Here's why I had to try Fairydrops Scandal Queen Mascara: a new(ish) product, cute packaging, a gimmicky brush, and the coveted "made in Japan" label. This spells irresistible, even if I have no idea who is Aya Yasuda, the TV personality credited with creating Scandal Queen for Fairydrops (I understand the brand has other products, but Scandal Queen is the only one offered at Sephora US).
I was curious about the wand more than about the actual formula. The brush head is slightly curved, which we've all seen before, but also consists of three bulbs, making the middle one stick forward. Sephora's website and the mascara box give this directions for use:
-Beginning with the middle ball, gently rock the wand back and forth as you draw and curl your lashes upwards.
-After initial application with the entire wand, use the tip to precisely define and extend target areas.
-Remove with warm water.I have to say that at least for my lashes there was no dramatic effect that made Fairydrops Scandal Queen stand out. Unless one's eye shape is an exact match to the curve of this brush, coating the lashes evenly becomes an exercise in patience and fine motor skills. Even then, the fibrous formula might end up clumping on one side while looking sparse on another. Using the ball at the tip of the wand is not a new idea. Givenchy and a few imitators already showed us that this is a key in reaching the shortest wimpiest lashes and extending them with truly "wow" results. So, yes, this aspect of Fairydrops Scandal Queen mascara truly works, but the curve of the head makes it a bit awkward to maneuver. As for the promise for a good curling effect and hold, the mascara doesn't save you from having to spend quality time with your lash curler (the only part of applying makeup that I detest), and doesn't hold it any better than the average high quality mascara, but your mileage may vary greatly, depending on the cooperativeness of your lashes.
On the upside, Fairydrops Scandal Queen didn't bother my eyes, smudge, or migrate, so the formula is pretty decent in that regard. I just wish that if Sephora is already bringing interesting Japanese brands, they'll focus on the really good ones.
Bottom Line: meh.
Fairydrops Scandal Queen Mascara ($24) is available from Sephora, online and in store.
You get the exact same shape of brush with 'Sexy Curves' from Rimmel London, for a fraction of the price. Now I don't know about the formulation itself.
ReplyDeleteIsn't the brush shape very similar to the Diorshow Extase mascara? That one has three bulbs too, although I'm not sure that it does much more than any other volumizing mascara.
ReplyDeleteStill, the Asian brands seem to be ahead of the West when it comes to mascara (although Givenchy seems to be able to keep up with them, doing it's own thing).
That brush is scary!
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