Having short, thin lashes is a common struggle for many people. While there are expensive high-end mascaras on the market, you don’t always need to spend a fortune to get great results. Many excellent drugstore mascara options can lengthen and volumize lashes without breaking the bank. Here are some of the top-rated drugstore mascaras that will give your short lashes an instant lift.

essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara

This mascara from Essence is one of the most loved on Amazon, thanks to its dramatic yet natural-looking results. It lengthens, separates, and volumizes lashes without clumping. Part of what makes it so effective is its unique brush, which has short, molded bristles that coat each lash individually. At only $5, it’s a fantastic value too.

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

Maybelline’s Sky High Mascara took TikTok by storm for its ability to make lashes look longer and fuller with just one coat. Makeup lovers say it holds a curl beautifully and doesn’t flake or smudge. The unique curved brush with bristles in different lengths helps lift from root to tip for maximum impact.

L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise

This Queen Bey-approved mascara by L’Oreal lives up to its name by delivering volume and length. Beyonce’s makeup artist swears by it for its plush, clump-free formula. Reviewers say it’s comparable to Too Faced’s high-end Better Than Sex Mascara. At $10, it’s a no-brainer.

Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara

If you want a subtle but noticeable difference, try this mascara from Essence. It adds length, volume, and definition without feeling heavy or crunchy on lashes. The brush coats each hair well while lifting them upwards. Bonus points for staying put through sweat and humidity, too.

Maybelline New York Snapscara Washable Mascara

To avoid raccoon eyes, choose a smudge-proof formula like Snapscara. Its wax-free makeup moves smoothly across lashes to intensify them without getting gloppy. Though budge-proof, it removes easily with just water. The tapered brush reaches even short hairs for transformative blur-proof results.

Covergirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara

With a voluminous brush and plumping effect, this bestselling drugstore favorite from Covergirl makes lashes appear noticeably thicker and fuller from root to tip. Its flexible bristles move seamlessly along each hair to define and separate. Reviewers love how it doesn’t clump or flake all day long.

Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Blowout Mascara

For a nourishing formula, try this mascara containing coconut oil, murumuru butter, and cupuassu butter. It coats lashes in rich pigment while conditioning them with vitamins and fatty acids. The rounded brush delivers length and curl without sticking lashes together. A great natural daytime option.

L’Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara

If the waterproof hold is essential, the waterproof version of L’Oreal’s cult classic mascara is a top choice. The jet-black formula wears beautifully through tears, sweat, or humidity thanks to its water-resistant polymers. It leaves lashes curled, full, and dramatic, looking for a truly unbothered finish.

Essence Lash Princess Curl & Volume Mascara

For keeping lashes curled all day, pick up this mascara from Essence. Its unique brush has both short and long bristles to lift hairs while adding definition and fullness. Reviewers love how it shapes lashes effortlessly and holds the curl through any activity or climate. A great low-cost option at just $5.

With so many impressive drugstore mascaras on the market, there’s no need to limit yourself to high prices or less-than-stellar formulas. These affordable fan favorites demonstrate drugstore doesn’t have to mean drugged results. Find your favorite for lengthened, lifted lashes on any budget.