Hey there! So I’ve been testing out the COVERGIRL Clump Crusher by Lash Blast Mascara in Black Brown for a while now, and I NEED to talk about it. Like, seriously. If you’ve ever struggled with spider lashes or raccoon eyes by mid-afternoon, this review is for you!
First Impressions
Let’s start with the packaging. It’s that distinctive green tube with the curved brush that stands out in a sea of black mascara tubes. Not exactly luxurious looking, but honestly, who cares if it works, right?
When I first pulled out the wand, I noticed something different – it’s curved and has this double-sided brush design that COVERGIRL claims helps deliver 20X more volume without clumps. The brush isn’t completely coated in mascara when you pull it out (some reviewers pointed this out too), which I initially thought was a problem, but it turns out this is part of why it doesn’t clump!
Application Experience
OK so the curved brush? GAME CHANGER. Especially if you’re new to curved wands like I was. Let me break down how I use it:
- The arch (back of the curve) works amazingly on top of lashes to help curl them
- I use a gentle turning motion away from me – slightly downward at the root, then slightly upward from middle to ends
- The inside curve gets under my lashes with a gentle jiggling motion
- The side of the wand helps create that fuller, feathery look
- For lower lashes, the side of the wand works perfectly
The formula is on the drier side, which actually helps with the no-clump promise. If you’re used to wetter formulas, this might seem strange at first, but stick with it! The drier formula is KEY to the clump-free application.
Does It Actually Work?
Let’s get to the big question – does this mascara actually crush clumps like it claims? In my experience: YES! While nothing is 100% perfect (a couple reviewers mentioned still getting some clumps that could be removed with a mascara brush), this performs better than most mascaras I’ve tried.
The separation it provides is impressive. One reviewer with super long natural lashes mentioned that most mascaras make their lashes stick together “like spider legs,” but this keeps them separated while still looking full. That’s exactly right!
Several reviewers who’ve tried high-end mascaras (Benefit, Estée Lauder, Clinique) said they still prefer this one. At this price point, that’s pretty incredible.
Color Payoff
I tried the Black Brown shade, which is perfect if you want something less harsh than pure black. It’s subtle but still defines the lashes beautifully. It’s especially flattering if you have lighter hair or are over 40, as several reviewers mentioned black can sometimes look too severe for everyday wear.
They also offer Very Black (for maximum drama), Black (standard), and Brown (for the most natural look). The Brown shade got especially good reviews from people with fair skin and lighter hair colors.
Staying Power
This is where opinions seem to vary the most. For me, it lasted a full workday with minimal issues. But I did notice:
- It’s NOT marketed as waterproof (though they do sell a waterproof version)
- By late afternoon, some minor flaking can occur
- A few reviewers mentioned “raccoon eyes” by the end of the day
- It’s definitely not a 12+ hour formula
The non-waterproof version is MUCH easier to remove than the waterproof version (which multiple reviewers said was difficult to take off and caused some lash loss). With the regular formula, most makeup removers work great, and some people mentioned even just using water works fine.
Pros and Cons
What I LOVED:
- True to its name – minimal to no clumps!
- The curved brush design makes application easier
- Separates lashes beautifully
- No irritation for most users (though a few had sensitivity)
- Defines lashes without looking fake
- Can apply multiple coats without getting spidery
- Very affordable compared to high-end brands
- Cruelty-free (which some loyal users were thrilled to discover)
- Available in several shades to suit different needs
What Could Be Better:
- Not great for dramatic length (mentioned by multiple reviewers)
- Some experienced flaking after several hours
- A few received dried-out products (possibly old stock)
- Only one coat is possible for some users before it starts to clump
- Some users reported a chemical smell
- The non-waterproof version isn’t ideal for high humidity areas
Who Is This Perfect For?
Based on the feedback patterns, this mascara seems best suited for:
- People who prioritize separation over dramatic volume/length
- Those looking for a natural, everyday mascara
- Anyone who HATES clumpy lashes (obviously!)
- People with sensitive eyes who need a gentle formula
- Those who want an affordable alternative to high-end brands
- Anyone who struggles with application (the curved brush helps!)
- Those with naturally good lashes who just need definition
- People over 40 who want a softer look (especially in Black Brown)
If you’re seeking major drama, falsies-level volume, or need extreme waterproof performance, you might want to look elsewhere or layer this with another product.
Value for Money
At around $5-10 depending on where you buy it, this mascara is a STEAL. Multiple reviewers mentioned they’ve tried much more expensive brands but keep coming back to this one. Several people said they’ve been repurchasing for years – always a good sign!
Amazon seems to have the best price compared to drugstores according to several reviewers, though some mentioned receiving older stock occasionally.
Application Tips from Reviewers
Some helpful tips gathered from reviewers:
- Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying a second
- For more drama, use a volumizing mascara first, then Clump Crusher to separate
- Use the Black Brown for a softer daytime look and Black for evenings
- Try adding a drop of lavender essential oil to extend the life of the product (one reviewer swears by this!)
- The brush can be cleaned and kept even if you don’t like the formula
Interesting Notes
A few interesting observations from various reviewers:
- One person mentioned it’s perfect for contact lens wearers
- Another loved that it works well for “invisible eyelashes”
- Someone with deepset eyes appreciated the tapered end for reaching corner lashes
- A few users who went through chemotherapy found it worked well for their growing-back lashes
- Multiple people said friends ask if they’re wearing false lashes when using this mascara
The Bottom Line
Would I recommend the COVERGIRL Clump Crusher? Absolutely! Is it perfect? No mascara is. But for the price point and the clump-free performance, it’s hard to beat.
If you’re tired of mascara that turns your lashes into spider legs or flakes all over your face by lunchtime, this is definitely worth trying. The Black Brown shade in particular seems to be a universal favorite for a natural but defined look.
Just remember – this is more about separation and definition than dramatic length or volume. If you want major drama, you might need to layer it with something else or look elsewhere. But for everyday, natural-looking lashes? This has become my go-to.
And hey, at this price point, it’s a low-risk investment to see if it works for you!
Final Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Almost perfect – loses half a star for the potential flaking and lack of lengthening properties. But for clump-free, natural-looking lashes? It delivers on its promises.
Buy on Amazon: Here
