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Green eyes are one of the easiest eye colours to make pop, and mascara is the simplest way to do it. The trick is colour theory: shades that sit opposite green, such as burgundy, plum and violet, make the green look brighter. This guide covers the best mascara colours for green eyes, five products to try and how to choose a formula that lasts.
Quick Comparison
| Mascara | Shade | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Maybelline Snapscara Burgundy | Burgundy | Affordable, washable colour |
| L’Oréal Lash Paradise Burgundy | Burgundy | Volume with a hint of colour |
| Too Faced Damn Girl! Green | Green | Tonal, playful colour |
| Urban Decay Perversion in Teal | Teal | Bold, editorial looks |
| Lancôme Hypnôse Drama in Viola | Violet | Luxury violet volume |
Best Mascara Colours for Green Eyes
Burgundy and Plum
Red-based purples are complementary to green, so they intensify it. They also look natural in daylight, which makes them the easiest colour mascara to wear.
Violet and Purple
Deeper purples give a more noticeable contrast and suit evening looks.
Brown and Brown-Black
Softer than black, especially for fair lashes or hazel-green eyes. See our guide to black or brown mascara for help deciding.
Black
Black mascara still works. It adds definition and frames the eye. A classic like Maybelline Great Lash is a reliable everyday option.
Green and Teal
Tonal shades create a matching, artistic look rather than contrast. Fun for events.
Top Mascara Picks for Green Eyes
Maybelline Snapscara Burgundy
Best for: Affordable, washable colour
A washable mascara in a burgundy shade. Red-violet tones sit opposite green on the colour wheel, which is why they make green eyes look brighter.
Pros
- Low price
- Washable, easy to remove
- Wearable everyday shade
Cons
- Subtle volume
- Colour is soft on very dark lashes
L’Oréal Lash Paradise Burgundy
Best for: Volume with a hint of colour
The popular Lash Paradise formula in a burgundy shade, for fluffy volume with a warm red tint.
Pros
- Big, soft volume
- Wide availability
- Flattering burgundy tone
Cons
- Can smudge on oily lids
- Not for very sensitive eyes
Too Faced Damn Girl! Green
Best for: Tonal, playful colour
A green mascara for people who like a tone-on-tone look. Darker greens can deepen eye colour without the contrast of purple.
Pros
- Statement shade
- Volumising
- Fun for events
Cons
- Prestige price
- Less brightening than purple tones
Urban Decay Perversion in Teal
Best for: Bold, editorial looks
A bright teal for days you want obvious colour. Pair it with neutral shadow so it stays the focus.
Pros
- Very noticeable shade
- Good length and volume
- Great for festivals and events
Cons
- Not subtle
- Higher price
Lancôme Hypnôse Drama in Viola
Best for: Luxury violet volume
A deep violet from Lancôme’s volumising Hypnôse line. Violet complements green eyes while still reading as dark from a distance.
Pros
- Rich, flattering shade
- Dramatic volume
- Buildable
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavier formula
How to Choose the Right Formula
Lengthening vs Volumising
Lengthening mascaras have thinner bristles and separate lashes; volumising formulas build thickness. If you want a coloured mascara to show, lengthening often displays the shade better because each lash is coated evenly.
Curl and Hold
Curled lashes reveal more of the iris, which is the point when you want green eyes to stand out. Curl first, then use a mascara that holds the curl.
Waterproof or Washable
Waterproof formulas resist smudging but need an oil-based remover. If your eyes are sensitive, read our guide to the best waterproof mascara for sensitive eyes.
Makeup Tips to Make Green Eyes Pop
- Pair burgundy mascara with copper, bronze or plum eyeshadow.
- Use brown or plum eyeliner instead of harsh black for a softer look.
- Apply colour mascara mainly to the outer lashes if you want a subtle hint.
- Keep the lower lashes lighter so the colour does not look heavy.
Love colour on lashes? Our roundup of blue mascaras has more ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What colour mascara makes green eyes pop?
Burgundy, plum and violet are the most flattering because they sit opposite green on the colour wheel.
Can I wear black mascara with green eyes?
Yes. Black adds definition and works on everyone. Colour mascara is optional if you want extra brightness.
Is brown mascara better for green eyes?
Brown is softer and suits fair lashes or a natural look. It does not brighten green as much as burgundy, but it is more subtle than black.
Should I curl my lashes with green eyes?
Curling lifts lashes away from the eye, so more of the iris shows. It is one of the easiest ways to make any eye colour stand out.
How often should I replace mascara?
About every three months, regardless of colour.
Conclusion
For green eyes, start with a burgundy or plum mascara for everyday brightness, keep black for definition and try teal or green when you want something bold. Curl first, choose a formula that matches your lifestyle and replace it every few months.
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