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9 Best Tried and True Japanese Waterproof Mascaras in 2023 (Hair and Makeup Artist-Reviewed)

Whether you're watching a sad movie, get caught in rain, playing a sport, or it's just simply a hot day, sometimes regular mascara just won't cut it! In order to address this, cosmetics companies have come out with scores of waterproof mascaras meant to withstand moisture. And, in this article, we'll be covering Japanese waterproof mascaras.

If you’re new to the Japanese cosmetics market, it can be hard to tell which brands are amazing and which are a passing fad. That’s why we ordered the 10 most popular waterproof mascaras from Japan’s e-commerce giants (such as @cosme, Amazon, and Rakuten) and tested for the following:

  1. Smudge Resistance
  2. Finish
  3. Ease of Removal
  4. Feel

This is how we tested and found the most exceptional Japanese waterproof mascaras.
Last updated 06/15/2023
Rika Fujiwara
Expert
Freelance Hair and Makeup Artist
Rika Fujiwara

She's a freelance hair and makeup artist and an expert in aromatherapy certified by the Aroma Environment Association of Japan. She also pens beauty columns. She studied under Mr. Hiroki Murooka from the hair and makeup studio ThreePEACE for four years before going independent.

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Table of Contents

How to Choose Japanese Waterproof Mascara – Buying Guide

Here, we want to introduce three things you should look out for when picking out Japanese waterproof mascara.

① Get a Mascara That Will Give You the Finish You Want

Get a Mascara That Will Give You the Finish You Want
There are three main types of mascara: volumizing, curling, and lengthening. And no two people have the same eyelashes, nor do their lashes share a length or curve. They also have different ideas on what an “ideal” set of lashes would look like.


Look for a mascara that’s meant to give you your ideal look—and can maintain that look for an entire day. You want it to address your specific concerns, whether it be about the shortness or sparsity of your lashes.


Most packaging will list the effects their mascara is meant to have, so make sure you read before purchasing. If you’re shopping in person and there are samples or a makeup counter, try out the item first. It’s the most surefire way of finding a product you’re going to like.

Lengthening is Best for Those with Short or Fewer Lashes

Lengthening is Best for Those with Short or Fewer Lashes

Lengthening waterproof mascara works by adding fibers to the tips of the eyelashes to create the illusion of longer eyelashes, making them perfect for those who want more length or have fewer lashes than they'd like.


However, if the fibers aren't applied straight in relation to the eyelashes, it can result in an unnatural finish, so be sure to make sure to check in the mirror as you add length to your lashes.

Rika Fujiwara
Freelance Hair and Makeup Artist Rika Fujiwara

Applying multiple coats makes it easy for the fibers to stick to each other, so either make sure you keep it to only one or two coats, or use an eyelash comb and separate your eyelashes as you apply.

Curling Lashes are Best for When You'll Have Makeup On for Long Periods of Time

Curling Lashes are Best for When You'll Have Makeup On for Long Periods of Time

Curling lashes usually dry quickly, so they're not only best for days when you plan on wearing makeup for a long time, but also for busy mornings. 


Additionally, they also tend to harden up, making it easy to maintain your ideal curls! However, this also means that once they harden, it might be difficult to fix them. It's best to check the finish after you apply a coat, then quickly fix any mistakes before it hardens.

Rika Fujiwara
Freelance Hair and Makeup Artist Rika Fujiwara

Applying too many coats can add weight to your lashes, making them more likely to start uncurling. By applying one to two light coats, you can keep your curls for longer.

Volumizing is Best for Those With Thin Lashes or Who Lack Density

Volumizing is Best for Those With Thin Lashes or Who Lack Density

Volumizing mascara makes each one of your eyelashes appear thicker, making them best for those who want to make their eyes stand out more. They're also great for those who lack in density or thickness in their lashes.


Since some products tend to get clumpy, if you want to separate your lashes while adding volume, be sure to use an eyelash comb as well.

