It’s no secret that makeup enthusiasts like us love Urban Decay. So when one of its founders, Wende Zomnir, announced that she’s launching a new beauty brand called Caliray, we were all ears. Who doesn’t want more products from a makeup industry icon? If you’re just as eager to know more about this newcomer, here’s what Caliray’s about and how it differs from Urban Decay.
Caliray vs. Urban Decay
Let’s face it. Caliray is getting a lot of attention, even if it’s just launched, all thanks to its co-founder Wende Zomnir. So it’s natural to be curious how the old and new brands — both of which Wende manages creative-wise — differ from each other. Here’s what we can tell you: Caliray is definitely a distinct brand. So don’t expect Urban Decay 2.0.
The cosmetic label will be all about that carefree California lifestyle. Think beaches, bikinis and sunny days spent under palm trees. Zesty bright hues dominate its marketing, packaging and social media. An all-around sunshine-y brand, if you will.
It’s a far cry from Wende’s first beauty venture. Urban Decay was all about the chaos of the daily hustle in the city. The first colours the pioneer team of the brand developed were given bleak names like Roach, Acid Rain, and Smog. Even the shades themselves were on the edgy side. These choices were a direct response to the beauty landscape of the time which were dominated by neutrals and typical lipstick colours like red and pink.
So while both are founded by the same woman, the two couldn’t be more different.
As of now, Caliray has launched two eye makeup products: Surfproof Pencil (USD20) and Come Hell Or High Water Mascara (USD24). Both of which are marketed as “clean” products with high performance — something that Wende felt is missing in the beauty industry right now as clean makeup products usually favour a neutral palette.
Wondering how these two Caliray hero products compare to Urban Decay’s popular eyeliner and mascara, the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils and Perversion Waterproof Mascara? We break it down below.
The Surfproof Pencil vs. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils
While marketed differently, The Surfproof Pencil (USD20) and Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils (USD22) have remarkable similarities. Both claim to be waterproof and long-lasting, with the latter promising a non-budge formula and the former boasting up to nine-hour wear. The two are also big on easy and fuss-free application thanks to the products’ smooth but rich texture.
The big difference between Surfproof Pencil and Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils comes in the colour selection and ingredients used. The Surfproof Pencil is currently available in only three shades: night diving (black), secret spot (brown), and the deeeeep (blue), while Urban Decay’s Glide-On Eye Pencils offer a wider selection with 30 different shades and four glitter finishes.
It’s also notable that the Surfproof Pencil, while clean and sustainable, isn’t vegan since it uses some animal-sourced products like carmine (made from boiling insect scales) and beeswax among others. The Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils, on the other hand, are vegan products.
If you’re into alcohol-free products, the Surfproof Pencil is the choice for you. It also has added skincare benefits because it’s formulated with ceramides.
Come Hell Or High Water vs. Perversion Volumizing Mascara
Like the eyeliners, these two mascaras also promise the same results: water-resistant volumised lashes that will last for a long time. Both are also available in only one black shade. For those who like their products vegan, it may disappoint you but neither of these two is free from animal-derived ingredients.
The difference is in the formula. The Come Hell Or High Water (USD24) volumising mascara showcases a “next-gen tubing tech” that will roll off easily from your lashes with the help of warm water and a “little lash massage”. It’s also made with 2% oil for added nourishment. On the other hand, Perversion Volumizing Mascara (USD25) is formulated with hairdensyl for lash growth and marine collagen and honey extract for lash protection.
Both are long-lasting, but we think The Come Hell Or High Water takes the cake because of how easy it is to remove.
Want to get your hands on these? We do, too. However, unfortunately, as of now Caliray only ships in the United States. But we’re hopeful that these products will reach our shores soon. Meanwhile, Urban Decay products are available at Sephora.
Exciting new beauty brands are always welcome, especially if it’s a brainchild of industry veterans and fills a void in the current market. A sustainable, clean beauty brand that’s also colourful and fun? We’re in.
(Cover photo from: @caliray)
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