I also love pairing these mascara colors with seasonal outfits, and if you’re planning your wardrobe, my fall fashion trends 2025 guide breaks down the colors and silhouettes that work beautifully with bold makeup.
Overview
Sky High launched with the classic black shades, but Maybelline has since expanded the line to include seven distinct colors. I received a PR package with four of the newer shades, and I’ve purchased the others on my own to give you the complete breakdown. The formula stays consistent across all Maybelline Sky High mascara colors – you get that same lengthening, buildable texture with the flex tower brush. What changes is the pigment intensity and how each shade complements different eye colors and makeup styles. In my experience testing these in Los Angeles’ bright natural light, the color differences are way more noticeable than I expected. Some shades read almost black from a distance, while others give a distinctly softer or more dimensional look.
All Seven Sky High Colors
Here’s the complete lineup of Maybelline Sky High mascara colors currently available. I’m listing them from most traditional to most adventurous.
Very Black: This is the original shade that made Sky High famous. It’s a true, intense black that photographs beautifully and works for literally everyone. I reach for this when I want maximum drama without thinking too hard about color coordination.
Blackest Black: Slightly deeper than Very Black with more carbon pigment. The difference is subtle but noticeable in direct sunlight. If you have very dark lashes naturally, this is your match.
Cosmic Black: The newest addition to the black family, and honestly my favorite for everyday wear in Los Angeles. It has this gorgeous dimensional quality that catches light differently than flat black. Think of it as black with a hint of depth.
True Brown: A warm, rich brown that looks incredibly natural on lighter lash colors. I love this for daytime looks when I want definition without the intensity of black. It’s especially flattering with brown or hazel eyes.
Colored Mascara Options
The colored Maybelline Sky High mascara shades are where things get interesting. These aren’t your typical subtle tints – they deliver actual color payoff.
Burgundy Haze: A deep wine shade that’s become my go-to for fall and winter looks. It’s bold enough to make a statement but sophisticated enough for work. The burgundy really pops against brown eyes and brings out green tones beautifully.
Pink Air: This soft pink shade was part of the PR package I received, and I was skeptical at first. But it’s genuinely gorgeous for creating that romantic, editorial vibe. The color is buildable – one coat gives a subtle tint, two or three coats deliver full pink lashes.
Blue Mist: A cool-toned blue that’s surprisingly wearable. I thought this would be costume-y, but it actually enhances blue eyes incredibly well and looks stunning with neutral makeup. The shade has enough depth that it doesn’t read juvenile.
Plum Twilight: The newest addition I’ve spotted at Ulta in Los Angeles. It’s a cool-toned plum that sits somewhere between burgundy and purple. Perfect if you want color but find bright purple too intense.
Classic Black Shades Breakdown
Let me get specific about the three black Maybelline Sky High mascara colors, because choosing between them isn’t as straightforward as you’d think.
Very Black is my recommendation for most people. It’s the shade makeup artists reach for because it’s reliably pigmented and works with every skin tone. I’ve used this shade for over a year, and it’s never let me down for both daytime coffee runs and nighttime events in West Hollywood.
Blackest Black has more carbon black pigment, which means it photographs even darker. If you’re creating content or taking lots of photos in Los Angeles’ bright outdoor settings, this shade won’t disappear in harsh sunlight. The trade-off is that it can look slightly harsh with very light makeup.
Cosmic Black is the newest, and it’s quickly becoming my favorite. The dimensional quality means your lashes don’t look flat in photos. Under the California sun, this shade has subtle depth that makes lashes look naturally thick rather than coated.
How to Apply Each Shade
Application technique matters more with colored Maybelline Sky High mascara shades than with traditional black. Here’s what I’ve learned after weeks of testing.
For the black shades (Very Black, Blackest Black, Cosmic Black), use the standard wiggle-and-pull technique. Start at the base of your lashes and wiggle the brush slightly as you pull upward. The flex tower brush does most of the work for you.
True Brown requires a bit more building. I do two coats minimum to get the definition I want. The first coat separates and lengthens, the second coat adds intensity. Let each coat dry for 30 seconds before adding another.
The colored shades (Burgundy Haze, Pink Air, Blue Mist) work best when you’re strategic about placement. I apply one coat to upper and lower lashes for an all-over color effect. If I want something more subtle, I’ll use black on lower lashes and color on uppers only.
Pro tip I learned from testing these in LA’s dry climate: Prime your lashes first if you’re using the lighter colors. Pink Air and Blue Mist show every little flake or clump, so starting with clean, conditioned lashes makes a huge difference.
