Maybelline Sky High Mascara best 10 Review SILORANA

With over 367 million views on TikTok and countless beauty editors declaring it their holy grail, the Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara has become one of the most talked-about drugstore mascaras of all time. It sold out four times after launch and continues to fly off shelves worldwide. But can a $10 mascara really deliver on its promise of “sky high” length and limitless volume? After months of daily testing, we’re giving you the complete, unfiltered truth about this viral sensation.

What is Maybelline Sky High Mascara?

The Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara is a lengthening and volumizing mascara designed to deliver dramatic length and full volume from every angle. Launched in 2021, it quickly went viral on social media and has maintained its cult-favorite status ever since. The mascara features an exclusive Flex Tower brush and a bamboo extract-infused formula that promises long, full, lightweight lashes that don’t flake or smudge.

Product Specifications

Product Name: Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara
Price: $12.99 USD / £12.99 GBP (often on sale for $7-10)
Size: 0.24 fl oz / 7.2 mL
Available Shades: 10 colors including Very Black, Blackest Black, Cosmic Black, Brownish Black, Burgundy Haze, Blue Mist, Green Altitude, Plum Twilight, Pink Air, Space Diamond
Formula Types: Washable and Waterproof versions
Key Ingredients: Bamboo extract, fibers, film-forming polymers
Where to Buy: Amazon, Ulta, Target, CVS, Walgreens, Walmart

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First Impressions: Packaging and Design

The Sky High Mascara arrives in Maybelline’s signature rose-gold tube with a sleek, modern design that feels surprisingly luxe for a drugstore product. The packaging is sturdy, lightweight, and travel-friendly—perfect for tossing in your bag without worry.

Packaging highlights:

Rose-gold metallic tube
Slim, compact design
Secure twist-off cap
Easy-to-grip shape
Clean, modern aesthetic

The tube itself feels quality-made and doesn’t look or feel cheap despite the affordable price point. It’s the kind of mascara you won’t be embarrassed to pull out of your makeup bag.

The Flex Tower Brush: A Game-Changer

One of the most distinctive features of the Sky High Mascara is its Flex Tower brush—and it’s genuinely innovative for a drugstore mascara.

Brush Design

Slim and tapered: The brush is notably thin, which allows it to reach even the tiniest lashes in your inner corners
Plastic bristles: Short, evenly-spaced plastic spikes that separate lashes beautifully
Flexible stem: The wand actually bends and flexes as you apply, conforming to the shape of your eye
Pointed tip: Tapered end perfect for precision application on lower lashes

Why This Brush Works

The flexibility of the brush is what sets it apart. Unlike rigid wands that require careful maneuvering, the Flex Tower brush naturally curves with your lash line, making application almost foolproof. The plastic bristles (rather than traditional fiber bristles) deposit just the right amount of product without overloading your lashes.

Pro tip: The thin, tapered brush means you can coat every single lash from root to tip, including those hard-to-reach inner corner lashes that other mascaras often miss.

The Formula: What’s Inside?

Key Ingredients and Benefits

Bamboo Extract:

Provides nourishing properties
Helps condition lashes
Adds flexibility to the formula

Lengthening Fibers:

Extend the appearance of lash length
Create the illusion of longer, fuller lashes
Add dimension without clumping

Film-Forming Polymers:

Create a flexible coating on lashes
Provide long-lasting wear
Help maintain curl throughout the day

Formula Characteristics

The Sky High formula is unique in that it goes on quite wet initially—which can be alarming at first use—but quickly sets to a lightweight, flexible finish. Here’s what to expect:

On initial application:

Wet, almost liquid-like consistency
Slightly cool sensation on lashes
Takes 30-60 seconds to fully set

After setting:

Lightweight, natural feel
Flexible coating that moves with lashes
Not stiff, brittle, or crunchy
Maintains soft texture throughout the day

Performance: The Real Results

Length and Volume

Let’s get to what really matters: does it actually lengthen and volumize your lashes?

Length: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) This is where Sky High truly shines. The lengthening effect is genuinely impressive, especially considering the drugstore price point. The bamboo fibers in the formula extend lashes visibly, creating a dramatic, eye-opening effect.

One coat: Noticeable length increase
Two coats: “Wow, are those your real lashes?” effect
Three coats: Maximum drama without looking fake

Volume: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) The volume is good, but not quite as dramatic as the length. If you’re looking for ultra-thick, voluminous lashes, you might need to layer this with another mascara or apply multiple coats.

