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The 7 Best Maybelline Mascaras for Falsies-Level Lashes, Tested by Editors
By Olivia Cigliano,
7 days ago
For many beauty lovers, Maybelline marked a first foray into mascara — and makeup as a whole. The staple affordable beauty brand is practically synonymous with the best drugstore mascaras , and continues to push boundaries with every new lash-exaggerating launch, from extension fiber tubing formulas to updated iterations on nostalgic bestsellers. There’s a myriad of options to choose from, so WWD Shop editors rounded up new releases and personal holy grails to narrow down the best Maybelline mascaras that deliver on different lash effects.
Maybelline’s beloved mascara category never flops — and beauty lovers on TikTok are tapped-in to every new release. For one, look to the new Lash Sensational Firework Volume and Length Mascara that’s only been on the market for a few months and has already racked up 50 million views and searches on TikTok — no doubt due to its jaw-dropping before-and-after transformations. Or consider its predecessor, the Lash Sensational Sky High Lengthening Mascara , that went viral back in 2021, consistently sold out across Maybelline retailers, and stands at a whopping 246 million TikTok views as an internet cult-favorite.
When you’re shopping for the best mascaras at Target or Ulta , the Maybelline mascara section can feel like coming home. From the oh-so familiar pink and green Great Lash Mascara tube to ever-expanding mascara lines like Lash Sensational and The Falsies, you likely already have a tried-and-true you keep on rotation. But, if you’re wondering how it compares to hot new releases or if you’re looking for a new gem, we’ve got you covered. Below, view our editor-tested top list of the best Maybelline mascaras.
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Maybelline The Falsies Surreal Extensions Mascara
Formula type: Lengthening an volumizing Shade range : Meta Black, Blackest Black, Very Black, Brownish Black, Very Black Waterproof Special features : Extension fibers
The Maybelline The Falsies Surreal Extensions Mascara is our favorite drama queen. It packs a punch with ink black pigmentation and Hybrid Fiber technology that exaggerates lash length with different size fibers for a true false lash effect. The wand comes in helix form that seamlessly fuses the extensions to the root of lash, while laying on buildable coats of plant based oil-infused product that dries to a soft, fluttery feel.
Editor testing and review notes : “This large bristle wand evenly coats the lashes in the same ultra-black formula the brand is known for, while extending them to eye-popping length. Other tubing mascaras I’ve tried have applied extension fibers haphazardly, where the fibers sit in jagged angles at the tips of the lashes like appendages, however this mascara delivers on seamless augmentation. I found it to be very buildable, lightweight, and aptly holds a curl with wispy results.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $9.98
Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara
Formula type: Volumizing, defining Shade range : Blackest Black, Midnight Black, Very Black, Brownish Black, and additional waterproof options Special features : Infused with rosehip oil
The Maybelline Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara is a favorite among beauty lovers and celebrity makeup artists alike. Not only was it Sofia Richie ‘s mascara of choice on her wedding day, it’s also coated the lashes of universal beauties like Meghan Markle and Sydney Sweeney. It’s a standout for its dramatic, fanned-out effect, which is powered by 10 layers of silicone bristles that grip the lash from the root and glide through the tips, addressing the inner and outer corners in one fell swoop.
Editor testing and review notes: “This handy wand deposits formula all around each lash, which is great for those, like myself, who prefer just one quick coat of mascara. I experienced a few light flakes throughout my 10-hour testing period, however the curled, lengthened effect makes up for that shortcoming. If you’re interested in a celeb-approved drugstore mascara with maximum volume and length, this is the tube for you.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $9.33
Maybelline Colossal Curl Bounce Mascara
Formula type: Volumizing, curling Shade range : Very Black, Blackest Black, Waterproof Very Black, Special features : Memory Curl formula
If you’re looking for va-va-voom volume, the Maybelline Colossal mascara range is the best place to start. The new Colossal Curl Bounce delivers lift and buildable thickness that won’t weigh down your lashes. In fact, it features an innovative ‘Memory-Curl’ formula that locks a curl in place. Plus, despite its name, the wand isn’t too large that it overwhelms your eye — our testers found that it easily reaches the roots without product transferring on the eyelid.
Editor testing and review notes: “As a longtime fan of the Colossal range, I was excited to try Curl Bounce’s curved wand. Upon testing, I was impressed by its ability to effortlessly fan the lash line and build dramatic volume in just a few swipes. As opposed to other curl-boosting mascaras I’ve tried, this wand doesn’t front such a steep C-shape, grants more control as I pushed the bristles up through the roots. An eyelash curler is a non-negotiable in my lash routine, but I’d actually feel comfortable going without one if I’m ever limited on space in my makeup bag.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $7.40
Maybelline Lash Sensational Firework Volume and Length Mascara
Formula type: Volumizing, lengthening Shade range : Brown, Very Black, Blackest Black, Waterpoof Very Black Special features : Pro-Vitamin B5
Cue the fireworks — this brand new formula is worthy of a standing ovation. It’s earned TikTok applause across nearly 50 million views and searches for its explosive volume courtesy of the new Superspark Brush. The wand is spiral-bound with a variety of bristle lengths that grip to each lash and to deposit a healthy dose of product, which comes infused with conditioning Pro-Vitamin B5 for long-term lash strength.
