As a beauty expert who has tested countless mascaras over the years, I’ve seen products come and go with big promises and mixed results. When it comes to drugstore mascaras, Maybelline has consistently been a frontrunner in the industry. Today, I’m diving deep into one of their popular offerings – the Maybelline New York Volum’ Express The Colossal Big Shot Washable Mascara in Blackest Black.
This product has created quite a buzz in the beauty community since its launch, with many comparing its results to those achieved with false eyelashes. But does it really live up to the hype? In this comprehensive review, I’ll examine its performance, formula, applicator, longevity, and overall value to help you decide if this should be your next mascara purchase.
First Impressions and Packaging
The Maybelline Colossal Big Shot comes in Maybelline’s signature yellow packaging with purple accents, making it instantly recognizable in the drugstore aisle. The tube feels substantial in your hand, and the cap closes securely – an important feature to prevent the mascara from drying out prematurely.
Upon opening, you’ll notice the wand has a somewhat unique brush design. It’s not your typical thin wand or fluffy brush; instead, it features wavy bristles designed to catch and coat each lash from root to tip. The brush size is moderate – not too big to maneuver around smaller eyes, but substantial enough to promise volume with fewer strokes.
Formula and Texture
The formula of the Colossal Big Shot is one of its most distinctive features. Several users noted that unlike many new mascaras that can be somewhat runny when first opened, this one has a perfect consistency right from the start. As one reviewer put it, the texture is “reminiscent of a seasoned bottle of mascara… like you know how you buy a new tube and typically it’s a bit runny and takes a week or two to get to a better texture? This comes just right.”
The formula is on the drier side – but not too dry – which helps it build volume quickly without the wetness that can cause lashes to droop. The pigmentation is excellent, delivering a true “blackest black” finish that makes lashes stand out dramatically against any eye color.
However, I did notice that consistency can vary between tubes. While most users received perfectly formulated product, some reported receiving dried-out tubes that appeared to have been sitting on shelves for too long. This inconsistency in quality control is something to be aware of.
Application and Coverage
When it comes to application, the Colossal Big Shot excels in building dramatic volume quickly. The brush design does an excellent job of separating lashes while simultaneously coating them with product. For those with naturally sparse or thin lashes, this mascara is particularly transformative.
One reviewer with “short, sparse, and blonde eyelashes” who had “tried practically every mascara under the sun” was “very surprised at how much I love this” because it “lengthened and volumized my lashes noticeably – without looking clumpy or flaking off.”
Another significant advantage is its buildability. The formula allows for multiple coats without turning into a clumpy mess, making it versatile enough for both everyday wear and more dramatic evening looks. As one reviewer mentioned, “I love how buildable this product is. I love having big, fluttery eyelashes without having to wear false eyelashes.”
However, perfectionists should note that achieving an ideal application might take some time. One reviewer candidly shared that the “look of my lashes in the attached image is from about 25 minutes of working on them until I got the look I wanted.” While most users won’t need to spend that much time, it does indicate that the mascara rewards careful application.
Before and After Results
The most impressive aspect of the Colossal Big Shot is undoubtedly the dramatic transformation it provides. Multiple reviewers used phrases like “makes my lashes look huge,” “makes my lashes look so full,” and even “Everyone asking where did I get my lashes done at.”
The mascara particularly shines for those with naturally light or thin lashes. A self-described “older gal” whose “lashes have seemed to have gotten less and thinner over the years” was thrilled that “this mascara actually makes it looks like I’m wearing false eyelashes!!” She found her “thin nearly invisible lashes were instantly longer, thicker, fuller and way more noticeable.”
Another reviewer with Scandinavian heritage and naturally blonde lashes conducted a side-by-side comparison with Maybelline’s Colossal Go Extreme mascara. Not only did she notice that the Big Shot made her lashes “look longer and a little thicker,” but her husband, who didn’t know which eye had which product, independently confirmed that the Big Shot eye “definitely looked longer and thicker to him.”
Longevity and Wear
When it comes to staying power, the Colossal Big Shot performs admirably for a non-waterproof formula. Most users report that it lasts throughout a standard day without significant flaking or smudging.
However, performance in this area does vary somewhat among users. While many praised its staying power (“Stays put all day” and “No flakes and stays all day!”), others experienced some flaking after several hours of wear. One reviewer noted, “About 4 hours after applying it I noticed it started flaking off. The flakes got in my eyes and irritated them.”
Those with oily skin might experience some transfer issues, as one reviewer mentioned: “I have oily skin and it does transfer to my cheeks.” For these individuals, the waterproof version might be a better option, though several reviewers cautioned that the waterproof formula can be quite challenging to remove.
Curl Retention
If you have straight lashes and prioritize curl retention, the reviews for the Colossal Big Shot are mixed. Some users found it maintained their curl well, with one noting, “It holds curl well (so far).” However, others experienced the opposite effect: “This mascara does not hold the curl in my lashes at all really and actually seems to make my lashes droop faster.”
For those who struggle with drooping lashes, one innovative reviewer shared a useful tip: “It takes longer to dry than others so I just use a blow dryer on cool to blow dry my lashes UP. It keeps the height..a little secret that works wonders!”
