July 9th, 2012 
If there’s one eye makeup product I’d consider the icing on the cake, the perfect finishing touch, it would be mascara, without question. It lengthens, thickens, and defines eyelashes (the good ones, at least) for an instant stand out beauty look. But finding a staple mascara has proven difficult given the numerous formulas, brands and price points I’ve tried. On the plus side, that means I’m open to trying something new. And in this case, that’s three new mascaras from the e.l.f Studio Collection.
E.l.f. (eyes lips face) Cosmetics is known for its incredibly affordable yet quality beauty products. So with each mascara priced at only $3 and with impressive product descriptions and amazing ingredients like biotin, vitamins B and E, as well as pumpkin, I was curious to give them a try.
The first of the three mascaras I tried was the e.l.f. Studio Lash Extending Mascara ($3.00) in Black. It claims to instantly make lashes “appear longer and fuller with a rich curl for ultimate definition.” Initially, the formula goes on evenly and smoothly with a tacky, somewhat wet texture. I found this made layering easier (compared to other mascaras) without creating flakes or clumping lashes together. It set within five minutes.
As for the results, I didn’t get much volume, but the slightly curved brush and fiber-infused formula added a little curl and length (although I have decent length lashes to start with). I found that the brush also did a good job of separating my lashes for a long wispy look. (Not my preferred style, but it doesn’t look bad.) As for longevity, the vitamins B and E, wheat protein and panthenol ingredients, meant to condition and enhance lashes, really seemed to prevent flaking and drying of my lashes for the entire day.
Next was the e.l.f. Studio 3-in-1 Mascara ($3.00), “an all-in-one professional mascara,” in Black. As its name implies, 3-in-1 works to lengthen, define and volumize lashes with its funny-shaped applicator brush. I applied this mascara as instructed – holding the wand horizontally from root to tip for volume, then vertically for definition and length. Even with just one coat, I knew this would be the mascara to beat in the bunch. It applies smoothly with the same texture as the Lash Extending Mascara, but the finish is much fuller and more natural looking for my taste. The precision bristles really help to define lashes without flaking or clumping and it maintains its effect throughout the day.
Finally, I used the e.l.f. Studio Defining Mascara ($3.00) in Blackest Black. It is described as a “good-for-lashes” mascara infused with keratin, pumpkin, soy and biotin for strengthening and conditioning. The smudge-proof formula truly made my lashes stand out against the rest of my eye makeup, but the color probably contributed to this as well. The cone-shaped brush made applying the formula to every lash, including the inner and outer corners, easy and smooth without clumping. It also added a little volume for a nice, feathery look.
In all, I’m fairly impressed with each mascara for different reasons, especially when considering the price point. The Lash Extending Mascara is a good option for beauty or evening looks that call for a little lengthening (with better results when used in conjunction with a voluminzing mascara), the 3-in-1 Mascara, my personal favorite, is great for everyday wear, and the Defining Mascara helps to make lashes the star of your eye makeup. All the formulas are fantastic in that they don’t smudge or flake throughout the day nor do they make lashes feel dry and brittle. Also, they are easily removable with soap and water (and probably most eye makeup removers). These inexpensive mascaras go to show that with beauty, price doesn’t always correlate with quality.
Collective Product Rating & More Photos:
Click pictures to enlarge. (Photo Credits: elf & Marla Oddoye)
Price: $3 each
Availability: e.l.f. website.
[These samples were sent to Miss A for consideration of an honest review.]
