As a beauty industry expert who has tested countless mascaras across all price points, I’m always searching for that perfect combination of performance and value. Today, I’m diving deep into one of the drugstore market’s most talked-about formulas: Maybelline New York Volume Express Mega Plush Washable Mascara in Blackest Black.
This budget-friendly mascara has generated quite a cult following, with many users claiming it rivals or even surpasses high-end alternatives costing five times as much. But does it truly deliver on its promises? After extensive testing and analyzing hundreds of consumer reviews, I’m ready to share my comprehensive evaluation of this gel-mousse formula that promises mega volume without the stiffness.
First Impressions and Packaging
The Mega Plush comes in Maybelline’s signature green and pink packaging, with a sleek tube that feels substantial in the hand despite its affordable price point. At 0.3 fluid ounces, it contains the standard amount of product you’d expect from a mascara.
What immediately stands out is the unique “flexor brush” – a patented design featuring a hinge in the wand that allows the brush head to flex and bend during application. This innovative approach is meant to help the brush conform to the eye’s curvature, theoretically making application easier and more precise.
The Formula: Gel-Mousse Technology
What truly sets the Mega Plush apart from other budget mascaras is its gel-mousse formula. Unlike traditional wax-based mascaras that can leave lashes feeling brittle and stiff, this lightweight gel-based formula contains 40% less wax according to Maybelline.
The texture is noticeably different from standard mascaras – it feels cushiony and plush (living up to its name), with a consistency that strikes a perfect balance between wet and dry. It’s fluid enough to coat lashes evenly but not so wet that it smudges or transfers during application.
Application Experience
The Flexor Brush: A Divisive Innovation
The flexible wand is perhaps the most polarizing aspect of this mascara. For some users, this bendy brush is revolutionary, allowing for more controlled application and better access to those hard-to-reach inner and outer corner lashes. The flexibility helps prevent applying too much pressure, which can lead to poking your eye (a common mascara mishap).
However, many users report a learning curve with this brush. If you’re accustomed to applying mascara with a firmer hand, the flexing motion can initially feel unstable and unpredictable. I found that a lighter touch is absolutely essential – pressing too hard causes the brush to bend significantly, potentially leading to uneven application or accidental contact with the eyelid.
The brush itself features both short and long bristles arranged strategically to grab and coat lashes of all lengths. The silicone brush design does an excellent job of separating lashes while depositing the formula.
Performance on Different Lash Types
What impressed me most was how adaptable this mascara proves to be across different lash types:
- Fine, sparse lashes: The gel formula builds volume without weighing down delicate lashes. Multiple users with thin lashes reported that it creates the appearance of fuller lash lines by effectively filling in gaps.
- Blonde or light lashes: The Blackest Black shade provides intense pigmentation that thoroughly darkens even the lightest natural lashes, eliminating the need for an eyelash tint.
- Long lashes: Those blessed with naturally long lashes found that Mega Plush emphasizes their length while adding substantial volume at the roots.
- Short lashes: Results were more mixed for those with very short lashes – while the formula adds some length, those seeking dramatic lengthening might need to look elsewhere or layer with a lengthening primer.
Long-Wear Performance
Everyday Wear Test
For daily wear, the Mega Plush performs admirably. The lightweight formula remains comfortable throughout a standard 8-10 hour day without the heavy, tight feeling that many mascaras create as they dry. This comfort factor makes it ideal for those with sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers.
A standout feature is its resistance to flaking – a common complaint with many drugstore formulas. Even after multiple coats and all-day wear, the mascara maintains its integrity without depositing black specks under the eyes. This is largely thanks to the gel formula, which adheres well to lashes without becoming brittle.
Smudging and Transfer
While not marketed as waterproof, the washable formula shows decent resistance to moisture, humidity, and the occasional teary eye. It won’t survive a swim or torrential downpour, but it handles light rain and watery eyes without immediately running.
Some users with particularly oily skin or those who tend to touch their eyes throughout the day reported minimal smudging under the lower lash line by day’s end. However, this seems to affect a relatively small percentage of users, with most enjoying smudge-free wear.
Buildability and Versatility
One of Mega Plush’s greatest strengths is its exceptional buildability. The gel-mousse formula allows for multiple coats without clumping – a rare achievement at this price point.
A single coat provides a natural-looking enhancement, darkening and slightly volumizing lashes for a polished everyday look. Two coats create more dramatic volume and definition suitable for evening wear or special occasions. Impressively, even three or more coats can be applied without creating the dreaded “spider leg” effect that plagues many volumizing formulas.
This buildability makes it versatile enough to create various looks with a single product – from subtle daytime definition to bold, voluminous evening drama.
Removal Process
The washable formula strikes an excellent balance between staying power and easy removal. It doesn’t require special waterproof makeup removers or excessive rubbing that can damage delicate lashes and the surrounding skin.
Most users report that it comes off easily with gentle cleansers, micellar water, or oil-based makeup removers. Some users specifically mentioned that coconut oil works exceptionally well for removal. The gentle removal process is particularly beneficial for those with sensitive eyes or those who wear contact lenses.
Unlike many waterproof formulas that can contribute to lash breakage during removal, the Mega Plush formula releases from lashes without excessive pulling or tugging, helping to maintain lash health with consistent use.
