A great mascara can be central as we age, especially as lashes start to thin, fade, or lose their natural curl. For women over 60, finding one that defines without clumping, flakes, or irritation is key. As celebrity makeup artist Kat James explains, “there are ways to work with those changes instead of against them”.
The best mascaras now do more than lengthen and volumize—they nourish, lift, and open up the eyes while being gentle on sensitive skin. To find what works best, editors tested dozens of formulas designed for mature eyes and delicate lashes. Here, you’ll find six top mascaras that deliver the most flattering results for women 60 and up, plus expert tips for applying them like a pro.
Mascaras that make lashes look fuller
These picks stand out for their clean formulas, smooth application, and age-friendly performance.
- ILIA Limitless Lash Mascara: Lightweight and conditioning, this clean beauty favorite separates and lifts lashes with a dual-sided brush—one side builds volume, the other combs for definition. It’s ideal for sensitive eyes and washes off easily, leaving lashes soft and healthy-looking.
- Clinique High Impact Zero Gravity Mascara: Designed for watery or sensitive eyes, this ophthalmologist-tested formula adds lift, curl, and length without smudging. Dr. Ashley Brissette recommends it for contact lens wearers, noting that its tubing formula stays put all day but comes off effortlessly with warm water.
- Jones Road Beauty The Mascara in Pitch Black: Bobbi Brown’s own favorite, this buildable mascara gives lashes a natural, full finish that’s perfect for everyday wear. It doesn’t clump, flake, or run, and reviewers love how easy it is to remove at night.
- L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara: A longtime classic, this drugstore staple adds volume and definition. It’s buildable, non-flaking, and widely praised by professionals and consumers alike for making lashes look thicker and longer in just a few swipes.
- Tower 28 Beauty MakeWaves Lengthening + Volumizing Mascara: This vegan, clean formula builds easily for those who like extra drama without clumps. It’s also easy to wash off, which helps protect delicate lashes from tugging.
- Mineral Fusion So Classy Volume Mascara: Fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive eyes, this mineral-based mascara nourishes while it defines. Reviewers say it adds soft volume and keeps lashes feeling conditioned throughout the day. It’s a great option for anyone prone to irritation or dryness.
How to get the best results with mascara after 60
Even the best mascara won’t work its magic if it’s not applied right. As lashes thin and curl less with age, try these small changes in technique.
- Start with an eyelash curler. It opens up the eyes and helps mascara lift instead of weighing lashes down.
- Use a primer. A clear or conditioning lash primer adds volume and helps mascara adhere evenly.
- Go light on layers. Two coats are usually enough. Too many can make lashes stiff or clumpy.
- Avoid waterproof formulas. They can be drying and harder to remove, leading to lash breakage.
- Choose nourishing ingredients. Look for formulas with panthenol, keratin, or botanical oils that support lash health.
- Replace your mascara every three months. Old formulas dry out quickly and can irritate sensitive eyes.
The right formula should define, lift, and nourish your lashes while feeling comfortable to wear. Whether you go for a clean beauty pick like ILIA or a budget icon like L’Oréal, the goal is a bright, fresh-eyed look that feels like you.