Unlike scores of impossibly gorgeous celebs, I wasn't blessed with long, voluminous eyelashes (or the box-office bank account to invest in extensions). And while there are lots of supposedly full-bodied formulas on the market, most do precious little to boost my microscopic spikes beyond their frail, stubby state. That is, until I tried Philosophy Big Gorgeous Eyes Mascara ($22; sephora.com)—a product that truly delivers on its promise to "thicken and lengthen each lash to perfection." Those of you who are length-challenged will understand that I was skeptical when I tested Big Gorgeous Eyes for the first time. But after two swift strokes of the generously bristled wand, I was not only in love my newfound length and volume; I was amazed that instead of the usual clumps, the formula defined each and every lash. So it lengthens, thickens, and separates—great. But did my lashes sustain their luxurious look? As it turns out, they did. No smearing, no flaking, no irritation—even after an entire day spent running errands in the New York City heat. —Marissa Kristal

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