Look, I’m going to cut right to the chase – there’s a reason why Maybelline Great Lash In Dark Brown has been around for DECADES. As someone who’s tried pretty much every mascara on the market (from drugstore finds to high-end splurges), I keep coming back to this little pink and green tube.
Today I’m breaking down everything you need to know about the Maybelline New York Makeup Great Lash Washable Mascara in Dark Brown (0.43 fl oz). Is it really worth the hype? Let’s find out!
First Impressions & Packaging
The iconic pink and green tube is instantly recognizable – I spotted a makeup artist using it on a news anchor recently, which just confirms what I’ve always believed: good makeup doesn’t have to be expensive!
The packaging is simple and no-nonsense. Nothing fancy here, just a reliable product that does what it promises. The tube size (0.43 fl oz) is pretty standard and lasts me about 3 months with regular use.
The Brush: Small But Mighty
One thing that distinguishes this mascara is the brush size. It’s noticeably smaller than many modern mascaras, which can be either a pro or con depending on your preference:
PROS:
- Perfect for getting to those tiny lower lashes
- Great for precision application
- Helps reach the roots of lashes
- Works well for detailed application
CONS:
- Some users mentioned wishing for a wider brush
- Not as voluminous in one swipe as brushes with more bristles
- May take more time to coat all lashes
A redheaded reviewer mentioned it’s “the perfect size for getting all lashes even down to the roots. Most mascara brushes are too fat, wide. I need a smaller one to detail above and below lashes, because mine are blonde.”
However, it seems the brush may have changed over the years. One reviewer noted: “This product has a different brush than it used to when I used this product 10 or so years ago, it’s much smaller now.”
Color: Dark Brown – The Perfect Alternative to Black
As someone with fair skin, I TOTALLY get why so many reviewers praised the Dark Brown shade. It provides definition without the harshness of black, especially for those with lighter coloring.
“Being blond and now white headed. It is hard to find brown mascara that is not too light. This works as good as anything I have found.”
“I am very fair skin, and black mascara looks so harsh on me. I am so glad Amazon offers this particular Maybelline mascara.”
“I have blonde hair and the brown color darkens my lashes, but does not look painted on.”
Some users even mentioned using it on their eyebrows! “I use it to add volume to, and tame my eyebrows. I overplucked in the ’90s and now am paying for it! It looks MUCH more natural than a pencil, when applied correctly.”
Application & Performance
Ease of Application
The mascara goes on smoothly for most users without clumping (if you’re careful). Multiple reviewers mentioned how easily it applies:
“It goes on smoothly & doesn’t clump.” “It coats the lashes nicely, color (brown/black) is perfect.” “It glides on easily, with minimal clumping.”
Build-ability
One of this mascara’s strengths is how buildable it is. You can go from subtle to more dramatic with multiple coats:
“After applying 2 coats I could definitely see that my lashes were longer.” “It’s easy to apply multiple layers without it looking overdone.” “I like that it’s a very natural looking yet lengthens and thickens my lashes.”
Staying Power
Reviews are mixed on staying power. While it generally stays put for regular day wear, it’s definitely not waterproof:
“It stays on till you use soap and water. It never rubs off below your bottom lid like others do.” “I have semi-oily skin and by mid-afternoon I have a bit of raccoon eyes going on.” “It does wear off or sweat off by mid-day sometimes depending on the situation.” “It will run if you cry or if you get caught in the rain.”
The Not-So-Good Stuff (Keeping It Real!)
No product is perfect, so here are some common complaints:
- Smudging issues: “This mascara doesn’t add much color, and almost always smears before drying.”
- Drying time: “This stuff takes a while to dry completely, and if I blink before it is dry it often comes off on my cheek.”
- Volume limitations: “I’ve used Great Lash in the past, and seemed to provide more lash thickness than it does now. Does ok, but hardly thickens lashes at all.”
- Removal challenges: “It is hard to wash it all off, so I sometimes wake up with shadows under my eyes from the leftover residue.”
Who Is This PERFECT For?
Based on the reviews, Maybelline Great Lash in Dark Brown is ideal for:
- People with fair skin and light hair who find black mascara too harsh
- Those seeking a natural, everyday look rather than dramatic volume
- People who prefer a smaller brush for precision application
- Anyone with sensitive eyes (many reviewers with contacts or sensitive eyes had no issues)
- Budget-conscious makeup lovers who don’t want to spend $30 on mascara
One reviewer summed it up perfectly: “This is really good if you need a subtle, buildable mascara.”
Who Should Skip It?
You might want to look elsewhere if:
- You want dramatic, falsies-like volume and length
- You need something 100% waterproof
- You prefer a thick, full brush
- You need all-day staying power without any touch-ups
Value For Money
At around $5-8 (depending where you purchase), Great Lash is consistently praised for its value:
“This is just as good and possibly even better than the $30 tubes of mascara out there.” “I’ve tried all the others, spent a fortune on high-end brands, but have always come back to Maybelline’s simple, nicely-priced Great Lash.” “You just can’t beat Maybelline’s flagship signature product – Great Lash mascara. Works as good if not better than any higher-end or department store brands, and it’s very inexpensive.”
Application Tips From Reviewers
Several reviewers shared helpful tips for getting the most out of this mascara:
- For eyebrows: “Make sure to wipe off the applicator thoroughly, so you don’t apply too much. Swipe from the middle out, in a kind of upward motion, and use a cotton swab if you make a mistake.”
- For layering: “Use the clear mascara first, then add this, combing the lashes in between & when I’m done.”
- For removing: Use soap and water – that’s the beauty of the washable formula!
The Loyalty Factor
What struck me most in the reviews was the incredible brand loyalty. SO MANY people mentioned using this mascara for decades:
“I have used this mascara since I started wearing make up in the 60’s.” “I’ve used this Maybelline mascara for many years.” “I’m 60, I use Maybelline mascara ever since I was 14, I just love this brand.” “Only thing I have used in 30 yrs!”
This kind of loyalty says something about a product. Many reviewers mentioned trying other mascaras (including high-end brands like YSL, Chanel, and Lancôme) but returning to Great Lash.
Final Verdict
Maybelline Great Lash in Dark Brown is a reliable, affordable mascara that delivers natural-looking definition without the harshness of black. While it won’t give you dramatic, falsies-like volume, it excels at creating a polished everyday look.
The smaller brush might be divisive, but it allows for precision application, especially for those with short or fine lashes. It’s particularly well-suited for those with fair coloring who find black mascara too harsh.
At such an affordable price point, it’s worth trying – especially considering how many loyal users have stuck with it for DECADES! As one reviewer put it: “I’ve tried many mascaras over the years and keep coming back to this one. It may be basic, but it never disappoints.”
If you’re looking for a reliable, no-fuss mascara that enhances your natural lashes without breaking the bank, Great Lash in Dark Brown definitely deserves a spot in your makeup bag!
Buy on Amazon: Here
