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Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara: The Ultimate Review From Hype to Reality

Discover why Too Faced's Better Than Sex Mascara is a viral favorite, and see if it lives up to its reputation—performance, pros, cons, and real-user insights.

By Medha deb

Created on Jun 2, 2025

Discover why Too Faced's Better Than Sex Mascara is a viral favorite, and see if it lives up to its reputation—performance, pros, cons, and real-user insights.

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara: The Ultimate Review

Better Than Sex Mascara by Too Faced is a staple in the beauty world, hailed for its dramatic volumizing effect and cult following. But does it live up to its viral reputation? This comprehensive review breaks down the product’s promises, features, real-life performance, standout moments, and potential drawbacks to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your lashes.

What is Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara?

Launched in 2014 and quickly becoming one of the best-selling prestige mascaras in America, Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara is marketed as a transformative product that thickens, lengthens, and curls lashes, promising a glamorous look after just one coat. The original formula was later joined by a waterproof version in 2016, catering to users with watery eyes or special makeup needs.
Key Claims from Too Faced:

Collagen-fueled formula for intense volume and dramatic lashes
Hourglass-shaped brush designed for optimal separation and coating
Film-forming polymers for smudge-proof wear
Acacia Senegal tree extract to nourish, thicken, and lock curls in place
Unique peptides for ‘deepest, most intense black possible’
Vegan and cruelty-free

Too Faced claims that one coat gives you full, defined lashes; two coats amp up the drama, and three coats create a magical effect. But how does this mascara perform in real life? Let’s dive into the details.

The Packaging: First Impressions Matter

The metallic pink tube immediately stands out among other beauty products. Sleek, hefty, and visually luxurious, the packaging is designed to feel special.
Note: The packaging is prone to scratches over time, so care should be taken if you like your collection looking pristine.

The Brush: Hourglass Design Explained

Brush Shape: The iconic hourglass-shaped brush is engineered to mimic the curves of a woman’s body, designed to maximize separation, coat even the smallest lashes, and prevent clumping.
Functionality:

Separates and coats lashes evenly
Helps avoid ‘spidery’ or clumpy results
Delivers bold volume and length

The shape allows users to get closer to the root for a lifted look and easy separation for a more defined lash. Many users find they don’t need a lash curler when using this brush, though results can vary.

The Formula: Ingredients and Their Impact

Key Ingredient	Purpose/Effect
Collagen	Boosts lash volume for a fuller look
Acacia Senegal Tree Extract	Nourishes lashes, locks curl, and adds thickness
Peptides	Intense black pigment and conditioning
Film-Forming Polymers	Provides smudge-proof, long-lasting wear

The formula is described as wet and highly pigmented, which delivers substantial volume and length after even a single coat. However, its rich texture means there is potential for clumping if too much is applied or if the brush is overloaded.

Application: How It Looks and Feels

One coat gives a natural, defined look suitable for daytime wear
Two coats substantially amp up volume and length, approaching a false-lash effect
Three coats deliver maximum drama, perfect for bold looks or special occasions

Application is straightforward, and the brush design ensures most users get great separation and coverage. Lashes typically appear longer, fuller, and darker, with a visible lift even if not using an eyelash curler.

Performance: Does It Last All Day?

Too Faced promises long-lasting wear—thanks both to its film-forming polymers and its nourishing ingredients. In typical use, the mascara is comfortable and lightweight, remaining impressive throughout the day.
However, some real-world results differ:

Flaking: Some users report the mascara flakes or crumbles within a few hours of application, leading to smudging or the dreaded ‘raccoon eyes’.
Smudging: The formula is wet and can be prone to smudging in the first 5–10 minutes after application, so it’s best not to sneeze or rub your eyes until it’s fully dry.
Waterproof Version: The waterproof option is noted for superior staying power—it withstands tears, humidity, and even swimming—but can be harder to remove at the end of the day and some reviewers feel it doesn’t give the same effect as the original.

Pros and Cons: What Users Love and What They Don’t

Pros	Cons
Noticeably longer and fuller lashes	Potential for flaking and smudging during the day
Brush helps separate and define lashes	Wet formula can lead to clumping if not careful
No need for a lash curler for most users	Not waterproof (original version)
Comfortable, lightweight feel	Packaging can scratch easily
Vegan and cruelty-free	Doesn’t always deliver the claimed ‘smudge-proof’ result

Overall, many users find the mascara delivers one of the fullest, boldest looks available, with versatility from subtle to dramatic depending on application. Frequent volume, curl, and color are highlighted favorites. The primary drawbacks center around longevity and messiness during wear.

User Ratings and Social Proof

Over 19,000 positive reviews on Sephora underscore its popularity and cult status
Many beauty editors and influencers rank it as a top mascara pick
It has gone viral on social media and is frequently featured on hit shows and celebrity posts
Users praise its ability to transform natural lashes into bold and statement-making looks

Expert Tips for Better Application

Scrape excess product off the brush before applying; this helps control clumping and ensures a smooth coat
Let each coat dry for 30–60 seconds before adding more for optimal layering without smudges
Use an eyelash curler before application if you want maximum lift and curl
Clean up flakes with a dry cotton swab, not wet fingers, to avoid smudging under your eyes
Consider the waterproof version for humid climates, watery eyes, or long-wear needs

Who Is This Mascara For?

Fans of bold, dramatic lashes who seek volume, length, and curl
Individuals hoping to avoid ‘spidery’ or clumpy results
Those who want a vegan and cruelty-free mascara
Beauty enthusiasts who appreciate luxe packaging and viral products
If you have very oily skin or watery eyes, consider testing the waterproof edition for extra security

The Verdict: Is It Worth the Hype?

Rating: 3/5 (based on aggregated real-user and editorial reviews)
The mascara truly performs for volume, length, and curl, but comes with caveats—namely flaking and smudging for some users. Fans of dramatic lashes will likely be satisfied, while those who prefer a natural, low-maintenance look may wish to explore alternatives.

Alternatives and Comparable Products

L’Oréal Lash Paradise: Budget-friendly, similar volume/length effect, less expensive, good for everyday wear
Tarte Tinted Lash Serum: Known for flake-free wear and nourishing ingredients
Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex: More natural look and lighter feel, best for daytime or subtle effects

If you crave a mascara that ranks high in drama but still functions for daily wear, Better Than Sex sets a strong standard—with caveats to keep in mind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Does Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara clump?
A: The formula can clump if too much product is applied or if excess is not scraped off the brush. Most users achieve a smooth look by applying thin layers.
Q: Is the mascara waterproof?
A: The original version is not waterproof. Too Faced offers a waterproof variant for extended wear needs, which is harder to remove but stays through tears and humidity.
Q: Does it flake or smudge?
A: Some users report flaking after a few hours, especially if the formula is disturbed. Smudging can occur in the first 5–10 minutes while the product is still wet.
Q: How do I avoid flaky or messy results?
A: Use thin coats, allow drying time between layers, and remove any excess from the brush tip before application.
Q: Is it vegan and cruelty-free?
A: Yes, both the original and waterproof versions are vegan and cruelty-free.
Q: Can I use it for sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers?
A: Most users report no irritation, though those with particularly sensitive eyes may wish to patch test first, especially with the waterproof formula.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

If dramatic, bold lashes are your goal and you’re willing to manage potential midday touchups, Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara lives up to much of its hype. Those who love intense volume, jet-black color, and striking lift will appreciate its performance, while those seeking low-maintenance or ultra-natural looks should consider lighter, flake-free alternatives. As with many viral products, consider your own lash goals and makeup habits before making the splurge.