Have you ever stared at the towering wall of mascaras at Ulta, feeling completely overwhelmed? You want lashes that pop, but the sheer number of choices—volumizing, lengthening, curling, waterproof—can turn a quick trip into an epic quest. It’s frustrating when you spend your money only to end up with clumpy, disappointing results.
Choosing the perfect Ulta mascara is tricky because everyone’s lashes are different. What works wonders for your friend might fail you completely. We know the pain of buying a highly-rated tube that doesn’t live up to the hype. That’s why we dove deep into the best-sellers and hidden gems available right in your local Ulta store.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down the top Ulta mascaras based on real results, so you can stop guessing and start glowing. By the end of this post, you will know exactly which formula to grab for dramatic volume or perfect separation. Let’s explore the mascaras that truly deliver on their promises and transform your lash game today!
Top Ulta Mascara Recommendations
- If you receive this mascara UNWRAPPED, it did not come from essence cosmetics.
- NO FALSIES NEEDED! Lash Princess False Lash Mascara defines and separates lashes while achieving a bold look.
- DRAMATIC VOLUME: the conic shape fiber brush delivers dramatic volume and sculpted length WITHOUT clumps or globs.
- CLAIMS: Cruelty Free. Free from gluten, silicones, parabens, oil, fragrance, alcohol, & microplastic particles. Made in Luxembourg.
- CRUELTY FREE: essence cosmetics is certified and acknowledged by PETA as a cruelty-free brand. We do not test any of our products on animals.
- Lengthening Mascara: Enhance your lashes with intense length and unique lash-by-lash separation; Ophthalmologist tested and allergy tested; Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
- Precision Application: The flat side of the patented flexible Precision Brush lengthens lashes up to 60 percent, while the comb side of the brush precisely separates lashes for a clump-free result
- Perfect To Pair With: L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Primer; This lightweight eyelash primer instantly builds dramatic volume and length on each lash for use under Voluminous mascara to instantly boost every lash look
- Because You're Worth It: L'Oreal Paris Makeup helps you create the look you want with our full line of makeup including foundations, concealers, highlighter makeup, brow pencils, eyeshadow palettes, lipsticks and much more
- L'Oreal Paris Beauty: A leading total beauty care company based in Paris, we offer innovative products and unique expertise from beauty experts in makeup, skin care, hair care, styling and hair color
- Lengthening Mascara: This volumizing washable mascara formula is infused with bamboo extract and fibers for long, full and lightweight lashes that don't flake or smudge
- Lash Extension Brush: Features our exclusive Flex Tower mascara brush that bends to volumize and extend every single lash from root to tip; Ophthalmologist and allergy tested, suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
- It's All in the Eyes: Subtle lines, smokey vibes, custom brow looks, classic tones or a shot of color; Our eyeshadow, eyeliner, brows and mascara collections are designed to transform your look
- Create any look with Maybelline; foundation, BB creams, concealers, and setting powders for the perfect canvas, eye shadows, mascara, brow pencils, and eyeliners for any eye look and lip products, from showstopping lipstick to plumping lip gloss
- SCULPTED VOLUME: Sculpt your lashes to perfection with the Lash Princess Sculpted Volume Mascara from essence. Due to the creamy black texture, you can create the lash style you love - ranging from a highly dramatic volume to an ultimate fanned out and extremely defined look.
- LASTS ALL DAY: This mascara sculpts and curls lashes without weighing them down. This mascara does not flake, fade, or wear, making it a perfect all-day, longlasting mascara.
- HOW TO: Starting at the base of the lash line, wiggle wand back and forth, adding as many coats as you like until desired length and volume is achieved. Make sure to wipe off excess product to avoid clumping.
- CLAIMS: Vegan & Cruelty Free. Free from parabens, fragrance, preservatives, & microplastic particles. Made in Italy. If you receive this mascara UNWRAPPED, it did not come from essence cosmetics.
- CRUELTY FREE: essence cosmetics is certified and acknowledged by PETA as a cruelty-free brand. We do not test any of our products on animals.
- MEET THE NEWEST LASH PRINCESS! The Lash Princess family just got a little bigger... Introducing the new essence Lash Princess Curl & Volume Mascara!
- DRAMATIC VOLUME & CURL: The peanut-shaped fiber brush allows for easy application while delivering dramatic volume and curl WITHOUT clumps or globs.
- FORMULATED WITHOUT: Animal byproducts | Parabens | Fragrance.
