Hey beauty lovers! Today I’m diving into CoverGirl’s Lash Blast Cleantopia Waterproof Mascara in Black Brown. I’ve spent weeks testing this out, and I’ve got THOUGHTS. Let’s break down everything you need to know before buying!
- Product: CoverGirl Lash Blast Cleantopia Waterproof Mascara
- Shade: Black Brown
- Key Ingredients: Aloe Leaf Extract, Vitamin E, Ceramide
- Claims: Volumizing, Long-Wearing, Transfer-Proof, Clean Formula
First Impressions & Packaging
The packaging has this cool ridged design that makes it SUPER easy to grip even with lotion on your hands (a small but game-changing detail!). It clicks shut firmly, which I appreciate since it prevents it from drying out too quickly. The tube has that signature orange Lash Blast look but with updated clean beauty messaging.
When I first opened it, I immediately noticed the brush shape – it’s kind of like a dumbbell with a thinner middle section and fatter ends. This unusual shape seems to be a love-it-or-hate-it feature based on all the reviews I’ve read. More on that later!
The Brush: A Design Divisor
Okay, we need to talk about this brush because it’s causing MAJOR division among users! The dumbbell/hourglass shape is quite unique, but whether that’s good or bad depends on your lash situation.
For people with longer, fuller lashes already, this brush works BEAUTIFULLY. It separates lashes nicely and provides even coverage. However, if you have short, sparse lashes or you’re trying to get those tiny inner corner lashes, this brush can be a real challenge.
Many users (including me) found that the larger ends of the brush made it difficult to apply product precisely without getting mascara on your eyelids or under your eyes. If you’re not careful, you’ll end up with those dreaded black dots all over your lids!
One reviewer put it perfectly: “The shape has a smaller middle which probably serves a purpose but I don’t know what that would be.” That made me laugh because I had the exact same thought!
Formula: The Clean Beauty Factor
The formula is where this mascara really shines! It’s part of CoverGirl’s “clean” lineup, which means it’s:
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Made with plant-based ingredients
For those with sensitive eyes, this is a HUGE win. Several reviewers with eye sensitivity mentioned they experienced zero irritation with this formula. One user who wears contacts was particularly thrilled with how comfortable it felt all day.
The aloe leaf extract and vitamin E seem to make a real difference in how the mascara feels on your lashes – they don’t get that brittle, crunchy feeling that some waterproof mascaras can cause.
Performance: The Good, The Bad, and The Clumpy
The Good
- Stays put ALL DAY (seriously – even through watery eyes and accidental eye rubbing)
- Actually volumizes without looking fake or spidery
- The Black Brown shade is perfect for a natural look, especially for fair-skinned or blonde users
- Doesn’t flake for most users
- Great for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
One review that really stood out came from a cancer survivor who used this mascara after his eyelashes grew back white following chemotherapy. He wrote that it was “easy to apply, stays on all day, looks very natural, and is easy to get off your face with just a little astringent.” His story shows how a good mascara can be more than just a beauty product – it can help restore confidence during challenging times.
The Bad
- Formula can be a bit thick for some users
- Some found it dried out quickly (within a month)
- The brush shape makes application tricky, especially for inner corner lashes
- Some users reported clumping issues
- The waterproof formula can be TOO waterproof for some (more on removal below)
Consistency Varies
There seems to be some inconsistency in the formula. Some users described it as “watery rather than thick and clumpy,” while others complained about it being “super thick and hard not to get clumps.” This makes me wonder if there might be some quality control issues between batches.
Color Options: That Ultramarine Surprise!
While I’m focusing on the Black Brown shade, I have to mention the Ultramarine Black shade that several users RAVED about. It’s described as a very dark navy that makes brown and blue eyes pop without looking obviously blue. One user wrote: “The tinge of blue in this mascara makes brown eyes pop! You may not want to go back to wearing just black mascara after trying Ultramarine black.
The Black Brown shade is perfect for daytime wear, especially for those with lighter coloring who find pure black too harsh. It gives definition without looking too dramatic.