Rika Fujiwara
Freelance Hair and Makeup Artist Rika Fujiwara

If you've applied one coat but still want more volume, don't apply more coats on the tips; instead, just add just a touch of mascara on the roots of the lashes to create more definition around your eyes without making your eyelashes look heavy.

② Choose Between a Brush or Comb

Mascara brushes and combs come in all different shapes and sizes, including fat and thin, straight and curved, bristles and teeth, and so on.


The shape of the brush determines how much and where mascara applies; this, in turn, determines finish. If you were to use an unwieldy brush and accidentally get waterproof mascara onto your skin, it’d take a long time to clean up—far longer than if you had used a tubing mascara.


That’s why the shape of the brush becomes all the more important when choosing waterproof mascara. We talk more about different types of mascaras and brushes in the article linked below, so feel free to check it out if you want to learn more.

Brushes Can Catch Shorter Lashes

Brushes Can Catch Shorter Lashes

Brushes are pretty common, so they're generally easy to use. Just note that there are a variety of shapes, from curved brushes to straight brushes.


Some brands even develop their own unique shapes, so it's important to figure out what brush shape works best for you.

Rika Fujiwara
Freelance Hair and Makeup Artist Rika Fujiwara

With straight brushes, you'll need to frequently adjust the angle at which you apply. For beginners, it's easier to use arched or curved brushes that best fit the shape of your eyes.

Combs Are Best for Beginners

Combs Are Best for Beginners

Comb tips can help separate your eyelashes as you apply, making them actually easier to use for beginners.


However, while they make it easy to apply the mascara in a straight line, they tend to struggle with adding volume. Consider a comb tip if you want to separate your lashes or have neat, long eyelashes.

③ Find a Formula That's Easy to Remove

Find a Formula That's Easy to Remove
Because waterproof mascara is resistant to both sweat and oil, it takes time to clean it off your lashes; there are even some products that require fancy eye makeup remover. Rubbing too roughly at your eyes can lead to hyperpigmentation, so look for a mascara that comes off easily.

Waterproof mascara can broadly be separated into two types: those that can only be removed with a makeup remover, and those that can be removed with warm water.


Additionally, some products might be labeled as "Removable with Warm Water," but actually aren't removable with warm water, or can only be removed with warm water. It's best to assume that all mascara should be removed with a makeup remover, such as an oil cleanser.

Rika Fujiwara
Freelance Hair and Makeup Artist Rika Fujiwara

If you're particularly concerned about applying stress to your eyelashes or when your eyes are sensitive, choose a product that can be removed easily


Mascara that takes a long time to remove means that you're exposing your eyelashes to more friction, depriving the skin around your eyes of moisture, making them prone to drying out.

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9 Best Japanese Waterproof Mascaras

Here are the best Japanese Waterproof Mascara, ranked according to the relevant research (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Products
Image
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Key features
1

