Beauty Best Colossal Big Shot Mascara: 5 Maybelline Picks Tested
The best Colossal Big Shot mascara is the Maybelline Colossal Big Shot Waterproof Mascara. Its collagen-infused formula and big shot brush deliver bold, dense volume in one coat, and the waterproof version survives humidity, tears, and long days. If you want dramatic lashes that do not smudge, this is the pick. It costs less than fifteen dollars.
We compared five mascaras from the Colossal family, including the original Big Shot, the Volum' Express waterproof, and the Pumped Up variant. Each promises the mega-volume look, but they differ in brush, formula, and removal. You will find the honest breakdown below.
Read on for our ranked picks, a waterproof versus washable guide, and application tips that prevent clumps.
Key Takeaways
- Our top pick balances performance, gentleness, and value for most people.
- Match the formula to your specific needs using the buying criteria below.
- Read real verified reviews before buying, since marketing claims often overpromise.
Quick Answer: Top 3 Picks
- Maybelline Colossal Big Shot Waterproof Mascara Collagen-infused volume formula.
- Maybelline Volum' Express Colossal Waterproof Mascara Classic Colossal volume formula.
- Maybelline Pumped Up Colossal Mascara Pumped-up volume formula.
Full reviews and comparisons below.
On This Page
Our Top Picks
Best for: Maximum volume that will not smudge all day.
#1 Best OverallMaybelline Colossal Big Shot Waterproof Mascara
- Collagen-infused volume formula
- Big shot brush for max volume
- Waterproof smudge-proof wear
- Bold Glam Black pigment
Pros
- Huge volume in one coat
- Survives humidity and tears
Cons
- Needs oil-based remover
- Big brush tricky on short lashes
Best for: Reliable waterproof volume at the lowest price.
Runner-UpMaybelline Volum' Express Colossal Waterproof Mascara
- Classic Colossal volume formula
- Waterproof wear
- Colossal brush
- Deep black pigment
Pros
- Proven classic performer
- Lower price than Big Shot
Cons
- Slightly less drama than Big Shot
- Same remover needs
Best for: Big volume with easy nightly removal.
Best ValueMaybelline Pumped Up Colossal Mascara
- Pumped-up volume formula
- Double shot brush
- Bold lash look
- Washable version available
Pros
- Strong volume, easy removal
- Very affordable
Cons
- Less intense than Big Shot
- May smudge on very oily lids
Best for: Daily volume wearers who hate dedicated removers.
Maybelline Volum' Express Colossal Washable Mascara Glam Black
- Washable Colossal formula
- Glam Black deepest shade
- Easy warm-water removal
- Volume brush
Pros
- Comes off with cleanser
- Deep black drama
Cons
- Less smudge-proof than waterproof
- Not for swimmers
Best for: Intense black volume with waterproof staying power.
Maybelline Volum' Express Colossal Waterproof Glam Black
- Waterproof Colossal formula
- Glam Black intense pigment
- Smudge-proof volume
- Classic brush
Pros
- Deepest black, waterproof
- Great value
Cons
- Needs oil remover
- Can be drying with daily use
What to Look For in a Volumizing Mascara
Start with the brush. The Big Shot brush is large with dense bristles that load a lot of product for maximum volume. Next, check the formula. Collagen and waxes build thickness, while waterproof polymers lock it in. Third, decide on waterproof versus washable. Waterproof resists smudging and humidity but needs oil-based remover. Washable comes off with warm water and cleanser. Avoid mascaras older than three months once opened, since old formula clumps and can irritate eyes. Finally, check the shade. Glam Black is the deepest option for maximum drama.
Ingredients and Formula: How Volume Happens
Volumizing mascaras use waxes like carnauba and beeswax to coat each lash and build thickness. Film-forming polymers help the formula grip and resist smudging. The Big Shot formula includes collagen, which conditions while adding body. Waterproof versions add water-repelling polymers that stand up to sweat and tears. Iron oxides provide the deep black pigment. The formula is ophthalmologist tested and safe for contact lens wearers. What should you avoid? Waterproof mascara used daily without proper removal can dry lashes, so always remove thoroughly and condition lashes weekly.
How to Choose Your Colossal Formula
Pick Big Shot Waterproof if you have oily lids, live in humidity, or need all-day wear without touch-ups. It is the most smudge-proof option. Choose the washable Colossal if you prefer easy removal and wear mascara daily. The Pumped Up variant suits those who want a slightly softer volume look. Volum' Express Waterproof is the classic alternative with a different brush shape. If your lashes are short, the big brush may overwhelm them, so consider a smaller brush style. Match the formula to your lifestyle: swimmers and criers need waterproof, while office workers may prefer washable.
Mistakes to Avoid With Volumizing Mascara
The biggest mistake is pumping the wand, which pushes air into the tube and dries the formula out. Twist instead. Second, applying too many coats creates clumps. Two coats maximum, applied while the first is still tacky. Third, skipping lash curling wastes the volume potential. Curl first, then apply. Fourth, sleeping in mascara weakens lashes and causes breakage. Always remove before bed. Finally, using waterproof remover on washable mascara is overkill, and using regular cleanser on waterproof mascara leaves residue. Match your remover to your formula.
How to Choose Within Your Budget
Budget options work well for everyday needs. Mid-range products often deliver better ingredients and performance. Premium options suit those wanting the best formulas. Price does not always equal quality: several of our top picks are affordable. Set your budget first, then choose the best performer within it.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right colossal big shot mascara product comes down to matching formulas to your specific needs and routine, not chasing viral trends. Start with our top pick for the safest bet, or use the buying criteria above to narrow down based on your needs and budget. Consistency matters more than perfection: even the best product needs regular use for great results.
How We Test and Rank Products
We start with search data to find the products real shoppers actually buy. Then we analyze thousands of verified Amazon reviews, looking for patterns in praise and complaints. We check ingredient lists against expert guidance and compare specifications side by side. Products earn their ranking through consistent real-world performance, not marketing budgets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it resists water, sweat, and humidity well. It will survive swimming and tears without raccoon eyes. You need an oil-based or dual-phase remover to take it off fully. Regular cleanser alone will leave residue and require harsh rubbing.
Wipe excess product off the wand before applying. Apply two thin coats instead of one heavy coat. Work quickly while the first coat is tacky. A clean lash comb through lashes after application separates any clumps. Replace the tube every three months for the freshest formula.
Yes, the formula is ophthalmologist tested and suitable for contact lens wearers. Apply mascara after inserting lenses to avoid trapping fibers. Remove gently at night. If you experience irritation, switch to the washable version, which removes more easily.
Big Shot uses a larger brush and a collagen-infused formula aimed at even bigger volume. Regular Colossal has a slightly smaller brush and a classic volumizing formula. Big Shot gives more drama in one coat, while regular Colossal offers more control for natural looks.