These are our 10 favourite drugstore mascaras – tried and tested by our team

heat's Deputy Commercial Content Editor, Charlotte Roszko says: "I’ve tried so many mascaras over the years, ranging from drugstore options to more high-end brands, but I always find myself returning to the Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara. This mascara is easily the best I’ve tried, it’s perfect for adding length and volume to my lashes. I love how buildable it is, and I find the wand coats your lashes perfectly, adding colour and volume. Unlike some mascaras, this one doesn’t flake at all, yet it isn’t too difficult to remove, which is a definite bonus. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve repurchased this mascara, it will always be one of my makeup bag essentials."

Closer & heat Deputy Editor, Eden-Olivia Lord says: "If you're looking for a new mascara that will thicken and lengthen your lashes then you need to try Rimmel's wonder'bond bonding serum mascara. Not only is it smudge-proof and clump-free but it applies like a dream. I either wear it for my everyday make-up look, or I add a few layers when I'm going out. 10/10 would recommend."

Content writer Christina Geggus says: “Time and time again, I return to my holy grail mascara, which is the Max Factor 2000 calorie mascara. Not only is the mascara water-resistant (not as stubborn as waterproof mascaras, though), this mascara never fails to keep my lashes looking long and voluminous. For just £11, I can totally see why beauty experts have rated this OG formula as one of the best affordable mascaras on the market for many years now. What do they say? Don’t fix it if it’s not broke, ey?"

Content Writer Emma Richardson says: "If you're looking for an affordable mascara that'll seriously work wonders, consider snapping up e.l.f's Lash XTNDR Mascara. It's amazing if you're looking for a lengthening mascara that doesn't apply thick, clumped layers of product, and doesn't flake off as the day goes on. Would 100% recommend, especially for £7.”

heat's Senior SEO content strategist, Gemma Parkes says: "I have quite thick long lashes but I’m always looking for a mascara that will add even more volume, and most importantly, hold the curl. I found that ELF’s Big Mood Volumising mascara did just that! I love the big brush which helps to get to the product onto every lash, elongates them and (after using eyelash curlers) holds the curl pretty much all day."

heat's Beauty Writer, Georgia Scott says: "When you’re in the market for an affordable mascara, L’Oreal consistently has us covered. I got my hands on the latest launch, Paradise Big Deal and, I have to say, it makes the perfect addition to its ever-growing mascara portfolio. From the clump-free brush to the luscious formula, this mascara ticks all my boxes. I suffer from pretty sensitive eyes, and I haven’t had any issues with this mascara. I love how the wand lengthens and volumises without getting clumpy and is great for layering. The nourishing formula coats my lashes, making it easy to remove. Would highly recommend this new mascara that’s made its way firmly into my everyday make-up routine."

Since burgundy mascara is all the rage right now, why not give it a whirl with the Maybelline Lash sensational in Burgundy Haze? Rated as the best on the market, this mascara is a great way to try out the new beauty trend. We particularly recommend it if you have green eyes, as it's proven to make your eye colour pop.

If you struggle with your mascara smudging straight away or by the end of the day, this No7 Stay Perfect mascara will not budge, even on your busiest days. Described as your on-the-go handbag essential, this mascara is simply life-proof.

Made with multi-level bristle brush technology, this panorama mascara from L'Oreal is designed to coat every lash for that stand-out eye-opening effect. Giving your eyelashes a natural yet volumising finish, and say goodbye to short lashes with this affordable mascara.

If you're seeking a mascara that nourishes your eyelashes, look no further than the OG Rimmel London Wonder'full mascara. Formulated with argan oil, many customers reviews commented on how their eyelashes felt stronger after using this mascara.