Long-Term Benefits and Lash Health
While not explicitly marketed as a lash-enhancing product, many long-term users report that their lashes seem healthier and less prone to breakage since switching to Mega Plush. This likely stems from two factors:
- The 40% less wax formula doesn’t dry lashes out or make them brittle
- The gentle removal process reduces physical stress on lashes
For those with naturally weak or damaged lashes, this gentler approach to both wear and removal can make a noticeable difference in lash condition over time.
Value Assessment
At approximately $5-7 depending on retailer, the Mega Plush represents exceptional value in the mascara market. Many users directly compared it to prestige brands costing $25-30, finding the performance comparable or superior in several aspects:
- One reviewer mentioned abandoning Dior Diorshow (approximately $30) in favor of Mega Plush
- Another compared it favorably to Urban Decay’s Perversion mascara (approximately $25)
- Several users noted they preferred it to Buxom Lash mascara (approximately $22)
The formula also seems to maintain its quality from first use to last, without the premature drying or thickening that affects many drugstore formulas. This consistency throughout the product’s lifespan further enhances its value proposition.
Potential Drawbacks
No product is perfect, and the Mega Plush does have some potential drawbacks worth noting:
- The flexible wand: While innovative, the bendy brush can be difficult to control, especially for those new to mascara or accustomed to traditional rigid wands.
- Lower lash application: Several users mentioned difficulty applying to lower lashes due to the brush size and flexibility. A smaller, more precise brush might be preferable for this area.
- Not dramatic enough for some: Those seeking false-lash levels of volume and length might find Mega Plush too subtle, even with multiple coats. It excels at creating natural-looking volume rather than theatrical drama.
- Formula consistency issues: A small number of users reported receiving tubes that were either too dry or too wet, suggesting possible quality control variations between batches.
- Short-lashed users: While it performs well on most lash types, those with very short lashes might not achieve the dramatic lengthening effect they’re seeking.
Who Should Buy This Mascara?
Based on extensive review analysis and personal testing, the Mega Plush is particularly well-suited for:
- Budget-conscious beauty lovers seeking high-performance without the luxury price tag
- Those with sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers who need a gentle, comfortable formula
- People with naturally blonde or light lashes who need effective darkening
- Those seeking a natural-looking volume rather than dramatic falsies effect
- Makeup minimalists who want one versatile mascara that can create different looks
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
The Mega Plush might not be ideal for:
- Those seeking extreme lengthening as its primary strength is volume
- People who prefer traditional rigid mascara wands and might find the flexible brush frustrating
- Those who require absolutely waterproof performance (though the waterproof version is available separately)
- Users who prioritize precise lower lash application might find the brush too large
How It Compares to Other Maybelline Mascaras
Maybelline offers an extensive mascara lineup, and understanding how Mega Plush fits among its siblings helps contextualize its strengths:
- Compared to Great Lash: Offers significantly more volume and a more modern formula than Maybelline’s classic bestseller
- Compared to Falsies: Less dramatic but more natural-looking; better for everyday wear
- Compared to Colossal: More comfortable wear with less stiffness; Colossal may provide more dramatic volume
- Compared to Lash Sensational: More focused on volume than curl; Lash Sensational’s curved brush provides better lash-lifting effect
Application Tips for Best Results
To maximize the performance of Mega Plush:
- Use a light touch – Let the flexible wand work as designed rather than fighting against it
- Build gradually – Its strength lies in buildability; apply thin coats and layer as needed
- Wiggle at the base – Start at the root and wiggle the brush slightly before sweeping upward
- Try the layering trick – Some users recommend applying a coat of regular formula followed by a coat of the waterproof version for maximum staying power with easier removal
- For lower lashes – Use just the tip of the brush and apply with a light hand, or consider a separate, smaller brush mascara for this area
The Verdict: A Drugstore Gem with Premium Performance
After thorough evaluation, Maybelline New York Volume Express Mega Plush Washable Mascara earns its reputation as one of the best values in the mascara market. It delivers on its core promises of comfortable volume without stiffness, creating natural-looking yet enhanced lashes at a fraction of the cost of premium alternatives.
While the flexible brush presents a learning curve and it may not satisfy those seeking the most dramatic effects possible, its gentle formula, excellent buildability, and comfortable wear make it a standout performer that deserves a place in your makeup bag.
For those willing to adapt to the unique brush design, it offers premium-level performance at a price point that allows for regular replacement (essential for mascara hygiene) without budget strain. In the crowded mascara market, Mega Plush has rightfully earned its loyal following by focusing on what matters most: healthy-looking, volumized lashes that feel as good as they look.
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Pros:
- Exceptional value for money
- Comfortable, non-stiff gel-mousse formula
- Excellent buildability without clumping
- Easy removal without lash damage
- Flake-free, all-day wear
Cons:
- Flexible wand has a learning curve
- Not ideal for very short lashes
- Some may find it lacks dramatic impact
- Brush size can make lower lash application challenging
Whether you’re a makeup enthusiast on a budget or simply someone who appreciates effective, comfortable formulas, the Maybelline Mega Plush Washable Mascara deserves consideration as your next lash enhancer.
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