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Best Mascaras for Volume vs. Length

Date: 22 Oct 2025

When it comes to mascara, everyone has that one goal—to get those lashes of their dreams. Some girls like bold, dramatic volume, while others love a more separated and longer lash. But the real challenge is, how do you know what kind of mascara will actually give you what you want?

 

What Makes a Mascara Volumizing vs. Lengthening?

Before you pick your next favorite mascara, it helps to understand how each type works:

Volumizing Mascara

Volumizing mascaras are all about fullness and drama. They typically contain thicker formulas and dense wands designed to coat every lash evenly, adding extra depth and boldness. Ingredients like beeswax, collagen, and silicone polymers help build thickness without flaking.

If you love the look of lush, bold lashes that stand out even from across the room, a volumizing mascara is your go-to. Perfect for evening looks or when you want that “false lash” effect — without actually wearing falsies.

Lengthening Mascara

On the other hand, lengthening mascaras are your secret weapon for long, defined lashes. These formulas usually contain nylon or rayon fibers that cling to the lash tips, extending their visible length.

The brushes are often slimmer and more precise, helping separate lashes for a clean, fanned-out look. If your lashes are naturally short or you prefer a more elegant, lifted effect, this is your match made in mascara heaven.

 

Top 5 Mascaras for Volume

If you crave bold, statement lashes that stand out even without falsies, here are five volumizing mascaras that deliver — and you can find them all (or their close matches) on Pharmily Limited Kenya.

1. L.A Girl Double D Mascara, Dramatic Black - This mascara became a viral hit for good reason. Its flexible wand coats every lash — even those tiny corner ones — for instant, buildable volume. Perfect for all-day wear without clumping.
Shop Maybelline Mascaras at Pharmily

2. Revlon Ultimate All-in-One Mascara - This all-in-one mascara combines lengthening, volumizing, and defining effects to give you dramatic, eye-catching lashes with just one swipe.

3. Benefit BADgal BANG! Volumizing Mascara - This ultra-light formula gives a long-lasting volume that won’t flake. It’s ideal for long days when you need big, bold lashes that stay fresh.

4. L.A. Girl Flashy Mascara, Jet Black - Jet Black is an all-in-one formula that helps lift, volumize, & lengthen lashes. Its dual-sided brush adds volume & length for big, bold & beautiful looking lashes. 

 

Top 5 Mascaras for Length

If you prefer sleek, long, and defined lashes, these lengthening mascaras are perfect for that elegant, fanned-out look — great for everyday wear or a subtle glam finish.

1. L’Oréal Telescopic Lift Mascara - This precision brush delivers super-lengthened lashes that stay separated and clean. Lightweight and buildable, it’s perfect for achieving a fluttery finish.

2. Maybelline Great Lash Mascara - This is designed to deliver length and volume for fuller, thicker lashes. This smudge-proof and long-lasting formula ensures your lashes stay flawless throughout the day.

3. Lancôme Définicils High Definition Mascara - For a more luxurious option, this cult classic gives precision length and separation. No flakes, no clumps — just pure definition.

4. MAC Extended Play Gigablack Lash Mascara - This mascara holds curl all day and is smudge-resistant, making it ideal for humid days or long events.

 

Customer Reviews: Which Works Best?

When it comes to mascara, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer — but beauty lovers across Pharmily.co.ke, Sephora, and Ulta agree on a few things:

For Volume:

“L.A. Girl Volumatic is such a steal — it makes my lashes look twice as thick!”
“Maybelline Sky High gives me that lifted, full look without feeling heavy.”

For Length:

“L’Oréal Telescopic makes my lashes look like extensions!”
“Maybelline Lash Sensational is perfect for an everyday, fanned-out lash look.”

Most users say layering gives the best of both worlds — a lengthening mascara first to separate, followed by a volumizing one to add fullness and lift.

 

FAQs

Can I use both volumizing and lengthening mascaras together?

Yes! Apply a lengthening mascara first, let it dry slightly, then layer a volumizing one on top for maximum lift and definition.

What’s the best mascara for short lashes?

Try Maybelline Lash Sensational or L’Oréal Telescopic Lift — both are designed to stretch and lift even the shortest lashes.

How can I prevent mascara from clumping?

Wipe off excess product from the wand before applying, use short strokes, and comb through your lashes with a clean spoolie for a natural finish.

Is waterproof mascara safe for daily use?

It’s fine occasionally but can be drying if used every day. Opt for regular mascara for daily wear and save waterproof formulas for humid days or special occasions.