Maybelline Sky High vs L’Oréal Telescopic: Which Is Better?
These are the two best-known drugstore mascaras in the UK. Both are cheap and both are well reviewed, but they suit different tastes: Sky High gives a soft, fluttery, lengthened look, while Telescopic is about precise, defined length.
Short version: pick Sky High if you want length with a bit of flutter, and Telescopic if you want tidy, separated length.
Quick picks
- Soft and fluttery Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High
- Precise and defined L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original
- Telescopic upgrade L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Extensionist
Side by side
| Maybelline Sky High | L'Oréal Telescopic Original | |
|---|---|---|
| Price (indicative) | About £8 to £13 | About £9 to £13 |
| Brush | Flexible, bends to the lash line | Precise, defining brush |
| Look | Soft, fluttery length | Tidy, separated length |
| Size | 7.2ml | Check the retailer |
| Waterproof version | Yes | Check the retailer |
| Best for | Short or straight lashes, a natural flutter | Defined, neat lashes for work |
Which one should you pick?
If you want the most recommended all-rounder, pick Sky High. If you want the neatest, most defined finish, pick Telescopic. If you want more length for a similar price, try the Telescopic Extensionist, which uses lengthening fibres.
Comparison
| Mascara | Price | Waterproof | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High | About £8 to £13 | No | Soft and fluttery |
| L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original | About £9 to £13 | No | Precise and defined |
| L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Extensionist | About £10 to £11 | No | Telescopic upgrade |
Our picks in detail
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High
The mascara that turns up in nearly every UK round-up, from drugstore guides to Glamour and Wirecutter. A flexible brush stretches lashes out for length with a soft, fluttery finish.
Pros
- Strong length for the price
- Flexible brush reaches small corner lashes
- Widely stocked, often on offer
Cons
- Small 7.2ml tube
- Volume is moderate, not dramatic
Choose it if: People who want clear length and a soft, fluttery finish on a drugstore budget, and anyone with short or straight lashes who wants a mascara that reaches the corner lashes.
Skip it if: Anyone wanting a thick, dramatic false-lash look. It builds length first, and volume is moderate. The 7.2ml tube is small, so it works out pricier per ml than it first looks.
Read the full review of Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High
L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original
A long-running best seller on Amazon UK with a precise, separating brush. It is a safe pick if you want long, defined lashes rather than a big volume look.
Pros
- Precise brush defines every lash
- Lengthening effect
- Affordable and everywhere
Cons
- Less volume than volumising formulas
Choose it if: People who want long, neat, separated lashes more than big volume. Its precise brush gives a defined, tidy finish that works well for work and everyday wear.
Skip it if: Anyone chasing maximum volume or a very fluffy look. A tidy, separated finish is the point of this one.
L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Extensionist
Named best budget mascara by the Guardian and featured by Stylist for stretching lashes with lengthening fibres that grip each lash.
Pros
- Dramatic length for the price
- Fibre formula grips lashes
- Frequently praised by editors
Cons
- Fibre mascaras can be fiddly to remove
- Check ingredients if your eyes are very sensitive
Choose it if: People who want long lashes for little money. The Guardian named it best budget buy, and Stylist features it for stretching lashes with lengthening fibres that grip each lash.
Skip it if: Very sensitive eyes or anyone who dislikes fibre formulas, which can be fiddly to remove and may shed on to the cheek if you rub.
Read the full review of L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Extensionist
Related guides: best drugstore mascara, short, straight lashes.
FAQ
Is Sky High worth the hype?
For the price it is one of the best all-rounders, but some people want more volume than it gives.
Which is better for short lashes?
Sky High's flexible brush reaches corner lashes. The Extensionist gives more length if you want drama.