'I tried the at-home mascara hack that makes lash extensions a thing of the past.'

Thanks to our brand partner, L'Oréal Paris

Raise your hand if you love the look of lash extensions but can't be bothered with the commitment. I mean the cost, the upkeep, the "not getting them wet for 24 hours"… it's a lot.

Enter my new obsession: a viral mascara hack that promises lash-extension-level drama, all from the comfort of your bathroom.

I do it with my new fave beauty find, the L'Oréal Paris Paradise Big Deal Mascara. Think volume, think length, think lashes that look like they were fanned by angels.

And best of all — it's clump-free and fuss-free (and actually not too good to be true — just look at my before-and-after pictures).

So, what's the hack? It's genius in its simplicity, because it takes nearly no time. Some might say it's a beauty shortcut offering maximum impact for minimal effort.

Let me take you through how I do it step-by-step, so you can follow along at home.

How I tried it.

Step one: Close your eyes and start at the tips of your lashes. Instead of the usual root-to-tip sweep, we're flipping the script. Hold the L'Oréal Paris Big Deal wand vertically and swipe sideways across the lash tips.

Start with the wand vertically, moving side to side on the tips of the lashes. Image: Supplied.

Step two: Still got your eyes closed? Place the wand horizontally and swipe up and down along the tips to really coat them one more time.

Flip the wand horizontally again like normal but just coat the tips. Image: Supplied.

Step three: Open your eyes and, finally, sweep the Big Deal mascara from root to tip. Don't skip those inner lashes — they're small but mighty.

Step four: Without adding more product, coat the lashes again from root to tip to build volume without clumps.

Step five: Grab a dry spoolie and brush them out.

If you've accidentally got mascara on your skin, wait for it to dry and then use the spoolie or a dry Q-tip to flick it off (another hack so you don't smear it into your foundation).

A spoolie brush is your best friend in mascara application. Image: Supplied.

Step six (optional): Layer on the L'Oréal Paris Panorama Mascara for panoramic, corner-to-corner drama. Honestly, Big Deal is enough on its own, but if you're after that red-carpet effect, Panorama takes it to the next level.

I added a layer of Panorama for extra oomph. Image: Supplied.

Why it works.

These are not your mother's mascaras. Mascara formulas have come a long way in the last 10 years, and the L'Oréal Paris Big Deal Mascara is proof in the pudding of this new wave. It's lightweight, it's actually buildable and it's specifically engineered for creating that "false-lash" effect.

The secret lies in its smooth, clump-proof formula and hybrid-length bristle brush — every swipe separates, defines and lifts.

My lashes after trying the hack? Notably longer, fanned out and voluminous without feeling heavy.

It's the kind of effect that makes you do a double-take in the mirror.

UMMMM!!!!! The results speak for themselves. Image: Supplied.

If you layer with Panorama Mascara, you get extra fanned-out volume that really opens up the eyes. 

Tips for getting it right at home.

I always suggest using an eyelash curler first. Unfortunately, not all of us are born with lashes that naturally curl, so it will help straight lashes stand up and shine.

Also, don't forget the inner corner of your eye. They might be small lashes but when they're coated and lengthened they can make a big difference to the final result. Don't skip them.

Finally, be sure to layer strategically. Use the Big Deal as your base, going carefully and patiently followed by Panorama as your optional finishing touch. You won't regret the extra five-second step in the morning when everyone is complimenting your long, fluttery lashes.

Honestly, once you get the hang of the tip-first technique, it becomes second nature. And there's something so satisfying about watching your lashes transform with each swipe.

Such a win. Image: Supplied.

Why I'm obsessed.

I've tried plenty of mascaras over the years — some promising the moon, many barely making a dent. But this hack, combined with the Big Deal mascara, felt different. It's simple, fast and genuinely transformative.

Even after coffee, a Zoom call and an evening drink with my bestie, my lashes stayed put.

You can even touch it up later in the day without it getting all thick and dry, which is actually a game-changer when going from day to night with your makeup look, as I did today.

I mean… look at the difference. Image: Supplied.

Here's the TL;DR. 

Honestly, there's something very satisfying about achieving lash-extension-level drama at home.

It saves money, time and the stress of booking appointments. And for those of us who like a little fun in our beauty routine, it's a total win.

If you're tired of over-hyped mascaras that flop, or just want a fuss-free way to amp up your lashes, this combo is everything. It's fast, effective and gives that coveted false-lash look without the drama of actual falsies.

Make your lashes a Big Deal.

Shop the L'Oréal Paris Paradise Big Deal Mascara online or in-store.

Feature Image: Supplied.

Get ready for lashes that demand attention with L'Oréal Paris Big Deal Mascara! This game-changing formula delivers intense volume and show-stopping length, transforming your look in a single swipe. Say goodbye to timid lashes and hello to a bold, amplified gaze that lasts all day. Its unique brush coats every lash from root to tip, ensuring no lash is left behind. Elevate your makeup routine and make a serious statement — because your lashes deserve the spotlight! Discover the big deal for yourself.