One make up product I cannot do without is mascara. It is one of my essentials but it is incredibly hard to find a good one as a lot promise but only a few actually live up to their claims. I am normally a user of the L'Oreal Collagen mascara but having run out I needed a temporary mascara until my usual type were delivered. I tend to buy a lot of cosmetics from my local W7 outlet store where not only do they do W7 products but a lot of other branded items.

After browsing their extensive range of mascaras I decided on the Max Factor 2000 Calorie Mascara as I had previously used it a few years ago. Max Factor is not a brand I tend to buy from a lot for some reason although the products I have used in the past have been good quality but my mother has sworn by Max Factor mascaras for years so it is always nice to go on recommendation.

== What is it? ==

Max Factor 2000 Calorie Mascara is one of their best selling mascaras, Max Factor claim that it gives a whopping 300% dramatic lash volume which is quite a claim! It apparently has a "bodybuilding" formula which is how it manages to give a volumous look. Max Factor claim it is also smudge and touch proof right from the first application as it dries instantly on the lashes. It is only available in black and black/brown so limited choice but for me not a problem.

== Packaging ==

The Max Factor 2000 Calorie Mascara which I currently have in my make up bag is slim and cylindrical in shape and is a very dark brown if not black in colour with metallic red font. The product name and Max Factor logo is on the side of the tube. The applicator brush is attached to the screw on top.

== In Use ==

Using the mascara isn't hard as you simply apply the mascara as you would any other and I think most women apply it differently. Personally, I work from the roots (nearest the eyelid) and then slowly work up making sure I get every lash to hopefully give an even look. I always have a black/brown mascara as I personally find it gives a softer look.

The applicator brush/wand is slightly curved in shape and isn't overly thick which I prefer as it is easier to apply evenly. The mascara itself is a lovely dark brown colour and once you take the wand out of the tube it doesn't come out with excessive mascara so you don't need to wipe the brush on the top of the tube. This also makes for easier application and for a far more natural look.

I have found that this mascara doesn't leave your lashes clumped or stuck together but gives a nice fanned look and you can tell each lash has been covered with the mascara giving a lovely natural yet fuller look. Now, as for the 300% extra volume I really cannot say whether this is true or not but my lashes do end up looking like they have a lot more volume and definitely look a lot longer. I can honestly say my lashes look a lot fuller.

I have found that the mascara lasts for quite a few hours. I can apply it at 7am and it is still looking just as good by 7pm in the evening. It doesn't flake or leave little black bits like some mascaras do when they flake a little due to wear. It is also incredibly easy to remove with a make up wipe or eye make up remover, it doesn't take hardly any effort to completely remove which again is another plus point.

== Overall ==

A great mascara which I am incredibly glad I tried. It doesn't clump up the lashes but instead it gives a more natural look by fanning the lashes but giving that bit of added volume. It lasts throughout the day and is easy to remove. I really have no complaints about it whatsoever. Definitely a mascara that should be tried and tested.

== Product Information ==

Brand: Max Factor
Price: From £7.00
Availability: Supermarkets, pharmacies, online stores
Misc: Max Factor advise it is gentle enough for contact lens wearers and those with sensitive eyes.