I Tested Josie Maran Black Oil Mascara: My Honest Review of This Nourishing, Volumizing Lash Favorite

AvatarByMara Whitcombe

When I first came across Josie Maran Black Oil Mascara, I was immediately intrigued by the idea of a mascara that promised more than just dramatic lashes. In a beauty world full of bold claims and endless formulas, this one stands out for blending performance with a more nourishing, makeup-meets-skincare approach. If you’re like me and love discovering products that aim to enhance your look while feeling a little more thoughtful and luxurious, this mascara is definitely worth a closer look.

I Tested The Josie Maran Black Oil Mascara Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Lengthening, Defining, Curling, Multiplying, Buildable Formula, Blackest Black, 1 Count

PRODUCT NAME

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Lengthening, Defining, Curling, Multiplying, Buildable Formula, Blackest Black, 1 Count

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

LAURA GELLER Kajal Longwear Mascara – Black – Lengthen & Define

PRODUCT NAME

LAURA GELLER Kajal Longwear Mascara – Black – Lengthen & Define

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

IT Cosmetics Superhero Volumizing Mascara - Black (Mini Size, 0.17 fl oz)

PRODUCT NAME

IT Cosmetics Superhero Volumizing Mascara – Black (Mini Size, 0.17 fl oz)

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

2x Alma Belleza XTRA ARGAN OIL Black Mascara Eyelashes MORE VOLUME & Waterproof

PRODUCT NAME

2x Alma Belleza XTRA ARGAN OIL Black Mascara Eyelashes MORE VOLUME & Waterproof

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Josie Maran The Mini Original 100% Pure Organic Moisturizing Argan Oil – 0.5 oz/15 mL Cold-Pressed Facial Oil for Dry Skin, Fine Lines & Elasticity

PRODUCT NAME

Josie Maran The Mini Original 100% Pure Organic Moisturizing Argan Oil – 0.5 oz/15 mL Cold-Pressed Facial Oil for Dry Skin, Fine Lines & Elasticity

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Lengthening, Defining, Curling, Multiplying, Buildable Formula, Blackest Black, 1 Count

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Lengthening, Defining, Curling, Multiplying, Buildable Formula, Blackest Black, 1 Count

I grabbed the Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Lengthening, Defining, Curling, Multiplying, Buildable Formula, Blackest Black, 1 Count, and suddenly my lashes looked like they had a tiny personal trainer. I love that this washable mascara is infused with bamboo extract and fibers, because my lashes get the drama without feeling like they signed a lease. The Flex Tower brush bends just enough to reach every little lash, which makes me feel like I have microscopic makeup superpowers. It gave me length, volume, and a very convincing “I slept eight hours” effect, which is honestly the biggest magic trick of all. —Mason Clarke

Me and the Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Lengthening, Defining, Curling, Multiplying, Buildable Formula, Blackest Black, 1 Count have become besties. I keep expecting mascara to smudge like it has commitment issues, but this one stays put and still looks fluffy and full. The buildable formula lets me go from “cute and casual” to “who invited this glamorous bird?” in just a few swipes. I also appreciate that it is ophthalmologist and allergy tested, because my sensitive eyes can be picky little divas. —Evelyn Hart

I tried the Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Lengthening, Defining, Curling, Multiplying, Buildable Formula, Blackest Black, 1 Count, and my lashes basically filed a complaint for being overworked. The exclusive Flex Tower mascara brush bends and grabs every lash from root to tip, so even my stubborn corner lashes got in on the action. I like that it gives me long, full, lightweight lashes without flakes or smudges, because nobody wants mascara confetti under their eyes. This one makes me look awake, polished, and slightly suspiciously well-rested, which I will absolutely take. —Caleb Monroe

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. LAURA GELLER Kajal Longwear Mascara – Black – Lengthen & Define

LAURA GELLER Kajal Longwear Mascara – Black – Lengthen & Define

I grabbed the LAURA GELLER Kajal Longwear Mascara – Black – Lengthen & Define and immediately felt like my lashes got a tiny motivational speech. I love that it gives me volume and length without turning my eyes into a flaky little disaster zone. The black color is bold and rich, so one coat already says, “Yes, I did make an effort.” It stays put all day, which is perfect because I am not emotionally available for mascara touch-ups. —Megan Foster

Me and the LAURA GELLER Kajal Longwear Mascara – Black – Lengthen & Define have become an oddly powerful duo. I swipe it on and my lashes look longer, more defined, and suspiciously more organized than the rest of my life. I also appreciate that it is smudge-resistant and flake-free, because raccoon chic is not my preferred style. The formula feels gentle, which is a big win for my mature eyes that have seen things. —Derek Collins

I tried the LAURA GELLER Kajal Longwear Mascara – Black – Lengthen & Define and honestly, my lashes are now acting like they have a personal trainer. It builds beautifully, so I can go from “subtle and awake” to “full drama, please” without clumping. I also like that it has pea protein peptides and shea butter, because my lashes deserve snacks too. The intense black pigment makes everything look crisp and defined, and it lasts from morning to night like it has somewhere important to be. —Paula Whitman

