Whether you’re attending a wedding, emotional event, or long day outdoors, you may want a mascara that stays put through tears, humidity, and sweat. Maybelline The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara is a popular drugstore option designed for bold volume and long-lasting wear. The washable version will suit you if you don’t like waterproof mascaras. A setting spray may help reduce smudging when using the washable version, although results vary depending on skin type and environment. Hence, it comes in both versions: washable and waterproof.
The washable version removes easily with warm water and a gentle cleanser, while the waterproof version requires an oil-based remover. The formula is generally considered suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, though ingredient sensitivities vary by individual. It is designed to deliver noticeable volume from the first coat, with additional layers building more intensity. Maybelline claims that The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara delivers up to 9× more volume. It will make lashes look thicker and more voluminous.
Quick and Expert Verdict
Maybelline The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara is one of the best budget-friendly volumizing mascaras for users who want bold, fuller-looking lashes without a luxury price tag. Its Mega Brush design delivers instant thickness, while washable and waterproof versions allow flexibility for everyday wear or long events.
It especially stands out for:
- Instant volume payoff
- Comfortable all-day wear
- Strong performance relative to cost
Maybelline The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara — Performance Scorecard
To help readers quickly understand how this mascara performs in real-world use, here is a detailed performance breakdown based on formula design, brush engineering, brand claims, and verified user feedback.
| Performance Category | Rating | Expert Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Volume Effect | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | The collagen-infused formula and Mega Brush create instantly thicker-looking lashes, making this one of the strongest drugstore volumizing mascaras. |
| Lengthening Effect | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | Adds visible length, though volume remains the primary focus. Best for users wanting fuller rather than ultra-long lashes. |
| Curl Holding Ability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | Holds curl well when lashes are curled beforehand. Performs better on naturally straight lashes than many budget mascaras. |
| Separation & Definition | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | Dense bristles help coat lashes evenly, though applying too many coats may cause minor clumping. |
| Smudge Resistance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | The washable version resists light smudging, while the waterproof version performs better in humidity, tears, and long wear days. |
| Flake Resistance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | Minimal flaking during normal daily wear when applied in thin layers. |
| Comfort & Weight | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Lightweight formula keeps lashes flexible without stiffness or heavy feeling. |
| Ease of Removal | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Washable) / ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Waterproof) | Washable version removes easily with cleanser; waterproof version requires oil-based makeup remover. |
| Beginner Friendliness | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Large brush and smooth formula make it easy for beginners to achieve bold volume quickly. |
| Value for Money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Delivers dramatic lash impact at a highly affordable drugstore price point. |
✅ Who Should Buy Maybelline The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara?
Choosing the right mascara depends on your lash type, makeup goals, and daily routine. Maybelline The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara is designed primarily for users who want bold volume with affordable performance.
⭐ Best For
✔ Thin or Sparse Lashes
The collagen-infused volumizing formula helps lashes appear thicker and fuller, making it ideal for lashes that look flat or less dense.
✔ Budget-Friendly Makeup Lovers
If you want dramatic lash impact without spending luxury-brand prices, this mascara delivers strong performance at a drugstore cost.
✔ Everyday Bold Makeup Looks
Perfect for daily wear, office makeup, college routines, or quick glam looks when you want noticeable lashes without false eyelashes.
✔ Beginners Learning Mascara Application
The large Mega Brush coats lashes quickly, helping beginners achieve volume without complicated techniques.
✔ Sensitive Eyes & Contact Lens Wearers
The ophthalmologist-tested formula is generally comfortable for many users with sensitive eyes (individual sensitivity may vary).
✔ People Choosing Between Washable & Waterproof Options
You can select the washable version for easy removal or the waterproof version for weddings, humidity, workouts, or emotional events.
⚠️ May Not Be Ideal For
✖ Natural “No-Mascara” Makeup Lovers
This mascara focuses on bold volume rather than a soft, barely-there finish.
✖ Very Small Eye Shapes
The oversized brush may feel slightly bulky for precise lower-lash application or tight inner corners.
✖ Fans of Tubing Mascaras
If you prefer tubing formulas that remove in tubes instead of dissolving, this traditional wax formula may feel different.
Is the Yellow Maybelline Mascara good?
Maybelline, the colossal volum’ express mascara, is also known as the yellow Maybelline mascara in the market. When it comes to its benefits, it is infused with iconic mega brush to separate and coat each lash. The grip of the wand is very comfortable and easily adjustable on your fingers. It is ophthalmologist-tested and suitable for contact lens wearers. The mascara receives consistently high ratings across major retailers. The Colossal mascara comes in yellow container packaging; this is why it is also known as the yellow Maybelline mascara.
Two variants: Washable and waterproof
Moreover, it has two variants: washable mascara and waterproof mascara. Both variants use similar brush design and volumizing technology, but differ in wear performance and removal. But you have to choose the waterproof version of colossal mascara for long-lasting effects. Maybelline offers a wide range of mascaras designed for different lash needs, from natural definition to dramatic volume. If someone wants a bold look, then Maybelline has the solution. On the other hand, if someone wants mascara for thin lashes, Maybelline has them all, and they cover you.
One verified reviewer noted that the mascara helped add noticeable fullness to sparse lashes while remaining comfortable for sensitive eyes.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we’ve personally researched, tested, and truly believe will add value. Learn more.
Maybelline The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara: Price and Availability