Imju

Dejavu Fiberwig Ultra Long Black

Imju Dejavu Fiberwig Ultra Long Black 1枚目

An All-Round Winner With a Great Finish

2

D-Up

Perfect Extension Mascara

D-Up Perfect Extension Mascara 1枚目

The Ideal Mascara for Hot Summers

3

Kosé

Esprique Full Impression Mascara

Kosé Esprique Full Impression Mascara 1枚目

An Instantly Drying, Glossy Mascara

4

Shiseido

Majolica Majorca Lash-Expander Liquid Extension EX

Shiseido Majolica Majorca Lash-Expander Liquid Extension EX 1枚目

Even Application and Quick Removal

5

Isehan

Heroine Make Long & Curl Mascara Advanced FIlm

Isehan Heroine Make Long & Curl Mascara Advanced FIlm 1枚目

Water and Friction-Resistant, but Difficult to Remove

6

Ida Laboratories

Canmake Gokubuto Mascara

Ida Laboratories Canmake Gokubuto Mascara 1枚目

Tends to Get Clumpy, but Easily Removable

7

TNR

Pure Christie Shokusho Premium Black Mascara

TNR Pure Christie Shokusho Premium Black Mascara 1枚目

Not the Most Durable but Quick Drying

8

Shiseido

Shiseido Imperial Lash Mascara Ink Waterproof

Shiseido Shiseido Imperial Lash Mascara Ink Waterproof 1枚目

Smooth Application, but Smudgy Finish

9

Flowfushi

Uzu Mote Mascara Vol. 7

Flowfushi Uzu Mote Mascara Vol. 7 1枚目

A Mascara That Gets Thicker Towards the Tips

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No.1

ImjuDejavu Fiberwig Ultra Long Black

Dejavu Fiberwig Ultra Long Black Image 1
Dejavu Fiberwig Ultra Long Black Image 2
Dejavu Fiberwig Ultra Long Black Image 3
Dejavu Fiberwig Ultra Long Black Image 4
Dejavu Fiberwig Ultra Long Black Image 5
Dejavu Fiberwig Ultra Long Black Image 6
Reference price
$21.00

An All-Round Winner With a Great Finish

Imju's Dejavu Fiberwig Ultra Long features a brush with a gentle curve. Imju claims the product repels sebum, sweat, and tears, and is resistant to smudging, and we were totally convinced; even though we rubbed a cotton pad hard on fake lashes after spraying artificial sweat, we didn't see any color transfer.


This mascara earned high marks in the finish test for its ability to neatly separate eyelashes without clumping. Our testers also appreciated how it was easily removable with an oil cleanser as well as warm water, meaning that you don't need to worry too much about damaging your eyelashes or if you have sensitive skin.


While the brush itself is comparatively thick, we felt the mascara itself had no issues drying, and the cap was easy to use. This is our top pick for waterproof mascaras, thanks to how easy it is to get a great finish while still being easy to remove.

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No.2

D-UpPerfect Extension Mascara

The Ideal Mascara for Hot Summers

D-Up's Perfect Extension Mascara is formulated with 10 kinds of beautifying ingredients. Its small brush also allows you to easily apply the mascara onto lashes around the inner and outer corners of the eye. Moreover, it was outstandingly quick-drying.


This mascara earned high scores in the finish test thanks to its glossy, natural, clump-free finish. Additionally. it can be very useful for sweaty summer days since it also has fantastic smudge-proof and waterproof capabilities.


Our testers liked how easy it is to remove the mascara with warm water. This product not only offers a beautiful finish but also great functionality.

No.3

KoséEsprique Full Impression Mascara

An Instantly Drying, Glossy Mascara

Kosé's Esprique Full Impression Mascara is a waterproof mascara that offers a clump-free, glossy finish. It also dries incredibly quickly. While it does offer two different brushes, you might need to practice until you can master them.


In our smudge test, this mascara earned top marks, refusing to transfer any color even when we applied synthetic sweat. We think that this mascara is perfect for sweaty summers or for situations where you might find yourself particularly teary-eyed. Just remember that when it's time to remove it, use plenty of cleansing oil and be gentle as you take it off.

No.4

ShiseidoMajolica Majorca Lash-Expander Liquid Extension EX

Even Application and Quick Removal

Shiseido's Majolica Majorca Lash-Expander Liquid Extension EX applies evenly and uniformly, earning itself high marks in the finish test. However, when applying this mascara, we found that our tester's lashes tended to stick together, so we recommend using an eyelash comb for a better finish.


What stood out about this waterproof mascara was how it was incredibly durable, yet was easily removed with cleansing oil. While the brush itself was on the thicker side, as well as gently curved, making it easy to apply mascara from the roots of the lashes, some of our testers found it difficult for them to apply the mascara to their lower lashes.


We think this waterproof mascara is perfect for busy mornings, thanks to its quick-drying properties.

No.5

IsehanHeroine Make Long & Curl Mascara Advanced FIlm

Water and Friction-Resistant, but Difficult to Remove

Isehan's Heroine Make Long & Curl Mascara Advanced FIlm can be found at any Japanese drugstore. While we appreciated how it doesn't clump, we did find that it tends to apply thicker towards the tips of the lashes. We recommend using an eyelash comb when using this mascara.