One coat: Slight volume increase, mainly separation
Two coats: Noticeable fullness and thickness
Three coats: Good volume, but still looks natural

Separation and Definition

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

This is another area where Sky High excels. The Flex Tower brush does an exceptional job of separating each individual lash, creating a fanned-out, defined look with virtually no clumping.

Even with multiple coats, the lashes remain separated and never look spidery or stuck together. This is a huge win for those who hate the dreaded “clumpy mascara” look.

Curl and Hold

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

The mascara provides decent curl, though it’s not the most dramatic curling mascara on the market. If you have naturally straight lashes, you’ll still want to use an eyelash curler before application.

Curl retention:

With curler: Holds curl for 6-8 hours before slight drooping
Without curler: Adds some lift but won’t create curl from scratch
On naturally curly lashes: Maintains and enhances natural curl beautifully

How to Apply Maybelline Sky High Mascara

Getting the best results from Sky High requires proper technique. Here’s our step-by-step guide:

The Perfect Application Method

Step 1: Wipe Off Excess Product This is CRUCIAL. The brush picks up a lot of product, so wipe the wand against the rim of the tube before applying. This prevents clumping and ensures smooth application.

Step 2: Curl Your Lashes (Optional but Recommended) For maximum lift and drama, use an eyelash curler before applying mascara. Hold for 5-10 seconds.

Step 3: Start at the Root Place the brush at the base of your lashes and wiggle slightly from side to side as you pull upward. This deposits product at the roots for maximum volume.

Step 4: Use a Zigzag Motion As you pull the brush through your lashes, move it in a gentle zigzag pattern. This helps separate lashes and prevents clumping.

Step 5: Work Quickly The formula sets relatively fast, so work with purpose. Complete one eye before moving to the next.

Step 6: Use the Tip for Lower Lashes The tapered tip is perfect for coating lower lashes without making a mess. Hold the brush vertically and gently sweep across lower lashes.

Step 7: Let It Dry Before Adding More Coats If you want to build up the formula, wait 30-60 seconds between coats to allow each layer to set.

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Applying too much product: Always wipe off excess ❌ Pumping the wand: This introduces air and dries out the formula ❌ Layering too many coats too quickly: Let each coat dry before adding more ❌ Not using the tip for lower lashes: The pointed end is designed for this! ❌ Applying before the formula dries: Give it a minute to set

All-Day Wear Test

Longevity and Staying Power

Wear Time: 8-10 hours

The Sky High Mascara offers solid all-day wear, though it’s not completely smudge-proof or transfer-proof.

Hour 1-4:

Looks exactly as applied
No flaking or smudging
Maintains length and volume perfectly
Lashes feel comfortable and lightweight

Hour 5-8:

Still looks great
Minimal to no smudging for most users
Some slight loss of curl (if you have straight lashes)
Still maintains length effect

Hour 9-12:

May show slight fading
Some users report minor under-eye smudging
Still present and noticeable
Not as crisp as morning application

Transfer and Smudge Resistance

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)

This is where Sky High loses some points. While it’s marketed as “smudge-resistant,” the washable formula does have a tendency to transfer slightly, especially:

On oily eyelids
In humid weather
If you rub your eyes
After 8+ hours of wear

For better smudge resistance: Try the waterproof version, which performs significantly better in this area.

Flaking Issues

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Generally, Sky High doesn’t flake throughout the day with one important caveat: if you layer too many coats or try to build on top of dried mascara later in the day, it can become flaky.

Best practice: Apply 1-2 coats in the morning and resist the urge to add more later.

Removal: Easy or Difficult?

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

One of the most underrated aspects of Sky High is how incredibly easy it is to remove. This is a game-changer if you’ve ever struggled with stubborn waterproof mascaras.

Removal Methods That Work

Warm Water Only: Yes, really! The washable formula dissolves with just warm water. Simply splash your face with warm water and gently massage your lashes—the mascara slides right off in tube-like pieces.

Micellar Water: One swipe with a cotton pad soaked in micellar water removes everything cleanly.

Cleanser: Any gentle face cleanser will remove it completely without aggressive rubbing.

What you DON’T need:

Oil-based makeup remover
Dedicated eye makeup remover
Vigorous rubbing or tugging

This easy removal is perfect for late nights, lazy mornings, or travel when you want to minimize your skincare routine.