Editor testing and review notes: “I have enjoyed the lot of Maybelline’s Lash Sensational line, so I had high hopes for this new Firework formula. The bottom line? It’s my favorite from the collection. The formula itself is not too wet, not too dry, so it pairs perfectly with the long, rubber bristles that effectively comb out clumps as pigment coats the lash line. It results in extended and defined lashes that last all day long — even through my post-work cardio workout. Plus, I love how the cute hot pink tube is wrapped in ridges, so it will roll away off your vanity table.”
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Lengthening Mascara
Formula type: Volumizing, lengthening Shade range : True Brown, Very Black, Cosmic Black, Blue Mist Special features : Flex Tower brush, bamboo extract and fiber-infused formula
This mascara consistently dominates the mascara bestsellers list across Amazon, Target, and Ulta — and it even sold out four times over in 2021 upon its initial release. It takes lashes to new heights with its unique Flex Tower brush that features widely-spaced bristles that crescendo at the end for flared-out drama. The formula’s infusion of bamboo extract keeps lashes soft and fluffy, reducing the risk of pesky flakes and brittle ends, and effectively builds in clean coats, thanks to the comb-like wand.
Editor testing and review notes : “When I’m looking for length and separation, I reach for Lash Sensational Sky High. In fact, it’s become a secret weapon in my beauty bag, because it acts like a comb to correct mascaras from other brands that weigh down my lashes in clumps. On its own, its an exemplary mascara that stretches and separates each little hair, and I love that one swipe of the wand flares out the outer corners for an elongated eye look. I also enjoy the waterproof formula for my lower lashes, as the want doesn’t deposit an overwhelming amount of product.”
Formula type: Volumizing Shade range : Clear, Dark Brown, Brownish Black, Very Black, Blackest Black, Royal Blue, and waterproof formulations Special features : Small wand
She’s an icon, she’s a legend, she’s the Maybelline Great Lash Mascara. This gold standard Maybelline mascara has been around since 1971, and continues to rank amongst new releases and prestige formulas as one of the bestselling mascaras of all time. It’s one of Maybelline’s smallest wands and amongst the brand’s most affordable products, and it comes in a wide array of shades from clear to color, so it can even multitask as a brow gel, too. It leans wetter on the formula front, so it’s glides on smoothly and is easy to build precise coats of product.
Editor testing and review notes: “Maybelline’s Great Lash was the first mascara I ever picked up, so I know this one like the back of my hand. Upon re-testing it against newer formulations, it still holds up as an all-around reliable product for length and definition without the dramatic frills. I regularly opt for this one for fine detailing on the outer corners or lower lash line, because the small wand is exceptional for accessing hard-to-reach places.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $5.98
Maybelline The Falsies Lash Lift Mascara
Formula type: Volumizing, lifting Shade range : Brownish Black, Black, Very Black, Blackest Black, Ultra Black Special features : Double curved lifting brush and fiber-infused formula
The bulbous wand on the The Falsies Lash Lift Mascara creates an eye-opening and brightening effect that we didn’t experience in Maybelline’s other options. Similar to prestige mascaras with hourglass-shaped wands, this rounder shape is a more seamless contour, which pushes the center lashes upward while lifting and flaring out the inner and outer corners. It also comes coated with tiny fiber extensions as one of the best Maybelline best tubing mascaras, and, coupled with deep dark pigment, results in a sultry lash effect.
Editor testing and review notes : “Looking for date night-worthy drama? Consider this a reliable swap for falsies. I’m well-versed in Maybelline’s The Falsies mascara line, and this wand effectively innovates the already impressive selection in its volumizing and lifting wand. It’s a three-in-one formula that brings major volume, curl, and length, and lasts from day to night with minimal flaking and zero smudging.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $9.40
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Meet the Testers
Four WWD Shop editors tested over 15 Maybelline mascaras to narrow down this guide to the best formulas for different needs and preferences. Our product testers include Olivia Cigliano , the Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD and the author of this story, Claire Sullivan , the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News, and two additional beauty testers. Our team reflects different lash textures and lengths, glam preferences, and eye sensitives such as allergies and contact lens-wearers. We tested each Maybelline mascara alone, after use of an eyelash curler, and with false lashes to completely assess their performance. Additionally, we wore the formulas for various levels of activity, from a day at the office to a workout class and even to the beach in hot, humid conditions.
Meet the Author
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes and edits shopping content across fashion, beauty, footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Cigliano received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She is currently based in New York City. At WWD, she regularly tests and reviews top-rated mascaras for extensive beauty shopping guides.
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