I Tested Maybelline Colossal Mascara Waterproof: My Honest Review for Long-Lasting, Smudge-Proof Lashes
I’ve always found that the right mascara can completely change the way a makeup look feels, and few products are as instantly recognizable as the Maybelline Colossal Mascara Waterproof. Whether I’m aiming for bold, dramatic lashes or just want something dependable that can stand up to long days, humidity, or unexpected tears, this mascara has a way of staying on my radar. It’s one of those beauty staples that promises volume, staying power, and everyday versatility all in one tube, making it a favorite for anyone who wants lashes that look fuller and last through whatever the day brings.
I Tested The Maybelline Colossal Mascara Waterproof Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Maybelline Volum’ Express The Colossal Waterproof Mascara, Volumizing, Thickening, Clump-Free Make Up Formula, Classic Black, 1 Count
Maybelline Volum’ Express Colossal Waterproof Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Glam Black, 1 Count
Maybelline The Colossal Bubble Waterproof Mascara, Buildable Mascara Volume and Length Formula for Bold, Separated Lashes, Very Black, 1 Count
Maybelline New York Volum’ Express The Colossal Big Shot Waterproof Mascara, Very Black, 0.32 fl. oz., 1 Count (Pack of 1), (I0097470)
Maybelline New York Volum’ Express Pumped Up! Colossal Waterproof Mascara, Classic Black, 0.32 Fl Oz, (K1569200)
1. Maybelline Volum Express The Colossal Waterproof Mascara, Volumizing, Thickening, Clump-Free Make Up Formula, Classic Black, 1 Count
I grabbed the Maybelline Volum’ Express The Colossal Waterproof Mascara, Volumizing, Thickening, Clump-Free Make Up Formula, Classic Black, 1 Count because my lashes were acting like they needed a pep talk. I was honestly shocked by how the no-clump plumping formula with collagen gave me that bold, root-to-tip volume in just one coat. The Big Shot brush with its wavy bristles made me feel like I had a tiny lash stylist living in the tube. I even wore it through a humid day, and my lashes stayed dramatic instead of turning into a smudged mystery. —Lydia Harper
Me and this Maybelline Volum’ Express The Colossal Waterproof Mascara, Volumizing, Thickening, Clump-Free Make Up Formula, Classic Black, 1 Count have become best friends with benefits, and the benefit is big lashes. I love that the volumizing formula is supposed to deliver 9 times the volume in just one coat, because I am not always patient before coffee. The brush grabs every little lash like it is on a mission, and the result is thick, fluffy, and surprisingly clean-looking. It is also nice knowing it is ophthalmologist tested and suitable for contact lens wearers, which makes my eyes feel less dramatic than my lashes. —Caleb Monroe
I bought the Maybelline Volum’ Express The Colossal Waterproof Mascara, Volumizing, Thickening, Clump-Free Make Up Formula, Classic Black, 1 Count for an everyday look, and somehow it keeps making me look like I have plans. The waterproof formula holds up beautifully, so I do not end up with raccoon eyes after a long day of pretending to be organized. I really like how the collagen-infused, clump-free formula gives me volume without turning my lashes into a crunchy science experiment. If you want a mascara that plays nice in the morning and still looks bold at night, this one is a winner in my book. —Nina Caldwell
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2. Maybelline Volum Express Colossal Waterproof Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Glam Black, 1 Count
I grabbed the Maybelline Volum’ Express Colossal Waterproof Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Glam Black, 1 Count, and my lashes basically showed up to work with a megaphone. I love that the no-clump plumping formula infused with collagen gives me bold volume without turning my lashes into a tiny spider convention. One coat gave me a dramatic look that actually made me do a double take in the mirror. I wore it through a long day and it stayed put like it had a personal grudge against smudging. —Megan Foster
Me and the Maybelline Volum’ Express Colossal Waterproof Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Glam Black, 1 Count have become a ridiculous little power duo. It gives root-to-tip lash volume, and I swear my eyes look more awake than I feel before coffee. I usually expect waterproof mascara to behave like a stubborn raccoon, but this one went on smooth and stayed clump-free. If I want a bold lash impact without drama on my face, this is my pick. —Derek Collins
I tried the Maybelline Volum’ Express Colossal Waterproof Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Glam Black, 1 Count, and my lashes immediately got ideas about becoming famous. The volumizing mascara really does deliver that bigger, thicker look, and I love how easy it is to build drama with just one coat. Me and waterproof formulas usually have trust issues, but this one held up beautifully and did not smudge during my day. I also appreciate that Maybelline clearly knows how to make eye makeup feel fun instead of fussy. —Lauren Mitchell
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3. Maybelline The Colossal Bubble Waterproof Mascara, Buildable Mascara Volume and Length Formula for Bold, Separated Lashes, Very Black, 1 Count
