This does elongate my lashes although I bought the volume curling one! I already have long lashes, but they're pretty sparse so I needed more volume. This mascara adds more body to them, and although I didn't need any more length, it still does add more length. Not that I am complaining :) Oh and it doesnt smudge. That's the best part. To remove, yep, this is where you need an oil cleanser or balm, as you will need a little more time removing them. All in all, I would purchase this again.