Ive been using LOreal Telescopic Mascara Blackest Black since about November, now. Overall, the shade isnt as dark as Carbon Black. Its far from a crisis and literally no one but me notices. Im not unhappy with it, but it isnt quite the same. Im pretty impressed by this mascara. It does what it claims and Im loving the effect. I have to give LOreal Telescopic two big thumbs up! first off, its blacker than black so you get intense definition and stand-out lashes before we even begin talking length which it delivers in a big way. the brush separates everything out beautifully and doesnt clump not one bit! for long, glossy, gorgeous black lashes. i love the fanned-out look that this gives to my eyes and smudging is nonexistent.