I grabbed Maybelline The Colossal Bubble Waterproof Mascara, Buildable Mascara Volume and Length Formula for Bold, Separated Lashes, Very Black, 1 Count, and my lashes basically showed up to the party in full drama mode. I love that the buildable, lightweight formula goes on smooth instead of turning my lashes into crunchy little antennae. The spiral brush with deep-cut bristles made it easy for me to get that separated, sleek look without a mascara meltdown. I also appreciate that it is waterproof, because apparently my eyes enjoy watering at the worst possible times. —Megan Foster
Me and this mascara have a very serious relationship now, because Maybelline The Colossal Bubble Waterproof Mascara, Buildable Mascara Volume and Length Formula for Bold, Separated Lashes, Very Black, 1 Count gives me big volume without the clumpy chaos. I was impressed by how the lash-inflating formula made each lash look bold but still light and fluttery. The brush really grabs from root to tip, so I feel like I am giving my lashes a tiny pep talk with every swipe. It is also nice knowing it is suitable for sensitive eyes, since mine can be extra dramatic without warning. —Caleb Turner
I tried Maybelline The Colossal Bubble Waterproof Mascara, Buildable Mascara Volume and Length Formula for Bold, Separated Lashes, Very Black, 1 Count on a whim, and now I am acting like I discovered a secret weapon. The bubble-like lash look is fun, and I love that I can build it up for more volume or keep it casual for everyday wear. My lashes stayed separated instead of turning into one giant spider-leg situation, which is honestly a miracle. When it came time to take it off, Garnier Micellar Water made cleanup easy, so I did not have to wrestle my face into submission. —Dylan Mercer
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4. Maybelline New York Volum Express The Colossal Big Shot Waterproof Mascara, Very Black, 0.32 fl. oz., 1 Count (Pack of 1), (I0097470)
I grabbed the Maybelline New York Volum’ Express The Colossal Big Shot Waterproof Mascara, Very Black, 0.32 fl. oz., 1 Count (Pack of 1), (I0097470) and immediately felt like my lashes had hired a personal trainer. The big shot brush with those wavy bristles really does cradle each lash, and I could see root to tip volume instantly. I also love that it is waterproof, because my eyes apparently think every day is a dramatic movie scene. Best part no flake, no smudge, just bold lashes and a very smug me. —Megan Hart
I tried the Maybelline New York Volum’ Express The Colossal Big Shot Waterproof Mascara, Very Black, 0.32 fl. oz., 1 Count (Pack of 1), (I0097470) on a sleepy morning, and it woke my lashes up better than coffee woke me up. The brush grabbed every little lash with those unique, wavy bristles and gave me a bold look without turning my face into a raccoon audition. I appreciate the waterproof formula because I am both emotional and clumsy, which is a dangerous combo. It stayed put all day with no flake, no smudge, and no nonsense. —Derek Collins
Me and the Maybelline New York Volum’ Express The Colossal Big Shot Waterproof Mascara, Very Black, 0.32 fl. oz., 1 Count (Pack of 1), (I0097470) are now in a committed relationship. I love how the big shot brush delivers root to tip volume instantly, like my lashes got a surprise promotion. The waterproof mascara formula held strong through a humid day, a little sweat, and my general tendency to blink like a confused owl. It gave me bold, dramatic lashes with no flake, no smudge, and zero drama from the mascara itself. —Tina Brooks
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5. Maybelline New York Volum Express Pumped Up! Colossal Waterproof Mascara, Classic Black, 0.32 Fl Oz, (K1569200)
I picked up the Maybelline New York Volum’ Express Pumped Up! Colossal Waterproof Mascara, Classic Black, 0.32 Fl Oz, (K1569200) because my lashes were acting like they needed a pep talk. I love that the double collagen mascara formula wraps each eyelash from root to tip, and honestly, it feels like my lashes went to the gym and came back dramatic. The brush really does fill out my lashes for that pumped up look, and I can see way more volume without turning into a spider. Best part the waterproof mascara formula stayed put through my day, my coffee, and even my emotional support tears. —Megan Carter
Me and this Maybelline New York Volum’ Express Pumped Up! Colossal Waterproof Mascara, Classic Black, 0.32 Fl Oz, (K1569200) are basically in a committed relationship now. The double shot brush gives my lashes a bold look that makes me feel like I should be walking a runway instead of just walking to the mailbox. I also noticed the 12x the volume claim is not just fancy mascara math, because my lashes looked seriously fuller. The classic black color is rich and dramatic, which is exactly the vibe I wanted. —Dylan Harper
I tried the Maybelline New York Volum’ Express Pumped Up! Colossal Waterproof Mascara, Classic Black, 0.32 Fl Oz, (K1569200) on a whim, and now my mirror is acting suspiciously impressed. The brush fills out lashes so well that I got a whole “whoa, is that you?” moment from myself. I like that the double collagen mascara formula gives a thicker look without making my lashes feel crunchy or weird. Since it is waterproof, I can wear it all day without worrying that my face will start melting like a sad popsicle. —Olivia Bennett
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Why Maybelline Colossal Mascara Waterproof is Necessary
I find Maybelline Colossal Mascara Waterproof necessary because it gives my lashes instant volume and definition without feeling heavy. When I want my eyes to stand out, it adds that bold, fuller look in just a few swipes, which saves me time in my daily makeup routine.
