How to Use Our Best Waterproof Lengthening Mascara

We love a lash with major volume, but when you want something that looks more natural—and won't melt down—a waterproof lengthening mascara is your best bet. When we launched RISE Mascara, we really wanted to create the best lengthening mascara we could. Turns out you guys loved it; it even won a few awards. So we decided to give you more and expand the RISE universe with a brand new formula.

Meet RISE Waterproof Mascara, a new twist on our award-winning lifting and lengthening mascara. This clean formula lifts, lengthens, holds a curl, and adds subtle volume for your most natural-looking, defined lashes possible—no matter what you throw its way. Bonus? It won’t smudge, either. Read on to learn all about how our best waterproof lengthening mascara works and get tips on how to use it in your makeup routine.

What is RISE Waterproof Mascara?

RISE Waterproof Mascara has everything you love about the original version—the lift, the length, and natural definition—but with a new waterproof formula designed to hold its own through sweaty days, tears, swimming, and late nights. And unlike other waterproof mascaras that are tough on lashes and even tougher to remove, RISE is made with conditioning ingredients so that your lashes look and feel healthier. (More on that later.)

“It’s great for vacation, weddings, or working out,” says Sara Wren, Milk Makeup Director of Artistry. “Wearing a conditioning waterproof mascara like RISE Waterproof allows you to get the benefits of a long-wearing mascara but without ruining the health of your lashes.”

Product image of an open tube of Milk Makeup RISE Waterproof Mascara where the wand is visible on a white background.

Is RISE Waterproof Mascara Vegan?

All Milk Makeup products are clean, vegan, and cruelty-free—RISE Waterproof Mascara is no different. It’s made with ingredients that actually help soften and improve the look of your lashes over time. Monoi oil and marigold extract help condition, fortify, and strengthen your lashes, while a unique blend of vegan waxes bind together to lift, define, and keep each lash held in place, no matter your lash type.

How to Wear RISE Waterproof Mascara

Before you start, here’s a tip from Sara: “Always curl your lashes before applying mascara, especially waterproof mascara,” she says. Once you’ve used your lash curler, it’s time for mascara. Grab the ridged tube (did we mention that its design was inspired by a sneaker?) then hold the brush in line with the natural curve of your lashes. “Line it up with your lash line and wiggle up,” Sara explains. “Repeat two to four times to coat your lashes and voilà!” You’re done.

The curved brush is designed to hug and lift your lashes from the root. Use the tip of the brush to define your inner and lower lashes. You don’t have to worry about even application—the brush takes care of that for you. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can always add more layers for more payoff.

When it’s time to remove your mascara, don’t stress—unlike other waterproof mascaras, RISE is designed to be super easy to take off, so you don’t have to go crazy scrubbing your face off. Just grab your favorite makeup remover and trust the process.

“Balms and oil-based cleansers are the best option for removing waterproof formulas. I like using Hydro Ungrip Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm,” Sara says. “With a dry face and hands, I apply a very small amount and gently massage it over my eyes to break up the mascara. Remove with a warm, damp washcloth or reusable cotton pad.”

Now that you know the basics, it’s time to shop. Grab yourself a tube of RISE Waterproof Mascara and get into that lifted definition that stays put all day.