Review | Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara vs Volume Mascara

One of the most popular mascaras from Essence is the Lash Princess. Of course the packaging plays a big role in the popularity of this mascara but the performance also plays a part. I have heard people saying that they didn't like the mascara at first but then grew to love it, thus I have to admit that I was a bit skeptical at first.

However, during an Essence event that I attended earlier this year, we were given the latest version of the Lash Princess Mascara, the False Lash Effect one and I thought it was the perfect opportunity to go out and buy the Volume version so I can do a comparison between the two.

Starting with the packaging, it is exactly the same for both mascaras, except that the volumising one has coral writing while the false lash effect one has mint writing. The corset and hearts detailing on both caps are made out of rubber, which makes for a better grip. These are hands down the prettiest looking mascaras in my collection and in fact I keep them on my dresser just because they are so pretty!

The wands are what make these mascaras different. The Volume Mascara has a pretty voluptuous wand with a slight curve and a thicker end to hug the lashes and give a more natural look, while the False Lash Effect Mascara has a leaner, tapered wand that reaches all lashes for a fanned-out, spider-lashes effect that feels just like you're wearing falsies.

Essence Lash Princess Volume Mascara wand

Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara wand

Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara (right) and Essence Lash Princess Volume Mascara (left)

As for wear time, I haven't really noticed any difference and I haven't had any irritations whatsoever. Neither mascara is a pain to remove and just some makeup remover does the trick in no time.

Overall, I think these are very good budget mascaras and compare well to higher priced versions but I still love Max Factor ones and I will definitely stay faithful to them. If I had to choose one I would go for the volume one because I feel the formula of the false lash effect version kind of makes my lashes feel heavy. 

I believe both mascaras retail for €3.29 each for 12ml of product and I don't think you can really beat that!

Essence products can be found at various pharmacies and authorized outlets across Malta & Gozo. Like their Facebook page to stay in the know!

Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara was given to me for free at a PR event while I bought the Essence Lash Princess Volume Mascara with my own money.

Review | Max Factor False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara in Black

Mascara is a staple product in my stash and I never ever leave the house without it. I tend to switch to waterproof versions in summer and on rainy days in winter so a good waterproof mascara is a must for me. 

When I was looking for a replacement for my old mascara in the beginning of summer, the choice of brand was obvious...Max Factor! I have never been disappointed with a Max Factor mascara and I have rekindled my love for their False Lash Effect mascara.

The False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara cannot go unnoticed with its chunky black packaging and metallic blue band at the top, indicating it is the waterproof version. The silicon wand is also on the chunky side but with its short bristles, it is guaranteed to reach even the shortest of lashes for an effortlessly fanned-out false lash effect. The pigmentation is excellent too! This is one of the blackest mascaras I have ever tried and once it's dry, it doesn't clump the lashes.

Left ~ wearing Max Factor False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara
Right ~  bare lashes

Now for the waterproof part...if there is a mascara that claims to be waterproof under any circumstance and it stays on, it is definitely this one! The only way I can get it off is with waterproof makeup remover and I like to rest a soaked cotton disc for a few seconds on my eyes first then gently wipe the mascara away. 

I have never had issues with lashes falling off while taking off this mascara or throughout the time of wear. Moreover, I have never experienced irritation to my eyes even when wearing contact lenses.

Max Factor False Lash Effect Waterproof Mascara retails for €13.65 and can be found at various stockists around the island. For more information, check out Max Factor Malta on Facebook.