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Naturally Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara

Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara

78
BUYARY SCORE

Lightweight, natural finish with nourishing formula; some clumping and smudging reported.

Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara is the clean beauty answer for lash lovers craving drama without harsh chemicals. With its 98% naturally-derived formula and iconic hourglass-shaped brush, it delivers a fluttery mix of volume, length, and curl that both experts admire and users adore—especially those with sensitive eyes. The bamboo fibers lend natural elongation, though some report clumping when layered and occasional smudging. At around $30, it sits in premium territory but offers nourishing benefits like goji berry extract to justify the splurge. This mascara strikes a stylish balance between bold effect and gentle care—a true contender in everyday glam’s evolving lineup.

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Find Yours

The Scoreboard

Does this improve your life? Considers, health, habits, and environmental impact.

84
FIT
86
EXPERTS
63
USERS
77
VALUE

Benefits

🌿
Nourishes lashes naturally

Bamboo fibers, goji extract and argan oil condition lashes, reducing brittleness and breakage.

🩺
Gentler on eyes

Ophthalmologist-tested formulation with reduced irritants may suit sensitive eyes and contact wearers.

Effective brush design

Hourglass brush separates and coats each lash for immediate volume, length, and definition.

🌱
Higher natural derivation

98% ISO-derived ingredients reduce mineral oil, parabens and phthalates compared to originals.

🫧
Simpler removal

Pullulan and film formers enable gentler removal, lowering mechanical stress on lashes.

Trade-Offs

⚠️
Irritant preservative risk

Phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol and similar preservatives can irritate sensitive eyes or skin.

🧪
Polymer microplastic load

Polyester‑11, PVP and polybutene are synthetic polymers that may contribute microplastic pollution.

😬
Smudging and flaking

Wet wax/solvent balance and pigments can cause transfer, flaking, or under‑eye smudging.

⚗️
Processed ingredient footprint

Hydrogenated esters and chemical pH adjusters signal refinement and potential sensitivity or residues.

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Ingredient Insights

Alternatives

Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex Mascara delivers plant‑forward lash conditioning with visible volume and optics, but that performance preserves efficacy by relying on a synthetic preservative load and moderate processing that trade ingredient integrity and environmental simplicity. Preserve the clean‑feeling drama vs. trade heavier formulation. Consider tubing mascaras (polymer tubing technology) or water‑based gel mascaras as alternatives.
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Publications

1 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS


86
Logo of Byrdie

Zizi Strater highlights the Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara as a thoughtful evolution of the iconic original, blending beloved performance with a naturally derived, vegan formula. She emphasizes the product’s nostalgic legacy while noting the new version’s use of bamboo fibers and goji berry extract to nourish lashes without compromising on dramatic volume, length, and curl. The familiar hourglass-shaped brush and signature packaging maintain the brand’s recognizable aesthetic. Strater appreciates that the formula is free from mineral oil, parabens, and phthalates, and is safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. While she experienced slight smudging after a humid commute, this was easily managed with setting powder, underscoring a minor trade-off in an otherwise strong performance. Overall, the review conveys warm enthusiasm for the mascara’s ability to deliver “mind-blowing” results with a cleaner ingredient profile, making it a welcome option for those seeking both efficacy and a more natural formulation.

By Zizi Strater
January 28, 2024
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YouTube

2 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS


83
Youtube IconMilana Bajic

Milana Bajic praises Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex Mascara for its iconic volumizing, lengthening, and curling effects with a 98% naturally-derived formula and a well-designed hourglass brush. While she appreciates its performance and clean ingredients, she finds it less impressive than some favorites, noting it requires multiple coats and offers no major difference from the original.

January 16, 2024
92
Youtube IconHolly Ward

Holly Ward praises Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex Mascara for its 98% naturally-derived formula, bamboo fibers, and lash-conditioning complex, delivering a natural yet voluminous look with the iconic hourglass brush. She appreciates its gentle wear on sensitive eyes and prefers its softer, more natural finish over the original, though she notes potential changes as the product ages.

