This is one of my favourite "affordable" mascaras and probably the first mascara I ever used where I really noticed my lashes looked fuller and longer. When I started using this product a few years back it was hard to source in New Zealand. As stoked as I am to see that it's now readily available in the country I'm not impressed with the cost.
Almay's packaging in general is rather boring and dull and thank goodness the mascara isn't like that. It's in a simple white tube with its name in metallic green lettering. It has a long thick brush with small bristles which I feel does a great job at separating and coating every SINGLE lash evenly.
I've alternated between both waterproof and non-waterproof. My preference is geared towards waterproof but I must say that the non-waterproof formula tends to hold up quite well. Both versions however do flake - not excessively but it does happen. Some days I don't notice any flaking at all so not sure why that is because I don't do anything differently.
If there is a particular look I LOATHE it's the look of crusty mascara - you know the type where it looks as if you haven't changed your mascara in who knows -my giddy aunt- how long. I'm happy to report the formula doesn't leave my lashes feeling or looking dry and crusty.
In terms of the "conditioning" part of the product personally I feel you have to use this everyday for more than 3 months to really validate a claim that your lashes has strengthened and grown in length. I chuck out my mascaras every 3 months because I'm quite precious about my big eyes haha and I like to change up the mascaras I use. Based on the 3 months that Almay is on rotation over the years I've used it I haven't noticed any difference.
It says it's a "one coat" mascara and I would say you could get away with one coat but I rather like to go in with 2-3 coats for added definition. Just be mindful that it could get clumpy so I try to go in when the formula is still wet that way you're left with fuller, clump-free longer lashes. I've repurchased this a number of times but always from NZSale. If I could no longer get it for $9-$15 and had to settle for $30 - would I still buy it? Yes I would.
if you have sensitive eyes thn this mascara is for u! this gentle formular that is used in this mascara makes it more simple yet effective when applied to lashes and at the same time its also is helpingg your eyelashes from breakage and strengthening them too.i love this product as i do get the ocasional weepy eyes but when using this product it does not affect my eyes at all definatly would reccomend to everyone with that sensitive eye problem you may tend to get