Revlon ColorStay Full Time Mascara
Waterproof mascara, coating unspecified; limited public data on PFAS.
Revlon ColorStay is a waterproof mascara with unknown coating chemistry. Brand discloses no PFAS information; no independent testing found in public records.
The better-graded swap
Burt's Bees
Burt's Bees 100% Natural Nourishing Mascara, Black Brown
75/100 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
water-resistant film-forming polymer coating on bristles/lash
Lab data
No public lab test
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What Revlon ColorStay Full Time Mascara is made of, ingredients and materials
Revlon ColorStay uses a film-forming polymer base (likely acrylate or similar synthetic resin) applied to nylon bristles to create the water-resistant finish. This coating is the active component that makes mascara cling and resist moisture, but the specific polymer chemistry is not publicly disclosed by Revlon. Water-resistant mascaras typically require harsher solvents for removal, which can stress the eye area and lashes if not done carefully.
What’s concerning
Waterproof / stain-resistant treatment
Water-repellent coating treatments have historically used PFAS.
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.
Formaldehyde / VOCs
Water-resistant mascaras typically use preservatives that may include formaldehyde-releasing compounds or formaldehyde itself to prevent microbial growth in the liquid formula. Revlon does not publicly disclose its preservative system for this product; eye contact or prolonged skin exposure to formaldehyde can cause irritation and sensitization.
Source, ATSDR ↗Fragrance allergens and undisclosed fragrance chemicals
If this mascara contains fragrance (common in cosmetics for scent and sensory appeal), the specific fragrance ingredients are typically not listed on packaging due to trade-secret exemptions. Fragrance compounds can trigger contact dermatitis or eye irritation in sensitive individuals, and some fragrance chemicals are volatile and may irritate eyes.
Eye irritation from removal solvent residue
Water-resistant mascaras often require oil-based or harsh solvent removal, and incomplete removal or repeated stress to the delicate eye area can cause irritation, lash breakage, and contact dermatitis. Consumer reports of irritation with waterproof mascaras are common across brands, including anecdotal mentions of ColorStay products.
What’s reassuring
Heavy metals
Black mascara pigments commonly use iron oxides and manganese compounds, which are generally recognized as low concern in cosmetics at regulated levels. No recalls or reports of elevated heavy metal content in Revlon ColorStay mascara are on record, though third-party testing is not publicly available.
Source, FDA ↗Talc contamination in powder formulations
ColorStay is a liquid mascara, not a powder, so direct talc contamination is not a pathway. However, if the product is manufactured in facilities that also process talc-containing products, cross-contamination is a theoretical risk; Revlon has not publicly addressed talc-related controls for this line.
How is this PFAS grade calculated?
The brand's record and disclosure
Revlon has not publicly committed to PFAS-free formulations or disclosed the specific composition of its water-resistant coatings. The company has faced recalls and safety controversies in other product lines but has not issued specific warnings for this mascara. No third-party certifications (such as EWG verification or Clean Beauty standards) are associated with this product line. Transparency on the film-forming polymer identity remains limited.
How it compares in its category
Water-resistant mascaras across the market typically carry similar undisclosed polymer risks; ColorStay is mainstream-positioned rather than clean or indie-focused. Non-waterproof mascaras and those from brands with disclosed, PFAS-free formulations (available from smaller or certified clean brands) present lower chemical uncertainty. ColorStay's price point and performance are competitive within conventional drugstore mascaras, but safety transparency is not a differentiator.
If you buy it
Use only on lashes, avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes, and remove thoroughly each night with dedicated eye makeup remover or gentle oil-based cleanser to minimize lash damage and eye irritation. Replace every 3 months to prevent bacterial colonization of the brush and product degradation. If eye irritation, redness, or swelling occurs, discontinue immediately and consult an eye care professional. Store in a cool, dry place away from heat sources.
What is not known about PFAS in this product?
- Basis
- Model estimate, 35% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Revlon 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 Revlon ColorStay Full Time Mascara?
- Wax, pigments, natural oils (typical mascara base)
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2 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
- pigments, waxes, polymers (unspecified)
- Lead
5 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
Find an alternative on Amazon
- pigments, waxes, film-formers in liquid mascara
- Heavy metals
5 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
Find an alternative on AmazonMore waterproof mascara grades
How we score, every product runs through the same public 0-100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.