I’ll never spend excessively on mascara again—this £15 formula has become my new favorite.

      As a beauty editor with access to some of the most luxurious and pricey beauty products, I firmly stand by this belief: some of the finest mascaras available are those found at high-street stores. While I think there are several aspects of your beauty routine where it’s beneficial to splurge a bit, mascara is one item that shouldn't require a hefty investment to achieve impressive lift, length, and volume for your lashes. However, it’s important to note that not all affordable mascaras are of equal quality. Although I appreciate L'Oréal mascaras and understand that Maybelline ones have a cult following, I believe Max Factor’s mascaras are the best. My admiration began with the original Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara in the early 2000s and has developed into long-standing loyalty to the brand. Therefore, when I learned that Max Factor was introducing an extension to their range—the Max Factor False Lash Effect Supreme Recharge Mascara—I was eager to put it to the test. With claims of providing seven times more volume, smooth application, and healthier-looking lashes, all within a refillable tube, it had a lot to prove. Here’s my candid review…

      Max Factor False Lash Effect Supreme Recharge Mascara Review

      The Brush & Formula

      First, let’s discuss the brush. In contrast to the original False Lash Effect Mascara, which had a large curved wand, the Supreme Recharge Mascara features a more distinct shape. Instead of bulging in the center, it curves inward, resembling a pinched shape. According to Max Factor, this unique design allows the wand to evenly catch and coat lashes for a volumized effect.

      Regarding the formula, in addition to being enriched with a true black pigment, Max Factor claims the Supreme Recharge Mascara provides up to seven times more volume for a bold look. It also contains keratin, a protein commonly found in hair products, which helps care for and strengthen your natural lashes while you wear it. Consequently, after removing the mascara, your bare lashes feel sturdier and appear healthier. I’ve been trying out the mascara for a few weeks now, and I layered on three coats below for you to see its performance…

      Before

      After One Coat

      After Two Coats

      After Three Coats

      The Verdict

      This might just be my favorite Max Factor mascara thus far. While I anticipated it to provide volume, I was surprised by how effective the results were. I found that one or two coats were sufficient to achieve a full, lifted lash appearance. I did observe minor clumping, particularly after the third coat, so I'd recommend not overloading this mascara—although after seeing the results from just two coats, you likely won’t feel the need to continue applying.

      The pigment is intensely black and nearly glossy, giving my lashes a healthy finish that I really like. However, this does mean it takes a few minutes to dry, so it might not be the best choice for those who prefer to apply makeup quickly or on the go. Regardless of the drying time, my lashes appear lengthened, lifted, and slightly curled, rivaling my favorite Eyelure underlashes for a naturally inspired false-lash look.

      As for the keratin-infused formula's impact, my lashes didn’t feel dry or irritated upon removal, and I haven’t noticed any lash loss after using makeup remover. While I can’t specifically say they look healthier, they don’t appear damaged or thinner than they did before I started using this mascara, so I’ll consider that a positive outcome.

      Finally, although I haven't finished my tube yet, I wanted to test how easy the refill function is. To replace the cartridge, you simply open the mascara and push on the base to pop the tube out. Next, slide a new one in, and you're all set. With refill tubes priced at £9.99, it's a cost-effective way to stock up on my new favorite formula.

      Max Factor

      False Lash Effect Supreme Recharge Mascara

      Max Factor

      False Lash Effect Supreme Recharge Mascara Refill