December 28, 2023

Social

2 INFLUENCER REVIEWS


87
Instagram IconB.Maier Reviews

B.Maier Reviews highlights the Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara’s blend of nourishing oils, plant-based waxes, and antioxidant-rich ingredients that deliver smooth application, soft volume, and long-lasting wear without clumping or flaking. She notes its appeal to clean beauty fans despite containing safe preservatives and emphasizes the importance of replacing mascara regularly for best performance. Overall, B.Maier finds this mascara a thoughtfully formulated, effective option that balances clean beauty values with reliable results. She recommends it for those seeking fluttery, defined lashes with gentle removal, while acknowledging minor reservations about preservatives and shelf life.

March 20, 2025
77
TikTok IconJessica Haze | Vegan Beauty

Jessica Haze | Vegan Beauty highlights the rarity of finding a microplastic-free mascara at Sephora, praising Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex for its clean ingredients and everyday wearability. While she notes it doesn’t volumize lashes as dramatically as the original, she values its eco-friendly formulation and affordability compared to pricier alternatives. Overall, Jessica recommends this mascara as a solid, environmentally conscious choice for daily use, especially for those seeking microplastic-free options. Though it falls short of the original’s bold effect, its clean beauty credentials make it a worthwhile, thoughtful pick.

November 14, 2024
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Store Reviews

CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 3 STORES


69
Logo of Sephora

Users on Sephora express mixed feelings about the Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara, with many appreciating its natural ingredient formulation and lightweight feel. Reviewers highlight that the mascara delivers decent length and volume, especially for those seeking a more natural or everyday look. Several users praise the brush design for blending well with natural lashes and strip lashes, noting it provides good separation without heavy clumping. Sensitive eye wearers often report minimal irritation, which adds to the product’s appeal. However, many customers find the formula too dry or flaky, with frequent complaints about fallout and smudging throughout the day. Some mention that the mascara dries quickly, making layering challenging and sometimes resulting in clumps. Users with short or thin lashes often feel the product underperforms, suggesting it suits longer or thicker lashes better. Others compare it unfavorably to the original Better Than Sex mascara, citing less dramatic volume and curl, and some find the brush too bulky for precise application. Several reviewers note that while the packaging feels luxe and sustainable, the performance does not justify the higher price point compared to drugstore alternatives. A few users also report issues with the mascara flaking into their eyes or causing irritation, especially those with watery eyes or contact lenses. Despite these drawbacks, many still recommend the mascara for its natural look, buildability, and clean ingredients, making it a favored choice for daily wear rather than bold, dramatic lashes.

3.9 Stars / Many verified reviews

85
Logo of Amazon

Amazon users consistently praise the Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara for delivering thick, full, and naturally long lashes without clumping or running, even when wet. Many highlight how this version maintains the original’s dramatic effect but offers a more subtle, everyday look that suits those seeking a less glam finish. Reviewers appreciate the mascara’s gentle formula that doesn’t irritate sensitive eyes and washes off easily with makeup wipes. Some users find the wand especially effective for even application, while others note occasional clumpiness that can create a bold lash appearance without feeling crunchy. However, several customers mention that the mascara tends to dry out quickly, which affects usability, and opinions vary on whether it justifies its price point. Overall, Amazon reviewers value its natural lash enhancement and travel-friendly sizing but remain divided on longevity and cost-effectiveness.

4.3 Stars / Some verified reviews

69
Logo of Sephora

Users on Sephora express mixed feelings about the Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara, with many appreciating its natural ingredient formulation and lightweight feel. Reviewers highlight that the mascara delivers decent length and volume, especially for those seeking a more natural or everyday look. Several users praise the brush design for blending well with natural lashes and strip lashes, noting it provides good separation without heavy clumping. Sensitive eye wearers often report minimal irritation, which adds to the product’s appeal. However, many customers find the formula too dry or flaky, with frequent complaints about fallout and smudging throughout the day. Some mention that the mascara dries quickly, making layering challenging and sometimes resulting in clumps. Users with short or thin lashes often feel the product underperforms, suggesting it suits longer or thicker lashes better. Others compare it unfavorably to the original Better Than Sex mascara, citing less dramatic volume and curl, and some find the brush too bulky for precise application. Several reviewers note that while the packaging feels luxe and sustainable, the performance does not justify the higher price point compared to drugstore alternatives. A few users also report issues with the mascara flaking into their eyes or causing irritation, especially those with watery eyes or contact lenses. Despite these drawbacks, many still recommend the mascara for its natural look, buildability, and clean ingredients, making it a favored choice for daily wear rather than bold, dramatic lashes.