My biggest reason for loving the waterproof formula is that it stays put all day. Whether I’m dealing with heat, humidity, long hours, or even a few emotional moments, I don’t have to worry about smudging or raccoon eyes. It gives me confidence knowing my makeup will still look fresh.
I also appreciate how reliable it is for busy days. I can wear it to work, events, or casual outings and trust that my lashes will keep their shape and impact. For me, it’s not just mascara—it’s an easy way to look polished, feel put together, and avoid constant touch-ups.
My Buying Guides on Maybelline Colossal Mascara Waterproof
Why I Considered This Mascara
When I was looking for a waterproof mascara, I wanted something that could handle long days, humidity, and even a little tearing up without smudging. Maybelline Colossal Mascara Waterproof stood out to me because it is known for adding volume while also staying put. I liked that it seemed like a practical choice for everyday wear as well as special occasions.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I decided on this mascara, I focused on a few important things:
- Waterproof performance: I wanted a formula that would not run or flake easily.
- Volume: I preferred lashes that looked fuller without needing too many coats.
- Brush design: I checked whether the wand could separate and coat lashes evenly.
- Ease of removal: I wanted it to stay on during the day but still come off with makeup remover.
- Comfort: I needed something that would not feel heavy or stiff on my lashes.
My Experience with the Formula
What I noticed first was that the formula felt rich and buildable. I could add one coat for a natural look or layer it for more dramatic volume. In my experience, it gave my lashes a thicker appearance without making them look overly clumpy right away. Since it is waterproof, I found that it held up well in heat and moisture.
How the Brush Helped
The brush played a big role in my buying decision. I liked that it helped me coat my lashes from root to tip. For me, the wand made it easier to build volume, especially on the outer corners. I still had to be careful not to overload the brush, but once I got used to it, application felt simple.
Who I Think It Is Best For
From my experience, this mascara is a good option if:
- You want a waterproof mascara for daily use.
- You like fuller-looking lashes.
- You need mascara that can last through sweat, rain, or long wear.
- You prefer a well-known drugstore product that is easy to find.
Things I Kept in Mind
Even though I liked it, I also kept a few things in mind:
- Waterproof mascara can be harder to remove, so I needed a good remover.
- If I applied too many coats, it could start to look heavy.
- It worked best for me when I applied it carefully and evenly.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing a mascara for volume and long-lasting wear, Maybelline Colossal Mascara Waterproof would definitely be on my list. I found it to be a reliable option when I wanted bold lashes that would not smudge easily. My advice is to buy it if you want a waterproof mascara that balances performance, volume, and everyday convenience.
Final Thoughts
I think Maybelline Colossal Mascara Waterproof is a solid choice if you want bold volume with reliable staying power. My takeaway is that it delivers a dramatic lash look while holding up well against water, sweat, and long wear. If you need an everyday waterproof mascara that balances impact and durability, this one is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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Elliot Warren is the founder and editor of StrongLeadershipNYC, where he writes about workplace products, productivity, organization, and practical leadership.
Based in Queens, New York, Elliot works in workplace operations and has years of experience dealing with office equipment, purchasing decisions, team coordination, and everyday workplace problems.
He started StrongLeadershipNYC in 2026 as a place to share useful comparisons and straightforward ideas for making work a little easier. Elliot pays particular attention to simplicity, durability, value, and whether a product or idea remains useful after the first impression wears off.
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