Removal Process
As a washable (non-waterproof) formula, the Colossal Big Shot should be relatively easy to remove. Many users confirm this, with one noting, “It washes off GREAT without much effort needed. I either use a makeup eraser or if I have heavy makeup I use a cleansing balm.”
Others mention successfully removing it with regular face wash or coconut oil: “comes off easily with coconut oil.” However, some users found the removal process more challenging than expected for a non-waterproof formula: “I just repurchased in June and it was completely different. Now it won’t come off with my face wash and I have to work hard to get it off with oil.”
This variance might be due to different skin types, the effectiveness of different makeup removers, or possibly inconsistencies in the formula between batches.
Comparison to Luxury Brands
One of the most compelling aspects of the Colossal Big Shot is how favorably it compares to high-end, luxury mascaras. Multiple reviewers specifically mentioned trading in their premium brands for this drugstore alternative:
“Better than any other brand I have used, I traded my Chanel for this”
“In comparison, I bought NARS climax mascara last weekend and the Maybelline volum’ Express blew it out of the water. This is better than too faced and Clinique, pretty close to urban decay perversion, and 100% better than NARS.”
“I read reviews for many different mascaras before I purchased this one so glad this is the one I went with same result as a high dollar brand”
“Good mascara. I normally use and Lancôme or MAC, but I would say this is on the same level. My lashes look pretty amazing.”
“The high end ones cannot even compete with this!”
This consistent feedback suggests that the Colossal Big Shot truly delivers professional-quality results at a fraction of the price of luxury alternatives.
Value Proposition
Speaking of price, the value proposition of the Colossal Big Shot is exceptional. At roughly one-third to one-fourth the price of premium mascaras, it delivers comparable (and according to some reviewers, superior) results.
As one reviewer summed it up: “Try it, you can’t beat the price.” Another stated, “The best and for the price,” succinctly capturing the sentiment of many users who felt they were getting luxury-level performance for drugstore prices.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Colossal Big Shot has many admirers, it’s not without its flaws. The most commonly mentioned issues include:
- Inconsistent Quality Control: Multiple reviewers received tubes that were dried out or clumpy upon first opening, suggesting possible issues with inventory management or shelf life.
- Flaking for Some Users: While many experienced no flaking, others noticed flakes appearing after several hours of wear.
- Curl Retention Issues: Users with naturally straight lashes had mixed experiences with this mascara’s ability to maintain curl.
- Clumping Potential: Some users experienced clumping, especially with multiple coats or if not applied carefully. One colorfully described it as creating a “clumpy, spider leg lash look.”
- Transfer Issues: Those with oily skin or hooded eyes might experience some transfer to the under-eye area or eyelid.
- Removal Challenges: Despite being a non-waterproof formula, some users found it more difficult to remove than expected.
Specific Scenarios and Recommendations
Based on the collective feedback, here are some specific recommendations for different lash types and preferences:
For Those with Sparse, Thin, or Light-Colored Lashes: The Colossal Big Shot is an excellent choice, as it excels at building dramatic volume and making nearly invisible lashes stand out. Multiple reviewers with these lash types were especially impressed with the results.
For Those Seeking Dramatic Volume Over Length: If your priority is thick, voluminous lashes rather than extreme length, this mascara delivers admirably. As one reviewer noted, it “does offer a nice thickness, but does nothing for length.”
For Those with Straight Lashes Needing Curl: Consider proceeding with caution or exploring the blow dryer trick mentioned earlier, as results for curl retention were mixed.
For Those with Sensitive Eyes: Most users reported no irritation, with one mentioning, “I have a lot of skin allergies and this particular mascara was recommended by my dermatologist – no irritation!!” However, a small number did experience some eye irritation from flaking.
For Mature Users: Several older reviewers specifically mentioned this mascara worked well for them, with one “older gal” particularly thrilled with how it revitalized her thinning lashes. Another 70-year-old user “really appreciated the stay on and no smudge” properties.
The Final Verdict
After thoroughly analyzing the collective experiences with the Maybelline New York Volum’ Express The Colossal Big Shot Washable Mascara in Blackest Black, I can confidently say that it deserves a place among the best drugstore mascaras available today.
Its strengths lie in its ability to create dramatic volume, transform thin or light lashes, and deliver results comparable to much more expensive brands. For many users, it has become their holy grail mascara, replacing even luxury alternatives.
However, it’s not a universal solution for everyone. Those who prioritize curl retention, have issues with mascara transfer, or prefer a more natural look might want to explore other options.
With a price point that makes it accessible to most consumers and performance that rivals premium brands, the Colossal Big Shot offers exceptional value. If you’re in the market for a volumizing mascara that creates a false-lash effect without breaking the bank, this product deserves serious consideration.
Overall Rating: 4.2/5 stars
Despite some inconsistencies in quality control and mixed experiences with curl retention and flaking, the Maybelline Colossal Big Shot’s exceptional volumizing capabilities, buildable formula, and impressive value make it a standout product in the drugstore mascara category.
Disclaimer: Individual results may vary depending on natural lash type, application technique, skin type, and personal preferences. This review is based on collective feedback from multiple users with diverse lash types and needs.
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