Volumizing mascaras are a staple in the beauty world, and two of the most talked-about products are Tarte Maneater Mascara and Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara. Both promise bold, dramatic lashes, but they differ in formula, brush design, and overall performance. This article compares these iconic mascaras head-to-head to help you decide which one deserves a spot in your makeup kit.
1. Packaging and Design
Tarte Maneater:
Tarte Maneater comes in a sleek, black tube with gold accents, giving it a modern, edgy look. The brush is a flexible, hourglass-shaped rubber wand designed for precision and separation.
Too Faced Better Than Sex:
Better Than Sex features a curvy, feminine pink tube that stands out on any vanity. Its hourglass-shaped brush is denser and designed to add maximum volume and curl with every swipe.
2. Formula and Ingredients
Tarte Maneater:
Tarte’s formula is enriched with lash-conditioning ingredients like bamboo and acai berry extracts. It is cruelty-free, paraben-free, and offers a smooth, buildable texture that nourishes lashes while adding volume.
Too Faced Better Than Sex:
Known for its jet-black, creamy formula, Better Than Sex provides dramatic volume and length. However, it does not focus heavily on lash conditioning and contains some synthetic ingredients typical of many mascaras.
3. Application and Performance
Tarte Maneater:
The flexible brush allows for precise application, coating each lash evenly without clumping. The mascara dries quickly, holds curl well, and lasts throughout the day with minimal smudging or flaking.
Too Faced Better Than Sex:
This mascara delivers instant, intense volume and curl. Its dense brush deposits a thick layer of product quickly, which can sometimes lead to clumping if not applied carefully. It also holds curl effectively but may require more frequent touch-ups.
4. Lash Look and Effect
Tarte Maneater:
Creates bold, separated lashes with noticeable volume and length. The look is dramatic yet clean, suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Too Faced Better Than Sex:
Offers a “false lash” effect with extreme volume and curl. The lashes appear thick and voluptuous but may look heavier and more dramatic, making it a favorite for glam looks.
5. Price and Value
- Tarte Maneater: Typically priced in the mid to high-end range, offering added lash care benefits which justify the cost.
- Too Faced Better Than Sex: Slightly more expensive but often considered worth it for its instant volumizing impact and cult following.
6. Pros and Cons Summary
| Feature | Tarte Maneater | Too Faced Better Than Sex |
|---|---|---|
| Volume | Bold, buildable volume | Intense, dramatic volume |
| Brush Design | Flexible, precise | Dense, thick coating |
| Lash Conditioning | Yes, nourishing ingredients | Limited conditioning |
| Clump Risk | Low | Moderate, if over-applied |
| Wear Time | Long-lasting, smudge-resistant | Good, may need touch-ups |
| Price | Mid to high-end | High-end |
Final Verdict
Both Tarte Maneater and Too Faced Better Than Sex deliver impressive volumizing effects but cater to slightly different preferences. If you want a mascara that combines volume with lash care and a clean finish, Tarte Maneater is a fantastic choice. If you prefer maximum volume and a bold, glamorous look — even at the risk of some clumping — Too Faced Better Than Sex remains a cult favorite. Ultimately, the winner depends on your lash goals and personal preferences.