I've Secretly Been Testing Merit's New Mascara Ahead of Its Launch, And It Doesn't Disappoint
Merit Beauty's new Clean Volume mascara has landed, so I put it to the test.
Out of all the makeup brands out there, Merit Beauty is at the top of my list. Its minimalistic and effortless approach to beauty (not to mention its extremely chic packaging) makes it a total staple in mine and my fellow beauty editors' makeup bags. I'm already a huge fan of Merit Clean Lash (£24), the brand's very first mascara. So when I heard that Merit was launching a new volumising mascara, Clean Volume (£24), my interest was immediately piqued. I've been testing the new mascara over the past couple of weeks, so scroll on for my thoughts on whether it deserves a spot in your makeup bag.
Merit Clean Volume Mascara
Pros
- Volumises, lengthens and defines without clumping
- Buildable
- Tubing formula is easy to remove and doesn't smudge
- Comes in black and brown
- Ophthalmologist-tested. Safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
Cons
- Not the most curling of mascaras
Clean Volume is a tubing mascara designed to volumise lashes without clumping. Whilst many volumising mascaras feature a large wand with long bristles, Clean Volume has a notably more nimble, flexible comb wand. As someone with deep-set, hooded eyes, this is a total game-changer, as so many bulky wands ultimately transfer product onto my lids or under my eyes. However, it doesn't compromise on volume. This small comb wand, however, catches every lash and deposits just the right amount of product as you sweep it through, helping to give you defined yet full lashes and plenty of length, too. No spidery lashes here.
The tubing formula means that not only does it withstand flaking, smudging or crumbling throughout the day, but it removes effortlessly with just warm water—it just slides off your lashes between your fingertips.
Before and After
As you can see, this mascara delivers on its promises of volumising, without looking heavy or spidery. This is just with one coat, but if you're after a more dramatic effect, it's easily layered up for more intensity without turning clumpy. I like to curl my lashes prior to applying my mascara, and if you have short or straight lashes, I'd recommend not skipping this step.
Clean Lash vs Clean Volume
If you're stuck between which formula to go for, or want to know if you need Clean Volume in your makeup bag too, there are a few key differences to know. Clean Lash delivers a fluttery, natural-looking look, and features a classic bristled wand that gives a feathery-looking flutter. IMO, it's the perfect everyday mascara.
Clean Volume, on the other hand, delivers a more defined yet volumised look. Think more sleek and spiky in the best way. The wand is also flexible in comparison and features tiny bristles that are small yet mighty at delivering the pigment to your lashes. Whichever one you go for, you now have the option of black or brown in each.
Personally, I can justify having both in my makeup bag. Clean Lash remains my favourite everyday mascara, but come evenings when I want a bolder eye look, I'll definitely be switching to Clean Volume for more drama.
My Verdict
Having now tested Clean Volume after the past couple of weeks, I have to say I'm impressed. I'm usually not one for volumising mascara formulas (I personally favour lengthening and curling mascaras), however, Merit Beauty's innovative brush has converted me. It makes it easy to get fuller lashes without running the risk of overloading with too much product, and I also love how long and defined it leaves my lashes, too. It feels light and flexible on my lashes, without feeling heavy like some mascaras do. Oh, and it's a total dream to remove at the end of the day; it just melts away in the shower. If you're in the market for a new mascara that delivers on volume, then I'd highly recommend it.
Shop Clean Volume:
Shop Clean Lash:
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