Sky High Colors in Los Angeles
Living in Los Angeles has completely changed how I think about Maybelline Sky High mascara colors. The year-round sunshine and outdoor lifestyle here means your makeup gets scrutinized in natural light constantly.
Very Black and Cosmic Black are my go-to shades for everyday wear in LA. They hold up beautifully during morning hikes in Runyon Canyon and still look fresh for lunch in Silver Lake. The lengthening effect is especially noticeable in bright California sunlight.
True Brown has become my secret weapon for the natural LA aesthetic. When I’m shooting content in Venice Beach or walking Abbot Kinney, this shade gives me that effortless, sun-kissed look without appearing too done-up. It’s perfect for the laid-back luxury vibe that defines Los Angeles beauty.
The colored Maybelline Sky High mascara shades shine at LA events and nightlife. I wore Burgundy Haze to a rooftop party in Downtown LA, and it photographed beautifully against the city lights. Pink Air is stunning for daytime content creation – it catches light gorgeously in golden hour shots.
Blue Mist surprised me by working incredibly well for beach days. The cool tone complements the ocean backdrop, and it doesn’t look out of place with minimal makeup. I’ve worn it to Santa Monica Pier and gotten so many compliments.
The Mediterranean climate in Los Angeles means minimal humidity, which is great news for these mascaras. They don’t smudge or flake even during long days exploring Melrose or shopping on Rodeo Drive. I’ve tested them in 90-degree heat, and they hold up remarkably well.
For LA influencers and content creators, the variety of Maybelline Sky High mascara colors is a game-changer. You can match your lashes to your outfit, coordinate with eyeshadow, or create signature looks that photograph distinctly. The colored shades especially help your content stand out in a saturated market.
Sky High vs Other Drugstore Mascaras
I’ve tested pretty much every drugstore mascara available at Ulta and Target in Los Angeles, and Sky High’s color range sets it apart. L’Oréal Lash Paradise offers brown and black, but nothing like Burgundy Haze or Pink Air.
Essence Lash Princess comes in fun colors, but the formula doesn’t compare to Sky High’s lengthening power. The Maybelline formula stays flexible and buildable, while cheaper colored mascaras can feel stiff or flaky.
Compared to high-end options like Benefit They’re Real or Too Faced Better Than Sex, Sky High holds its own at a fraction of the price. The color payoff is actually better than some prestige brands I’ve tried. For $12 at any Los Angeles drugstore, you’re getting serious value.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Seven distinct shades give you options for every look and eye color. The variety means you can experiment without committing to expensive prestige brands.
- Formula stays consistent across all colors, so you know what to expect. The same lengthening, buildable texture works whether you’re using Very Black or Pink Air.
- Colored shades deliver actual pigment, not just a subtle tint. Burgundy Haze and Blue Mist show up beautifully even on dark lashes.
- Holds up incredibly well in Los Angeles heat and sunshine. I’ve tested these during 90-degree days, and they don’t smudge or fade.
- Affordable enough to own multiple shades. At around $12 each, you can build a collection without breaking your budget.
- Flex tower brush works perfectly with every color. The separation and length you get is consistent regardless of which shade you choose.
- Available everywhere in LA from Target to Ulta to CVS. You don’t have to hunt down specialty stores or order online.
Cons
- Lighter colors like Pink Air require multiple coats for full opacity. If you want intense color payoff, you’ll need to build it up.
- True Brown can look muddy on very dark lashes. If your natural lashes are black, the brown doesn’t show up as intended.
- Colored shades show flaking more obviously than black. Any tiny bit of fallout is noticeable with burgundy or blue pigment.
- Not all shades available at every retailer. I’ve found the full range at Ulta in Los Angeles, but smaller drugstores might only stock the black shades.
- Washable formula means less staying power than waterproof. If you need all-day wear for events or workouts, the waterproof version only comes in black.
Who This Is Best For
Maybelline Sky High mascara colors are perfect for anyone who wants to experiment with colored mascara without the prestige price tag. If you’ve been curious about burgundy or blue lashes but didn’t want to drop $30 on a tube you might not love, this is your entry point.
The range works beautifully for content creators and influencers in Los Angeles who need variety in their looks. Having multiple shades means you can coordinate with outfits, match seasonal trends, or create signature styles that help your content stand out. I’ve built looks around specific Sky High colors for themed shoots.
If you have lighter hair or lashes, True Brown and the colored shades will look especially natural and flattering on you. The softer tones enhance rather than overpower delicate features. I’ve recommended Pink Air to several blonde friends, and they’ve all loved how wearable it is.
These mascaras suit the LA lifestyle perfectly. The formula holds up during outdoor activities, photographs beautifully in natural light, and transitions easily from casual daytime to elevated evening looks. Whether you’re hiking, brunching, or attending events, there’s a Sky High color that works.
