So you’re looking for an affordable clean mascara that actually WORKS? Girl, same. After years of trying basically EVERY mascara on the market (and spending way too much money at Sephora), I finally decided to give CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara in Pitch Black a try. I’ve been using it consistently for the past month, and I’m ready to spill ALL the tea on whether this budget-friendly clean mascara is worth your time.
First Impressions & Packaging
The mascara comes in a super cute mint green tube that honestly looks way more expensive than it is. I love the modern, clean aesthetic—it’s a nice upgrade from the classic orange tube of the original Lash Blast (which was actually my high school go-to back in the day!). The wand is pretty thick with short silicone bristles rather than traditional brush bristles. This design is supposed to help with separation and definition.
Application Experience
Right off the bat, I noticed that the formula isn’t too wet or too dry—it’s kind of just right. The silicone brush takes a minute to get used to if you’re not familiar with this type of applicator, but I quickly got the hang of it. The short bristles actually make it super easy to get to those tiny inner corner lashes without making a mess.
One thing I REALLY appreciate is that you don’t have to rush like crazy to build coats. With some mascaras, if you don’t work at lightning speed, you end up with spider lashes when trying to add a second coat. Not with this one! You can go back and add more even after the first coat has started to set.
Performance
Let’s talk RESULTS. This mascara definitely delivers on its promise of clean, separated lashes with decent volume. Is it the most dramatic mascara I’ve ever used? No. But for everyday wear, it hits that sweet spot of noticeable definition without looking like you’re wearing falsies to the grocery store.
The formula builds nicely—one coat gives you a natural, defined look (perfect for daytime), and two coats amp it up for more drama. I wouldn’t go beyond three coats though, as it can start to get a bit clumpy if you layer too much.
What makes this mascara STAND OUT from others I’ve tried:
- Zero flaking throughout the day (a MAJOR win)
- No smudging under my eyes (even after 10+ hours)
- Doesn’t make my eyes itch or water (a problem I’ve had with many mascaras)
- Washes off easily with regular face wash (no expensive makeup remover needed!)
Longevity
This mascara seriously LASTS. I’ve worn it through 12+ hour workdays, and it’s still looking good by the time I get home. It’s not technically waterproof, but it has decent water resistance—it won’t immediately melt down your face in humidity or light rain, but don’t expect it to survive a full-on crying session or swimming.
The tube itself also doesn’t dry out quickly like some other mascaras I’ve tried. I’m a month in and it’s still applying smoothly.
For Sensitive Eyes
If you have sensitive eyes like me, finding mascara that doesn’t cause irritation can be SUCH a struggle. I’ve had to toss so many expensive mascaras after just one use because they made my eyes burn or water like crazy.
This Clean formula is a GAME CHANGER for sensitive eyes. Several reviewers with sensitivity issues mentioned that this is one of the few mascaras they can wear comfortably all day. I haven’t experienced any irritation whatsoever, even when I’ve accidentally fallen asleep wearing it (I know, I know—skincare sin!).
The Clean Formula Factor
Let’s talk about what “clean” actually means here. CoverGirl’s Clean line is:
- Vegan formula
- Cruelty-free (CoverGirl is now Leaping Bunny certified)
- Free from parabens, sulfates, talc, and mineral oil
For the price point, finding a drugstore mascara with these credentials is pretty impressive. If you’re trying to clean up your beauty routine without breaking the bank, this is a solid option.
The Not-So-Great Stuff
Okay, let me keep it 100% real with you—this mascara isn’t perfect.
Some reviewers (and I occasionally agree) mentioned these downsides:
- It doesn’t deliver DRAMATIC volume—if you want falsie-level lashes, this ain’t it
- The formula can be a bit dry for some people (though I personally found it just right)
- Some users experienced flaking later in the day (I didn’t have this issue, but several reviewers mentioned it)
- A few people complained about clumping (I found this only happens if you apply too many coats)
- The brush is pretty thick, which some people with smaller eyes might find challenging
It’s also worth noting that a handful of users reported getting an old or dried-out product when ordering online. This seems to be more of a seller issue than a product issue, but something to be aware of.
Value For Money
At around $7-9 depending where you buy it, this mascara is seriously GOOD VALUE. I’ve used $25+ mascaras that didn’t perform nearly as well. Several reviewers mentioned switching from high-end brands to this one and being pleasantly surprised by how it compared to their expensive favorites.
The cost-per-wear makes this a no-brainer if you’re trying to save some cash without sacrificing quality.
Who Should Buy This?
This mascara is PERFECT for you if:
- You have sensitive eyes or wear contacts
- You want defined, separated lashes with moderate volume
- You prefer a more natural everyday look (that can be built up when needed)
- You’re moving toward cleaner beauty products
- You’re tired of spending big bucks on high-end mascaras
- You hate dealing with flaking and smudging throughout the day
Skip this if:
- You’re looking for DRAMATIC volume and length
- You need a truly waterproof formula
- You prefer traditional brush applicators over silicone
- You have very short lashes (some users with short lashes found the brush too big)
Real Results from Real People
What really convinced me about this mascara was seeing how it performed across different lash types. Here’s what various reviewers said:
“I have tiny, stubby lashes and this makes them look long and defined!”
“My daughter and I both love this – stays on well during the day but washes off easily at night.”
“I’ve spent SO MUCH on Sephora mascaras and this is better than products double the price.”
“As someone with sensitive eyes, this is the ONLY mascara that doesn’t make my eyes burn and water.”
“I never thought I’d go back to my high school mascara, but here we are! Love that it’s now clean and cruelty-free.”
The Final Verdict
After wearing this mascara daily for a month and reading through tons of reviews, I’m giving CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara 4 out of 5 stars.
It delivers on most of its promises—clean ingredients, good volume (though not dramatic), no smudging, and easy removal. The fact that it’s affordable, widely available, and works for sensitive eyes makes it a solid choice for everyday wear.
Is it the most revolutionary mascara I’ve ever tried? No. But it’s reliable, budget-friendly, and performs better than many higher-end options I’ve tried.
If you’re looking for a clean, cruelty-free mascara that won’t break the bank or irritate your eyes, THIS IS IT. I’ve already repurchased and plan to keep it in my regular rotation.
BOTTOM LINE: This mascara isn’t trying to be anything it’s not. It’s a solid, dependable, clean mascara that gets the job done for everyday wear without the drama (both lash drama and irritation drama!). For under $10, you really can’t go wrong giving it a try.
Have you tried the CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara? I’d love to hear your experience with it!
Buy on Amazon: Here
