Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Mascara Is the Best Drugstore Formula

Years ago, before I was a beauty editor, I had an inexplicable bias against drugstore mascara. Chalk it up to a combination of itch-prone eyes and snobbery, but I was skeptical of any mascara that you could pocket for less than $20. I’m proud to report that since then, I’ve seen the light and have learned firsthand that tons of affordable mascaras stand up to—and even outperform—high-end formulas. In fact, my current eye makeup obsession is an ultra-lengthening Maybelline mascara from Amazon with more than 50 million TikTok reviews.

Maybelline Lash Sensational Firework Washable Mascara

I received a sample of the Maybelline Lash Sensational Firework Washable Mascara when it first launched over the summer, and it has since become a nonnegotiable step in my everyday makeup routine. Available in three shades (brownish black, very black, and blackest black), this is first and foremost a lengthening mascara for that long, separated lash look. I opted for the blackest black shade for maximum impact and boldness. After the first swipe, my lashes immediately looked longer. However, I typically apply two or three coats to create a false lash effect that really makes my eyes pop. Pro tip: Be sure to layer before the formula dries down for smooth, clump-free application.  

Formulated with conditioning vitamin B5, this mascara effortlessly glides across my lashes; even after it sets, my lashes still feel soft—never crunchy. But the main feature that sets the Firework Mascara apart is its unique uber-flexible brush. According to the brand, bristles are arranged in a spiral pattern to ensure that every lash is evenly coated from root to tip. I love how the bendy brush makes it super easy to get into hard-to-reach inner corners and my shorter outer lashes.   

If I had to nitpick, the only downside is that this mascara is a bit messy to apply and sometimes leaves residue on my eyelids when I layer coats. (Although, that’s probably because it lengthens my lashes so much that they brush against my eyelids more than usual.) When this happens, I just swipe my lids with a damp tissue and the washable formula comes right off. It’s a small price to pay for perfect fanned-out, flared lashes that deliver length, volume, and drama. 

Do yourself a favor and add the Maybelline Lash Sensational Firework Washable Mascara to your Amazon cart, then keep scrolling for a few more budget-friendly formulas to try.

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara

L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original Lengthening Mascara

Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara