The Best Drugstore Waterproof Eye Makeup

Nobody intentionally wears all waterproof makeup until they are really counting on the products to live up to their claims. I decided to take the plunge (pun intended) and put drugstore waterproof makeup to the test to let you know which products you can trust to hold up. You can watch the video above to see the full experiment and before and afters, but I wanted to specifically call out what I can now deem the best drugstore waterproof eye makeup that outperformed my expectations!

During my water tests, which involved a misting spray to simulate windy rain, plus a dunk in the pool, these budget friendly waterproof eye makeup products stayed looking freshly applied. As long as you’re mindful about not wiping at your eyes, these will help you slay your makeup look rain or shine.

1. Ulta Beauty Matte Cream Eyeshadow & Metallic Cream Eyeshadow ($8.50)

These were definitely the stars of my waterproof makeup test— and I’m immediately running out to buy more. These cream eyeshadows are primer infused and waterproof, so you can apply them to your bare lid while still getting a super long lasting wear. They blend out really smoothly, but you have to work fast as they set quickly. The formula is infused with skin-loving ingredients like Vitamin E, Mango Seed Butter, Peptides and Evening Primrose & Safflower Oils so they won’t feel drying on the eyes, and will actually help condition the skin as you wear them! I like blending the matte shade all over the lid, and tapping a bit of the metallic cream in the middle for a pop.

2. Essence Extreme Lasting Eye Pencil ($2.99)

This one was no surprise, as this has been my go-to eyeliner pencil for a while now for its lasting power. The Essence Extreme Lasting Eye Pencil is super creamy, rich and pigmented, and budge-proof even when wet. I use this to tightline under my top lashes to make them look fuller.

3. wet n wild Breakup-Proof Liquid Eyeliner ($5.99)

If winged liner is your signature look, you don’t need to skip it for the pool! I absolutely love this liner which has a brush tip for precise and super smooth application. I prefer brush tip liquid liners as felt tips can often fray or bend over time. The Breakup-Proof Liquid Liner is a slightly shiny, super black liner that creates sharp lines that won’t smear or run. As long as you pat your eye dry— don’t wipe— this will stay completely intact after getting wet.

4. Maybelline Full ’N Soft Waterproof Mascara ($8.99)

Essentially, you should be able to buy a waterproof version of your favorite mascara, though this is the highest rated waterproof drugstore mascara on Ulta.com. I had never heard of it, but the Full ‘N Soft Mascara is apparently a classic from the brand that’s been around for decades! It does give a more natural lash look, separating and lengthening your lashes without any clumps. While swimming did cause some of my lashes to stick together, there was absolutely no smearing, flaking, or running, even after being completely submerged in the pool. That’s a win in my book.

Watch the video at the top of the page to see how these products come together to create an awesome pool day look!

Do you have any tried and true waterproof eye makeup favorites?