Hey beauty friends! Today I’m diving deep into the CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Waterproof Mascara in Black Brown. I’ve spent weeks testing this mascara and gathered feedback from dozens of other users to give you the REAL scoop on whether this clean beauty option is worth your money. Let’s get into it!
Quick Stats
- Product: CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Waterproof Mascara
- Shade: Black Brown
- Claims: Volumizing, smudge-proof, waterproof, vegan formula, cruelty-free
First Impressions
When I first got my hands on this mascara, I was pretty excited to try a “clean” option from such a well-known brand. CoverGirl has been stepping up their game with more eco-conscious and cleaner formulas, and as someone with sensitive eyes, I’m always on the lookout for gentler options.
The packaging is that recognizable blue tube CoverGirl is known for, though some users noted slight variations in the blue shade compared to the regular Lash Blast formula. The wand is… well, it’s HUGE! This is definitely something to keep in mind if you prefer more precise application.
Application Experience
OK, so here’s where things get interesting – the application experience seems to be WILDLY inconsistent across users! My personal experience was decent after the first few uses (it did seem to improve over time), but there’s no denying this is a polarizing product.
For me, the formula felt a bit thick but manageable. However, many users reported:
- Clumpy application right from the first use
- A formula that’s either too thick OR strangely thin (which seems weird!)
- Difficulty in application due to the large brush size
- Needing to wipe excess product off the brush before applying
One thing I noticed personally is that it takes a bit longer to dry between coats compared to other mascaras I’ve used. This can lead to those annoying black specks on your skin if you blink too soon (we’ve all been there!).
Performance
The Good:
- When it works, it WORKS! Many users (myself included) found that it gives impressive length and curl-holding power
- The Black Brown shade is gorgeous – a nice alternative if you find black too harsh
- Several users with sensitive eyes reported NO irritation (huge win!)
- When properly applied and dried, it generally doesn’t flake throughout the day
- For many users, it lived up to the waterproof claim (though not for everyone!)
The Not-So-Good:
- Inconsistent waterproof performance – some users reported raccoon eyes after light rain
- Some experienced smudging under the eyes later in the day
- Can feel heavy on the lashes for some users
- A few reported the formula drying out quickly in the tube
For Sensitive Eyes
This is actually where the mascara shines brightest! I have pretty sensitive eyes myself and was pleasantly surprised that this didn’t cause irritation. Multiple reviews specifically mentioned:
- No burning sensation (which is common with many mascaras)
- No itching or redness
- Works well for contact lens wearers
- Good option for those looking to switch to cleaner beauty products
One Spanish-speaking reviewer mentioned: “I’m very satisfied with this product, my eyes get irritated very easily, so I can’t wear any eye makeup, but this mascara hasn’t bothered me at all. I highly recommend it.”
However! A few users did report eye irritation and stinging if the product gets into your eyes, so it’s not perfect for everyone.
The WATERPROOF Factor
Since this is specifically marketed as a waterproof mascara, let’s talk about how it performs in that department:
- Most users found it genuinely waterproof for swimming and outdoor activities
- It holds up extremely well in humid environments
- Some found it performed better than expected during crying sessions (hey, we all have them!)
- However, some users reported it failing the waterproof test with even light drizzle
One user noted something interesting – they found the non-waterproof version of this same mascara actually performed BETTER in terms of not smudging. So weird, right?!
Removal Process
OK, here’s where things get TRICKY. This is definitely not a “splash with water and it’s gone” kind of mascara!
The majority of users (including myself) found this mascara VERY difficult to remove. I’m talking:
- Needing an oil-based remover (non-negotiable!)
- Multiple rounds of cleansing
- Still finding traces the next morning
- Some reported losing lashes during the removal process (yikes!)
One reviewer who’d been using it for two years shared her method: “All waterproof mascaras can be tough to remove but I use an oil cleanser and a gentle cleanser and it usually gets it off without scrubbing too hard.”
While the stubborn staying power is exactly what some people want, others found it frustratingly difficult to remove completely.
The Clean Beauty Angle
This mascara is marketed as part of CoverGirl’s “Clean” line, featuring a vegan formula that’s cruelty-free. Several users specifically sought it out for these qualities:
- One reviewer mentioned using apps like EWG and Think Dirty to verify its “clean” credentials
- Those looking to overhaul their makeup routine with cleaner options were drawn to this
- The vegan formula is a plus for ethically-conscious consumers
However, the “clean” formula doesn’t necessarily mean it works better! It’s just an additional consideration for those specifically seeking more natural ingredients.
Value for Money
At its price point (which varies depending on where you purchase), this mascara sits in the drugstore/affordable category. Most users who had a positive experience felt it was worth the money, especially considering it’s a clean beauty option. Those who had issues with application or removal obviously felt differently!
Who Should Try This Mascara?
Based on the collective experiences:
- People with sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers
- Those looking for a genuinely waterproof option for swimming or outdoor activities
- Anyone interested in exploring cleaner beauty formulas without breaking the bank
- People who don’t mind putting in extra effort during removal for the sake of staying power
- Those who prefer a dramatic lash look and don’t mind a thicker formula
Who Should Skip It?
- Anyone who prefers quick and easy makeup removal
- Those who prioritize a clump-free, precise application
- People who have had sensitivity to other CoverGirl formulas
- Anyone who dislikes larger mascara wands
- Those looking for a natural, lightweight lash look
My Final Thoughts
After weeks of testing and comparing notes with other users, I’m honestly a bit torn on this one! On one hand, when it works, it creates beautiful, voluminous lashes that last through tears, sweat, and rain. The clean formula is gentler on sensitive eyes, which is a HUGE plus.
On the other hand, the inconsistent application experience and the extremely stubborn removal process make it less than ideal for everyday use for many people.
I think the deciding factor comes down to your personal priorities. If waterproof staying power and a clean formula are your top concerns, and you don’t mind the extra removal effort, this could become your holy grail mascara! If you prioritize ease of application and removal, you might want to look elsewhere.
For me personally? I’ll keep it in my summer makeup bag for pool days and outdoor activities, but it’s not replacing my daily mascara.
Have you tried the CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Waterproof Mascara? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below!
Disclaimer: Experiences with makeup products can vary widely based on individual factors like skin type, eye sensitivity, application technique, and personal preference. This review combines my personal experience with feedback from multiple users to provide a comprehensive overview, but your experience may differ.
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