Few beauty products have gone as viral as Maybelline's Lash Sensational Sky High mascara. It exploded on TikTok, sold out in shops across the UK, and years later it still sits near the very top of Amazon UK's beauty best-seller list. But does a high-street mascara really deserve that much hype?
In this review we look at what makes Sky High so popular, who it suits (and who it doesn't), how to apply it for maximum length without clumps, and how to remove it properly at the end of the day.
Quick answer: is Maybelline Sky High the best mascara?
For most people looking for long, separated, fluttery lashes at a high-street price, yes. Sky High's flexible bamboo-shaped brush reaches every lash, including the tiny ones in the inner corners, and its lightweight formula builds length without heaviness. If you want very dramatic, thick volume, you might prefer a chunkier volumising formula.
Why Sky High became a cult favourite
Sky High didn't go viral by accident. Fans consistently praise:
- Serious length – lashes look visibly longer from the first coat.
- The Flex Tower brush – a flexible brush that bends to reach the base of every lash.
- Buildable formula – add a second or third coat for drama without crunchy clumps.
- A natural, separated look – “your lashes but better” rather than spider lashes.
- Price – results people compare to luxury mascaras at a fraction of the cost.
It's available in several shades, with Very Black and Black the most popular, plus a waterproof version for holidays, weddings and anyone who cries at films.
Our verdict on the formula
The wet formula has a fluid, almost silky texture that coats lashes evenly. Rather than adding heavy bulk, it focuses on lengthening and lifting, so lashes hold a curl well, especially if you use an eyelash curler first. It dries quickly enough to apply a second coat within a minute or so.
Wear time is impressive for a non-waterproof mascara, with most reviewers reporting little smudging through a normal working day. Those with very oily eyelids or who live in humid climates may prefer the waterproof version.
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Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara
Lengthening, volumising formula with the flexible Flex Tower brush.
How to apply Sky High for maximum length
Technique makes a big difference with lengthening mascaras:
- Curl first – use an eyelash curler on clean, dry lashes.
- Wipe the wand on the tube's edge to remove excess product.
- Start at the root – wiggle the brush at the lash base, then sweep up and out.
- Use the tip for inner-corner and lower lashes.
- Add a second coat while the first is still slightly wet to avoid clumping.
- Separate any stuck lashes with a clean spoolie.
Who should (and shouldn't) buy it
Sky High is a great match for most people, but it's worth knowing where it shines:
- Great for: short or straight lashes, natural everyday make-up, anyone wanting a lifted, fluttery look, and mascara beginners.
- Maybe not for: people wanting ultra-thick, dramatic false-lash volume, or those with very sensitive eyes who need a specially formulated sensitive mascara.
Mascara hygiene tips
- Replace mascara every three months to reduce the risk of eye infections.
- Never share mascara with friends.
- Don't pump the wand in and out – it pushes air in and dries the formula out.
- Stop using mascara during any eye infection and replace it afterwards.
- Always remove mascara before bed.
Make it last: prime and remove properly
A good primer keeps the rest of your make-up in place so your whole look lasts as long as your lashes. e.l.f.'s Power Grip Primer is another viral best seller, with a gel texture that helps foundation grip and stay put all day.
At the end of the day, remove mascara gently. Hold a pad soaked in micellar water against your closed eye for 10–15 seconds, then wipe downwards. Rubbing and tugging can cause lash breakage over time.
Complete the look
Pair your mascara with these two Amazon beauty best sellers: a gripping primer to start and a gentle micellar water to finish.
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Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water
Gently removes mascara and make-up without harsh rubbing.
Mascara FAQs
Is Maybelline Sky High waterproof?
The standard version isn't waterproof but is smudge-resistant for everyday wear. A separate waterproof version is available for swimming, holidays and emotional occasions.
Does Sky High clump?
Very little when applied correctly. Wipe excess off the wand and add extra coats before the previous one fully dries.
Is it suitable for sensitive eyes?
Many people with sensitive eyes use it happily, but if you're prone to irritation or wear contact lenses and react easily, choose a mascara specifically tested for sensitive eyes, and stop using any product that causes discomfort.
Which shade should I choose?
Very Black gives the most dramatic definition. Black is slightly softer, and brown-black suits very fair lashes or a more natural daytime look.
The verdict
Maybelline Sky High genuinely lives up to the hype. It's the best mascara in the UK for long, lifted, separated lashes at a high-street price. Curl, wiggle, sweep and you'll see why millions of people keep buying it again and again.
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