High Impact Mascara
High Impact Mascara
Product Description
Product overview
Clinique's #1 best-selling mascara since 2003. A buildable, volumizing and lengthening formula with a soft fiber brush that delivers lusher, bolder lashes without clumping. Ophthalmologist tested, allergy tested, and 100% fragrance free — safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
Soft Fiber Brush
Dense bristles comb, coat, and separate every lash — including small corner lashes — without clumping.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSoft Fiber Brush
Dense bristles comb, coat, and separate every lash — including small corner lashes — without clumping.
26-Degree Curl Lift
Formula and brush work together to visibly lift and curl lashes up to 26 degrees for an eye-opening effect.
Buildable Coverage
Go from natural "your lashes but better" to full-on bold drama by layering coats. No flaking or smudging.
Eye Safety Promise
Clinique's rigorous allergy science protocol includes a month-long "sting test" monitored by a dermatologist and ophthalmologist.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEClinically tested and approved for use around eyes. Safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
Undergoes Clinique's proprietary Allergy Science Protocol. 100% fragrance free and free of common irritants.
No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Contains phenoxyethanol as a preservative (considered low-risk in cosmetic concentrations). Consult your doctor during pregnancy.
Contains Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Isostearic Acid, and Polysorbate-related esters. Applied to lashes rather than skin, so risk is minimal unless transferred.
Rated 1/5. Formula is designed for eye area application, not facial skin. Carnauba Wax scores 1, other waxes and polymers are non-comedogenic.
Not waterproof — removes easily with micellar water or a gentle oil-based cleanser. Clinique recommends their Take The Day Off remover.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCopernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) WaxKey Thickener
A natural vegetable wax derived from Brazilian palm tree leaves. Acts as the primary volumizing and thickening agent, coating each lash to build body and structure.
- Function: Emollient and film former that gives mascara its body-building properties
- Comedogenic Rating: 1 (very low pore-clogging potential)
- Irritancy: 0 (non-irritating)
Sodium HyaluronateConditioning
The sodium salt form of Hyaluronic Acid — a powerful humectant that draws moisture to lashes, keeping them hydrated, flexible, and preventing the formula from drying out or flaking.
- Function: Moisturizes and conditions lashes for a smooth, supple feel
- Benefit: Prevents flaking and brittleness throughout the day
- Safety: Naturally occurring in the body; non-irritating
Panthenol (Provitamin B5)Lash Care
A well-known conditioning agent that penetrates lash fibers to seal in moisture, improve softness, and enhance elasticity — ideal for brittle or aging lashes.
- Function: Strengthens and conditions lash fibers from within
- Benefit: Improves flexibility and reduces breakage over time
- Source: Widely used in both haircare and skincare for its proven hydrating properties
MelaninColor Pigment
A natural pigment that provides deep, rich color to the mascara. Melanin delivers an intense black that enhances lash definition and visual impact.
- Function: Natural colorant providing deep, long-lasting pigmentation
- Benefit: Creates a smooth, even color payoff without harsh synthetic dyes
Acrylates CopolymerFilm Former
A flexible polymer that coats each lash, forming a lightweight film that adds structure and definition while keeping lashes looking natural and supple.
- Function: Creates a flexible, long-wearing film on lashes
- Benefit: Enables buildable volume — each coat bonds to the previous one for added thickness
32 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyisobutene, Silica, Acrylates Copolymer, Aminomethyl Propanediol, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Lauroyl Lysine, Pantethine, Melanin, Panthenol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, PVP, Acacia Senegal Gum, Isostearic Acid, Simethicone, Dimethicone PEG-8 Polyacrylate, Urea, Glycerin, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, PEG-8 Dimethicone, Disodium EDTA, Sorbic Acid, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Phenoxyethanol. May contain: Mica, Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090), Yellow 5 Lake (CI 19140), Carmine (CI 75470).
Where it fits in your makeup routine
ROUTINEApply mascara as the final eye step. Use an eyelash curler before application for maximum lift. Pair with Clinique Lash Building Primer for extra volume.
How to use
HOW TO USECurl Your Lashes (Optional)
For maximum lift and drama, use an eyelash curler before applying mascara. Hold for 5–10 seconds at the base of your lashes.
Wiggle from Root to Tip
Start at lash roots and wiggle the brush upward to the tips. This ensures even coverage and maximum separation.
Build Your Look
Let the first coat dry briefly, then repeat to build. Go from natural to bold drama depending on how many coats you apply.
Catch Lower Lashes
Hold the wand vertically and use the tip to coat lower lashes for a wide-eyed, defined look.
Remove Gently
Use a gentle eye makeup remover such as Clinique Take The Day Off. Do not rub — let the remover dissolve the formula first.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses
- You want buildable volume from natural to bold
- You prefer a non-waterproof formula that removes easily
- You need a fragrance-free, allergy-tested mascara
- You have hooded eyes (minimal transfer to upper lids)
- You want length and volume without clumping
Consider alternatives if:
- You need waterproof or extreme long-wear mascara
- You want ultra-dramatic, false-lash-level volume
- You prefer a rubber/plastic comb wand over fiber bristles
- You want a tubing mascara formula
- You need a vegan or cruelty-free certified product
Eye type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOphthalmologist tested, fragrance-free, and allergy tested. Designed specifically for sensitive eyes and passed a month-long sting test.
Non-flaking formula minimizes irritating particles. Tested and approved safe for daily contact lens use.
