Hello Readers! Mascara is probably one of the easiest makeup steps to notice. Even on days when I only wear blush and lip color, adding mascara makes my eyes look much more awake.

Lately, I’ve been looking at formulas that give different results, from fuller lashes to that longer, lifted effect.

1. Clinique High Impact Volumizing Mascara — $28

Clinique High Impact is the one I’d pick when I want my lashes to look fuller and more noticeable. It has that classic mascara effect that works especially well when the rest of my eye makeup is kept simple. For a dinner look, I’d add two coats and pair it with soft brown liner. On a casual day, one coat is enough to give the lashes some definition without making the whole look feel heavy.

2. e.l.f. Cosmetics Lash XTNDR Mascara — $8

An $8 mascara is hard to ignore, especially when I’m looking for something easy for everyday makeup. Lash XTNDR is more about creating longer-looking, defined lashes, so I’d reach for it when I want a cleaner and lighter result. This would be my pick for quick mornings. Tinted moisturizer, cream blush, brow pencil, Lash XTNDR, and a little lip tint—and I’m done.

3. L'Oréal Voluminous Panorama Washable Mascara — $15.99

L'Oréal Voluminous Panorama is for those days when I want my eyes to look a little bigger and more defined. I like the idea of a mascara that can give the lashes extra presence without requiring a complicated eye look. I’d use one coat for daytime and build it up before going out. Add a small flick of eyeliner and a rosy lip, and the whole makeup look suddenly feels much more put together.

For me, the choice comes down to the kind of lash day I’m having. Clinique is the one for volume, e.l.f. is perfect when I want affordable everyday definition, and L'Oréal sits nicely in the middle with a more noticeable eye-opening effect. Honestly, having all three would make switching up my makeup much more fun.