Introduction to Maybelline's Colossal Mascara Line
Maybelline consistently introduces new and revamped mascaras, making it challenging to distinguish the latest offerings. This review focuses on a specific mascara from their line, intended to provide an in-depth opinion on its performance.
Maybelline Colossal Longwear Mascara: Claims and Features
The Maybelline Colossal Longwear Mascara boasts an impressive claim of up to 36-hour wear time. It is also advertised as being flake-proof, waterproof, and smudge-resistant. This mascara retails for approximately 150 Crowns and contains 10ml of product. The packaging is notably substantial, mirroring the design of many other Maybelline mascaras.
The brush features natural bristles and is described as both thick and sparse. Based on product descriptions, its primary functions are to provide volume, ensure resistance against smudging and flaking, and offer long-lasting wear.
First Impressions and Application Experience
The formula of this mascara is perceived as lightweight yet intensely black, a combination highly appreciated by the reviewer. For individuals with numerous, long, and difficult-to-lift lashes, finding a mascara that maintains lift throughout the day can be a significant challenge. Many mascaras fail to prevent lashes from drooping after a few hours, regardless of curling efforts.
The brush, being quite thick, presents some difficulty in reaching the inner corner lashes. However, a key advantage is the even distribution of product. The sparse nature of the bristles prevents the application of excessive product, unlike denser brushes, allowing for the application of thin, light coats. This controlled application is a significant positive aspect.
Achieving maximum volume typically involves wiggling the brush at the lash roots. This technique is hampered by the large size and long bristles of the Colossal brush, making it awkward and potentially uncomfortable, especially when attempting to maneuver close to the eye.
Despite these application challenges, the mascara does provide a slight lift and does not weigh down the lashes, attributed to its lightweight formula. The application process itself was smooth, with no accidental eye-stabbing, which is considered a success. The mascara's consistency is described as slightly dried out, which is beneficial as it minimizes smudging during application and facilitates easier handling.
The reviewer managed to achieve a satisfactory level of volume and lift, applying 2-3 thin coats. The mascara builds easily without rapid clumping, a highly desirable trait.
Wear Test: Performance Over Time
After 8.5 hours of wear, the reviewer expresses considerable satisfaction with the mascara's performance. It remained in place throughout the day, with no flaking or transfer observed. Even after an intense cardio workout, which often leads to smudging, the mascara held up exceptionally well.
While some lash drooping occurred over the day, this is acknowledged as a normal occurrence for lashes that are naturally heavy and densely packed. The lasting power without any mess and the continued lightweight feel until removal are highly appreciated. The ease of removal, especially for a waterproof formula, was also a pleasant surprise, as waterproof mascaras are typically difficult to remove.
The before-and-after pictures indicate a noticeable, albeit not dramatically transformative, effect that lasted for the entire 8.5-hour wear period.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
While not deemed the absolute best mascara ever tried, the Maybelline Colossal Mascara is highly recommended. It is particularly suitable for those seeking volume, separation, and a lightweight formula. Its primary strengths lie in these areas, rather than in curling or extreme lengthening.
The mascara is user-friendly, waterproof, and offers excellent smudge- and transfer-resistance throughout the day. For individuals who struggle to find mascaras that make a significant difference, this one is noted for its ability to separate lashes effectively, a rare achievement for the reviewer. The wear time is also commendable, and the formula is well-liked.
A minor drawback mentioned is the brush bristle length, which could be slightly shorter to facilitate easier application to the inner corner lashes.
Alternative Perspectives and Similar Products
Some users have explored lash extensions, leading to significant damage to their natural lashes. In such cases, finding an effective mascara becomes crucial. One user found success with an inexpensive drugstore mascara after a failed attempt with a costly lash growth serum.
The iconic yellow tube of Maybelline's The Colossal Mascara has been a subject of both skepticism and eventual praise. The wand is described as "colossal" for maximum volume, and the collagen formula aims to plump each lash individually, promising clump-free lengthening.
The formula is noted for its buildability: one or two coats offer a more subtle look, while three or four coats, applied strategically before the previous one dries, deliver dramatic, "doe-eyed, lifted, luscious lashes."
Another variant, the Colossal Bubble Mascara, features a spiky, spiral brush. While the brush itself might not seem particularly special for volume building, the formula is thicker, often requiring only one coat. Two coats can lead to clumping. It's considered an average to good mascara, better than some but not on par with premium brands like Kush or Tarte Maneater. It is waterproof and requires oil-based cleansers for removal, preventing smudging even with setting spray.
The Maybelline The Colossal Volum’ Express Waterproof Mascara, purchased in Denmark, is praised as a potential new holy grail mascara. It offers good, buildable volume with minimal clumping and decent lengthening, though the magic of long lashes is enhanced by a good curl. Its curling ability is described as amazing, holding a sturdy curl on short, straight Asian lashes due to its drier, lightweight formula. The mascara is waterproof and tested well even with tears, though slight smudging can occur on the lower outer corner due to facial oils. It is easily removed with a waterproof makeup remover.
Testing Out ALL Maybelline Colossal Mascaras! | Anita Sibul
This mascara is recommended for those who struggle to find a product that effectively holds a curl. While it may not provide extremely long or va-va-voom lashes, its strength lies in its curling power, which is essential for lashes to be prominently displayed.