Dries quickly and resists transfer to upper lids — a top pick among reviewers with hooded eyes who struggle with smudging.
Buildable formula adds noticeable volume and length. Sodium Hyaluronate and Panthenol condition lashes over time. May need a primer for maximum impact on very sparse lashes.
Conditioning formula with Panthenol and Hyaluronic Acid helps brittle, thinning lashes look fuller and feel softer without weighing them down.
Performs well for most users, though not waterproof. Those with very oily lids may see slight smudging by end of day — consider the waterproof version.
Results timeline
2–4 WEEKS REGULAR USEVisible Volume & Length
From the first coat, lashes appear noticeably fuller, longer, and more defined. Rich black pigment adds immediate intensity and drama.
95% noticed fuller lashes after first applicationBuildable Bold Drama
Layering coats transforms lashes from a natural, everyday look to a lush, statement-making effect. No clumping even with multiple coats.
90% report clump-free buildabilityLong-Lasting Wear
Stays put throughout the day without flaking, smudging, or transferring. Holds its curl and color intensity from morning to evening.
85% say it lasts all day without touch-upsConditioned, Healthier-Looking Lashes
Panthenol and Sodium Hyaluronate condition lashes over time, improving softness, flexibility, and reducing brittleness with daily use.
70% noticed softer lashes after regular useRatings by platform
21K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
- No clumping — separates and defines every lash
- Buildable from natural to bold in multiple coats
- Does not flake or transfer on hooded eyes
- 100% fragrance free and allergy tested
- Easy to remove without harsh rubbing
- Conditioning formula with Panthenol and Hyaluronic Acid
- Classic fiber brush combs through smoothly
Criticized
- Not waterproof — may smudge in humidity or rain
- Some find it too subtle for dramatic evening looks
- Formula can feel slightly dry compared to creamier mascaras
- Limited to only 3 shades
- Higher price point vs. drugstore alternatives
- Not vegan or cruelty-free certified
- Small 8 ml tube for the price
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESVery similar gentle, buildable formula. Comparable soft brush and natural-to-bold range. Lacks Hyaluronic Acid and Panthenol conditioning, but excellent volume at a fraction of the price.
Classic volumizing mascara with a similar fiber brush design. Slightly creamier formula. Not ophthalmologist tested or fragrance-free — less ideal for sensitive eyes.
Cult-favorite drugstore mascara offering dramatic volume. More intense and clump-prone than Clinique. Uses a plastic comb wand rather than fiber bristles. Not specifically tested for sensitive eyes.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDELancôme Définicils
Storage & shelf life
6 MONTHS6 months after opening. Ophthalmologists recommend replacing mascara every 3–6 months to prevent bacterial contamination.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed. Do not pump the wand — this pushes air in and dries out the formula faster.
Dark green tube with silver accents and twist-off cap. Soft fiber brush wand with dense bristles for even coverage.
Yes — 8 ml is well under the 100 ml carry-on liquid limit. Also available in a mini travel size (0.12 fl oz / 3.5 ml) for $13.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe formula does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the primary ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. It does contain phenoxyethanol and chlorphenesin as preservatives, which are considered low-risk in cosmetic concentrations. However, always consult your healthcare provider before using any cosmetic products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
The formula contains some ingredients that can feed malassezia, including Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Isostearic Acid, and Polysorbate-related esters. However, since mascara is applied to eyelashes rather than skin, the risk of triggering fungal acne is minimal unless the product transfers to surrounding facial skin regularly.
Yes. Mascara is applied to lashes, not facial skin, so it does not interact with active skincare ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs applied to the face. Just ensure your skincare has been absorbed before applying eye makeup to prevent the formula from slipping or breaking down.
This mascara excels for sensitive eyes, contact lens wearers, hooded eyes (minimal transfer), and mature/aging lashes (conditioning formula). It works across all eye types but is especially valued by those who need a gentle, non-irritating formula without sacrificing volume and definition.
Results are instant — you will see noticeable volume, length, and definition from the very first coat. The conditioning benefits from Panthenol and Sodium Hyaluronate build over 2–4 weeks of regular use, making lashes feel softer and less brittle over time.
Mascara should be the final step in your eye makeup routine. Apply it after primer, foundation, eyeshadow, and eyeliner. If using an eyelash curler, curl lashes before applying mascara. For extra volume, layer over a lash primer like Clinique Lash Building Primer.
The comedogenic rating is 1 out of 5 (very low). Carnauba Wax, the primary thickening agent, has a comedogenic rating of 1. Since mascara is applied to lashes rather than skin, the risk of clogging pores is essentially negligible for proper use.
The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 6 months. Ophthalmologists advise replacing any mascara every 3 to 6 months to avoid bacterial build-up. To extend shelf life, avoid pumping the wand (this pushes air in), keep the cap tightly closed, and store in a cool, dry place.
Verdict: Clinique High Impact Mascara is a reliable, everyday mascara that delivers exactly what it promises — buildable volume, length, and definition with zero irritation. It is the gold standard for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, backed by rigorous ophthalmologist testing and a completely fragrance-free formula. While it may not deliver the ultra-dramatic false-lash effect some desire, its clump-free, conditioning formula makes it a trusted daily driver you can count on from morning to night. A cult classic since 2003 for very good reason.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Copernicia Cerifera Wax
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate
Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Polyisobutene
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Binding Agent, Binding, Film Forming
|
|




