're prone to oily eyelids, opt for an eyeshadow primer on the lids to help create a preventative barrier between your mascara and your skin's natural oils.

Shop Eye Prep:

Perfect Your Mascara Application

There are also a few key application tips that can help prevent and fix smudges when you're applying your mascara. Firstly, Nguyen-Grealis recommends curling your lashes with an eyelash curler first can help to lift your lashes up, which makes it much easier to get your wand into your lashes and avoid smudging. "Using a mascara primer will also help the mascara to grip better," she says.

If you have deep-set eyes or hooded eyes, then consider trying a lash guard, which can help to shield your upper and lower lids when you're combing a mascara wand through your eyelashes.

It's also important to not overload your lashes with mascara. "A bad quality mascara can causs mascara to smudge, flake and fall off, especially if you're overloading the lashes with too many coats," says Nguyen-Grealis.

However, even the most careful mascara application can end up in smudges (if you've ever sneezed after applying your mascara, you'll know what I mean) so keep some tiny Q-tips on standby to tidy up any transfer. "Make sure to dab rather than drag the smudges, especially if it’s still wet," she says.

Shop Lash Tools:

Try Tubing Mascaras

If switching up your skincare and application technique doesn't help, then Nguyen-Grealis says upgrading your mascara to a tubing formula can make a big difference. Tubing mascaras are renowned by many who experience their mascara smudging. They work by creating tiny polymer 'tubes' that wrap around each lash and are more long-lasting than the waxy mascaras that can flake or transfer onto lids. Another benefit of tubing mascaras is that they're far easier to remove than standard mascaras. Often, you can just use warm water, and the tiny tubes will slide right off your eyelashes with ease. They are a great mascara for older lashes or sensitive eyes, too, as they are gentler to remove. "Opt for a tubing or waterproof mascara, in particular one with a smaller wand to ensure minimum overload of lashes and smudging," she says.

Shop Tubing Mascaras:

Try Waterproof Mascaras

If tubing mascaras still aren't cutting it, then it's time to pull out the big guns and try a waterproof mascara. These formulas will take a little more work to remove (you'll need a good eye makeup remover) but will ensure your mascara stays put all day long, without transferring onto your upper lids or appearing underneath your eyes by lunchtime. "Sometimes in the hot weather and humidity, mascara can melt and smudge, especially if placed on lower lashes," says Nguyen-Grealis. "Opt for waterproof mascaras, as they are long-lasting as they have more staying power than the average mascara."

Shop Waterproof Mascaras:

Set Your Makeup

As a final measure, there are a few makeup setting tips and tricks to help keep your mascara in place. If you haven't already, invest in a good makeup setting spray. This will help to not only lock in your makeup but also create a barrier between your mascara and lids to prevent smudging. Additionally, a loose or pressed setting powder acts as another layer of protection both on lids and underneath the eyes to help soak up excess oils and prevent mascara from transferring to your eyelids. "To prevent mascara transferring underneath, use a light dusting of translucent powder after concealer to ensure no oils or moisture cause smudging," says Nguyen-Grealis. "Usually, applying powder to set the eyelids can help with oily lids. If you're wearing eyeshadow, try a long-wear eyeshadow primer first, but still powder on top, especially if you're using a cream eyeshadow base, to avoid transfer. Then, set with a setting spray," she says.

Here at Who What Wear UK, we are passionate about mascara. It may sound silly, but mascara is one of those makeup products that can transform your whole look. In fact, if I had to whittle down my makeup bag to just one or two products, one of the best mascaras would definitely be top of the list. That's why I've made it my mission to test some of the most popular mascaras out there to find the best formulas. Yep, whether you're looking for something volumising, lengthening or curling, I'm bound to have a recommendation.

From the best high street mascaras to the best L'Oréal mascaras, the best Maybelline mascaras and even the best mascaras for sensitive eyes, I (and the rest of the team at Who What Wear UK) have tried them all. However, there is one brand that I've been desperate to put to the test, as everyone I know raves about its mascara formulas. What is that brand, I hear you ask? Benefit, of course.

