Review: Maybelline Define-A-Lash Mascara

So, I have tried a lot of mascaras out there, from high-end brands like Dior and MUFE, to mid-range brands Clinique and MAC, and of course, drugstore brands like yours truly, Maybelline. I have to say that although the high-end mascaras generally do what they claim, I think I prefer drugstore brands such as Maybelline Define-A-Lash Mascara. Why? Find out behind the cut!




Ok, so there are few reasons I like Maybelline's mascara:

First, it is relatively inexpensive. While high end mascaras can run $30, this mascara retails for $8. Plus, drugstores and grocers frequently put Maybelline on sale, so it's not unusual to score these products for 20-50% off retail price. For example, I scored this Define-A-Lash mascara for about $5 during a sale.


Second, mascara is one of the few cosmetics that has a rather short shelf life. Depending on who you talk to (and maybe how particular you are), a mascara should be replaced between 6 weeks and 6 months after opening (I lean more to 6 months myself, haha). It's much easier to pay $8 every couple months instead of $30.

Third, if the high-end mascaras were exceptionally better than drugstore mascaras, I would probably advise paying the extra money (because lashes are really an integral part of any look). However, I find that many drugstore brands prove to be just as good, if not better, than the more expensive mascaras.

Now, on to Define-A-Lash mascara!!

This is my second tube of this mascara. It is a plain green tube, nothing too exciting or blingy, so I think some people will overlook it. However, if you want ceiling-long lashes, you don't want to pass this bad boy up! My lashes are thin and somewhat short, but when I put this on, my lashes seem to extend forever.

The wand is one of the most effective features of this mascaras- it flexes and bends to hug your lashes. The first time I ever used this, I even thought the brush was broken because I have never had a flexible wand such as this! But, because of this wand, you can cover the entire lash, so they're nice and long. Also because of the flex-brush, there is no clumping involved! It covers just where it needs to and that's it.

This mascara comes in three shades: Brownish Black, Soft Black and Very Black. I selected Soft Black so it's not quite as stark as Very Black, but still gives my lashes a bit of definition and contrast. For a very intense or evening look, I would use something darker, but for everyday wear, this is the ideal color for me.

The one thing this mascara proves not to do is thicken the lashes. As you can see from these photos, this mascara has done nothing to offer volume to my lashes. But, if you already have thick lashes, this will help to lengthen them.

The Verdict?


Buy this if: 
-You want longer lashes without the clump
-You don't want to spend a lot on mascara
-You want a lighter, less-stark mascara color

Skip if:
-Your lashes are thin and sparse

Would I buy this again? Absolutely! Maybe after I finish all my other wonderful Maybelline mascaras, though! :)

What is your HG mascara? How much would you pay for a mascara?