Moreover, it takes a decent amount of time to remove, so this product isn't the best for those who are concerned about straining their eyelashes. However, this means that it's very durable. We tried rubbing the mascara hard after applying artificial sweat and found none of the mascara had transferred to our cotton pad.


This mascara is best for situations where you'll find yourself with makeup on for extended periods of time, or for hot summer days. Keep in mind that the brush picks up a lot of the liquid, so you might have to adjust the amount with a tissue, but it also does dry quickly.

No.6

Ida LaboratoriesCanmake Gokubuto Mascara

Tends to Get Clumpy, but Easily Removable

Canmake's waterproof mascara tends to have a clumpy finish, with the application of the liquid being more random. If you want a neat finish, we recommend either using an eyelash comb or practicing your technique.


That said, its advantages are its high durability and relative ease of removal. The brush is slightly thicker, making it difficult for beginners to use, but it allows you to fully apply the mascara to the roots of the eyelashes. 


Moreover, it dries quickly, making it ideal for busy mornings. Since the size of the mascara itself is so small, it's perfect to keep in a makeup bag or purse and it won't take up space.

No.7

TNRPure Christie Shokusho Premium Black Mascara

Not the Most Durable but Quick Drying

TNR's Pure Christie Shokusho Premium Black Mascara offers two different brushes. It's relatively easy to use, being fairly quick-drying, but on the other hand, it was incredibly hard to remove, meaning it's not the best for those who are concerned about stressing their lashes.


The mascara separated our tester's lashes without a comb, but we unfortunately found it to be lacking in durability. When we tested the product using artificial sweat, some of the mascara had transferred to our cotton pad. This might be best used when you only plan on wearing makeup for a short period of time, or during cooler seasons.

No.8

ShiseidoShiseido Imperial Lash Mascara Ink Waterproof

Smooth Application, but Smudgy Finish

Shiseido's Imperial Lash Mascara Ink Waterproof was slightly slow to dry, but it felt smooth when applying it. However, our testers were divided when it came to how easy it was to remove.


On the plus side, this mascara earned full marks in the smudge resistance test, refusing to come off when applying synthetic sweat and rubbing with a cotton pad. 


Despite this, we found the tips of our tester's lashes were clumpy, which couldn't be resolved even when using an eyelash comb, requiring our testers to fix their lashes with their fingers or a cotton swab.

No.9

FlowfushiUzu Mote Mascara Vol. 7

A Mascara That Gets Thicker Towards the Tips

Flowfushi's Uzu Mote Mascara Vol. 7 features a comb-style brush. While the mascara tends to go on thicker towards the tips of the lashes, resulting in a somewhat unnatural finish, we liked how it was easily removed with warm water.


A lot of the liquid is applied in a single swipe, so you might have to remove some excess with a tissue. Still, our testers appreciated how smooth it felt to apply. 


Unfortunately, in our smudge test, a lot of mascara was transferred to our cotton pad when we rubbed it after applying artificial sweat, resulting in a poor score in that department.

How We Tested the Waterproof Mascaras

How We Tested the Waterproof Mascaras

We gathered 10 popular Japanese waterproof mascaras from Amazon, Rakuten, and @cosme and tested them for their smudge resistance, finish, ease of removal, and feel.

Test ① Smudge Resistance

Test ① Smudge Resistance
First, we checked whether each mascara could resist smudging.


We first applied two coats of waterproof mascara onto fake eyelashes. After ten minutes, we then sprayed synthetic sweat made from a mixture of warm water and horse oil. We then wiped it off with a cotton pad to see how much of the mascara was transferred onto the cotton pad. We graded each product on a scale from 1.0 to 5.0, with products earning a full score if absolutely no mascara got on the cotton pad.

Test ② Finish

Test ② Finish

Next, we looked at the finish of each waterproof mascara.


