We test three tubing mascaras at all price points – one gives a great lift and holds the curl

GOOGLE searches for tubing mascara are soaring as we’re all hunting for a long-lasting, smudge proof formula that’s easy to wash off at the end of the day.

This week, I put three to the test.

Budget

E.l.f. Cosmetics Lash XTNDR Mascara, £7 for 9.2g, elfcosmetics.co.uk: I’ve never seen a tubing mascara in anything but black, so I was very excited to see E.l.f. offer a charcoal and brown shade.

The brush was also near identical to both of the more expensive options, however I found the formula did clump a bit so I had to spend time separating my lashes after application.

That aside, I have no other complaints, it doesn’t smudge or flake, and it didn’t irritate my sensitive eyes.

A great budget option.

Mid-range

Soap & Glory Thick & Fast Tubing Mascara, £11.99 for 12ml, boots.com: Having not tried any Soap & Glory make-up since its plumping gloss had me in a vice-grip as a teen, I had no idea what to expect.

It instantly made my lashes look longer, and most importantly held the curl (which usually requires waterproof mascara in my perennially straight lashes).

I’ve tried it without lash curlers, and it still gives the same lift.

So much so, I’ve received more compliments than I can count on one hand.

It’s slightly harder to remove than the others, but worth the effort – it’s my new go to!

Luxury

Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara, £31 for 10g, cultbeauty.co.uk: Hourglass is potentially my favourite luxury make-up brand, and I’ve used this tubing mascara on and off for years.

The formula is quite wet (but most tubing mascaras are) so it takes some getting used to, but I’ve not met a mascara that’s easier to remove at the end of the day.

All you have to use is warm water and your finger to get rid of every trace, so it’s a really great low-maintenance option that lengthens and separates lashes.

But since it launched four years ago, the budget brands are catching up.

Pick of the week

ANOTHER make-up product I wouldn’t go without over summer (and most of the year) is setting powder – there’s nothing better to keep shine at bay and help make-up stay in place longer.

The new Beauty True To Myself Tinted Pressed Finishing Powder, £30, is the best I’ve tried in a long time – it doesn’t cake or cling to dry areas and creases, but leaves skin looking flawless.

Well done to founder and owner Selena Gomez for delivering this one!

Shop now at Spacenk.com.