Covergirl's Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara Is Even Better Than the Original

We put the Covergirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara to the test after receiving a complimentary sample from the brand. Keep reading for our full product review.

Of all makeup products out there, mascara is by far my favorite. I think it’s the instant gratification element of it. One minute my lashes are short and fair and the next… boom! They’re long and curly and hitting the inside lens of my sunglasses, just the way I like it. 

It’s also one of the best products to road test, so today’s subject is the Covergirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara. This product is like the sister of the brand’s iconic original Lash Blast formula, but with a sustainable twist. Touted as clean, vegan and (like the rest of the brand) cruelty-free, Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara is formulated without parabens, sulfates, talc or mineral oil. It's not quite Byrdie Clean, but the ingredient list is notably closer to our standards than the OG. Plus, the packaging has undergone a bit of a makeover and now is 80 percent recycled paper. Overall, Covergirl has clearly paid attention to the consumer's priorities in this next-gen approach to a beloved product.

But how does it measure up against the original? Does the revamped formulation mean skimping out on performance? In the name of research I put it to the test and have detailed all the information below (spoiler alert: it’s good). Keep reading for my thoughts.

About My Lashes: Long but fair

I’d describe my lashes as long but quite fair in color, especially at the ends. So when they’re bare, there’s not a lot visibly going on. But once I add mascara (especially a really lengthening one), I’ve got lashes for days. I should preface this by explaining my eyes aren’t really that sensitive, and my lashes are relatively healthy. But having said that, I’m never opposed to the potential benefits of a nourishing formula.

The Shades: Four kinds of black

The Covergirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara comes in four shades: Pitch Black, Very Black, Black Brown, and Black. I used Very Black only, so can’t comment on the difference, but if I had to guess I’d assume Pitch Black was the deepest, and Black Brown may be a good option for people with lighter lashes or who want a more subtle look.

How to Apply: Layer up

Covergirl's Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara is pretty straightforward in terms of application. The wand itself features tiny plastic bristles, which really work to separate and pull up every single lash. The tube has a narrow stopper so you aren’t overloaded with product, which helps in achieving a cleaner, more defined result. I found pushing the mascara into the roots and pulling it through slowly worked well, and because the formula is so light, it layers nicely. My preference is to add layers while the product is still slightly wet, building it up until I’m satisfied. I’m not really a bottom lash mascara girl, but I did try it out for the purpose of this review and it worked a treat (i.e. no fallout).

The Results: Natural volume

If you want long, defined, full lashes that still look natural, the Covergirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara is for you. The plastic wand provides great separation and lift, but it doesn't deposit heaps of product, so it’s not too clumpy or intense. I found one coat was pretty subtle, but after five or so applications (I’m heavy-handed), my lashes were curly and really noticeable; the kind of noticeable that gets you compliments from strangers. It’s not really rich or spidery though, so despite the layering, my lashes never felt too thick or too fake-looking for my liking. 

I also found the formula really lightweight, so there was no flaking or smudging. I was worried the inclusion of argan and marula oils would potentially lead to transfer, but thankfully this wasn’t the case. 

Overall, this addition to the Covergirl Lash Blast mascara family definitely delivers on its promise of clean volume, and the fact it seems to care for lashes only makes it even more appealing. Basically, it’s a great product and one I’d happily repurchase, especially given the price point.

The Value: Pretty great

At $11, I think Covergirl's Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara is a seriously good value. It defines and thickens the lashes, wears well, doesn’t smudge, and boasts nourishing properties. I also love the fact that the brand is moving towards more sustainable practices, so I’m more than happy to keep purchasing.

Similar Products: You've got options

Kosas The Big Clean Volumizing and Lash Care Mascara: If you’re looking for something that will care for your lashes long term, this Kosas mascara ($26) is one of the best. It’s boosted with castor oil and vitamin B5, so it hydrates and protects without sacrificing length and curl.

Maybelline Volum'Express The Colossal Washable Mascara: To me, this accessible option from Maybelline ($8) is like a more dramatic version of the Covergirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara. The brush is slightly softer, so it deposits more product, giving a fuller, fluffier result.

Ilia Limitless Lash Lengthening Mascara: Enriched with keratin and shea butter, this fantastic lengthening mascara from Ilia ($28) conditions lashes over time. It’s a slimmer wand with two different types of bristles, so the focus is less on volume and more on clean definition and length.