Lashing out: Which mascaras get the best results?

Like a little black dress, every woman has a mainstay mascara. Dissatisfied with yours? You've got a slew of options to choose from.

A quick primer: Despite their seemingly endless variety, today's mascaras generally fall into one of four categories: Waterproof, volumizing, lengthening and curling. Combo products (that intermingle two or more of these formulas) also exist.

Traditional mascaras are made from a more easily-removable water base while waterproof products are created from a more stubborn oil base. Volumizing mascaras use plumping agents to thicken the appearance of skimpy lashes, while lengthening products employ the use of cosmetic compounds called polymers to make hairs appear longer. Curling mascaras use special polymers that shrink as they dry, causing eyelashes to curve upward.

Though a mascara's formula is important, experts say a product's applicator is also key. The reason: The design of a mascara's brush directly affects how the formula is applied, a fact that can influence overall product satisfaction. For example, volumizing mascaras typically come with densely-bristled wands to more generously pile on the product, while curling formulas often include spiral and curved-shaped wands to better grasp and lift lashes.

So how can you tell what's right for you? Some consumers prefer to buy budget brands at supermarkets and pharmacies, while others stick with higher-end products from department stores. What we found: Although higher end mascaras maintain a heavier following, perhaps due to their sleek packaging and designer labels, experts insist quality products can be found in every price range. The best should deliver their promised affect without smudging, smearing, running or flaking.

Want to learn more? Read our new report on mascara.