Complete Shade Guide

While Maybelline initially launched Sky High in just one shade, they’ve since expanded to an impressive 10 colors:

Classic Shades

1. Very Black

True black, not blue-toned
Most universally flattering
Perfect for everyday wear
Best for all eye colors

2. Blackest Black

Even deeper, more intense black
Dramatic, inky finish
Best for bold makeup looks
Creates maximum contrast

3. Cosmic Black

Black with subtle shimmer
Adds dimension and sparkle
Perfect for evening looks
Creates a “wet lash” effect

4. Brownish Black

Soft black-brown hybrid
Natural, subtle look
Perfect for lighter hair colors
Great for daytime wear

Fashion Colors

5. Burgundy Haze

Deep wine-burgundy
Surprisingly wearable
Enhances green and hazel eyes
Trend-forward but subtle

6. Blue Mist

Bright, vibrant blue
Fun pop of color
Makes brown eyes pop
Perfect for summer

7. Green Altitude

Rich emerald green
Enhances blue and brown eyes
Unique statement look
More wearable than you’d think

8. Plum Twilight

Deep purple-plum
Softens the look
Beautiful on all eye colors
Less dramatic than black

9. Pink Air

Soft pink tone
Ultra-natural, barely-there look
Perfect for no-makeup makeup
Great for light lashes

10. Space Diamond

Clear base with holographic shimmer
Can be worn alone or over mascara
Creates glossy, dimensional lashes
Perfect for editorial looks

Which Shade Should You Choose?

For everyday wear: Very Black or Brownish Black For maximum drama: Blackest Black or Cosmic Black For blue eyes: Burgundy Haze or Brownish Black For green eyes: Burgundy Haze or Plum Twilight For brown eyes: Blue Mist or Green Altitude For natural look: Brownish Black or Pink Air For fun/fashion: Any of the color options!

Washable vs. Waterproof: Which Should You Choose?

Maybelline offers Sky High in both washable and waterproof formulas. Here’s how they compare:

Washable Version

Pros:

Easy to remove (just warm water!)
More comfortable for daily wear
Slightly more lengthening
Gentler on lashes
Won’t dry out lashes over time

Cons:

Can smudge slightly on oily lids
Not ideal for swimming or crying
May transfer in humid weather
Needs touch-ups after 8-10 hours

Best for: Daily wear, dry/normal skin, those who hate difficult removal

Waterproof Version

Pros:

Absolutely no smudging or transferring
Perfect for oily lids
Holds curl better
Great for swimming, weddings, emotional events
Lasts 12+ hours without fading

Cons:

Requires oil-based makeup remover
Can be drying to lashes over time
Slightly less lengthening effect
More difficult to remove
Can feel stiffer on lashes

Best for: Oily skin, humid climates, long events, swimming, those prone to watery eyes

Our Recommendation

For most people, the washable version is the better choice for everyday wear. Save the waterproof for special occasions, hot weather, or situations where you need bulletproof wear.

Pros and Cons

What We Love ✨

Incredible value at just $10-13 (often on sale for less)
Dramatic lengthening effect rivals high-end mascaras
Flex Tower brush is innovative and user-friendly
Excellent lash separation with virtually no clumping
Lightweight formula doesn’t feel heavy or stiff
Easy removal with just warm water (washable version)
10 shade options including fun fashion colors
Works for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
Ophthalmologist tested and allergy tested
Long-lasting tube lasts 3+ months with daily use
Beginner-friendly application with flexible brush
Natural-looking results that enhance rather than overwhelm
Available everywhere from drugstores to Amazon
Frequently on sale making it even more affordable

What Could Be Better 🤔

Volume is good but not exceptional compared to lengthening
Can smudge on oily lids (washable version)
Formula goes on very wet which can be alarming at first
Not buildable after it dries can get flaky with added coats
Slight transfer under eyes for some users
Curl doesn’t last all day on very straight lashes
Not waterproof (unless you buy that specific version)
Lower lash application can be tricky and may smudge
May not be dramatic enough for those wanting extreme volume
Not cruelty-free (Maybelline tests where required by law)
Sold out frequently due to high demand
Wand picks up too much product must wipe off excess

Maybelline Sky High Mascara vs. Other Mascaras

Sky High vs. L’Oréal Lash Paradise

Sky High Wins:

Better lash separation
Lighter, more natural feel
Less clumping
Easier to remove

Lash Paradise Wins:

More volume
Thicker, fuller look
Better for dramatic makeup

Sky High vs. Essence Lash Princess

Sky High Wins:

More lengthening
Better curl hold
Smoother application
More premium feel

Lash Princess Wins:

Even more affordable ($5 vs $10)
Comparable length
More cult-following in drugstore community

Sky High vs. Too Faced Better Than Sex

Sky High Wins:

1/3 of the price ($10 vs $31)
Easier to remove
Doesn’t dry out as quickly
More natural, wearable look

Better Than Sex Wins:

More dramatic volume
Luxury packaging
Slightly longer wear time

Sky High vs. Benefit They’re Real

Sky High Wins:

Much more affordable ($10 vs $28)
Better lash separation
More comfortable formula
Easier removal

They’re Real Wins:

Longer-lasting wear
More waterproof
Better curl hold

Verdict: Sky High offers 80-90% of the performance of luxury mascaras at 1/3 the price. For most people, it’s the smarter choice.

