L’Oreal Telescopic Lift Mascara Review: Defined, Fan-Like Lashes on a Budget

Lashes that look longer, lifted, and crisply defined can change your whole face. L’Oreal Telescopic Lift Mascara aims to deliver that effect at a wallet friendly price, using a unique brush that grips at the roots and combs through for a fan-like finish. After looking closely at the design, the formula, and how it behaves on different lash types and in different conditions, this is a practical, shopper focused review you can use to decide if it deserves a spot in your makeup bag.

Overview

L’Oreal Telescopic Lift Mascara is a drugstore length and lift formula with a plastic comb brush. The wand is asymmetric, with a flatter side that deposits product at the root and two rows of micro hooks that comb, separate, and pull lashes upward. That dual action concept is the headline feature because it helps load pigment where you need it for impact, then smooth it out so the result looks defined rather than clumpy.

The formula is inky black, slightly wet on first use, and dries down to a flexible hold. It is available in several black tones, typically Black, Blackest Black, and Brownish Black, in both washable and waterproof versions depending on where you shop. Price sits in the comfortable drugstore range, usually around twelve to fifteen dollars. The tube is slim and light with a tapered cap that is easy to grip while you rotate the brush during application.

Positioned against volumizing mascaras that fatten the base of the lashes, Telescopic Lift is for the length and definition crowd. Think fanned tips, clean separation, and a noticeable lift that opens the eyes without heavy buildup.

Who it’s for

This mascara is best for people who want a lifted, defined, almost fluttery lash look rather than thick, dramatic volume. If your lashes are straight and point downward, the hook-like comb can help set them upward so eyes look more awake. If your lashes are medium to long but tend to tangle or clump with traditional bristle brushes, the tidy plastic comb here is more likely to keep them aligned.

It also suits shorter lashes that need precision. The slim head can get near the inner and outer corners and coat lower lashes without leaving dots everywhere. If you mostly wear mascara for daytime and prefer a crisp, clean finish that resists flaking through a full workday, this formula hits that brief.

You may want a different mascara if your top priority is thick, plush volume at the root or a dramatic false lash effect. You may also prefer a tubing mascara if you are extremely smudge prone or your lids are very oily. For all day lift on very straight lashes, consider the waterproof version or always curl your lashes first, since curl hold is about grip as much as it is about lift.

How it feels and performs

Texture and dry down: Fresh from the tube, Telescopic Lift feels slightly wet and slick, which helps it glide from root to tip without tugging. It sets within a minute to a flexible hold that does not feel crunchy. After a couple of weeks of use, the formula typically thickens a touch, which many people prefer because it grips the lash better and smudges less.

Brush behavior: The brush is the star. Start with the flatter side at the root to deposit a thin veil of product, then rotate to the comb side and pull upward. Those micro hooks catch small lashes you might otherwise miss and line them up so the ends flare outward. The result is an even fan, with noticeably longer looking tips and clear separation through the mid lengths.

Length and lift: You can expect a visible length boost with one coat and a more dramatic, fluttery look with two. The lift is strong for a washable formula, especially if you curl first. The waterproof version grips and holds curl longer through humidity or watery eyes, though it demands more patience to remove at night.

Volume: Volume is light to moderate. At the base, you will get some depth of color and a small thickening effect, but the emphasis stays on clean definition and extended tips. If you want dense, plush volume at the root, this is not its main strength. You can layer a volumizing mascara at the base and comb Telescopic Lift through the lengths on top for a hybrid effect, but keep layers light to avoid clumps.

Smudging and flaking: On normal or slightly dry lids, the washable formula wears through a full workday with minimal transfer. On oily lids or in very humid weather, some smudging under the brow bone can happen because long lashes may touch the skin. Setting your lids with a bit of translucent powder where the tips touch, or choosing the waterproof version, helps a lot. Flaking is rare if you stick to two coats and avoid overloading the tips.

Comfort and scent: There is no heavy fragrance. The formula feels lightweight on the lashes and comfortable all day. Contact lens wearers who are sensitive to flakes will likely appreciate the flexible set.

Removal: The washable version comes off cleanly with a gentle cleanser or micellar water and a soft cotton pad. The waterproof version needs an oil based remover and a brief soak. Hold a saturated pad over the lashes for 15 to 20 seconds before lightly wiping. Avoid rubbing, which can loosen lashes and irritate the eye area.

