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Classic Black or Softly Defining Brown Mascara? That is the question...

Hi beauties,

When it comes to black mascara vs brown mascara, the choice can completely transform your look. Whether you love a natural mascara look, a dramatic mascara look, or something perfectly in between, understanding the difference between black and brown mascara will help you choose the right finish for your lashes, your features, and the occasion.

So, black mascara or brown mascara, which mascara is better? The answer depends on the effect you want to create...

Collage of Kitten Lash mascara wands being used on an eye, close-up of the brush with Burnt Umber and Black shade swatches, and a model applying mascara.

The Difference Between Black and Brown Mascara: Intensity vs Softness

The key difference between black mascara and brown mascara lies in intensity and softness.

Black mascara delivers depth, drama and classic definition. It creates contrast, makes lashes look thicker, and especially enhances bold eye makeup.

Brown mascara gives a softer, more subtle effect. It defines lashes without harshness and blends beautifully into soft eye makeup looks and minimal makeup routines.

You could swap your usual favourite, classic black for a soft brown, which will give a more natural effect, whilst still being defining. (I would recommend my Kitten Lash Mascara in Burnt Umber – it really makes your eyes sparkle and is suitable for any complexion.)

Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash mascara with gold casing and Burnt Umber shade swatch on a white background

Brown Mascara for a Natural Mascara Look & Everyday Makeup

It’s also the perfect mascara for soft makeup looks and anyone who wants lashes that enhance without drama.

My Kitten Lash Mascara in Burnt Umber is such a rich, warm and enlivening brown. It really makes your eyes sparkle and is suitable for any complexion. It’s soft enough for anyone who finds traditional black too intense, but intense enough to define the lashes. It’s also vibrant enough to amplify all eye colours. I’ve got my whole studio team hooked on it – even those who didn’t think brown mascara was ‘their thing’!

Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash mascara with gold casing and Black shade swatch on a white background

Black Mascara for Drama, Definition & an Eye-Opening Mascara Effect

If you love a defined, eye-opening mascara effect, black mascara remains the ultimate classic. On very fair skin or light lashes, some people feel black mascara looks too intense for daytime or for a soft look. That’s where brown mascara becomes the perfect alternative.

Close-up of a model applying Kitten Lash Black mascara to her eyelashes, using an Eyeshadow Palette compact mirror

Mascara Colour for Different Eye Colours: How to Choose the Right Mascara Colour

Choosing the right mascara colour can subtly enhance your eye colour.

Best mascara colour for...

Blue eyes: Brown mascara can add warmth and contrast without overpowering.

Green and hazel eyes: Brown mascara enhances golden and olive tones.

Brown eyes: Black mascara deepens and intensifies, creating striking definition.

Fair lashes or pale skin: Brown creates definition without sharp contrast.

Close-up of a model applying Kitten Lash Burnt Umber mascara to her eyelashes with a clear background

Makeup Artist Tips for Choosing Mascara & Perfecting Your Application

My top tip for achieving beautifully separated, feathery and fanned out lashes is to apply your mascara as much as you can at the roots first. Get down to the roots and hold there, massaging very slowly back and forward for as long as you can. Eventually, lightly zigzag out to the tip. Do that a few times, then once you're finished, glide through the tips at the end.

It works beautifully whether you’re using brown mascara for a soft look or black mascara for something more dramatic.

Close-up of a person's eye with long, thick eyelashes

When to Use Brown Mascara vs When to Use Black Mascara

Choose brown mascara for softness, warmth, and natural enhancement.

Choose black mascara for boldness, contrast, and drama.

If you’ve always worn black, try swapping it for a rich brown like Kitten Lash Mascara in Burnt Umber. You may be surprised at how it transforms your everyday makeup routine, adding natural definition and warmth, without ever feeling overdone.