Creators of the beloved "They're Real" and "Roller Lash" mascaras, Benefit definitely knows a thing or two when it comes to amplifying your eyelashes. However, with lots of different mascaras on offer from the brand, I've always been a little confused about which one to go for. So, like any good journalist, I decided to put every single mascara to the test to see which one is worth the investment. Keep on scrolling to find out which Benefit mascaras I really rate...

The Best Benefit Mascaras, Tried & Tested by a Beauty Editor

• Best volumising mascara: Benefit BADgal BANG! Mascara
• Best curling mascara: Benefit Roller Lash Mascara
• Best lengthening mascara: Benefit They're Real Magnet Mascara
• Best mascara for a fluttery effect: Benefit Fan Fest Mascara

1. Benefit BADgal BANG! Mascara

2. Benefit Roller Lash Mascara

3. Benefit They’re Real Magnet Mascara

4. Benefit Fan Fest Mascara

5. Benefit They're Real Mascara

6. Benefit Badgal Bounce Mascara

When it comes to luxury makeup brands, I want products that I know I can trust. When you're spending a little bit more on foundation, concealer or even an eyeshadow palette, you want to know that it's going to be worth the cash. One thing I'm particularly interested in when shopping for new makeup is who is behind the brand itself. I personally love products that have been created by people in the industry whom I've looked up to for years, and these are often the products that become mainstays in my makeup bag for years to come. They just get it, you know?

So, when one of the most iconic makeup artists of all time launched her own brand back in 2019, you bet I was ready and waiting to get my hands on anything I could. Wondering who I could be talking about? None other than Lisa Eldridge. Yes, Eldridge has worked with some of the biggest models, photographers and beauty brands in the world, so she definitely knows a thing or two about creating a good makeup product.

Her eponymous beauty brand started as a range of lipsticks, but in recent years, the product offering has expanded to complexion products, eye makeup, tools and more. I thought it was about time that I put all of the bestsellers to the test to create a full makeup look. Keep on scrolling to see how I got on and to shop my top picks...

The Best Lisa Eldridge Makeup Products, Tried & Tested

1. Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint

2. Lisa Eldridge Pinpoint Concealer

3. Lisa Eldridge Elevated Glow Highlighter

4. Lisa Eldridge Eyeshadow Palette

5. Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash Mascara

6. Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil

7. Lisa Eldridge Baume Embrace Melting Lip Colour

One of the biggest beauty challenges I've had to overcome on my own personal makeup journey is figuring out the best eyeshadow for hooded eyes. As a beauty editor, one of the first lessons I ever learnt is that your eye shape will determine your entire approach to doing eyeshadow—or any eye makeup for hooded eyes, for that matter. I remember the first time I ever tried eyeliner in my teens. I couldn't understand why an eyeliner wing looked totally crisp and seamless on my friend's eyes, but on mine, it looked a bit off.

After watching multiple YouTube makeup tutorials and poring over makeup-artist books like Kevyn Aucoin's Making Faces, I realised that I have hooded eyes. And, like every eye shape, they require a different approach when it comes to eye makeup, but especially with eyeshadow application. Eye makeup for eye shapes can vary a lot.

If you've landed here, the chances are you're also looking for some tips on how to do eyeshadow for hooded eyes. So, I enlisted the help of one of the world's most iconic makeup artists, Charlotte Tilbury MBE, to personally talk me through all the tips, tricks and mistakes to avoid when doing eyeshadow for hooded eyes. But firstly, what are hooded eyes, and how do you know if you have them?

What Are Hooded Eyes?

Hooded eyes are an eye shape where the skin of your upper lid or brow bone covers the natural crease of your eyes. "People with hooded eyes often have a smaller visible eyelid when looking straight on, meaning some of the eyeshadow you apply can get hidden," explains Tilbury. If you've ever artfully applied eyeshadow all over your lid, only to relax your eyelids and eyebrows and look straight in the mirror and see it totally disappear, the chances are you may have hooded eyes, too.

