10 Non-Irritating and Hypoallergenic Mascaras for Sensitive Eyes (2024)

If you have sensitive eyes, then you're familiar with the struggles of finding a mascara formula (or any eye makeup product) that doesn't leave you irritated. It's not uncommon to have sensitivity in this area because the skin near the eyes is especially thin and delicate (fun fact: this is why it's the part of the body that shows signs of aging faster than others). "The most common symptoms of sensitive eyes are heavy or tired eyes, redness, irritation, dryness, puffy eyelids, burning or stinging, and even intermittent blurry vision," says Ashley Brissette, MD, Clinique's guiding ophthalmologist. Luckily, even if you're susceptible to these symptoms, it doesn't mean you have to forgo long and voluminous lashes. All you have to do is search for a mascara that's safe for sensitive eyes.

What to look for when choosing a mascara for sensitive eyes

If you're extremely sensitive, searching for mascaras that have "ophthalmologist-tested" on the label or packaging will be your best bet, says Brissette. Also, many mascaras are made with waxes, which can get stuck in contact lenses or in the eyes, so searching for an oil- or wax-free formula is helpful, she adds.

Other common allergens to steer clear of are parabens, fragrances, and dyes, says celebrity makeup artist J Guerra, who adds that it's a good idea to invest in a gentle eye makeup remover: "No matter how sensitive the formula, the removal process can be irritating. Oil-free, alcohol-free, and fragrance-free removers minimize the chance of a flare-up." Ahead, shop 10 non-irritating, made-for-sensitive-eyes mascaras.

The experts:

• Ashley Brissette, MD, Clinique's guiding ophthalmologist
  
• J Guerra, celebrity makeup artist

This lightweight formula is Brissette's go-to. It's "non-clumping, non-flaking, smudge-proof, and sweat- and humidity-resistant," she shares. The tapered wand has a precision tip that allows you to coat every lash while the rounder end adds volume.

If your eye sensitivities stem from a flaky mascara, Guerra recommends a tubing formula. Tubing mascaras are long-lasting because they're made with polymers that form a cone around each lash so that it doesn't smudge or budge until it's time to remove with water and an eye makeup remover. The formula also contains plant-derived rice bran wax to add structure and length, while fatty acids nourish and condition.

This formula contains panthenol and vitamin B5, gentle ingredients that help condition lashes without irritating sensitive eyes. It also offers length without clumping, making it one of Guerra's favorites.

This vegan formula is free of talc, mineral oil, sulfates, and parabens, all of which can be triggers for sensitive eyes. It's also budget-friendly and creates dramatic volume on all lash types.

Even those who feel like they can't tolerate anything find that they can wear this dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested option without trouble. The lengthening formula contains strengthening ingredients like vitamin E and rice protein, plus nourishing olive oil.

Aside from being ophthalmologist-tested, allergy-tested, and safe for contact lenses, this mascara is great for all lash lengths, especially short ones. The unique brush has three flexible spines with tiny bristles that coat lashes you didn't even know were there. It now comes in a brown shade, too.

First apply the eyelash primer to prep the lashes and promote length and long-lasting staying power. Follow up with the ophthalmologist-tested and EWG-certified mascara formula, which transforms straight and short lashes to sky-high fringe.

Looking for va-va-voom? This vegan formula doesn't disappoint. The brush has both short and long bristles to lift and curl every lash with just one swipe. It's the perfect option when you're looking for dramatic results.

It doesn't get better or more budget-friendly than this ophthalmologist-tested mascara, which lengthens, defines, and curls for only five bucks. It's also free of fragrance, oil, and parabens.

If you're looking for a mascara that stays put and gives fine lashes a boost, Almay has got you covered. The fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formula gives the look of thicker and fuller lashes without clumping or smudging. The rounded brush wraps evenly around the lashes to provide lift and thickness. It also contains nourishing aloe and vitamin B5 to condition.

Our beauty team is dedicated to finding you the best of the best formulas. We spoke with beauty experts to learn all about what to look for and avoid when choosing a mascara for sensitive eyes, and got their go-to recommendations. We also researched and tested top-rated and brand-new formulas that hit the market to help you find the best picks.