Activewear The Best Waterproof Makeup You Can Wear to Break a Sweat We like the streak-proof Tarte Lights, Camera Splashes Waterproof Mascara By Lindsey Lanquist Lindsey Lanquist LinkedIn Lindsey Lanquist is a writer and editor specializing in fashion, lifestyle, and health content. Her work has appeared in SELF, StyleCaster, SheKnows, MyDomaine, and more. Learn about our editorial process Updated on June 16, 2022 Medically reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and nutrition and exercise healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Anisha Shah, MD Medically reviewed by Anisha Shah, MD LinkedIn Anisha Shah, MD, is a board-certified internist, interventional cardiologist, and fellow of the American College of Cardiology. Learn about our Medical Review Board Fact checked Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Isabella Broggini, NASM-CPT Fact checked by Isabella Broggini, NASM-CPT Isabella Broggini is a health writer and editor, NASM-certified personal trainer, and fitness nutrition specialist. She is a commerce editor at Verywell. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Makeup and sweat very rarely get along. Whether you’re navigating a humid day or a grueling workout, your makeup is bound to run, smudge, or drip right off—unless you’ve invested in some sweatproof options. “Waterproof makeup contains the same types of pigments as traditional makeup, but they have added ingredients that prevent them from being washed away by water,” Joshua Zeichner, MD, a New York City-based dermatologist says. When looking for waterproof makeup, pay special attention to key ingredients. “Film formers are large molecules that form a waterproof film on a surface,” Dr. Zeichner says, adding that some of the most common film formers in waterproof makeup are silicones and acrylates. “Silicones are commonly used in skin and hair care because they give products a slick feeling,” he says. “Acrylates provide water resistance and help keep products in place, acting like glue for your makeup.” Rather than only buying waterproof makeup, consider what you need most when shopping for waterproof formulas. You may not need everything to be fully water-resistant. To find the best waterproof makeup, we evaluated products from eye makeup to foundations and setting sprays, including a makeup remover, for their effectiveness, ingredients, and ease of use. Here is the best waterproof makeup on the market. Our Top Picks Best Mascara: Tarte Lights, Camera Splashes Mascara at Walmart Jump to Review Best Setting Spray: Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray at Amazon Jump to Review Best Foundation: L'Oréal Paris Infallible Foundation at Amazon Jump to Review Best Pencil Eyeliner: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil at Amazon Jump to Review Best Liquid Eyeliner: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner at Amazon Jump to Review Best Concealer: Benefit Waterproof Concealer at Belk.com Jump to Review Best Eye Shadow: L'Oreal Paris Infallible 24HR Shadow at Amazon Jump to Review Best Lipstick: Maybelline SuperStay Liquid Lipstick at Bed Bath & Beyond Jump to Review Best Eyebrow Gel: Maybelline TattooStudio Waterproof Eyebrow Gel at Walmart Jump to Review Best Bronzer: Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Bronzer at Sephora Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks How We Selected What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Mascara Tarte Lights, Camera Splashes Waterproof Mascara 4.8 Courtesy of Sephora View On Walmart View On Sephora View On Ulta Pros Four-in-one formula Free of parabens and sulfates Cruelty-free Cons May be tough to remove May feel clumpy or sticky It can be tough to find a mascara that lengthens and volumizes—and it can be even tougher to find one that’s also waterproof. Thankfully, Tarte’s Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof Mascara is a top choice. We love that the mascara relies on beeswax (more formally known as cera alba) and carnauba wax (cera carnauba) to repel moisture every time you wear it, giving you that sweat-proof application you’re looking for. It also contains PVP/eicosene copolymer, an ingredient that’s commonly used in makeup to make products more water-resistant. In other words, the mascara promises to hold up to even your sweatiest workouts. And since it’s designed to add length and volume to your lashes, it promises to be a pretty versatile pick. Price at time of publication: $24 Key Specs:Size: 0.24 ounces | SPF: No | Available Shades: 1 Best Setting Spray Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray 4.7 Sephora View On Amazon View On Macy's View On Nordstrom Pros Easy to apply Suitable for all skin