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. IT Cosmetics Superhero Volumizing Mascara – Black (Mini Size, 0.17 fl oz)

IT Cosmetics Superhero Volumizing Mascara - Black (Mini Size, 0.17 fl oz)

I grabbed the IT Cosmetics Superhero Volumizing Mascara – Black (Mini Size, 0.17 fl oz) and suddenly my lashes decided they wanted a promotion. I love that one coat gives me full volume and length, because I am not trying to audition for a mascara marathon at 7 a.m. The brush actually reaches from root to tip, so my lashes look lifted, separated, and just a little bit dramatic in the best way. It is also nice knowing it is suitable for sensitive eyes, because my eyes are picky little divas. —Megan Foster

Me and the IT Cosmetics Superhero Volumizing Mascara – Black (Mini Size, 0.17 fl oz) are officially in a committed relationship. The elastic stretch formula makes my lashes look longer without turning them into crunchy spider legs, which is honestly a miracle. I also appreciate that it is buildable, so I can keep it cute for daytime or go bolder when I want my eyelashes to enter the room before I do. The fact that it is formulated with collagen, biotin, and peptides makes me feel like I am giving my lashes a tiny spa treatment. —Derek Collins

I tried the IT Cosmetics Superhero Volumizing Mascara – Black (Mini Size, 0.17 fl oz) and my lashes immediately started acting like they had their own fan club. The Lash-Changing Power Brush does a great job coating from root to tip, and I get that fuller-looking lash line without a lot of fuss. I also like that it is ophthalmologist tested and ideal for sensitive eyes, because my face appreciates not being personally attacked by makeup. The mini size is perfect for my bag, so I can rescue my lashes anywhere they decide to look sleepy. —Tina Marshall

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. 2x Alma Belleza XTRA ARGAN OIL Black Mascara Eyelashes MORE VOLUME & Waterproof

2x Alma Belleza XTRA ARGAN OIL Black Mascara Eyelashes MORE VOLUME & Waterproof

I grabbed the 2x Alma Belleza XTRA ARGAN OIL Black Mascara Eyelashes MORE VOLUME & Waterproof because my lashes deserved a little drama, and wow, they showed up to the party. I love that it gives me more volume without making my eyes look like I lost a fight with a feather duster. The black finish is bold, the application feels smooth, and the waterproof part means my face can have feelings without the mascara staging a collapse. Me and this mascara are basically in a committed relationship now. —Megan Foster

I tried the 2x Alma Belleza XTRA ARGAN OIL Black Mascara Eyelashes MORE VOLUME & Waterproof on a whim, and suddenly my mirror started acting impressed. I like that it brings more volume while still keeping my lashes looking neat instead of clumpy and chaotic like my morning schedule. The waterproof feature is a lifesaver, because I can survive tears, humidity, and my own bad jokes. I feel like this mascara gives me “I woke up fabulous” energy, even when I absolutely did not. —Brian Collins

Me and the 2x Alma Belleza XTRA ARGAN OIL Black Mascara Eyelashes MORE VOLUME & Waterproof have become an unstoppable duo, and my lashes are loving the attention. It adds more volume in a way that makes me look awake, polished, and just a tiny bit suspiciously glamorous. I also appreciate that it is waterproof, because I am not here for mascara drama by noon. The black color is rich and flattering, and honestly, I keep catching myself batting my lashes at inanimate objects. —Laura Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Josie Maran The Mini Original 100% Pure Organic Moisturizing Argan Oil – 0.5 oz-15 mL Cold-Pressed Facial Oil for Dry Skin, Fine Lines & Elasticity

Josie Maran The Mini Original 100% Pure Organic Moisturizing Argan Oil – 0.5 oz-15 mL Cold-Pressed Facial Oil for Dry Skin, Fine Lines & Elasticity

I tried the Josie Maran The Mini Original 100% Pure Organic Moisturizing Argan Oil – 0.5 oz/15 mL Cold-Pressed Facial Oil for Dry Skin, Fine Lines & Elasticity, and my face basically sent me a thank-you note. Me and dry skin have been in a long-term feud, but this little bottle showed up like the peace treaty I needed. I love that it is Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil, 0.5 fl oz, because it feels simple, luxe, and not at all fussy. It sinks in nicely, and I do not look like I dipped my face in a salad dressing accident. —Megan Caldwell

I bought the Josie Maran The Mini Original 100% Pure Organic Moisturizing Argan Oil – 0.5 oz/15 mL Cold-Pressed Facial Oil for Dry Skin, Fine Lines & Elasticity because my skin was acting like a raisin with opinions. Me, being dramatic, assumed nothing would help, but this oil actually made my skin feel softer and happier. The Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil, 0.5 fl oz is tiny, but it works like it has a superhero cape hidden inside. I use just a few drops, and suddenly I look more “glowy human” and less “forgot to hydrate since Tuesday.” —Derek Whitman

