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Mascara Favorites That Last

Posted by Finnegan Flynn on 13-07-2026

Fashion Tips

Great day, Lykkers! Finding a mascara that actually works with my lashes has always been a little tricky. Some make my lashes look amazing at first but disappear by the afternoon, while others give volume but leave my lashes feeling heavy.

After trying different formulas, I realized that the best mascara isn't always the one that gives the most dramatic effect—sometimes it's the one that makes my lashes look like the best version of themselves. Here are three mascaras that have earned a place in my makeup bag, each with its own strengths.

1. Merit Beauty Mascara — 8/10

This mascara became one of my favorites for everyday makeup days. The formula feels lightweight, so my lashes don't feel stiff or overloaded after applying a few coats. What I enjoy most is the natural look it creates. Instead of giving a super dramatic effect, it adds a little length and definition that makes my eyes look more awake. It's the kind of mascara I reach for when I want to look polished but still feel like myself.

The only reason it doesn't get a perfect score from me is that I sometimes want a bit more volume, especially for evening makeup. For simple, effortless looks though, it does its job beautifully.

2. CALRAY Mascara — 10/10

This one completely surprised me. Out of the three, CALRAY is the mascara that impressed me the most and became an easy favorite. The biggest win for me is how well it holds up throughout the day. My lashes stay lifted, and I don't have to constantly check whether my mascara has smudged or faded. That alone makes a huge difference when I'm busy.

It also gives my lashes that fuller, more defined appearance without making them look clumpy. Whether I'm going for a casual makeup day or a more put-together look, this is usually the one I grab when I want my lashes to stand out.

3. Tartelette Tubing Mascara — 7/10

Tubing mascaras are always interesting because they have such a different feel from traditional formulas. Tartelette gives my lashes a clean, separated look that works well for everyday wear. I like how neat the application looks. Each lash appears more defined, and removing it at night is much easier compared to some other mascaras I've tried.

The reason it scores slightly lower for me is that I personally prefer a little more impact. If you love a natural lash look, this might be exactly what you're searching for, but I usually want a bit more lift and drama.

After trying all three, I realized each mascara fits a different mood. Merit Beauty is my choice for a soft, everyday lash look, CALRAY is the one I trust when I want long-lasting results and a more noticeable effect, and Tartelette Tubing Mascara works best when I want something clean and easy. A mascara doesn't have to do everything perfectly—it just needs to match what you want from your makeup that day. Some mornings call for natural lashes, while others need that extra bit of confidence that comes from a great mascara.