I know I’m a beauty editor, but when it comes to the best mascara, I tend to stick to the formulas that I know and love. Don’t get me wrong, I love researching and testing out new launches, but incorporating them into my daily routine is another story. You see, I love a natural makeup look. I’ve used the same mascaras for years as I know that I can rely on them to give me that “no-makeup” makeup finish. So, when I heard that burgundy mascara was trending, I immediately assumed it wasn’t for me.
I’ve been loyal to black and brown mascara for as long as I can remember, so the idea of adding in a pop of colour terrified me. However, as it turns out, there was nothing to be afraid of. Yep, after being persuaded to give burgundy mascara a go, I realised that this is actually a super subtle way to make your eyes pop. “Burgundy mascara is a fun way of adding colour to your makeup without being too much of a statement or being too bright,” says Yolanda Dohr, makeup artist at inclusive London makeup experience, Beam. “This mascara is a subtle way to make your makeup look more exciting by adding a unique (and on-trend) touch.”
Intrigued to know more? I decided to do some research into the trend, and have spent the past few months testing out some of the best burgundy mascaras on the market. Keep on scrolling to shop my edit.
Is Burgundy Mascara More Natural Than Black Mascara?
One thing I love about this trend is that it makes my makeup look a lot more natural. Similar to brown mascara, burgundy can look a lot softer than black, so it’s perfect for more understated makeup looks.
“Burgundy mascara is having such a moment because it really does look great on everyone,” says Givenchy Beauty national MUA, Claire Mulleady. “It’s a softer version of black that allows us to play a little with colour in the most wearable way.”
“I would say it definitely looks more subtle than black mascara,” adds Dohr. That being said, Dohr says that the results do depend on your natural lash colour. If you have lighter eyelashes, then burgundy mascara could be perfect for making a softer statement with your makeup.
Junior beauty editor, Grace Lindsay, wearing burgundy mascara.
Does Burgundy Mascara Suit All Eye Colours?
One thing I was keen to know was whether burgundy mascara could work with all eye colours. If you didn’t know, blue mascara can really make brown eyes pop, so I was intrigued to know what effect burgundy formulas could have.
“Everyone can wear a burgundy mascara, but it will look especially great on those with green, hazel or blue eyes,” says Dohr. “The contrast will ensure the eye colour stands out or pops a lot more that it would with other mascara shades.”
If you really want your eyes to pop, Mulleady recommends adding a matching eyeshadow. “Givenchy’s Le 9.09 eyeshadow palette is great for adding a burgundy liner or a softer, smoky eyeshadow look.”
I was also intrigued as to whether this makeup product would work with all skin tones. “Yes, burgundy mascara suits all skin tones,” Dohr tells me. “It is especially nice to use on those with very fair skin tones as it is more subtle-looking compared to black mascara, which can sometimes be a little too much for those with very fair skin and light hair.”
The Best Burgundy Mascaras, as Chosen by a Beauty Editor
1. Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara in Burgundy Haze
Maybelline
Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara in Burgundy Haze
Best for: Volume and length
Waterproof: No
The Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara might be one of the best affordable mascaras I’ve ever tried, so I was delighted to see that it came in a deep burgundy hue. Not only does this formula add serious volume without any clumps, but thanks to the new shade, it’s perfect for taking your everyday makeup up a notch.
For
- Affordable
- Adds volume without clumps
- Lengthens and separates lashes
Against
- Can sometimes smudge under the eyes
2. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes! in Dream Pop
Charlotte Tilbury
Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes! in Dream Pop
Best for: Natural-looking lashes
Waterproof: No
This is one of my favourite burgundy mascaras when I want a really natural makeup look. It’s definitely not the mascara to reach for when you want lots of volume, but it’s great for separating lashes and adding that fluttery effect. The burgundy hue is very subtle, but it always earns me compliments whenever I wear it.
For
- Adds a fluttery effect
- Separates lashes
- Looks natural
Against
- Doesn’t add much volume
- A little more expensive
3. Hermès Trait D’Hermès Revitalizing Care Mascara in 03 Rouge H
Hermès
Trait D’Hermès Revitalizing Care Mascara in 03 Rouge H
Best for: Natural-looking lashes
Waterproof: No
If you’re looking for a luxury option, you can’t go wrong with Hermès Beauty. Not only is this mascara beautiful to look at, but it also creates the illusion of thicker-looking lashes. It has an ultra-fine wand that coats every single lash from root to tip, without flaking throughout the day. The black mascara has been in my collection for a while now, but I have a feeling that this rich burgundy hue might become my new favourite.
For
- Ultra-fine wand coats every lash
- Doesn’t flake or smudge throughout the day
4. Clinique Limited Edition High Impact Mascara in Black Honey
Clinique
Limited-Edition High Impact Mascara, Black Honey
Best for: Sensitive eyes
Waterproof: No
I’m sure you’ve heard of Clinique’s iconic Black Honey lipstick, but did you know that the brand also does a mascara in the same burgundy shade? I have quite sensitive eyes, so I’m a big fan of this product—it has been ophthalmologist tested, allergy tested and is also 100% fragrance free. Not only that but it also adds natural-looking volume and length. If you want more of a statement look, the mascara is buildable, but you might have to apply a few coats.
For
- Safe for sensitive eyes
- Buildable length and volume
Against
- More of a natural look
- A little more expensive
5. benefit Limited Edition BADgal BANG! Volumising Mascara in Wild Plum
benefit
Limited Edition BADgal BANG! Volumising Mascara in Wild Plum
Best for: A statement finish
Waterproof: No
Who What Wear UK’s managing editor, Poppy Nash, got me onto this mascara. It’s not one I would reach for every single day, but it’s great for evenings and special occasions. The volumising formula makes your lashes look so full, and it’s smudge-proof and water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about it sliding off. Plus, the Wild Plum shade looks so chic.
For
- Adds a statement finish
- Smudge-proof and water-resistant formula
Against
- Doesn’t look as natural
- A little expensive
6. KIKO Milano Maxi Mod Colour Mascara in 03 Plum
Kiko
Maxi Mod Colour Mascara in 03 Plum
Best for: Precise application
Waterproof: No
If you like the sound of the luxury options on this list but want to test a burgundy mascara out before investing, I recommend trying this mascara from Kiko. Not only is it on the more affordable side, but it comes in the most gorgeous plum shade that is perfect for autumn/winter. You can probably tell from the picture, but this mascara comes with a teeny tiny brush. I thought it wouldn’t do much, but it actually helps in coating every single lash and results in a smooth, natural-looking finish.
For
- More affordable
- Pretty plum shade
- Natural-looking finish
Against
- Some might prefer a bigger brush
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