True Story: Essence's $5 Mascara Delivers the Same Results as Fancy Brands

We put Essence's Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara to the test after receiving a complimentary sample from the brand. Keep reading for our full product review.

Long, lust-worthy eyelashes. We all want them, and personally, I've tried nearly every single mascara formula out there to create them myself. While I've tested out tubes that lengthen, volumize, or curl my lashes, my quest for one do-it-all mascara still felt daunting—that is until I tested Essence's Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara. It just so happened that this $5 formula totally blew my mind.

Ahead, my full review of Essence's game-changing formula. You will not believe the results—trust.

About My Lashes: Long and usually mascara-coated

There are a few makeup products that I always reach for no matter the day: a light foundation, concealer, brow gel, mascara, and some blush and bronzer. While I don’t wear mascara every single day, I love the way it enhances my lashes and instantly wakes up my eyes. Accordingly, I’ve tried nearly every kind of mascara there is to try—I'm fascinated with the different formulas, what they do, and of course, seeing the results for myself. I do have longer eyelashes, yet mascara tends to make them look so much better. Some brands that I wear regularly are Giorgio Armani Beauty, Nars, Tower 28 Beauty, and Milk Makeup. 

How to Apply: Use two or three coats

The application process for this mascara is pretty straightforward. All you need to do is open the tube and make sure there isn’t any excess product on the wand. I usually apply two or three coats on my eyelashes, and that’s what I did when using this specific product. Each time, I started at the base of the eyelashes and moved my way up to the tips to ensure each lash was covered. 

The Results: Shockingly great

I’ll be honest: I did not expect this mascara to perform as well as it did or give me results that were similar to those I'm used to getting from a more expensive formula. My lashes immediately looked longer, fuller, and separated. I did not notice much of a curl with this formula, but the biggest takeaway was how long my lashes looked and the instant definition. I also really liked the wand, which was easy to use, and even after applying it a few times on my lashes, the finish was very smooth.

Another great takeaway? Absolutely no smudging. Like most mascara formulas, the product can tend to clump ever so slightly at the tip of the wand, but all you need to do is just wipe it off with a tissue to ensure it doesn’t transfer onto your skin.

Lastly, I noticed is that the mascara did not flake at all. In the past when I’ve tried more budget-friendly mascara options, flaking has definitely been an issue. Here, there wasn’t a flake in sight. 

The Value: A total steal

For a price of $5 per tube, this mascara is an absolute steal and gives the same results as products that are priced upwards of $30. It’s affordable for any budget and is absolutely worth purchasing if you’re looking for a mascara that will lengthen, separate, and add great volume to your eyelashes.

Similar Products: You have options

Covergirl Lash Blast Volume ($10): Keeping within the confines of something budget-friendly, this mascara formula promises to lengthen and add volume to lashes, and has a rubber-bristled wand that is designed to coat each lash. 

Revlon Volumazing ($6): A creamy mascara infused with olive oil, this formula promises no smudging, clumping, or flaking. With a slightly curvy wand to help cover each eyelash, fibers grab hold for an all-day lengthening and volumizing finish. 

Rimmel Lash Accelerator ($8): This mascara contains a patented Grow-Lash technology to help encourage lengthening and growth of lashes. Studies claim that lashes will look 80% longer instantly with just one application.