types Oil- and paraben-free Cons May not be as effective as other waterproof makeup If you’re looking for a way to make your go-to makeup a little more waterproof, we recommend setting it with Urban Decay’s All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray. The spray promises to keep your makeup smudge-proof and sweat-proof for up to 16 hours at a time. It’s designed to be suitable for dry, oily, or combination skin, for maximum versatility. The setting spray relies on polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), a fixing agent that helps keep your makeup in place once you’ve applied it. It also contains conditioners and moisturizers that keep your skin from drying out underneath all your makeup. Price at time of publication: $33 Key Specs:Size: 4 ounces | SPF: No | Available Shades: Not Applicable Best Foundation L'Oréal Paris Infallible 24-Hour Fresh Wear Foundation 5 Ulta View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Bed Bath & Beyond Pros Lightweight and breathable Contains SPF Cons Some may find the coverage too light L'Oréal’s Infallible Fresh Wear Foundation is our favorite waterproof foundation for a reason. It’s lightweight, long-lasting, and waterproof—and it even comes equipped with SPF. The thin formula goes on smooth, giving you lightweight coverage you can build up and blend. And since the foundation is light and breathable, it's sweat-proof enough to get you through your tough workouts and comfortable enough to wear as you exercise. Silicone-based ingredients—like dimethicone and PEG-10 dimethicone—lend the foundation its silky-smooth texture. And classic waterproofing agents—like trimethylsiloxysilicate—keep the foundation from dripping down your face the moment you work up a sweat. Infallible Fresh Wear is available in 40 different shades, so it's not hard to find an option that suits your skin tone. Price at time of publication: $16 Key Specs:Size: 1.0 ounces | SPF: 25 | Available Shades: 40 The 13 Best Dry Shampoos of 2023 Best Pencil Eyeliner Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil 4.4 Ulta View On Amazon View On Beautybay.com View On Ecosmetics.com Pros Easy application Cruelty-free Cons Needs frequent sharpening A good pencil eyeliner goes on smooth, while still giving you plenty of control. And that’s exactly what Urban Decay’s 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil promises to do. We love that the eyeliner is loaded with emollient ingredients—like vitamin E, jojoba oil, and cottonseed oil—that make the pencil feel smooth and almost gel-like. The eyeliner is designed to be quick-drying and water-resistant, so you don't have to worry about your eye makeup running. The eyeliner relies on synthetic wax to repel moisture, and it turns to a silicone-based compound called cyclopentasiloxane to dry quickly. Plus, we like that it comes in 34 shades and three different finishes (matte, satin, and metallic), so you’ll have plenty of options to consider when shopping. Price at time of publication: $23 Key Specs:Size: 0.04 ounces | SPF: No | Available Shades: 34 Best Liquid Eyeliner Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner 5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Walmart Pros Tube can last up to half a year Long-lasting wear Cons May be tough to remove Liquid formula may require some practice Stila’s Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner is widely recognized as one of the best waterproof liquid liners around, and we can see why. The eyeliner promises to glide on smoothly and dry quickly, so you don't have to worry about skips or smudges. Its fine, marker-like tip gives you plenty of control every time you apply. The eyeliner relies on film formers—like styrene/acrylates copolymer and acrylates/octylacrylamide copolymer—to resist moisture. These go-to ingredients lend the eyeliner its sweat-proof endurance—giving you crisp, controlled lines that last all day. Price at time of publication: $23 Key Specs:Size: 0.02 ounces | SPF: No | Available Shades: 8 We Tested the Best Face Moisturizers—These 22 Hydrate Without Clogging Pores Best Concealer Benefit Boi-ing Cakeless Full Coverage Waterproof Concealer 4.7 Sephora View On Belk.com View On Debenhams.com View On Debenhams.com Pros Smooth, lightweight texture Non-comedogenic Tube can last up to four months Cons Requires a lot of blending to prevent cakiness Looking for a long-wearing concealer that won’t run the moment you start sweating? We recommend Benefit Cosmetics’ Boi-ing Cakeless Waterproof Concealer. The concealer promises long-lasting wear that won’t cake or crack. And despite its lightweight formula, it gives you the full coverage you’re looking for. The concealer relies on classic