How to use for best results

• Start with clean, dry lashes. If your lashes are very straight, curl them first and let the curl cool for a few seconds.
• Wipe the wand once on the inner rim to remove excess, especially during the first week when the formula is at its wettest.
• Use the flatter loading side at the root. Press gently and wiggle to deposit a thin stripe of color right where the lashes emerge.
• Rotate to the comb side. Pull from root to tip in a steady motion, then give the ends a tiny pause for an extra lift set.
• Build with a second coat while the first is still slightly tacky, about 20 to 30 seconds later. Focus the second coat on the outer third for a soft cat eye flare.
• Comb through with a clean spoolie if you see any sticking. Remove a dot on the lid by waiting for it to dry, then flick away with a cotton swab.
• For lower lashes, hold the wand vertical and use the tip to tap color on lightly for a defined but not spidery effect.
• If you are smudge prone, lightly set the area where your lashes touch the lid with translucent powder, or choose the waterproof version on warm, humid days.

Pros and cons

• Pros
• Unique comb brush lifts at the root and fans out tips for a clean, defined look.
• Noticeable length with one coat, dramatic length with two, without feeling heavy.
• Lightweight feel and flexible set that resists flaking during a full workday.
• Slim wand reaches inner and outer corners and lower lashes with precision.
• Drugstore price that competes with far pricier lengthening formulas.
• Available in washable and waterproof versions to suit different needs.

• Cons
• Emphasis on length and definition rather than thick volume at the base.
• Can smudge on very oily lids unless you set the area or use waterproof.
• First week can feel a little wet, so it is easier to over apply if you are in a rush.
• Waterproof version needs an oil based remover and more patience at night.

Final verdict

L’Oreal Telescopic Lift Mascara is a smart, budget friendly choice if you crave defined, fan-like lashes that make your eyes look wide and bright. The dual action brush is not a gimmick. It truly helps place product at the root and then comb it through, which is why the finish looks crisp instead of clumpy. Two coats deliver impressive length and lift that stays put through a typical workday, and the thin wand makes it easy to reach tiny lashes you normally miss.

It is not the best pick if your top priority is dense, plush volume or if you never want to think about smudging on very oily lids. In those cases, try a volumizing formula for the base or go straight to the waterproof version. For everyone else, especially those who value a clean, separated lash look and a price that feels fair, Telescopic Lift earns a confident yes.

See also

If you prefer a barely there lash that looks soft and clean for daytime, you may like our guide to the Best Mascara for Natural Look. Short or sparse lashes can also benefit from application tricks and targeted picks in our Best Mascara for Short Lashes roundup, and if you decide you want a thicker lash line, jump to our tested favorites in Best Mascaras for Volume: Big Lashes Without Clumps.

Struggling with smudges because your lids run oily or you live in humid weather? Head to Best Mascara for Oily Lids for formulas and prep steps that hold up. And if you are refreshing your whole drugstore routine, you might love the smooth, shine controlling picks in Best Drugstore Powder Foundations: Smooth Coverage on a Budget.

FAQ

Will L’Oreal Telescopic Lift Mascara hold a curl on very straight lashes?

Yes, especially if you curl first. The washable formula offers good lift for a full workday when paired with a lash curler. If your lashes drop quickly or you live in a humid climate, the waterproof version holds curl longer because it grips more tightly.

How many coats can I apply before it starts to clump?

Two coats are the sweet spot for most lashes. The first coat sets length and shape, and a second adds drama. A third coat can start to stick tips together unless you wipe the wand and comb through between layers with a clean spoolie.

Does Telescopic Lift smudge on oily lids?

It can transfer if your lashes touch an oily brow bone or you are in high heat. To reduce smudging, set the area where the lash tips touch with a bit of translucent powder, avoid heavy eye cream on the upper lid during the day, and consider the waterproof version for long days or special events.

Is it comfortable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers?

The formula feels lightweight with no heavy fragrance and has a flexible set that minimizes flaking, which many sensitive users appreciate. If your eyes react easily, start with the washable version and remove it gently with micellar water to avoid rubbing.

How does Telescopic Lift compare to the original L’Oreal Telescopic?

Both focus on length and definition. Telescopic Lift adds a lift forward brush that loads at the root and uses micro hooks to pull lashes upward, so the finished look has more upward flip and a wider fan. The original Telescopic has a slim comb that excels at precise separation but offers a slightly flatter profile.

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