It’s a well-known fact that the only real difference between a marvelous mascara and a miserable mascara has nothing to do with the mascara itself - it’s all about the brush. And finally, after almost twenty years of searching, I’ve found my perfect mascara soul-mate.

Price: $6.39 at target.com

I’ve been using the Almay i-Color line for a few years because I love the way it’s custom-designed to bring out the green of my eyes. Their liquid liner is wonderful, but I’d never tried their mascara. Then, a few weeks ago, out of desperation, I tried their Intense i-Color Mascara with “light interplay.” The “interplay” is a very scientific-sounding way to say “subtle sparkles,” which I love. It’s a little added shimmer to an already think, lush formula.

The mascara is available in four colors: Chocolate Quartz for green eyes, Black Flash for brown eyes, Black Steel for blue eyes, and Black Emerald for hazel eyes. The highlight effect really is subtle, and the colors are rich, gorgeous. It washes off easily with a soft washcloth and warm water; you don’t need any sort of make-up remover, and you don’t need multiple coats.

Best of all, though, is the applicator brush. It’s soft, thick, with thousands of supple little bristles. It’s the most generous brush I’ve ever used, and it prevent clumps in a way that even the priciest mascaras can’t. Even the skimpiest lashes are separated and individually coated, easily doubling their thickness and length. It’s a miracle brush!

Overall, for the price, you won’t find a better mascara, or a better brush. Try it, and you’ll love it too!