Mascara is one of those beauty essentials we all rely on to complete our eye makeup routine. We want something that lengthens, volumizes, and stays put without clumping or smudging.
That’s why, when I came across the Olivia Blaire Iron Wand Mascara, I was intrigued. The promise of 24-hour wear, waterproof capabilities, and a unique brush that lengthens and volumizes immediately caught my attention.
But does it live up to the claims? Or is it just another overhyped product? Let’s take a closer look and see if this mascara really deserves a spot in your makeup bag.
First Impressions: What Is Olivia Blaire Iron Wand Mascara?
At first glance, the Olivia Blaire Iron Wand Mascara offers everything you’d want in a mascara—long-lasting, smudge-proof, and waterproof.
This product claims to help your lashes look fuller, longer, and more voluminous, and it is specifically marketed as perfect for those with sparse or thin lashes.
The mascara promises 24-hour wear, which sounds great, especially if you’re someone who hates reapplying makeup throughout the day.
The formula is also said to be sweatproof, making it perfect for long days, workouts, or even swimming.
The wand itself is designed to coat each lash from root to tip, and it’s even touted as a “metal wand,” which was intriguing to me, as many wands are made from plastic.
There’s also a promise of no flaking or smudging, so it seems like this mascara could be a solid option for those looking for something reliable.
But, after putting it to the test, I was left wondering if it’s really all it’s cracked up to be.
Pros & Cons of Olivia Blaire Iron Wand Mascara
Pros:
Let’s start with the positives, because yes, there are a few things this mascara does well.
- Long-Lasting Formula: One of the standout features of this mascara is its longevity. It lives up to its 24-hour wear claim and is truly waterproof. I wore it throughout the day, through a sweaty workout, and even after a few accidental tears (because, hey, it happens), and it stayed in place without smudging. For those of you who want a mascara that won’t budge, Olivia Blaire delivers.
- Volume and Length (to a Point): The formula does deliver some noticeable volume and length. If your lashes are on the thinner side, you’ll likely appreciate the extra oomph it provides. The brush design helps coat each lash, giving your eyes a more open and voluminous look. For those of you with naturally sparse lashes, this could be a solid option to help enhance their appearance.
- Waterproof and Smudge-Proof: Let’s be real: no one wants to look like a raccoon halfway through the day. The waterproof and smudge-proof formula works as advertised. I didn’t notice any smudging or flaking throughout the day, which is great if you have oily eyelids or live in a humid climate.
Cons:
Unfortunately, the cons of this mascara outweigh the positives for me. Despite its potential, there are several issues that make it less than ideal.
- Thick, Goopy Formula: One of the biggest problems I had with the Olivia Blaire Iron Wand Mascara was its formula. It’s incredibly thick and wet, which leads to a messy application. When you first pull the wand out of the tube, the mascara is globby and difficult to apply without transferring the product to your eyelids or under-eye area. I found myself constantly wiping away excess mascara and trying to fix the mess. It wasn’t a quick application by any means, and definitely not something I’d want to do in a rush.
- Clumping and Spider-Lash Effect: While the mascara did add volume and length, it also made my lashes clump together. I had to spend extra time separating them with a lash comb, but even then, I noticed a “spider-leg” effect. Some users may not mind this look, but for me, it was a dealbreaker. No matter how much I tried to fix it, my lashes still looked clumpy and unnatural.
- Slow Drying Time: Another frustrating aspect was how long it took to dry. After applying the mascara, I had to wait for it to fully dry before blinking too much, or I’d end up with mascara imprints on my eyelids. If you wear glasses, this is especially problematic, as you’ll have to wait even longer to put them on without worrying about smudging your lenses.
- Unpleasant Texture: The formula feels heavy on the lashes. This is one of those mascaras where, as the day goes on, you can feel it sitting on your lashes. It didn’t feel light or comfortable, and by the end of the day, my lashes felt weighed down. For those who prefer a lighter, more natural feel, this may not be the best choice.
Also Read: My Thoughts On Terez & Honor Eyelash Serum
Maintenance Tips for Olivia Blaire Iron Wand Mascara
While I can’t fully recommend this mascara, there are a few tips that might help improve your experience if you decide to give it a go.
- Scrape Off Excess Product: One of the first things I learned is that you need to scrape off excess mascara when you first pull the wand out. If you don’t, you’ll end up with too much product on the brush, leading to a gloopy mess. Gently wipe the wand against the inside of the tube to remove some of the excess product before applying.
- Use an Eyelash Comb: If you’re struggling with clumping, a good lash comb can help separate the lashes and reduce the spider-lash effect. Just be sure to wait for the mascara to dry first, or you’ll create an even bigger mess.
- Let It Dry Between Coats: If you like a more dramatic look, you’ll need to let the mascara dry between layers. Applying too much product at once will result in the dreaded “glob” effect, so patience is key here.
- Clean Your Lashes Regularly: Because the mascara is waterproof and smudge-proof, it can be tough to remove at the end of the day. Be sure to use a good makeup remover to clean your lashes thoroughly, or you could end up with residue that could irritate your eyes.
Olivia Blaire Iron Wand Mascara Vs. Other Brands
So how does this mascara stack up against other popular brands? I’ve used quite a few mascaras, and after trying the Olivia Blaire Iron Wand, I can confidently say there are better options out there.
- Olivia Blaire Iron Wand Mascara Vs. Maybelline Lash Sensational
Maybelline’s Lash Sensational is often praised for its volume and lengthening effects without the mess. The formula is lighter than Olivia Blaire’s, making it easier to apply without clumps. Plus, it dries faster and doesn’t leave a heavy feeling on your lashes.
- Olivia Blaire Iron Wand Mascara Vs. Too Faced Better Than Sex
Another well-known mascara that offers volume and length is Too Faced’s Better Than Sex. Unlike Olivia Blaire, it has a buildable formula that lets you add layers without it becoming goopy or clumpy. It also dries faster and feels more comfortable throughout the day.
- Olivia Blaire Iron Wand Mascara Vs. L’Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise:
If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, L’Oreal’s Voluminous Lash Paradise is a solid alternative. It delivers impressive volume and length with a smoother, more manageable formula that doesn’t clump or weigh down your lashes.
Also Read: My Thoughts On The Ordinary Lash Serum
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you have sparse lashes, look for a mascara wand with a dense, curved brush that can coat every lash. A formula that adds both volume and length, like Maybelline Lash Sensational or Too Faced Better Than Sex, can help you achieve a fuller lash look.
Mascara brands like Maybelline Lash Sensational, Too Faced Better Than Sex, and L’Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise are often talked about because of their ability to provide volume and length without clumping or smudging.
A curved mascara wand is generally better for lifting and curling your lashes, especially if they’re straight or sparse. A straight wand can still work well for volume but may not provide the same curl.
On average, mascara wands can last for about 3 to 6 months, depending on how often you use them. Be sure to replace your mascara regularly to avoid bacteria buildup and to ensure the best results.
Final Thoughts
After testing the Olivia Blaire Iron Wand Mascara, I can’t wholeheartedly recommend it. While it does have some positive features like its waterproof formula and long-lasting wear, the thick, goopy formula, slow drying time, and tendency to clump just don’t make it worth the investment. There are plenty of other mascaras out there that offer better performance, smoother application, and a more comfortable wear throughout the day.
If you’re looking for a mascara that gives you long-lasting volume without the mess, I’d suggest exploring other options. While Olivia Blaire’s mascara might work for some, it ultimately wasn’t the right fit for me.