waterproofing agents—like trimethylsiloxysilicate—to give you that sweat-resistant finish you crave. And since it’s available in 26 different shades, it shouldn't be hard to find an option that looks great on you. Price at time of publication: $24 Key Specs:Size: 0.17 ounces | SPF: No | Available Shades: 26 Best Eye Shadow L'Oreal Paris Infallible 24HR Shadow Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Can be applied with your hands Contains conditioning ingredients Cons Formula may be fragile Eye shadows are rarely designed to be waterproof, but L’Oreal Paris’ Infallible Waterproof Eye Shadow genuinely is. The eye shadow boasts a unique hybrid design: It promises the easy application of an eye shadow powder and the smooth texture of an eye shadow cream. This combination makes it both intensely pigmented and long-lasting. It comes equipped with film formers—like nylon-611/dimethicone copolymer and polyethylene terephthalate—that make it waterproof. We love that the eye shadow is available in 24 shades that promise to stay on your lids for up to 24 hours at a time. Snag a go-to or stock up on a few—either way, you’re in for a new favorite. Price at time of publication: $10 Key Specs:Size: 0.12 ounces | SPF: No | Available Shades: 24 Best Lipstick Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick 4.3 Ulta View On Bed Bath & Beyond View On CVS View On Instacart.com Pros Long-lasting, matte coverage Easy to apply Cons May feel sticky or dry Many lipsticks are designed to feel waxy and smooth. But Maybelline’s SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick is designed to go on matte and stay firmly in place for up to 16 hours—even if you work up a sweat. The waterproof lipstick relies on classic water-resistant ingredients—like trimethylsiloxysilicate and paraffin oil—to stay on, rain or shine. We love that it also comes complete with conditioning ingredients that leave your lips feeling soft and moisturized. Take full advantage of the lipstick’s uniquely shaped applicator to apply the high-pigment product onto your lips. Its tapered tip offers plenty of control, giving you clean lines, full coverage, and a perfect pout. Price at time of publication: $11 Key Specs:Size: 0.17 ounces | SPF: No | Available Shades: 36 The 11 Best Sunscreens for Runners of 2023 Best Eyebrow Gel Maybelline TattooStudio Waterproof Eyebrow Gel Maybelline View On Walmart View On Ecosmetics.com View On Target Pros Lasts for up to 48 hours Easy to apply Cons Limited shade range These days, your makeup isn’t finished until you’ve given your eyebrows a little love. And Maybelline’s Tattoo Brow Waterproof Eyebrow Gel makes it easy to do so. The waterproof gel comes in eight different shades. It also comes with two mascara-like applicators you can use to get the precise coverage and shape you’re looking for. The eyebrow gel relies on go-to ingredients—like trimethylsiloxysilicate—to repel moisture. This makes the gel waterproof, smudge-proof, and long-lasting enough to keep going for up to 48 hours. Price at time of publication: $13 Key Specs:Size: 0.23 ounces | SPF: No | Available Shades: 8 Best Bronzer Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Bronzer Courtesy of Sephora View On Sephora View On Tartecosmetics.com View On Ulta Pros Easy to blend and build Dermatologist-tested Gluten- and paraben-free Cons Needs a powder brush for even coverage Only comes in 1 shade Tarte’s Amazonian Clay Waterproof Bronzer is a classic bronzer that promises long-lasting, waterproof wear in a warm, shimmery color. We like that it's easy to build and blend so you can get a look that’s as natural—or dramatic—as you want it to be. The bronzer relies on classic waterproofing agents—like trimethylsiloxysilicate—to stay on all day. And, since it’s packed with conditioning and soothing ingredients, it will leave your skin feeling soft. Price at time of publication: $30 Key Specs:Size: 0.32 ounces | SPF: No | Available Shades: 1 Best Makeup Remover DHC Deep Cleansing Oil 4.9 Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Dermstore Pros Gentle and suitable for most skin types Fragrance- and colorant-free Doubles as a makeup brush cleaner Cons May not be suitable for those prone to acne Removing waterproof makeup can be very difficult. After all, the makeup is designed to last as long as possible—withstanding water, sweat, and more. But DHC’s Deep Cleansing Oil promises to get the job done. The fan-favorite makeup remover is loaded with oils that bind with common makeup ingredients, helping you remove your waterproof makeup without much hassle. Since the makeup remover relies primarily on natural ingredients—like olive oil, rosemary leaf oil, and vitamin E—it's suitable for almost all skin