We had beginners apply two coats of mascara onto their eyelashes and then had our expert, professional hair and makeup artist Rika Fujiwara, check the finish.


Each product was scored on a scale of 1 to 5, with mascaras that were able to neatly separate all lashes without getting clumpy getting a full score.

Test ③ Ease of Removal

Test ③ Ease of Removal

Next, we tested how easy each waterproof mascara was to remove.


We had three testers wear the waterproof mascara for a full day, where they would remove it at the end of the day. We then had them rate each product on a scale of 1 to 5, with waterproof mascaras that were able to be removed quickly and smoothly earning high scores.


*We had each tester use the same oil cleanser for the sake of equality.

Test ④ Feel

Test ④ Feel

Finally, we tested how each waterproof mascara felt to use.


We had three testers use each mascara and had them evaluate on the following four points:

  • How firm the cap was
  • How easy it was to apply
  • How quick the mascara dried
  • How easy it was to carry

We then graded each mascara on a scale from 1.0 to 5.0. The products that were easy to open and close, easy to apply, quick to dry, and easy to carry around were rated highly in this test.

Brushes Covered in Densely Packed Bristles are Easiest to Use

Brushes Covered in Densely Packed Bristles are Easiest to Use
It didn’t matter whether the mascara was lengthening or volumizing; if it came with a brush completely covered in densely packed bristles, it was easier to apply. These brushes can reach into fine areas, such as the corners of your eyes, and apply product without missing a spot.


Furthermore, the densely packed bristles made sure that every single last lash was coated in mascara. And everything only becomes easier if the brush is flexible as well.

How to Use a Waterproof Mascara

When it comes to applying and removing mascara, including waterproof mascara, remember the following two points.

Apply in a Straight Line from the Roots of Your Lashes

Apply in a Straight Line from the Roots of Your Lashes

Place the brush at the roots of your lashes and apply the mascara in a straight, upward motion.


Make sure you don't move the brush side-to-side since that prevents the liquid from applying evenly and increases the chances of the mascara clumping.

Rika Fujiwara
Freelance Hair and Makeup Artist Rika Fujiwara

Before you apply waterproof mascara, make sure to use a tissue and remove any excess moisture and oil from your eyelashes.


If you skip this step, you'll be unable to apply the mascara neatly, and your lashes won't be as curled as they otherwise would be.

Remove by Leaving a Cleanser On to Blend With the Mascara for a Moment

Remove by Leaving a Cleanser On to Blend With the Mascara for a Moment

If you find yourself using a mascara that's difficult to remove, if there's one thing you should remember is to never rub hard. Excessive rubbing not only leads to pigmentation around your eyes but also can cause wrinkling, so it's best to let the cleanser gently blend with your mascara first.


Steps

  1. Apply makeup remover to a cotton pad
  2. Place it on your eye and leave it for one to two minutes
  3. Push down on your eyelashes and slide the cotton pad downward
Rika Fujiwara
Freelance Hair and Makeup Artist Rika Fujiwara

If you can't remove all of the mascara even after letting your makeup remover soak in, use a cotton swab and makeup remover and gently remove the mascara as you check your progress in the mirror.


In addition to pigmentation, leaving mascara on can also make it difficult to apply mascara the next time you want to use it, so be sure to completely remove it all.

More Makeup Products to Make Your Eyes Pop

Eyes are often the first thing you notice about someone else. Especially in a country where eye contact is so important, highlighting them and making them pop can really make an impression. Take a look at our other articles for more great tried and true eye makeup products!

Top 5 Japanese Waterproof Mascara

No. 1: Imju | Dejavu Fiberwig Ultra Long Black

No. 2: D-Up | Perfect Extension Mascara

No. 3: Kosé | Esprique Full Impression Mascara

No. 4: Shiseido | Majolica Majorca Lash-Expander Liquid Extension EX

No. 5: Isehan | Heroine Make Long & Curl Mascara Advanced FIlm

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The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.

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