Essence mascara has gained a cult following among beauty lovers, makeup artists, and budget-conscious shoppers alike. Known for its low price and bold promises—like sky-high volume and a false lash effect—many wonder if this drugstore staple really delivers. In this honest review, we break down what makes Essence mascaras so popular and whether they truly live up to the hype.
What Makes Essence Mascara So Popular?
Essence mascaras, especially the Lash Princess line, have gone viral on social media for their ability to dramatically enhance lashes without the high-end price tag. With most formulas priced under $6, the brand promises bold results at a fraction of the cost of premium mascaras.
- Ultra-affordable price point
- Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly options
- Available in most major drugstores and online retailers
Performance: Volume, Length, and Lift
Essence mascaras are widely praised for their ability to deliver noticeable volume and length after just one or two coats.
Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara
- Volume: 9/10 – Instantly plumps up lashes without weighing them down
- Length: 8/10 – Elongates lashes well, though not quite as much as fiber mascaras
- Curl Hold: 7/10 – Holds shape for several hours but may soften by day’s end
- Smudge Resistance: 6.5/10 – Can smudge slightly under the eyes if not set
Wear Time and Comfort
Essence mascaras are lightweight and comfortable to wear throughout the day. However, because they aren’t always waterproof, longevity can vary depending on humidity, tears, or oily skin.
- Typical wear time: 6–8 hours
- Best for: Normal to dry skin types
- Not ideal for: High-heat environments or watery eyes (unless using the waterproof version)
Application Experience
The wands are generally user-friendly, with a slight learning curve depending on the formula. Some brushes are thicker and more fibrous, while others are tapered or curved.
- Lash separation is solid with minimal clumping
- Works well for both top and bottom lashes
- Layering is easy without stiffness
Packaging and Formula
Essence mascaras come in playful, color-coded tubes that make them easy to identify. The formula itself is typically smooth, deeply pigmented, and doesn’t dry out quickly in the tube.
- Packaging: Functional and cute, though not luxurious
- Formula: Rich black pigment, buildable texture
- Shelf life: Around 3–6 months after opening
How It Compares to High-End Brands
Essence mascara holds its own against many luxury mascaras when it comes to volume and everyday wear. While it might not match the longevity or advanced brush tech of high-end products, the value it offers is nearly unbeatable.
- Comparable to: Too Faced Better Than Sex (at a fraction of the cost)
- Beats many mid-range mascaras in price-to-performance ratio
Final Verdict: Is the Hype Justified?
Yes—Essence mascara absolutely lives up to the hype, especially if you’re seeking dramatic lashes without spending a fortune. While it may not be perfect for every occasion or weather condition, it performs impressively well for its price. If you’re willing to touch up or try the waterproof versions, Essence mascaras are a must-try for any beauty lover.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable
- Volumizing and lengthening
- Cruelty-free
- Easy to use and layer
Cons:
- Not always smudge-proof
- Some formulas dry out faster
- Waterproof options may be harder to find
Essence mascara proves that great lashes don’t have to come at a luxury price. For everyday wear, it’s one of the best drugstore gems on the market.