types. But, since this remover is oil-based, we wouldn't recommend it to those with acne-prone skin. An added bonus: When you’re done using it to remove your makeup, you can even use it to clean your makeup brushes. Price at time of publication: $28 Key Specs:Size: 6.7 ounces | SPF: No | Available Shades: Not Applicable The 12 Best Body Wipes of 2023 Final Verdict Waterproof mascara is a must for preventing unsightly dark streaks and smudges, and Tarte's Lights, Camera Splashes Waterproof Mascara is our top pick because, thanks to its reliable ingredients list, it actually works. If you want to upgrade your entire collection with just one purchase, we recommend Urban Decay’s All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray as a top pick. The spray is a budget-friendly way to make your regular makeup more water-resistant. How We Selected the Best Waterproof Makeup Waterproof makeup can help you simplify your routine and look your best no matter what the activity is, but it's important to find the right products for your needs. We researched waterproof makeup in all categories, such as eye shadow, eyeliner, mascara, foundation, bronzer and even setting spray, to find the best products for a complete waterproof makeup look. We reviewed product details, paying particular attention to ingredients that make products waterproof, and read customer reviews for each item. We also considered the range of shades or options that each product offers, additional ingredients like moisturizers or conditioners, affordability, and how long the product will last before it begins to fade. We also consulted professionals to get their input on the best waterproof makeup. The experts we talked to included: Joshua Zeichner, MD, New York City-based dermatologist Dr. Hadley King, New York City-based dermatologist What to Look for in Waterproof Makeup Style Waterproof makeup is available in a variety of different styles. And depending on how and where you like to wear your makeup, you may not need every item in your collection to be waterproof. Consider which pieces in your makeup bag seem to be the most smudge- or run-prone, and consider replacing those first. Water-Resistant Ingredients Being able to read a cosmetic ingredient list isn’t necessary—but it can be useful when you’re shopping. So to determine what’s making your makeup waterproof, look for ingredients like silicones, acrylates, and waxes. Other Key Ingredients Odds are, you don’t just want your makeup to be waterproof—you want it to be waterproof and effective. So it’s worth it to pay attention to the other ingredients on the label, too. Do you want something shimmery, moisturizing, or equipped with SPF? Keeping an eye out for other key ingredients can help you understand exactly what you’re getting. Frequently Asked Questions How to take off waterproof mascara without makeup remover Since waterproof makeup is, well, waterproof, you won’t be able to remove it using water. Instead, you’ll likely need something oil-based. If you can, use a waterproof makeup remover or micellar water. But if you don’t have either on hand, look for something that’s oil-based—and gentle enough to use near your eyes—like petroleum jelly. (Try not to make a habit out of this, though.) How to make your makeup waterproof One simple way to make your makeup more water-resistant? Use a water-resistant setting spray (like Urban Decay's All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray) when you’re finished applying your makeup. The setting spray will cover your makeup with a light, water-resistant film—making your entire look more sweatproof.You can also apply a water-resistant primer to your face before you put on the rest of your makeup. Is waterproof makeup bad for you? “The ingredients that make the makeup more waterproof can also be drying to the skin and lashes,” Dr. Hadley King, a New York City-based dermatologist, says. “Some ingredients may also be potentially comedogenic, which could contribute to clogged pores and acne breakouts.” (The word comedogenic just means likely to clog your pores.)So while waterproof makeup isn’t necessarily bad for you, it isn’t great for you either. Dr. King recommends using waterproof makeup sparingly to avoid dry, broken-out skin and brittle lashes. Can you swim with waterproof makeup? Yes! If your makeup is truly waterproof, you should be able to swim with it on. (Unfortunately, some so-called “waterproof” products are more water-resistant than others. So you might want to test out a product before subjecting it to a full-on swim.) Why Trust Verywell Fit As a seasoned health and fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, effective, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit