Quick answer
Mascara counts toward your liquids allowance. Almost every commercial tube is well under 100ml, so the tube itself is fine. Confiscation happens when your liquids bag is overstuffed or doesn't close.
Container size, not how full it is, decides the verdict. A nearly-empty 120ml tube still fails.
Cabin vs checked baggage
| Where | Allowed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cabin | Yes, in your 1L liquids bag | Most tubes are 5–13ml |
| Checked | Yes, unlimited | Pack inside a zip bag |
Why was my mascara taken?
- Your liquids bag wouldn't close — security removes items until it does
- The mascara was in an oversized container
- You bundled it with sunscreen and perfume and went over 1L total
- Officer discretion at a strict checkpoint
International travel notes
Same 100ml rule worldwide. At 2L airports (Gatwick, parts of Amsterdam) the entire makeup bag can stay in your hand luggage. Edinburgh's official page says up to 2L per container and liquids stay in your bag, but the clear-bag rule is not stated. Check the current Edinburgh airport page before using larger containers; pack to 100ml if its status is unverified or your other departure/transfer airport has a 100ml limit. Bring a clear resealable bag if the bag rule is not confirmed. At every other airport it comes out at the tray.