As a beauty expert who’s tested countless eyeliners over the years, I was excited to try the Maybelline New York Eyestudio Lasting Drama Waterproof Gel Pencil in Sleek Onyx. This product has garnered significant attention in the beauty community, promising the precision of a pencil with the intensity and glide of a gel. Today, I’ll be sharing my in-depth analysis of this product based on extensive testing and consumer feedback.
The Maybelline Lasting Drama Gel Pencil is marketed as a waterproof, long-lasting eyeliner that delivers intense color with a smooth application. With a retail price point typically under $10 for a two-pack, it positions itself as an affordable alternative to high-end gel liners. But does it truly deliver on its promises? Let’s dive into this comprehensive review.
Product Specifications
- Product Name: Maybelline New York Eyestudio Lasting Drama Waterproof Gel Pencil
- Shade: Sleek Onyx (deep black)
- Package: 2 Count
- Format: Retractable pencil with gel formula
- Claims: Waterproof, long-lasting, intense color, smooth application
Application Experience
The Maybelline Lasting Drama Gel Pencil truly excels in the application department. The texture is remarkably smooth, allowing the pencil to glide effortlessly across the delicate eye area without tugging or pulling at the skin. This is particularly impressive for a drugstore product, as many users note it rivals the application experience of prestige brands costing three to four times as much.
The gel-based formula contributes to this smooth application, making it accessible even for beginners. One reviewer mentioned, “This goes on great – and better than any high price liner I have bought,” which echoes the sentiment of many users who were pleasantly surprised by how easily it applies.
For tight-lining the waterline—often a challenging area for many eyeliners—this pencil performs exceptionally well. Multiple users specifically praised its ability to glide onto the waterline without irritation, which is a significant advantage for those who prefer this application technique.
However, precision can be somewhat challenging with this pencil. Some users noted that the soft formula, while excellent for smooth application, makes it difficult to create sharp, clean lines. The tip’s softness can make creating precise winged liner more difficult compared to traditional pencil liners or liquid liners.
Color Payoff & Pigmentation
When it comes to color intensity, the Sleek Onyx shade delivers remarkably well. Users consistently praise the deep, rich black pigmentation that doesn’t appear faded or muted upon application. In the words of one enthusiastic reviewer, it provides “super black black” color that makes a significant impact with minimal effort.
The high pigmentation means you don’t need to apply multiple layers to achieve an intense look. Most users report that one or two passes are sufficient for full opacity, which contributes to the product’s longevity since you’re using less product with each application.
The intensity of the black shade makes it particularly effective for creating dramatic eye looks and defining the eyes. Even when compared to higher-end brands, many users found that the Maybelline Gel Pencil delivered superior color payoff, describing it as a “bold, deep, non-cloudy/non-smoky kohl black.”
Longevity & Wear Time
The longevity of the Maybelline Lasting Drama Gel Pencil received mixed reviews, with experiences varying significantly among users. Many users reported impressive staying power, with the liner remaining intact throughout a full workday. One reviewer enthusiastically shared that it “lasted 11 hours with almost no sign of wear,” which is exceptional performance for any eyeliner, let alone a drugstore option.
For many, this pencil outperforms even higher-end alternatives, with one user noting, “This eyeliner is better than urban decay for the value and the price.” This is high praise considering Urban Decay’s reputation
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