Hooded eyes are often down to genetics and heritage, but our eyes can also become more hooded with time as our eye area matures. They can also vary in how hooded they are (for example, mine are more hooded towards the middle and outside corners of my eyes, but my lid is more visible towards the inside corners). Like other eye shapes, hooded eyes are really beautiful and striking, with many celebrities, actresses and models, such as Zendaya and Adriana Lima, having naturally hooded eyes.

Thankfully, there are plenty of tips, tricks and techniques you can use when applying eyeshadow on hooded eyes to enhance your eye shape. "Different eyeshadow styles are flattering on different eye shapes, so knowing your eye shape helps you to create easy, effortless eye looks that enhance and illuminate the look of your natural features," says Tilbury. Scroll on ahead for the expert-approved tips for applying eyeshadow on hooded eye shapes.

How to Apply Eye Shadow on Hooded Eyes

1. Choose Matte Eyeshadows

For hooded eyes, matte eyeshadows are your friend, Tilbury tells me. Especially neutral tones of beiges and browns, which will add natural definition to your eyes while making them look bigger. Anything too shimmery or glitzy on your lids can sometimes look too heavy. To start, you'll want to choose an eyeshadow palette for the most versatility, that's a similar colour to your skin tone, and apply it over your lid as a base to give any other products you're applying on top "grip".

2. Define the Crease

Next, you want to define the crease of your eyes. "People with hooded eyes often have a smaller visible eyelid when looking straight on, meaning some of the eyeshadow you apply can get hidden, so the secret is always up-and-out," says Tilbury. "My tip is to apply eyeshadow a little past the eyelid, up into and past the crease, then blend upwards and outwards," she says, which may mean you'll be applying it above your natural crease or even onto your brow bone. It might feel a bit unnatural at first, but this means even when your eyes are resting, you can still see the eyeshadow, and it creates a wide-eyed effect.

"Using my Eye Blender Brush (£26), apply your eyeshadow from side to side on the lid like a windscreen wiper," says Tilbury, "and blend it up and out past the eyelid for that lifted effect." This helps to define the crease and frame your eyes. Next, she recommends balancing the look by applying a little eyeshadow along the bottom lid too. "Remember it is important to not be heavy-handed. Using the same shade you have applied on your upper eyelid, use my Eye Smudger Brush (£26) to bring the colour along your lower lash line, and don’t forget to blend."

3. Tilt Your Head as You Apply

"When applying eyeshadow to your eyelids, lift your chin up and look down into your mirror so you can see your full eyelid, and if you are working on the bottom of your eyes, tilt your chin down," says Tilbury. "This technique will help you apply eyeshadow with precision on the largest surface area of your eyes without smudging!" Additionally, try to avoid raising your brows too much as you apply and check in on how it looks as your eyes are rested, as this is what it will look like most of the time. "No matter what shape of eye you have, you always want to draw the product up and out to create that illusion of brighter, bigger eyes," she says.

4. Accentuate the Inner Corners

This is a classic red carpet trick to open up the eyes. "To make hooded eyes look instantly bigger and brighter, apply the lightest shade in one of my Palettes of Beautifying Eye Trends (£49) to the inner corners of your eyes, dotting with my Eye Smudger brush and moving in a tiny ‘C’ motion," says Tilbury. "This is such a quick and easy way to make hooded eyes pop."

What Eye Shadow Looks Best for Hooded Eyes?

So, you're wondering what eye shadow looks suit hooded eyes best. Uncover the exact makeup styles and the products you can use to achieve them yourself, ahead.

1. Smokey Peach

I love this look on Bella Hadid, as you can see so many hooded eye makeup tips at play. You can see that her makeup artist has taken a slightly darker eyeshadow colour above her natural crease, which opens up the eyes, as well as tight-lining the upper lashes which defines the eyes without looking too much.

2. Flushed Metallic

Note the neutral tones and inner corner highlight that make Zendaya's hooded eyes smoulder.

3. Diffused Nude

How pretty is Selena Gomez's softly diffused eyeshadow wing?

4. Feathered Lashes