Maybelline Mascara, Lash Sensational Sky High Volumizing & Thickening, Eyelash Lengthening, Flake-Free Formula, Washable Mascara Infused with Bamboo Extract, Full Volume Mascara, Colour: Black

Maybelline Sky High Mascara Review: Worth the Hype?

Key Features

• The UK's #1 Mascara*, 1 sold every 8 seconds.** **Based on NIQ RMS data for the Cosmetics Eye category, Mascara sector for the 156 weeks period ending 21/02/26 for the United Kingdom (GB+NI), (Copyright 2026, Nielsen Consumer LLC)
• Sky High lash impact from every angle! Lash Sensational Sky High mascara delivers full volume and limitless length.
• Exclusive Flex Tower mascara brush bends to volumize and extend every single lash from root to tip.
• Washable mascara infused with bamboo extract for long, full and weightless lashes.
• Available in Black, Cosmic Black, Brown, Blue Mist, Burgundy Haze, Space Diamond, Plum Twilight, and Green Altitude.

The Flex Tower Brush Makes a Difference

The standout feature here is undoubtedly the brush design. Maybelline's Flex Tower brush genuinely does bend, which sounds gimmicky until you consider the practicalities. Most mascara wands are rigid affairs that force you to contort your face to reach corner lashes properly. This flexible approach means you can actually get to those awkward outer lashes without looking like you're having a stroke in the mirror.

From what I've observed in user feedback, the brush grips lashes well without that clumpy buildup you get with some drugstore mascaras. The bristles are dense enough to coat each lash but spaced sufficiently to avoid the dreaded spider-leg effect that plagued mascaras of the past.

Bamboo Extract: Marketing Fluff or Real Benefit?

The bamboo extract inclusion is interesting. Bamboo is naturally lightweight and flexible — properties that translate well to lash care. It's not just thrown in for the sake of a fancy ingredient list. Users consistently mention that their lashes don't feel heavy or crunchy after application, which suggests the bamboo extract is doing something beneficial rather than just padding the ingredients list.

The washable formula removes easily with standard makeup remover, which is refreshing in an age where everything claims to be 'long-wearing' or 'waterproof'. Sometimes you just want mascara that does its job during the day and comes off without a fight at night.

Performance Across Different Lash Types

One thing that struck me whilst researching user experiences is how well this performs across different lash types. Whether you've got short, straight lashes or longer, curly ones, the feedback suggests consistent results. The volumising effect seems genuine rather than just creating the illusion of thickness through excessive product buildup.

The lengthening claims hold water too. Multiple users mention noticeable length increase without that obviously fake look you sometimes get with dramatic formulas. It's the kind of enhancement that looks natural enough for daytime wear but builds well for evening looks.

Those Sales Claims Examined

The 'UK's number one mascara' claim comes with proper backing — NIQ retail measurement data covering 156 weeks ending February 2024. One tube every eight seconds is the kind of statistic that sounds made up but appears to have genuine data behind it. When a product moves that volume consistently, it's usually because it works, not just because of clever marketing.

That said, popularity doesn't always equal superiority. But combined with the reasonable price point and solid user feedback, those sales figures make more sense.

The Colour Range Reality

Eight colour options is impressive for a drugstore mascara, though let's be realistic — most people will stick with black or brown. The more adventurous shades like Green Altitude or Plum Twilight are fun for special occasions but hardly everyday staples. Still, having options at this price point is welcome, especially when many premium brands charge extra for anything beyond basic black.

The flake-free formula generally delivers on its promise, though a few users report minor flaking after extended wear — particularly in humid conditions. It's a minor issue, but worth noting if you're prone to touching your face throughout the day.