Maybelline Great Lash Washable Mascara
No known PFAS risk; brand discloses nothing about PFAS.
Mascara formulas typically rely on waxes and conventional polymers. Maybelline has not disclosed PFAS use or absence; no public testing available.
The better-graded swap
Bare Minerals
bareMinerals Mineral Makeup
100/100 safety
Same rubric that flunked this product. The swap earned Excellent.
Still want this one anyway? Check the price on Amazon. We’d swap it.
Material
wax, film-forming polymers, pigments
Lab data
No public lab test
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What Maybelline Great Lash Washable Mascara is made of, ingredients and materials
Maybelline Great Lash Washable is a wax-based mascara containing film-forming polymers and iron oxide or synthetic pigments for color. Wax formulations are inherently less volatile than solvent-heavy mascaras and do not require harsh removers, reducing skin exposure to irritants. The 'washable' designation means it is designed to remove with water and mild cleanser rather than solvent-based makeup remover, which lowers the risk of ocular irritation or dermatitis from removal.
What’s concerning
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement from the brand about PFAS in this product.
Fragrance allergens or sensitizers
If fragrance is present in the formula, individual sensitivity varies; the product label does not typically disclose fragrance constituents. Patch test before full application if you have sensitive eyes or skin.
Ocular irritation from removal or residue
Although washable formulas are designed for water removal, incomplete removal or repeated tugging during removal can cause mild irritation; follow removal instructions carefully.
What’s reassuring
Heavy metals
Iron oxides and approved synthetic colorants (e.g., CI 77499) in mascara are regulated for lead and cadmium limits under FDA cosmetic rules; no documented exceedances reported for this product.
Source, FDA ↗Formaldehyde / VOCs
Washable mascara formulas typically use modern preservative systems; no formaldehyde-donor preservatives have been publicly identified in this product's composition.
Source, ATSDR ↗Talc contamination
This product is a liquid mascara, not a powder; talc is not a known component and therefore not a concern for this specific formulation.
How is this PFAS grade calculated?
The brand's record and disclosure
Maybelline (L'Oreal USA subsidiary) does not publicly disclose detailed ingredient sourcing or manufacturing safety audits specific to this product line. The brand is not known for independent third-party certifications (e.g., EWG Verified, Cruelty-Free Certified by Leaping Bunny) on this mascara. No significant recalls or formal safety controversies tied to this product have been documented in public records. Maybelline follows FDA cosmetic compliance but does not volunteer testing data beyond regulatory minimums.
How it compares in its category
Wax-based mascaras like this are considered lower-concern than synthetic polymer mascaras with synthetic colorants, because they avoid extended solvent exposure. Washable formulas eliminate the need for oil-based or alcohol-heavy removers, which some users find irritating. This product sits in the mainstream mass-market segment, where ingredient transparency is typically lower than in indie or prestige brands with independent certifications. The 'washable' benefit is genuine, easier removal can reduce tugging and microabrasion at the lash line.
If you buy it
Remove with lukewarm water and mild cleanser or gentle oil as directed; do not use harsh solvents or excessive rubbing, which can cause lash breakage. Replace mascara every 3 months to prevent bacterial colonization, particularly if applied near the eye waterline. If redness, itching, or swelling develops after application, discontinue and consult an eye care provider. Store in a cool, dry place and do not share with others to avoid cross-contamination.
What is not known about PFAS in this product?
- Basis
- Model estimate, 60% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Maybelline has made a specific claim
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
What are the PFAS-free alternatives to Maybelline Great Lash Washable Mascara?
- The brand calls it PFAS-free, which we have not verified
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- Heavy metals
2 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
- We found no PFAS statement from the brand
- Fragrance allergens and essential oils
2 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
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