- CLAIMS: Vegan, Cruelty Free, Paraben Free, Perfume Free. Made in Luxembourg.
- CRUELTY FREE: essence cosmetics is certified and acknowledged by PETA as a cruelty-free brand. We do not test any of our products on animals.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Ulta Mascara
Choosing the right mascara can change your whole look. Ulta Beauty offers many different mascaras. This guide helps you find the best one for your eyes.
Key Features to Look For
What makes a mascara great?
- Volume: Do you want thick, full lashes? Look for mascaras labeled “volumizing.” These formulas add body to each lash.
- Length: Do you want long, fluttery lashes? Choose mascaras described as “lengthening.” They often have tiny fibers that stick to your tips.
- Curl: If your lashes point down, you need a “curling” mascara. These often have a curved brush shape.
- Smudge-Proof/Waterproof: Do you cry easily or live in humid weather? Waterproof formulas stop smears. Regular formulas wash off easily with warm water.
Important Materials and Ingredients
What is inside your mascara tube?
Mascara is a mix of waxes, oils, and pigments. These ingredients work together to coat your lashes.
- Waxes (like Beeswax): Waxes help the mascara stick to your lashes and give it staying power.
- Pigments (like Iron Oxides): These provide the black, brown, or blue color.
- Conditioning Agents: Some mascaras include ingredients like Vitamin E or Panthenol. These ingredients help keep your lashes soft and prevent them from feeling brittle.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one mascara better than another?
The brush design is very important. A good brush separates lashes well. A bad brush clumps them together.
- Brush Shape: Fluffy brushes usually give more volume. Thin, spiky brushes often give better separation and length.
- Formula Thickness: A formula that is too wet might droop your curl. A formula that is too dry might flake off during the day. Good quality formulas dry nicely without feeling heavy.
- Allergy Concerns: If you have sensitive eyes, look for mascaras marked “Ophthalmologist Tested.” This means professionals checked them for safety.
User Experience and Use Cases
When should you use different types of Ulta mascara?
Your daily routine affects your mascara choice.
- Everyday Look: For a natural look, choose a simple black or brown mascara that offers light lengthening and volume. These are easy to remove at night.
- Night Out/Special Events: You might want maximum drama. Use a very black, super-volumizing formula. Waterproof options are best for long nights or rainy days.
- Contact Lens Wearers: People who wear contacts should choose gentler formulas. Avoid mascaras with heavy fibers, as these might irritate the eyes.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Ulta Mascara
Q: Where can I find the best deals on Ulta brand mascaras?
A: Ulta often runs “2 for $X” promotions or offers coupons. Check their weekly ad or use the Ulta app for current sales.
Q: Are Ulta mascaras cruelty-free?
A: Many Ulta Beauty Collection mascaras are certified cruelty-free. Always look for the Leaping Bunny logo on the packaging or check the product description online.
Q: How long should I keep using the same tube of mascara?
A: You should replace your mascara every three months. Old mascara can grow bacteria, which can cause eye infections.
Q: What is the difference between Ulta’s “Sky High” type and their “Lash Sensational” type?
A: Formulas named like “Sky High” usually focus on extreme length using long fibers. Formulas named like “Lash Sensational” focus on fanning out and separating every lash for a wider look.
Q: Can I use an eyelash curler after applying mascara?
A: No. Never use a metal eyelash curler on lashes that already have mascara on them. The mascara makes the lashes stiff, and the curler can break them off.
Q: What is the best way to remove waterproof Ulta mascara?
A: Waterproof formulas need an oil-based makeup remover or a bi-phase eye makeup remover. Gentle rubbing works best.
Q: Do Ulta mascaras help lashes grow?
A: Most standard mascaras do not make lashes grow longer. Only serums specifically labeled as “lash growth” products contain ingredients meant to stimulate growth.
Q: My mascara flakes by lunchtime. What should I do?
A: This usually means the formula is too dry or you applied too many coats. Try applying only two thin coats, or switch to a moisturizing formula.
Q: Is the Ulta brand mascara good for sensitive eyes?
A: Check the ingredient list. If you have very sensitive eyes, choose hypoallergenic options or those specifically labeled for sensitive eyes. Patch testing first is smart.
Q: What is the best mascara brush for beginners?
A: Beginners usually find success with a medium-sized, slightly curved brush. This shape helps you catch all lashes without applying too much product at once.