I've been lucky enough to get my makeup done by professional makeup artists a few times in my life. Whenever they ask if I have an ideal lash look, I practically shout, "Kendall Jenner!" I've always loved how long, fluttery, and natural-looking her lashes look, regardless of whether she's snapping a selfie at home or walking a red carpet in full glam.
In the past, I've toyed with the idea of getting lash extensions to mimic the look, but I prefer a low-maintenance routine with minimal beauty appointments. Plus, I like to champion the no-mascara trend from time to time. So I turn to mascara.
Recently, I tried a new mascara. It's one that Kendall Jenner reportedly uses and loves, and I can see why. Its thin, stiff brush and flexible formula give me long, Jenner-esque lashes. The best part? It's a drugstore product, so it only sets me back $16 per tube. Keep scrolling to learn why it's my new go-to mascara. Plus, see my before-and-after pictures.
Here it is—L'Oréal's Extensionist Lengthening and Curling Washable Mascara. It's the brand's latest launch, and Jenner fronts the campaign as L'Oréal's global ambassador. It offers lengthening and curling benefits (but more on that in a minute).
For context, I've only ever found two mascaras that help me achieve Jenner-esque lashes. The first is Refy's Lash Sculpt Lengthen and Lift Mascara ($28). It's been my go-to off-duty mascara for years thanks to a curved brush that lifts and separates my lashes and a flexible formula that never looks clumpy or obvious. It's the perfect "no-makeup makeup" mascara.
The second is another drugstore product—Maybelline's Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara ($11). Multiple celebrity makeup artists have recommended it to me, including Kelli Anne Sewell and Alexandra French. It's lengthening, lifting, and curling, and it doesn't flake or clump, ever.
When I saw that L'Oréal was launching a new mascara to mimic the look of lash extensions, I was cautiously optimistic. (I've been let down by similar formulas in the past.) However, this one was really something special. Check out my before-and-after pictures for proof.
Before
My lashes are naturally long but sparse and stick-straight.
After
This is the effect of one(!) coat of L'Oréal's Extensionist Mascara.
Needless to say, I was impressed by this mascara. The formula is thin, buildable, and flexible, so it doesn't clump, flake, or get crusty throughout the day (IYKYK). The best part, though, is the brush. It's a short, dense, plastic brush (my favorite kind!). It distributes just the right amount of mascara on my lashes, sweeping up and out for exceptional lift and length.
The effect lasted all day, through a busy, 14+-hour workday. And when it came time to wash it off, I didn't need a thick, oily makeup remover. The washable formula came right off with my normal cleanser. Easy on, easy off.
I've worn it nearly every day since I first tested it. Now, I'm happy to announce that I've found my third go-to mascara for achieving Jenner-level lashes.
Shop 5 More Eye Products I Love
Here's the Refy Mascara I mentioned earlier. If natural-looking, fluttery lashes are your thing, you'll love it as much as I do.
And the Maybelline mascara too. So many makeup artists swear by this one, and for good reason. It gives lashes the most incredible length and lift.
If I'm going to an event, like a wedding, I like to boost the effects of my mascara by adding a few of these individual lash clusters to the outer corners of my eyes. I prefer these over strip lashes. In fact, I won't do strip lashes; they never look natural on me.
Merit's eye shadows are so good. I've been obsessed with this cool taupe shade, called Studio, for subtle, daily makeup looks.
Victoria Beckham Beauty's Satin Kajal Liners are my all-time favorite pencil eyeliners. There, I said it. They're creamy, highly pigmented, and come in the best assortment of stunning shades. Lately, I've been loving this cool brown shimmer, called Cocoa Pavé.
