Hey beauty lovers! Today I’m diving DEEP into the COVERGIRL Clump Crusher by Lash Blast Mascara in Very Black. After seeing this green tube everywhere and reading through countless customer experiences, I’ve gathered all the intel you need to decide if this drugstore staple deserves a spot in your makeup bag.
First Impressions & Packaging
Let’s start with that iconic green tube. It’s definitely… distinctive! Some people mentioned the packaging looking a bit “sketchy” or “fake” at first glance, but don’t let that fool you – it’s the real deal. The tube has a curved design that fits comfortably in your hand, though a few customers reported receiving cracked packaging or tubes that appeared to have been opened. This seems to be more of a shipping/handling issue than a product problem, but worth noting!
The mascara features a double-sided brush with a curved design and rubber bristles. The curve is intentional – it’s designed to fit the natural curve of your lash line (more on how well that works later!).
Application Experience
This is where Clump Crusher REALLY lives up to its name! The rubber brush with its short bristles does an incredible job of separating lashes during application. Unlike many mascaras that require you to comb through clumps afterward, this one genuinely prevents them from forming in the first place.
The curved wand takes a little getting used to (several reviewers mentioned this learning curve), but once you figure it out, it’s a game-changer for reaching every last lash. The convex side works best for your upper lashes, creating length and definition, while the concave side is perfect for those tricky bottom lashes.
One thing I noticed from many reviews: this formula is on the drier side compared to some other mascaras. This is actually why it works so well at preventing clumps! The slightly drier formula doesn’t glob onto your lashes. However, this also means you might need multiple coats for dramatic volume.
Performance: The Good
Let’s talk RESULTS! Here’s what consistently impressed users:
- Truly clump-free application: Even after 2-3 coats, lashes remain separated and defined. NO spider lashes!
- Buildable coverage: You can go from natural-looking definition with one coat to more dramatic lashes with multiple applications.
- Long-lasting wear: Many users report it stays put all day without smudging (a huge win for those of us with oily skin or who wear glasses).
- Easy removal: Despite its staying power, it removes easily with regular cleanser for most people.
- Versatility: Works well for both “no-makeup makeup” looks and as a base coat for more dramatic lash styles.
- Gentle formula: Several people with sensitive eyes mentioned it doesn’t cause irritation like other mascaras.
I was particularly impressed by how many long-term users this mascara has – people who have tried high-end brands but keep coming back to this $6-10 drugstore option! That says A LOT about its performance.
Performance: The Not-So-Good
No product is perfect, so here are the consistent complaints:
- Flaking issues: Some users experienced flaking after several hours of wear, particularly with older tubes.
- Drying time: A few mentioned it takes longer to dry than other mascaras.
- Smudging concerns: Though many praised its staying power, others (particularly those with oilier skin) reported smudging and “raccoon eyes” by day’s end.
- Dries out quickly: Several loyal users noted they need to replace it more frequently than other mascaras (about every 3 months) as it tends to dry out.
- Not actually waterproof: Despite some listings suggesting water resistance, this isn’t truly waterproof. Some users were disappointed by this mislabeling.
- Limited volume: While it excels at definition and length, it doesn’t deliver dramatic volume without multiple coats.
Volume & Length Claims
COVERGIRL claims this mascara delivers “20X More Volume” – but does it actually deliver? Based on user feedback, I’d say this is a bit of marketing stretch. While it definitely adds some volume, its strength is in definition and length rather than dramatic volume.
For those seeking MAJOR volume, this might not be your holy grail. However, if you’re after defined, natural-looking lashes with decent length, you’ll likely be very satisfied. Many reviewers loved that they could build up to their desired look without clumping.
Longevity & Wear Test
How does Clump Crusher hold up throughout the day? Most users report excellent staying power for a non-waterproof formula. It generally doesn’t smudge or transfer with normal wear, though activities like working out or getting caught in rain might cause some smudging.
The mascara seems to be particularly good for glasses wearers, as several mentioned it doesn’t transfer onto lenses (a common problem with volumizing mascaras).
One interesting note: while the formula stays put well during the day, it doesn’t resist water as a true waterproof mascara would. It’s water-resistant at best, so keep that in mind if you’re prone to watery eyes or planning to wear it swimming.
Application Tips from Seasoned Users
After reading through hundreds of reviews, I’ve compiled these pro tips from loyal Clump Crusher users:
- Use the convex side (bulging out) for upper lashes and the concave side for bottom lashes.
- Let each coat dry slightly before applying another for maximum volume without clumps.
- Replace every 2-3 months to prevent flaking issues as the formula dries out.
- For extra length and definition, try using a white lash primer underneath.
- Keep an old, cleaned Clump Crusher brush to comb through lashes after application for perfect separation.
- Layer with other mascaras: Use Clump Crusher as a base coat, then add a more volumizing formula on top for dramatic looks.
Comparison to High-End Alternatives
One theme kept appearing in the reviews: this mascara rivals or outperforms many high-end options! Multiple users compared it favorably to:
- Too Faced Better Than Sex ($27)
- Benefit Roller Lash ($27)
- Bobbi Brown Everything Mascara ($32)
The consistent feedback was that Clump Crusher delivers comparable or better results at a fraction of the price. For $6-10, that’s IMPRESSIVE value!
Who Should Buy This Mascara?
Based on user experiences, Clump Crusher is PERFECT for:
- Naturally long but thin lashes that need definition and separation
- Makeup minimalists seeking a natural-looking enhancement
- People with sensitive eyes who struggle with irritation from other formulas
- Those frustrated by clumpy mascaras (obviously!)
- Glasses wearers looking for a non-transferring formula
- Anyone on a budget who doesn’t want to sacrifice quality
It might NOT be ideal for:
- Those seeking dramatic volume as the primary effect
- People needing truly waterproof mascara
- Very short, sparse lashes that require serious building
- Those who apply mascara infrequently (due to faster dry-out time)
The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?
ABSOLUTELY. At around $6-10, this mascara delivers exceptional performance that rivals products 3-4 times its price. The ability to build coverage without clumping is rare even among luxury mascaras.
While it may not deliver on all its volume claims and isn’t truly waterproof, it excels at creating defined, separated lashes that look naturally enhanced. The fact that so many reviewers have made this their go-to for years (some mentioning 5+ years of loyalty!) speaks volumes about its consistent performance.
If you’re tired of fighting clumps and combing through spider lashes, give this green tube a chance. Your lashes (and wallet) will thank you!
Rating Breakdown
- Clump Prevention: 10/10 (lives up to its name!)
- Length Enhancement: 8/10 (noticeable lengthening with multiple coats)
- Volume: 6/10 (decent but not dramatic)
- Staying Power: 7/10 (good for regular wear but not waterproof)
- Ease of Application: 9/10 (once you master the curved brush)
- Value for Money: 10/10 (rivals high-end brands at drugstore price)
Overall Score: 8.5/10 – A staple drugstore mascara that delivers on its core promise!
Final Thoughts
I get why this has been a bestseller for years. In a world of hyped-up beauty products that rarely deliver, COVERGIRL Clump Crusher actually does what it claims: it prevents clumps while enhancing your natural lashes.
Is it the most dramatic mascara on the market? No. Will it give you falsies-level lashes? Probably not. But if you want reliable, clump-free definition that looks good all day, you really can’t go wrong with this green tube.
Have you tried Clump Crusher? I’d love to hear YOUR experiences with it! Drop a comment below and let me know if you’re Team Clump Crusher or if you’ve found something even better!
This review is based on consolidated feedback from numerous actual users of COVERGIRL Clump Crusher by Lash Blast Mascara.
Buy on Amazon: Here