I've been quietly trying out Merit's new mascara, and it's really impressive.

      Among all the makeup brands available, Merit Beauty stands out as my favorite. Its minimalist and effortless beauty approach, along with its stylish packaging, makes it a must-have in both my collection and that of my fellow beauty editors. I'm already a big fan of Merit Clean Lash (£24), which is the brand's first mascara. So when I learned that Merit was introducing a new volumizing mascara, Clean Volume (£24), I was instantly intrigued. I've been testing this new mascara for the past few weeks, so keep reading for my thoughts on whether it belongs in your makeup bag.

      **Merit Clean Volume Mascara**

      (Image credit: @eleanorvousden for Who What Wear UK)

      **MERIT Beauty Clean Volume**

      **Pros:**

      - Volumizes, lengthens, and defines without clumping

      - Buildable

      - Tubing formula is easy to remove and doesn't smudge

      - Available in black and brown

      - Ophthalmologist-tested, safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers

      **Cons:**

      - Not the best for curling lashes

      Clean Volume is a tubing mascara designed to add volume to lashes without clumping. While many volumizing mascaras come with large wands with long bristles, Clean Volume features a more flexible, nimble comb wand. For someone with deep-set, hooded eyes like mine, this makes a significant difference, as many bulky wands tend to leave product on my lids or under my eyes. Yet, it still offers plenty of volume. This smaller comb wand catches every lash and distributes just the right amount of product as you glide it through, producing defined, full lashes with added length. No spidery effect here. The tubing formula ensures it doesn't flake, smudge, or crumble throughout the day, and it comes off easily with just warm water—simply sliding off your lashes between your fingers.

      **Before and After**

      (Image credit: @eleanorvousden for Who What Wear UK)

      (Image credit: @eleanorvousden for Who What Wear UK)

      As shown, this mascara lives up to its claims of volumizing while maintaining a light appearance without looking heavy or spidery. That’s just with one coat, but if you desire a more dramatic look, it's easy to layer for added intensity without becoming clumpy. I prefer to curl my lashes before applying mascara, and if yours are short or straight, I recommend not skipping that step.

      **Clean Lash vs Clean Volume**

      (Image credit: @eleanorvousden for Who What Wear UK)

      If you're uncertain about which formula to choose or want to see if you need Clean Volume in your makeup bag as well, it's important to notice a few key differences. Clean Lash offers a fluttery, natural appearance with a classic bristled wand that creates a feathery effect. In my opinion, it's the ideal everyday mascara. Conversely, Clean Volume provides a more defined and volumized look—think sleek and spiky in the best sense. Its wand is also more flexible, equipped with tiny yet efficient bristles that effectively deliver pigment to your lashes. Whichever option you select, both are available in black or brown. Personally, I can justify having both in my makeup bag; Clean Lash remains my go-to everyday mascara, while I switch to Clean Volume in the evenings when I want a bolder eye look.

      **My Verdict**

      (Image credit: @eleanorvousden for Who What Wear UK)

      After testing Clean Volume for the past couple of weeks, I must say I’m impressed. Typically, I don't gravitate towards volumizing mascara formulas (I generally prefer lengthening and curling mascaras), but Merit Beauty’s innovative brush has won me over. It allows for fuller lashes without the risk of excess product, and I appreciate how long and defined it makes my lashes look. It feels light and flexible on my lashes, avoiding the heaviness associated with some mascaras. Plus, it's wonderfully easy to remove at the end of the day; it just dissolves in the shower. If you’re looking for a new mascara that provides volume, I would highly recommend it.

      **Shop Clean Volume:**

      - MERIT Beauty Clean Volume in Black

      - MERIT Beauty Clean Volume in Brown

      **Shop Clean Lash:**

      - Merit Beauty Clean Lash in Black

      - Merit Beauty Clean Lash in Brown

      **Why Trust Us**

      At Who What Wear UK, we understand that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested countless products across skincare, makeup, hair, and nails over the years and collaborate closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, makeup artists, and industry insiders—to ensure that every guide is thoroughly researched, inclusive, and relevant to you. We prioritize formulas that deliver results, whether they are budget-friendly favorites or luxury options. Our product recommendations are based on real outcomes, ingredient knowledge, and what we would genuinely recommend to a friend.