I Just Tested the Trending Natural-Looking Alternative to Black Mascara—And I'm Never Going Back

I know I'm a beauty editor, but when it comes to the best mascara, I tend to stick to the formulas that I know and love. Don't get me wrong, I love researching and testing out new launches, but incorporating them into my daily routine is another story. You see, I love a natural makeup look. I've used the same mascaras for years as I know that I can rely on them to give me that "no-makeup" makeup finish. So, when I heard that burgundy mascara was trending, I immediately assumed it wasn't for me.

I've been loyal to black and brown mascara for as long as I can remember, so the idea of adding in a pop of colour terrified me. However, as it turns out, there was nothing to be afraid of. Yep, after being persuaded to give burgundy mascara a go, I realised that this is actually a super subtle way to make your eyes pop. "Burgundy mascara is a fun way of adding colour to your makeup without being too much of a statement or being too bright," says Yolanda Dohr, makeup artist at inclusive London makeup experience, Beam. "This mascara is a subtle way to make your makeup look more exciting by adding a unique (and on-trend) touch."

Intrigued to know more? I decided to do some research into the trend, and have spent the past few months testing out some of the best burgundy mascaras on the market. Keep on scrolling to shop my edit.

Is Burgundy Mascara More Natural Than Black Mascara?

One thing I love about this trend is that it makes my makeup look a lot more natural. Similar to brown mascara, burgundy can look a lot softer than black, so it's perfect for more understated makeup looks.

"Burgundy mascara is having such a moment because it really does look great on everyone," says Givenchy Beauty national MUA, Claire Mulleady. "It's a softer version of black that allows us to play a little with colour in the most wearable way."

"I would say it definitely looks more subtle than black mascara," adds Dohr. That being said, Dohr says that the results do depend on your natural lash colour. If you have lighter eyelashes, then burgundy mascara could be perfect for making a softer statement with your makeup.

Junior beauty editor, Grace Lindsay, wearing burgundy mascara.

Does Burgundy Mascara Suit All Eye Colours?

One thing I was keen to know was whether burgundy mascara could work with all eye colours. If you didn't know, blue mascara can really make brown eyes pop, so I was intrigued to know what effect burgundy formulas could have.

"Everyone can wear a burgundy mascara, but it will look especially great on those with green, hazel or blue eyes," says Dohr. "The contrast will ensure the eye colour stands out or pops a lot more that it would with other mascara shades."

If you really want your eyes to pop, Mulleady recommends adding a matching eyeshadow. "Givenchy's Le 9.09 eyeshadow palette is great for adding a burgundy liner or a softer, smoky eyeshadow look."

I was also intrigued as to whether this makeup product would work with all skin tones. "⁠⁠Yes, burgundy mascara suits all skin tones," Dohr tells me. "It is especially nice to use on those with very fair skin tones as it is more subtle-looking compared to black mascara, which can sometimes be a little too much for those with very fair skin and light hair."

The Best Burgundy Mascaras, as Chosen by a Beauty Editor

• Best affordable burgundy mascara: Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara, Burgundy Haze
• Best subtle burgundy mascara: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes!, Dream Pop
• Best luxury burgundy mascara: Hermès Trait D'Hermès Revitalizing Care Mascara, 03 Rouge H
• Best burgundy mascara for sensitive eyes: Clinique Limited Edition High Impact Mascara, Black Honey

1. Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara in Burgundy Haze

2. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes! in Dream Pop

3. Hermès Trait D'Hermès Revitalizing Care Mascara in 03 Rouge H

4. Clinique Limited Edition High Impact Mascara in Black Honey

5. benefit Limited Edition BADgal BANG! Volumising Mascara in Wild Plum

6. KIKO Milano Maxi Mod Colour Mascara in 03 Plum