Is Maybelline Sky High Mascara Worth the Hype?

Our Final Verdict: YES, Absolutely!

After extensive testing, we can confidently say the Maybelline Sky High Mascara absolutely deserves its viral fame. It’s not perfect—no mascara is—but it delivers exceptional length, separation, and natural-looking volume at an unbeatable price point.

Worth buying if you:

Want dramatic length without looking fake
Value easy removal (no oil cleansers needed!)
Prefer natural, defined lashes over ultra-thick volume
Have a tight beauty budget
Want a mascara that works for everyday wear
Like experimenting with colored mascaras
Have sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses
Need a mascara for work/school/daily life
Want something that lasts 3+ months

Skip it if you:

Want extreme, dramatic volume (try L’Oréal Lash Paradise instead)
Need completely waterproof formula (get the waterproof version)
Have very oily lids (waterproof version is better)
Prefer luxe packaging and experience
Want false-lash effect
Need mascara to hold curl all day without a curler
Only buy cruelty-free products

Who Will Love This Mascara Most?

Perfect for:

Mascara beginners learning to apply
Those with straight or short lashes
People with sparse lashes wanting definition
Anyone seeking natural, “my lashes but better” look
Budget-conscious beauty lovers
Contact lens wearers
Those with sensitive eyes
People who hate removing stubborn mascara

May not suit:

Those wanting ultra-dramatic, full volume
People with very oily eyelids (try waterproof)
Anyone needing all-day curl on straight lashes
Those who want luxury packaging experience

Best Drugstore Dupes and Alternatives

If Sky High isn’t quite right for you, try these alternatives:

For More Volume

L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise ($11.99)

More volumizing than Sky High
Slightly heavier formula
Similar price point

Maybelline The Falsies Lash Lift ($9.99)

More volume and thickness
Different brush style
Same affordable price

For Waterproof Option

Maybelline Sky High Waterproof ($12.99)

Same formula, waterproof version
No smudging or transferring
Holds curl better

CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Waterproof ($9.99)

Budget-friendly waterproof
Good volume
Long-lasting wear

For Natural Look

Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect ($4.99)

Even more affordable
Natural, lengthening
Cult-favorite status

Maybelline Full ‘N Soft ($7.99)

Soft, natural finish
Very comfortable
Great for no-makeup makeup

For Maximum Drama

Too Faced Better Than Sex ($31)

Ultimate volume and length
Luxury formula
Dramatic results

L’Oréal Lash Paradise ($11.99)

Drugstore drama
Fuller, thicker lashes
More intense look

Tips to Make Sky High Work Better for You

Pro Application Techniques

For Maximum Length:

Apply to clean, dry lashes
Use an eyelash curler first
Wipe off excess product from brush
Apply in zigzag motion from root to tip
Let first coat dry before adding second

For More Volume:

Apply to slightly damp lashes (from setting spray)
Layer 2-3 coats, waiting 30 seconds between each
Wiggle brush at roots before pulling through
Use with volumizing mascara primer underneath

To Prevent Smudging:

Set under-eye concealer with powder
Use waterproof version on lower lashes only
Avoid applying mascara too close to lower lash line
Set with translucent powder on lash tips

For Longer-Lasting Curl:

Always use heated eyelash curler
Apply mascara immediately after curling
Use waterproof version for better hold
Set with clear mascara or lash primer

Storage and Maintenance Tips

Replace every 3 months: Mascara expires quickly
Don’t pump the wand: This introduces air and bacteria
Clean the rim: Wipe excess product from tube opening
Store upright: Prevents formula from drying out
Keep cap tight: Maintains formula freshness
Don’t share: Eye hygiene is crucial

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Maybelline Sky High Mascara make your lashes fall out?

No, the Sky High Mascara does not cause lash loss when used properly. However, aggressive removal or leaving mascara on overnight can damage lashes. Always remove gently with warm water or makeup remover, and never sleep in your mascara.

How long does a tube of Sky High Mascara last?

