Maybelline The Colossal Big Shot Mascara: In-Depth Review

The drugstore beauty market has welcomed a new contender in the mascara category: Maybelline The Colossal Big Shot. This latest addition to the renowned Colossal family promises to deliver exceptional volume with just a single coat, from root to tip. Its unique wavy bristles are designed to capture every lash, coating them with a collagen-infused, volumizing formula.

Close-up of Maybelline The Colossal Big Shot mascara wand with wavy bristles

Initial Application and Formula Adjustments

Upon first use, the formula of the Big Shot mascara was perceived as excessively wet, making it challenging to build volume without lashes clumping together. However, after allowing the mascara to sit for a week, a significant change in its application was observed. The formula had dried slightly in the tube, which proved to be a positive development, facilitating easier application and enabling the building of more dramatic volume with subsequent swipes.

Now, with the adjusted formula, the Big Shot mascara effectively provides the desired volume in just a few strokes, while maintaining lash definition. Despite the improved application, it's noted that the formula can still feel somewhat heavy, and lashes may lose their curl as the day progresses.

Performance and Versatility

The Colossal Big Shot mascara is deemed a suitable option for an everyday mascara once it has been "broken in." It is recommended for daily makeup application, though individuals seeking longer-wear might consider alternative products.

The tagline for this mascara, "Unleash your big shot!", emphasizes its capability for creating mega volume. When applied in a couple of light coats, it goes on smoothly and effectively.

Before and after comparison of lashes with Maybelline The Colossal Big Shot mascara

Pairing with Other Maybelline Mascaras

For those who love Maybelline mascaras, the Colossal Big Shot is an exciting launch for those seeking mega volume. While it's a strong contender, the reviewer's current favorite Maybelline mascara remains The Falsies Push Up Angel. The two mascaras are considered to work perfectly in tandem: Push Up Angel can be used to curl, define, and separate lashes, while Colossal Big Shot can then be applied to add volume and drama.

Product Details and Context

The Maybelline Colossal Big Shot Mascara was launched in the UK in May 2017 with a price point of £7.99.

The reviewer acknowledges the current global events, finding solace and a sense of control by focusing on familiar territory, such as reviewing mascara. The product photography for this review was deliberately styled with a glamorous aesthetic to match the mascara's impact, deviating from the usual bright white backgrounds favored by the photographer.

Mascara Preferences and Comparisons

Maybelline is widely recognized for its mascaras, with Great Lash often cited by makeup artists. However, Great Lash did not work for the reviewer. Previously, a loyal fan of L'Oreal mascaras, the reviewer has also occasionally splurged on Tarte's 'Lights, Camera, Lashes'. However, the current focus is on more accessible options.

This mascara is recommended for those who desire volume, length, and curl simultaneously, as the reviewer dislikes mascaras that prioritize one feature over the others. It is described as a "glam mascara," not suitable for achieving a natural look. The reviewer likens the dramatic effect to channeling an inner Posh Spice Girl.

Product shot of Maybelline The Colossal Big Shot mascara with glamorous styling

Brush Design and Application Experience

The brush is praised for its ability to coat lashes effectively without clumping. There is no excess mascara on the brush or wand, which is a significant advantage as it eliminates the need to wipe off excess product before application.

Wear Time and Removal

The mascara generally lasts throughout the day. However, the reviewer notes that increased eye-rubbing, potentially due to external stressors, has impacted wear time, leading to a smudged appearance akin to Alice Cooper. Without such interference, the mascara is expected to last longer. No flaking issues have been reported.

The mascara is easy to remove. For contact lens wearers, it's important that mascara can be removed effectively when desired, and this one washes off without difficulty.

Waterproof Version: A Surprising Success

The reviewer recounts a personal history of avoiding waterproof mascaras, stemming from a dramatic scene on 'The Hills' where Lauren Conrad's mascara ran during a tearful moment. This experience, coupled with previous difficulties in removing waterproof formulas (sometimes wearing them for up to a week in younger years), led to a preference for non-waterproof options. Even with current knowledge of proper makeup removal techniques, waterproof mascaras were still considered a hassle and prone to being waxy and clumpy.

Given this background, the reviewer was pleasantly surprised when testing the waterproof version of Maybelline New York The Colossal Big Shot Mascara. Unlike previous experiences, the waterproof formula was not overly waxy or thick and coated lashes evenly, which has historically been a challenge with waterproof mascaras.

NEW MAYBELLINE COLOSSAL BIG SHOT MASCARA | Review & Demo | Mix and Match Mel

Testing Waterproof Performance

To assess its staying power, the waterproof mascara was worn during a hot yoga class. The reviewer sweats profusely, and sweat mixing with mascara can cause stinging. The waterproof formula proved its efficacy, remaining intact throughout the entire hour-long class without smudging, even with sweat running down the face.

Effortless Removal of Waterproof Formula

Remarkably, the removal process for the waterproof version was also painless. A single pump of the reviewer's usual cleansing oil (DHC cleanser) was sufficient to remove the mascara completely, without causing lash breakage.

The performance of this waterproof mascara suggests it can withstand demanding situations, from date nights and wedding ceremonies to emotionally charged public events.

tags: #big #lift #maybelline