This mascara creates "tubes" around each individual lash to maximize volume while lengthening and adding curl. The mascara does create a lot of volume, and I am personally very happy with the product. I use it as a base coat under other mascaras. I have not experienced smudging during the day, and the mascara is essentially water-proof from my experience. However, for those of you who prefer a more "natural" look, or don't like the hassle of wearing a mascara that's difficult to remove, you may want to look elsewhere. The brush is very big and can be difficult to manage without touching lids if you have long lashes, but the finished product is full beautiful lashes =)