Stiftung Warentest examined 14 mascaras for its August issue. Among other things, the volume and length, the separation of the eyelashes and the durability were assessed. We present the test results and recommended mascaras.
overview
A good mascara creates the perfect look with long, voluminous lashes that don't stick together. There are countless variants from inexpensive to luxurious, all of which, according to the manufacturer, fulfill the desire for fuller, accentuated eyelashes. But which one can really keep what it promises? To answer this question, Stiftung Warentest took a closer look at popular mascaras in the 08/2021 "test" issue. These are the test results. Deals of the day - get hold of the Fire TV Stick and other Amazon devices at rock-bottom prices
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ADTest winner: Maybelline mascaraTest winner: Maybelline mascaraMascara in the test: This is how Stiftung Warentest tests it
For the August issue, Stiftung Warentest examined a total of 14 black mascaras. These included 11 non-waterproof and three waterproof products. Mascaras from conventional brands such as L'Oréal Paris and certified natural cosmetics brands such as Lavera were selected. A luxury variant from Chanel was also among the tested products.
The mascaras were extensively checked by several people and also had to withstand the tests in the laboratory. The most important criteria for the testers were the cosmetic properties, the application and the handiness of the product container. In addition, the mascaras were examined for critical substances. An expert and the subjects also assessed the advertising statements.
Mascara in the test: These products are recommended
Of the 14 volume mascaras tested, seven were convincing – including one that was particularly inexpensive. Banned substances were detected in four products. None of the waterproof mascaras achieved a good quality rating.
The two test winners with the best overall grade "good (2.3)" are the Maybelline The Colossal 100% Black Mascara with an average retail price of 6.30 euros and the Ultimate Volume Fake Lashes Mascara from Rossmann's own brand Rival de Loop with a average retail price of 3.50 euros.
With the test grade "good (2.4)", the most expensive mascara in the test also impressed: the Chanel Le Volume de Chanel mascara with an average retail price of 35 euros. Manhattan's Volcano Explosive Volume Mascara received the same quality rating.
We present the recommendations of Stiftung Warentest in detail:
The test winner: Maybelline The Colossal 100% Black Mascara
ADVERTISEMENTMaybelline The Colossal 100% Black Mascara6,837,998,29The test result: The Maybelline mascara was able to convince in the test of the Stiftung Warentest and received the overall grade "good (2.3)". The mascara received the best ratings for the criteria application (1.9) and critical substances (1.7).
Product details: According to the manufacturer, the mascara promises great eyelash volume with just one application. The so-called mega eyelash brush, which cushions and lengthens each individual eyelash, is supposed to ensure this. In addition, the intensive collage formula nourishes and strengthens the eyelashes. The product is also suitable for contact lens wearers and sensitive eyes.
The price-performance tip: Manhattan Volcano Explosive Volume Mascara
ADVERTISEMENTManhattan Volcano Mascara, 10ml5,495,696,997,88The test result: The Manhattan mascara was also rated "good" and received an overall rating of 2.4. Just like the test winner, this mascara received a "good (1.7)" in the test criterion critical substances. The declaration and advertising statements were also rated "good (2.0)". The test winner from Maybelline only received a "satisfactory" in these points.
Product details: According to the manufacturer, your eyelashes are dipped in intense color with the help of the mascara. In addition, the mascara promises a volume-enhancing effect. The product has been ophthalmologically tested and is also suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. For us, the mascara also scores with the very good price-performance ratio.
The luxury variant: Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Mascara
ADVERTISEMENTChanel Le Volume de Mascara, 6ml26,9528,30528,9540,78The test result: With the overall grade "good (2.4)", the luxury variant is only just behind the two test winners. The testers from Stiftung Warentest particularly noted the "good" cosmetic properties, the application and the user-friendliness of the packaging.
Product details: The deluxe mascara from Chanel has a simple yet elegant design. According to the manufacturer, the applicator developed exclusively for the luxury brand should provide more volume from the very first application. The eyelashes are also thickened without sticking together. The liquid texture also scores with the fact that it dries quickly. The product has been tested under ophthalmological control and is also suitable for contact lens wearers.
Featuring a featherweight formula: L'Oréal Paris Air Volume Mega Mascara
DISPLAY'Oréal Paris Air Volume Mega Mascara 9.4ml9,2912,99The test result: The mascara, rated "good (2.4)" by Stiftung Warentest, is convincing in the most important category, among other things: the cosmetic properties. She received a "good" in all sub-points (volume and length, curl, natural appearance, durability), except for the separation of the eyelashes. There was only one "satisfactory" for this sub-item.
Product details: The mascara by L'Oréal Paris provides intense volume without weighing it down. The special formula should be particularly compatible and therefore also suitable for sensitive eyes. The soft brush has short and long bristles. The short bristles grab the lashes from the lash line, while the longer bristles distribute the black color evenly.
Our conclusion
The test by Stiftung Warentest shows that not every mascara keeps what it promises. Nevertheless, it is gratifying to know that half of the suitable products are recommended. In addition, the two test winners are also relatively inexpensive with average retail prices of 6.30 euros and 3.50 euros. On the other hand, it is disappointing that none of the waterproof mascaras tested received a quality rating better than "satisfactory".
The recommendations presented are all good mascaras that, when used correctly, achieve voluminous eyelashes. They also score points because they are also suitable for sensitive eyes. Our price-performance tip is the Manhattan Volcano Explosive Volume Mascara , which is available in some shops for less than six euros. However, for those who like it a little more luxurious or like to give make-up as gifts, the mascara by Chanel is a good choice.
ADTest winner: Maybelline mascaraTest winner: Maybelline mascaraImportant questions about mascara
How to properly apply mascara
It depends on the right movement: First of all, it is important that the mascara is not only applied to the tips of the eyelashes, but also to the base of the eyelashes. The applicator is placed as close as possible to the lash line before being pulled towards the tips in gentle zigzag movements. It becomes easier if the eyelid is lifted slightly with the index finger. In any case, care should be taken to ensure that the eyelashes are evenly covered with color from the base to the tips. It is also recommended to apply more than one coat. Before applying the second layer, however, you should first let the first one dry.
Which mascara brush do I use for thicker lashes?
An applicator with dense, very closely spaced bristles is ideal for those who want thicker lashes. These special bristles allow the applicator to pick up much more of the color and then apply them evenly to lashes. The eyelashes automatically appear fuller due to the many color pigments. Nevertheless, care should be taken that not too much color is applied, otherwise the eyelashes will quickly stick together and the so-called fly-legs effect will occur.
Which mascara brush do I use for longer eyelashes?
If you wear mascara, you not only want more volume, but also more length. For particularly long-looking eyelashes, an applicator that is shaped like a peanut is recommended. When applying the color with the short bristles, it is practically impossible for the eyelashes to stick together. Thanks to its special shape, the applicator also reaches the shortest lashes. A peanut applicator mascara is also a good choice for those who want more definition.