With daily use, one tube typically lasts 3-4 months. However, you should replace mascara every 3 months regardless of how much product remains, as bacteria can build up over time.

Can you use Sky High Mascara on lower lashes?

Yes! The tapered tip is actually designed for lower lash application. Hold the wand vertically and gently sweep across lower lashes. Be careful not to apply too much, as lower lash mascara is more prone to smudging.

Does Sky High Mascara work for short lashes?

Absolutely! Sky High is actually ideal for short lashes because the lengthening fibers extend the appearance of lash length. Many users with naturally short lashes report this as their favorite mascara.

Is Maybelline Sky High Mascara vegan?

No, Maybelline does not claim Sky High to be vegan. Additionally, Maybelline is not cruelty-free as it tests on animals where required by law (such as in China).

Can you layer Sky High with other mascaras?

Yes, but with caution. Sky High works best as a standalone product. If you want to layer, apply Sky High first for length, then a volumizing mascara on top. Avoid layering after Sky High has fully dried, as this can cause flaking.

How do you prevent Sky High from smudging under your eyes?

Use the waterproof version
Set under-eye area with translucent powder
Avoid applying mascara to lower lashes (or use waterproof formula only on lower lashes)
Use oil-free eye cream and concealer
Blot throughout the day rather than rubbing

Does Sky High hold a curl all day?

Sky High provides decent curl hold (6-8 hours) but not exceptional. For maximum curl retention:

Always use an eyelash curler before application
Consider the waterproof version for better hold
Try a heated eyelash curler for longer-lasting curl
Layer with a curl-holding mascara

What’s the difference between Very Black and Blackest Black?

Very Black: True black color without undertones, most popular shade Blackest Black: Even deeper, more intense black with richer pigmentation

Both are great—Blackest Black is slightly more dramatic for evening looks.

Can I wear Sky High Mascara with eyelash extensions?

Yes, but check with your lash technician first. Many recommend avoiding mascara on extensions altogether. If you do use it, apply only to the tips of extensions, never the base, and remove gently with oil-free remover.

Where to Buy and Current Pricing

Retailers and Prices

Amazon: $10-13 (frequently on sale) Ulta Beauty: $12.99 (check for sales and coupons) Target: $11.99-12.99 CVS: $12.99 (often has Buy One Get One deals) Walgreens: $12.99 Walmart: $9.98-11.99 (usually cheapest in-store)

Best Times to Buy

Amazon Prime Day (July): Often 20-30% off
Black Friday/Cyber Monday: Major discounts
Ulta 21 Days of Beauty: 50% off select mascaras
CVS weekly deals: Buy One Get One 50% off beauty
Target Circle offers: Extra savings with app

Money-Saving Tips

Use coupons: Check manufacturer websites for printable coupons
Join rewards programs: Ulta, CVS, Walgreens all offer points
Buy multiples during sales: Stock up when it’s 50% off
Check clearance: Sometimes discontinued shades go on clearance
Use cashback apps: Rakuten, Ibotta offer cashback on beauty purchases

Final Thoughts

The Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara is that rare beauty product that truly lives up to its viral hype. With 367 million TikTok views and countless rave reviews from beauty editors and everyday users alike, it has earned its place as a modern drugstore classic.

Is it the perfect mascara for everyone? No. If you’re seeking extreme volume or need bulletproof waterproof wear, there are better options. But for most people looking for a reliable, affordable mascara that delivers natural-looking length and definition, Sky High is an absolute winner.

The combination of innovative brush design, lengthening formula, easy removal, and unbeatable price makes this one of the best value purchases in all of beauty. It’s the kind of product that makes you wonder why anyone spends $30+ on high-end mascaras when a $10 drugstore option performs this well.

Our Rating: 4.6/5 ⭐

Bottom Line: A genuinely impressive lengthening mascara that punches way above its price point. The viral fame is well-deserved, and this deserves a permanent spot in your makeup routine.

Where to Buy Maybelline Sky High Mascara

Online:

Amazon – Often on sale
Ulta Beauty – Beauty rewards points
Target – Free shipping over $35

In-Store:

CVS, Walgreens, Target, Walmart, Ulta
Available at most drugstores nationwide

Current Price: $9.99-$12.99 (frequently on sale)

Have you tried Maybelline Sky High Mascara? What’s your favorite shade and formula? Share your experience in the comments below! Are you Team Very Black or trying one of the fun colored versions?

This review is based on extensive personal testing over several months. We may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links in this article, which helps support our content at no extra cost to you. All opinions are 100% honest and our own.