Certifications
Free From
Highlights
Cruelty-free
Fragrance-free
Recyclable packaging
Lengthening
Comb brush
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Best Non-Toxic Mascaras
We vetted mascaras against the Welpr Standard and here are our top picks.
Cofounder & Product Curator
Medical Reviewer, PhD
Here's what we look for:
- Simple formulas with minimal, non-irritating preservatives
- No parabens, PEGs, phthalates, sulfates, BHA/BHT, formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing ingredients, or undisclosed synthetic fragrance (unless certified safe)
- Mineral pigments or safe alternatives tested for heavy metals
- EU-compliant brands and third-party certifications when available
- Transparent sourcing, ingredients, and manufacturing practices
Best Non-Toxic Mascaras
On Welpr, terms like "non-toxic," "safer," "cleaner," "healthier," and "vetted" are editorial labels based on our own standard for product assessment. They are not guarantees, certifications, or medical claims. Learn more.
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Certifications
Free From
Highlights
Vegan
Cruelty-free
Made in USA
Volumizing
Waterproof
Discount Code
WELPRCertifications
Free From
Highlights
Vegan
Cruelty-free
Made in USA
Money-back guarantee
Volumizing
Waterproof
Ball tip brush
Certifications
Free From
Highlights
Vegan
Cruelty-free
Fragrance-free
Volumizing
Curved brush
Certifications
Free From
Highlights
Vegan
Cruelty-free
Made in USA
No synthetic fragrance
Recyclable packaging
Volumizing
Waterproof
Classic bristle brush
Certifications
Free From
Highlights
Vegan
Cruelty-free
Fragrance-free
Recycled materials
Volumizing
Discount Code
Use link for discountCertifications
Free From
Highlights
Made in USA
Breastfeeding safe
Recyclable packaging
Money-back guarantee
Lengthening
Certifications
Free From
Highlights
Vegan
Cruelty-free
Made in EU
Recycled materials
Defining
How to Swap to Non-Toxic mascaras:
Here's how to swap to non-toxic mascaras:
What to know about mascara
Mascara is applied directly next to your eyes, often every day. That combination of sensitive proximity and daily use makes the formula worth paying attention to.
- Welpr looks at pigments, preservatives, and overall formulation to make sure nothing unnecessary is sitting near your eyes all day.
- Products with synthetic fragrance, harsh preservatives, or untested pigments are common in this category, even in brands that market themselves as clean.
Check the mascara you use now
Use the Welpr Personal Care and Cosmetic Scanner to see if your current mascara meets Welpr's standards. Start with the mascara you reach for most often.
- Scan the ingredient label on the tube or outer packaging — look for "fragrance," "parfum," or long lists of synthetic preservatives.
- If you rotate between mascaras, check your daily one first since frequency of use near the eyes matters most.
Get more from your current mascara safely
If you're not ready to replace your mascara yet, a few small habits can help reduce unnecessary exposure around your eyes.
- Replace open mascara tubes every three months — older tubes can harbor bacteria growth, which is especially risky near the eyes.
- Apply fewer coats when possible, since less product near the eye area means less overall contact with the formula.
Choose a cleaner mascara
Look for mascaras with simple formulas and mineral-based pigments. Certifications like EWG VERIFIED™ or MADE SAFE® are a good signal, but Welpr reviews every formula beyond the label.
- Choose mascaras that are fragrance-free, free from parabens and formaldehyde-releasers, and use pigments tested for heavy metals.
- Click the button above to shop Welpr Approved mascara.
Camille May
Cofounder & Product Curator
Camille May is the co-creator of Welpr and a guide for clean living. After selling her last company in the health food space, she went non-toxic while working to heal an autoimmune condition....
Olushola M. Awoyemi
Medical Reviewer, PhD
Olushola M. Awoyemi (aka Shola) is a board-certified toxicologist and a research scientist with a PhD in Environmental Toxicology. Shola's long-term ambition is to be recognized as a world-renowned expert in toxicology,...