You're probably right, but honestly I've had really good luck with strong color coverage from MAC mascaras the past couple years. It's easy to get my lashes nearly as brilliant as those in direct light with that Wonder Woman blue Opulash in particular, plus much less clumpy (although the clumpy look has its charms too). I wish my local Pro store wasn't such a PITA to go visit, because I would looooooooooove to mix me up a batch of true red mascara. 'Used to have one in the 80's that was one of my all time favorite eye products!