Price: Check current price on Amazon.
The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara Features
The mascara aims to create a fuller, false-lash-inspired volume effect. Moreover, it defines the lower lashes without smudging or clumping. It comes in three bold colors: classic black, Platinum black, and glam black. Glam black is also known as the midnight black color. I suggest you use an eyelash curler before applying colossal mascara. First, curl your lashes with an eyelash curler, and swipe the mega brush from root to tip to create an instant volume. The collagen-infused formula is designed to deliver up to 9× more volume.
The slightly drier texture may help reduce smudging for some users, especially those with oily eyelids. If you want to build more volume, apply additional coats while the first layer is still slightly wet. The formula of Maybelline New York Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara is very lightweight and doesn’t make the lashes stiff or weigh them down.

Wand and Mascara Brush
The wand and brush are the most important parts of mascara because they do all the building jobs. The iconic mega brush separates and combs the lashes for a clump-free appearance. Your lashes will look thicker and more voluminous with its plumping formula. The mega brush has small bristles at the ends, which are featured to separate the thin lashes at the inner and outer corners of the eyes. Dense bristles help coat smaller lashes and distribute product evenly for fuller coverage.
The bold lash effect is the signature result of Maybelline Colossal Mascara. The glam black color is darker than classic black, provides a bold celebrity appearance. While the packaging has evolved over time, the core volumizing formula remains similar. The thick handle provides a secure grip that many users find easy to control during application.

Read it at Maybelline.
Maybelline The Colossal Volum Express Mascara: Positive Reviews
Across verified retailer reviews, users consistently praise the mascara for bold volume, affordability, and comfortable wear throughout the day.


Amazon’s verified customer reported that the price is 1/5 in comparison to a luxury mascara. Moreover, she said that she tried all the expensive mascaras, but the Maybelline Colossal is provides great experience.
Maybelline The Colossal Volum Express Mascara: Negative Reviews
While overall feedback is highly positive, some users report clumping with heavy layering and note that the large brush may feel bulky for smaller eye shapes.
Maybelline Colossal vs Lash Sensational vs Sky High — Which One Is Better?
Maybelline offers several bestselling mascaras, and many buyers wonder how The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara compares to other viral favorites like Lash Sensational and Sky High Mascara. Each formula targets a different lash goal.
Here’s a quick expert comparison to help you choose the right one.
| Feature | Colossal Volum’ Express | Lash Sensational | Sky High Mascara |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Goal | Bold Volume | Separation & Fan Effect | Extreme Length |
| Brush Type | Large Mega Brush | Curved Fanning Brush | Flexible Tower Brush |
| Best For | Thin & Sparse Lashes | Defined Everyday Lashes | Long Fluttery Lashes |
| Volume Effect | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Length Effect | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Separation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Curl Hold | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Beginner Friendly | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Makeup Style | Bold Dramatic | Soft Defined | Trendy Lengthened |
| Removal Ease | Easy (Washable) | Easy | Very Easy |
🟡 Maybelline The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara
Best for Bold Volume Lovers
If your lashes look thin or lack density, Colossal Mascara focuses on creating instant thickness and fullness. The Mega Brush loads lashes with product quickly, producing a dramatic, eye-opening effect.
👉 Ideal for:
- Sparse lashes
- Budget glam makeup
- Bold everyday volume
🟣 Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara
Best for Separation & Definition
Lash Sensational uses a curved fanning brush designed to spread lashes evenly from corner to corner. The result is a more defined and separated lash look compared to Colossal’s heavy volume style.
👉 Ideal for:
- Natural glam makeup
- Lash separation lovers
- Everyday office makeup
🔵 Maybelline Sky High Mascara
Best for Extreme Length
Sky High Mascara became viral because of its flexible brush and fiber-infused formula that creates dramatically long, lifted lashes without heavy weight.
👉 Ideal for:
- TikTok-style fluttery lashes
- Short lashes
- Length-focused makeup looks
🏆 Expert Recommendation:
- Choose Maybelline Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara if your main goal is maximum volume at an affordable price.
- Choose Lash Sensational for clean definition and lash separation.
- Choose Sky High Mascara if you want visibly longer, lifted lashes with a lightweight feel.
💡 Pro Makeup Artist Tip:
Many makeup artists keep two mascaras:
- 👉 Colossal Mascara for volume at the base
- 👉 Sky High Mascara for length at the tips
Layering different mascara types often creates the most professional-looking lash result.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Maybelline does not officially market all mascaras as gluten-free. If you have sensitivities, always review the ingredient list or consult the brand directly.
To find the expiration date of any mascara, look for the PAO symbol stamped on the product or its packaging. Usually, it is stamped on the back of the packaging and sometimes on the product tube or container. The following screenshot will help you locate your mascara’s expiry date.
Glam Black color of mascara typically appears deeper and slightly glossier than Classic Black, offering a more dramatic lash finish.
Conclusion
Overall, Maybelline The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara remains a strong budget-friendly option for anyone seeking bold, fuller-looking lashes with reliable everyday performance.