Waterproof Performance: It MEANS It
When CoverGirl says this mascara is waterproof, they are not kidding around! Multiple reviewers confirmed it stands up to everything from rain to tears to sweat without budging.
So many waterproof mascaras I’ve tried have smudged under pressure but this one doesn’t! It goes on easily and gives great coverage and lasts even when I accidentally rub my eyes.”
Another user put it bluntly: “SUPER waterproof, so it makes it a bit more difficult to remove it.”
Which brings us to…
The Removal Process: A Love-Hate Relationship
The waterproof formula’s staying power is both its greatest strength and biggest weakness. For many users (including myself), removing it requires dedicated eye makeup remover – regular face wash just won’t cut it.
Several reviewers mentioned success with:
- Oil-based makeup removers
- Face balms
- Micellar water designed for waterproof makeup
One ALARMING review mentioned that it was SO waterproof that even with makeup remover, “it ripped a lot of my eyelashes out because it was so strong!” While this was an isolated complaint, it’s something to keep in mind if you have fragile lashes.
Most users found a happy medium – they appreciated the staying power during the day but developed a removal routine that worked without causing damage.
Long-Term Use: Mixed Results
For long-term use, reviews were mixed. Some users reported the mascara dried out within a month, while others have been using it consistently with great results. One especially enthusiastic reviewer called it “by far the best one I’ve ever used!!!!!” after trying “EVERY mascara on the planet practically.”
The drying out issue seems to be the biggest long-term concern. Several users mentioned that while they loved the initial performance, the formula thickened up and became clumpy after a few weeks of use.
Value Proposition
At its price point (usually under $10), this mascara represents good value if it works for you. Many reviewers compared it favorably to high-end mascaras costing 3-4 times as much: “I love this mascara more than any expensive brand. It doesn’t clump or flake and the waterproof keeps my lashes curled.”
Who Should Buy This Mascara?
This mascara is PERFECT for:
- People with sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers
- Those looking for a truly waterproof formula
- Anyone wanting a natural-looking daily mascara
- Ethical beauty buyers (it’s vegan and cruelty-free)
- People who prefer clean beauty products
- Those with already decent lashes who need enhancement, not a miracle
Who Should Skip It?
You might want to pass if:
- You have very short or sparse lashes that need major help
- You’re not willing to invest in proper eye makeup remover
- You prefer dramatic, false-lash-like results
- You’re not confident in your application skills (the brush can be tricky)
- You need a mascara that lasts longer than a month without drying out
Some Practical Tips From Reviewers
- “Make sure to wait between coats as it is more of a wet texture vs cream mascara.”
- “I had to stop using other mascaras because they were making my eyelids itchy and my eyelashes fall out, but have seen much different results with this mascara!”
- “You can layer it for a more dramatic effect by putting on a second coat.”
- For those struggling with the brush shape: “I just use the end” of the brush for precision application.
My Overall Experience
After weeks of testing, I’ve come to really appreciate this mascara for daily wear. The Black Brown shade gives just enough definition without looking made-up, and I can go through an entire workday without checking for smudges or raccoon eyes.
The brush took some getting used to, I won’t lie. For the first few days, I had little black dots all over my eyelids! But once I figured out the right technique (using the middle section for most lashes and the tip for corners), application became much smoother.
What I LOVE most is the clean formula. My eyes don’t itch or water even after 12+ hours of wear, which is pretty remarkable for a waterproof mascara.
My biggest complaint? It does seem to be drying out faster than I’d like. After about 3 weeks, I’ve noticed it’s getting thicker and slightly clumpier than when I first opened it.
Final Rating: 4/5 Stars
PROS:
- Truly waterproof and long-lasting
- Clean, vegan formula great for sensitive eyes
- Natural-looking enhancement
- Good value for money
- Multiple color options (including that amazing Ultramarine!)
CONS:
- Challenging brush shape
- Can dry out quickly
- Requires dedicated makeup remover
- Some inconsistency between products
Would I buy it again? YES! Despite its flaws, the comfortable wear and reliable staying power make this a staple in my makeup routine. I might even try that Ultramarine shade next time to make my green eyes pop!
Have you tried this mascara? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below!
Buy on Amazon: Here
