Make Up For Ever Smoky Stretch Lengthening & Defining Mascara (0.23 oz) retails for $24 USD ($28 CAD) and is said to be "a mascara that creates infinite length, precise definition and expert separation."
"Smoky Stretch Lengthening & Defining Mascara is formulated with a Flex Control Complex, which elongates lashes while creating ideal definition and separation. Designed to grip lashes at their base and effortlessly comb through each and every one, this innovative comb brush gives lashes an irresistible, naturally-enhanced look."
The packaging is a long, slim black tube. The applicator wand is quite thin and features plastic spike bristles. The formula had no scent and is also said to be ophthalmologist tested and safe for contact lenses. Unlike many mascaras from the brand, Smoky Stretch isn't currently available in a waterproof version.
As some of you may know, the Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant Mascara ($24 USD, $28 CAD for 0.23 oz.) is one of my top 3 favorite mascaras—of all time! It separates, darkens, defines and adds major volume while leaving your lashes feathery and flexible. It has a fat, tapered spoolie-style applicator that does come off rather intimidating at first, but it makes coating and flaring out your lashes easy. With all that said, you can probably guess that I was extremely excited and had high expectations for another mascara that promised to deliver length, opposed to volume.
The Smoky Stretch formula lengthens and defines lashes nicely. It didn't supply any volume or make them appear fuller, despite the fact that it separated my lashes, but not nearly as much as I expected. The product and wand coated them easily, evenly and left them looking intensely black. Once dry, my lashes were left with a nice hold while remaining flexible and weightless—I didn't find that they fell flat, or lost their natural curl as time went on.
When I tried applying a second coat, both when the product had begun to dry and once it was fully dry, I found it was difficult to stop my lashes from sticking together. They weren't clumpy, by any means, but they did end up looking rather spiky, sort of like the "tarantula lashes" trend.
Regardless, the Smoky Stretch Mascara held up well over time. I didn't experience any color transfer to my lids or lash line. It didn't run or bleed as the day went on, either, even though it's not a waterproof formula. The only noticeable wear was a few small flakes of mascara on the tops of my cheeks around the +8 hour mark.
The Smoky Stretch formula lengthens and defines lashes nicely. It didn't supply any volume or make them appear fuller, despite the fact that it separated my lashes, but not nearly as much as I expected. The product and wand coated them easily, evenly and left them looking intensely black. Once dry, my lashes were left with a nice hold while remaining flexible and weightless—I didn't find that they fell flat, or lost their natural curl as time went on.
When I tried applying a second coat, both when the product had begun to dry and once it was fully dry, I found it was difficult to stop my lashes from sticking together. They weren't clumpy, by any means, but they did end up looking rather spiky, sort of like the "tarantula lashes" trend.
Regardless, the Smoky Stretch Mascara held up well over time. I didn't experience any color transfer to my lids or lash line. It didn't run or bleed as the day went on, either, even though it's not a waterproof formula. The only noticeable wear was a few small flakes of mascara on the tops of my cheeks around the +8 hour mark.
Overall, this mascara does what it says, for the most part. It noticeably lengthens lashes and adds color and definition—this will be great for those with shorter, fuller lashes. However, for those with sparse and/or thinner looking lashes, I'd recommend straying over to the Smoky Extravagant Mascara over this particular one, as it may end up enhancing the sparseness rather than improving them and making it appear as if you have more. Regardless, I'm a fan of Make Up For Ever Mascaras and I do recommend giving their line a go if you're in the market!
Make Up For Ever Smoky Stretch Mascara
Make Up For Ever Smoky Stretch Mascara
Make Up For Ever Smoky Stretch Mascara
Make Up For Ever Smoky Stretch Mascara
Make Up For Ever Smoky Stretch Mascara
Make Up For Ever Smoky Stretch Mascara
(Bare Lashes, No Mascara)
Make Up For Ever Smoky Stretch Mascara
(One Coat, Top Lashes Only)
Make Up For Ever Smoky Stretch Mascara
(Two Coats, Top & Bottom Lashes)
Make Up For Ever Smoky Stretch Mascara
(Compared to Smoky Extravagant Mascara)
Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant Mascara
Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant Mascara
(Two Coats, Top & Bottom Lashes)
Disclaimer: All product(s) featured were purchased by me for personal use and/or sent for consideration.