Anyone building a versatile mascara wardrobe on a budget should invest in at least three shades. I recommend starting with Cosmic Black for everyday, True Brown for soft looks, and one colored shade that excites you. That gives you maximum flexibility without overspending.
The colored Maybelline Sky High mascara options are especially great for people with brown or hazel eyes. Burgundy Haze and Blue Mist create stunning contrast that makes your eye color pop. I have brown eyes, and these shades have become my secret weapon for making them look more vibrant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What colors does Maybelline Sky High mascara come in?
Maybelline Sky High mascara colors include Very Black, Blackest Black, Cosmic Black, True Brown, Burgundy Haze, Pink Air, Blue Mist, and the newer Plum Twilight. The range covers classic blacks, natural brown, and bold colored options for different looks and preferences.
Which Sky High mascara color is best for brown eyes?
Burgundy Haze and Blue Mist are stunning on brown eyes because they create beautiful contrast. I have brown eyes and reach for Burgundy Haze constantly – it brings out golden tones and makes my eyes look more vibrant. Cosmic Black is also gorgeous for everyday drama.
Does Sky High mascara work in Los Angeles heat?
Yes, I’ve tested all the Maybelline Sky High mascara colors during LA’s hottest days, and they hold up beautifully. The washable formula doesn’t smudge in heat, though the waterproof version (only available in black) offers even more staying power for intense workouts or beach days.
How do I choose between Very Black and Blackest Black?
Very Black works for most people and most situations. Blackest Black has more intense pigment that photographs darker, which is great for content creation or if you have naturally very dark lashes. I prefer Cosmic Black for the dimensional quality it gives.
Are the colored Sky High mascaras worth trying?
Absolutely, especially at the drugstore price point. The colored Maybelline Sky High mascara shades deliver real pigment and look surprisingly wearable. Start with Burgundy Haze if you want something bold but sophisticated, or Pink Air for a softer, romantic vibe.
Can I layer different Sky High colors?
Yes, layering works beautifully. I sometimes use Very Black as a base coat and then add Burgundy Haze on the tips for an ombré effect. You can also use black on lower lashes and color on uppers for a more subtle approach.
Where can I buy all the Sky High colors in LA?
Ulta stores throughout Los Angeles typically carry the full range of Maybelline Sky High mascara colors. Target and CVS usually stock the black shades and True Brown, but might have limited colored options. I’ve found the best selection at the Ulta in West Hollywood.
Does True Brown show up on dark lashes?
True Brown works best on lighter lash colors. If your natural lashes are very dark or black, the brown won’t show up as intended and can look muddy. It’s perfect for blondes, redheads, or anyone with naturally lighter lashes who wants soft definition.
How long does Sky High mascara last?
The formula lasts about three months once opened, same as most mascaras. In LA’s dry climate, I haven’t had issues with the product drying out prematurely. The colored shades maintain their pigment intensity throughout the tube’s lifespan.
Is Sky High mascara good for sensitive eyes?
I have sensitive eyes and haven’t had issues with any of the Maybelline Sky High mascara colors. The formula is ophthalmologist-tested and suitable for contact lens wearers. That said, everyone’s sensitivity is different, so patch test if you’re concerned.
Final Verdict
Maybelline Sky High mascara colors have completely changed my lash game. Having seven distinct shades means I can match my mascara to my mood, outfit, or the vibe I’m creating. The formula delivers consistent lengthening and separation across every color.
My personal favorites are Cosmic Black for everyday wear in Los Angeles, Burgundy Haze for elevated looks, and True Brown for that natural California girl aesthetic. The colored shades have surprised me by being genuinely wearable rather than costume-y.
At around $12 per tube, you can afford to experiment with multiple shades. I recommend starting with one black (Cosmic Black is my pick), one neutral (True Brown), and one colored shade that excites you. That gives you versatility without overwhelming your collection.
The LA lifestyle demands makeup that photographs well, holds up in sunshine, and transitions from casual to elevated. These mascaras check every box. Whether you’re shooting content in Venice Beach or attending events in Beverly Hills, there’s a Sky High color that works.
Which Maybelline Sky High mascara color are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments, and follow @girlnamedjazz for more LA beauty content!
About the Author
Jasmine is a Los Angeles-based beauty, fashion, and lifestyle content creator specializing in drugstore makeup reviews and accessible beauty. With years of experience testing products in LA’s unique climate and lifestyle, Jasmine helps readers navigate beauty trends while developing personal style. Follow @girlnamedjazz for daily inspiration.
