Tried & Tested
Illawarra Mercury
Wednesday October 13, 2004
Welcome to taste's cosmetic counter, where real people try beauty products before you buy them. This week, waterproof mascaras are put to the test.
Rimmel Extreme Definition Waterproof Mascara ($14.95). Available from Priceline, Kmart, Target, Myer and selected pharmacies. They say: A water-based mascara that's completely waterproof. Ensures all-day smear, smudge and flake-proof coverage. All this, plus the lash-separating powers of the original extreme definition comb. Gentle enough to be worn every day. Tester says: This stays on well, but was a bit drying for my eyes. The mascara itself darkens lashes and is certainly resistant to dampness. The comb is great for application. Loreal Paris Lash Architect Waterproof ($21.95). For stockists phone 1300 659 259. They say: Designed to thicken and curl eyelashes to the maximum without sticking them together or depositing excess mascara. The ergonomic shape of the brush makes it easy to apply the mascara evenly from roots to tips. The result is eyelashes that are perfectly smoothed out, separated, curled and visibly thicker. Tester says: This mascara gives a lovely result. It has a good texture and is not gluggy in anyway. One application lasts all day or evening and lashes appear thicker and evenly coated while remaining soft. Clarins Fix Mascara Waterproofing Seal ($32). Available from department stores and selected pharmacies. They say: Instantly waterproofs and smudge-proofs your favourite mascara for great-looking lashes. May be worn on its own or under your favourite mascara for supple, glossy lashes. Ultra-fine waxes and hectorite clay crystals coat the lashes forming a true waterproof film. Tester says: A perfect compromise for those who don't like heavy mascaras. Instead of the usual gluggy waterproof mascaras, you can just seal your regular mascara when required. Can also be used alone to condition lashes. Maybelline Sky High Curves Extreme Length & Curl Waterproof Mascara ($16.95). Available from selected pharmacies, department stores and discount department stores. They say: Lashes are stretched to extreme lengths with an elastic polymer, appearing to extend far beyond their natural tip by up to 30 per cent. A second protective polymer is added for water, smudge and streak resistance. Tester says: The applicator brush gave a nice curl to the lashes as well as lengthening them. But this mascara is difficult to remove without a high-quality eye make-up remover. Yves Saint Laurent Waterproof Mascara ($48). Available from department stores. They say: Water-resistant silicon resin leaves a highly smooth, cohesive sheath over the lashes, which lets water glide without diluting the formula. Coats lashes from root to tip to make them longer, fuller and perfectly separated. Tester says: While waterproof mascaras can so often feel thick, heavy and clumpy, this one is exactly the opposite, with a finer texture than most standard mascaras. It withstands the most extreme waterproofing tests without even flaking. Maybelline Lash Discovery Mini-Brush Waterproof ($15.50). Available from selected pharmacies, department stores and discount department stores.They say: The unique formula/brush combination lengthens and defines every single lash, even the seemingly invisible ones, with root-to-tip coverage. The result is a magnificent multitude of lashes that never get left behind. Tester says: The tiny brush lives up to its promise, lengthening, separating and defining lashes beautifully. However the mascara doesn't go the distance, tending to flake and making owl-eyes a distinct possibility.
© 2004 Illawarra Mercury