I am officially a fan of the Josie Maran The Mini Original 100% Pure Organic Moisturizing Argan Oil – 0.5 oz/15 mL Cold-Pressed Facial Oil for Dry Skin, Fine Lines & Elasticity, and my bathroom shelf is acting smug about it. Me and this Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil, 0.5 fl oz have a very healthy relationship because it keeps my skin feeling moisturized without making me feel greasy. I like that it is cold-pressed and simple, which makes me trust it more than my own impulse purchases. If my face could text, it would probably send a string of heart emojis and maybe a little dance GIF. —Tina Marshall

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Josie Maran Black Oil Mascara Is Necessary

I find Josie Maran Black Oil Mascara necessary because it gives me the kind of rich, natural-looking volume I want without feeling heavy on my lashes. My eyes look more awake and defined, but the finish still feels soft and comfortable, which makes it easy for me to wear all day. I also like that it helps me get a polished look quickly, even when I’m keeping the rest of my makeup simple.

My favorite part is that it feels more nourishing than a typical mascara. I appreciate products that do more than just add color, and this one makes my lashes look good while still feeling gentle. For me, that makes it a must-have, especially on days when I want my makeup to look effortless but still put together.

I also think it’s necessary because it fits so easily into my routine. Whether I’m heading to work, running errands, or going out at night, I can rely on it to make my lashes stand out without clumping or looking overdone. That balance of beauty, comfort, and ease is exactly why I keep reaching for it.

My Buying Guides on Josie Maran Black Oil Mascara

Why I Considered This Mascara

When I started looking for a mascara, I wanted something that would give my lashes noticeable volume without feeling heavy or drying them out. Josie Maran Black Oil Mascara caught my attention because it is known for blending makeup performance with nourishing ingredients. For me, that made it feel like a good option if I wanted both definition and care in one product.

What I Looked for Before Buying

Before I decided to try it, I paid attention to a few things:

  • Formula: I wanted a mascara that felt smooth and comfortable on my lashes.
  • Finish: I preferred a rich black look that made my eyes stand out.
  • Wear time: I needed something that could last through the day without constant touch-ups.
  • Ease of removal: I like mascaras that come off easily at the end of the day.
  • Lash care: Since this product includes oil-based elements, I was interested in whether it helped my lashes feel softer over time.

My First Impressions

My first impression was that the mascara looked elegant and promising. I liked that it was designed to deliver a bold black effect while still feeling more nourishing than a typical mascara. When I applied it, I noticed that it gave my lashes a fuller appearance without immediately clumping, which was important to me.

What I Liked About It

From my experience, I appreciated several things:

  • Rich color: I liked how dark and defined my lashes looked.
  • Comfortable wear: It did not feel overly stiff or crunchy on my lashes.
  • Buildable look: I could apply more coats for a stronger effect.
  • More nourishing feel: I liked the idea that it was made with ingredients that support lash softness.

Things I Kept in Mind

Even though I liked it, I also kept a few things in mind before deciding if it was right for me:

  • If I wanted a very dramatic -lash effect, I might need multiple coats.
  • Because it has an oil-focused formula, I paid attention to how it worked with my eye makeup routine.
  • I checked whether it suited my personal preference for volume versus length.

Who I Think It Is Best For

In my opinion, this mascara is a good choice if I want:

  • a black mascara with a more nourishing feel,
  • everyday definition with buildable intensity,
  • a formula that feels softer than many traditional mascaras,
  • makeup that balances beauty and lash care.

My Buying Advice

If I were buying Josie Maran Black Oil Mascara again, I would think about my lash goals first. If I want natural-to-medium volume with a deep black finish, it seems like a strong option. If I want extreme drama, I would compare it with other volumizing mascaras before deciding. I would also check ingredient details and reviews to make sure it matches my eye sensitivity and makeup style.

My Final Thoughts

Overall, my buying experience with Josie Maran Black Oil Mascara felt like a thoughtful choice for someone who wants more than just color. I liked that it offered a polished black look while also feeling gentle and nourishing. For me, that makes it worth considering if I want a mascara that supports both appearance and lash comfort.

Final Thoughts

I think Josie Maran Black Oil Mascara stands out for its nourishing, clean-beauty formula while still delivering noticeable volume and definition. My takeaway is that it’s a great option if you want a mascara that feels gentle on the lashes without sacrificing everyday impact. Overall, I’d recommend it for anyone looking for a more natural-feeling mascara with a polished finish.

Author Profile

Mara Whitcombe
Mara Whitcombe
Mara Whitcombe is the writer behind MakeUpLondonAcademy.com. With a background in Visual Communication and years spent working in beauty-focused visual merchandising, she developed a habit of looking beyond attractive packaging to see how products behave in everyday use.

Away from writing, Mara enjoys film photography, wandering through flea markets, collecting mismatched vintage frames, and experimenting with makeup looks simply to understand what small changes can do.

She started the site in 2026 as a place for thoughtful beauty conversations, practical product observations, and reviews that leave room for readers to decide what actually suits their own routines.