I’m an Expert in “No Makeup” Makeup—These Natural-Looking Mascaras Deliver

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: Merit Clean Lash Mascara, £24
• Best Brown Mascara: Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash Mascara, £29
• Best Affordable Mascara: L’Oréal Paris Paradise Mascara, £13
• Best 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.