3.9 Stars / Many verified reviews

85
Logo of Amazon

Amazon users consistently praise the Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara for delivering thick, full, and naturally long lashes without clumping or running, even when wet. Many highlight how this version maintains the original’s dramatic effect but offers a more subtle, everyday look that suits those seeking a less glam finish. Reviewers appreciate the mascara’s gentle formula that doesn’t irritate sensitive eyes and washes off easily with makeup wipes. Some users find the wand especially effective for even application, while others note occasional clumpiness that can create a bold lash appearance without feeling crunchy. However, several customers mention that the mascara tends to dry out quickly, which affects usability, and opinions vary on whether it justifies its price point. Overall, Amazon reviewers value its natural lash enhancement and travel-friendly sizing but remain divided on longevity and cost-effectiveness.

4.3 Stars / Some verified reviews

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Forum Reviews

CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM


55
Logo of Reddit

Reddit users express mixed feelings about the Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara, with many appreciating its volumizing effect and long-lasting wear, especially praising the mini or travel sizes for better performance. However, significant criticism centers on its tendency to clump, flake, smudge, and cause raccoon eyes, with some users experiencing irritation or allergic reactions. The large brush design receives divided opinions, with some finding it difficult to apply evenly. While longtime users often remain loyal despite flaws, new shoppers and those upgrading frequently report disappointment, citing high cost and inconsistent formula quality as major drawbacks.

Many comments

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In-Depth Review

Highlights Icon

Highlights

  • Brush performance
    Hourglass-shaped wand, precise coating
  • Visible volume & length
    Users report fuller, longer lashes
  • Sensitive-eye suitability
    Ophthalmologist-tested and low irritation reports
  • Easy removal
    Removes with wipes; tubing-like ease
  • Marketed as 98% natural
    Marketed as 98% naturally-derived formula
  • Promoted as conditioning
    Promoted as having bamboo fibers and goji
Considerations Icon

Considerations

  • Smudging and flaking
    Reports of smudge or flakes during wear
  • Clumping when layered
    Can clump if over-applied or layered
  • Dries out quickly
    Some users report rapid product drying
  • Perceived value concerns
    Multiple reviewers call price unjustified
  • Limited shade options
    Primarily offered in intense black only
  • Requires tools for best curl
    Often needs curler or primer for peak lift

Too Faced brings a fresh twist to its cult-favorite line with this mascara, crafted for those who crave bold lashes without compromising on natural ingredients. Marketed as having a 98% naturally-derived formula, it aims to deliver both volume and length through the magic of bamboo fibers and an iconic hourglass-shaped brush that promises precise lash separation. Ideal for sensitive eyes, it’s ophthalmologist-tested (eye doctor) and designed to minimize irritation while enhancing lash health with nourishing extracts like goji berry. Users can expect a look that balances drama with everyday wearability, though smudge resistance may not rival waterproof formulas. Whether you’re after thicker, longer lashes or gentle conditioning benefits, this product positions itself as an accessible option in clean beauty’s competitive arena. For those eyeing performance alongside ingredient integrity, these features will matter—so buckle up and explore what makes this mascara tick from wand design to wear endurance!

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Volumizing Performance

Engineered for boldness, this mascara leverages bamboo fibers in its formula alongside an intense black pigment to boost lash thickness dramatically. Reviewers highlight how it creates lush volume on sparse lashes but caution about occasional clumping if over-applied. While not waterproof-level resistant, the volumizing effect remains visible throughout the day for many wearers. It strikes a balance between natural fullness and glam impact, meeting expectations set by similar premium mascaras in its class.

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Lengthening Performance

With plant-derived bamboo fibers enhancing each stroke's lengthening power, this mascara delivers visibly extended lashes that elongate eye appearance effectively. Users appreciate the natural yet noticeable stretch it imparts without heavy flaking or weighing down delicate strands—a common trade-off in length-focused mascaras. The formula layers well but can become uneven if applied excessively; experts acknowledge it's effective though sometimes needing primer assistance for peak results.

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Irritation / Eye Safety

Formulated as 98% naturally derived ingredients including soothing goji berry extract (antioxidant-rich fruit component), this mascara markets itself as safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers alike—claims supported by ophthalmologist testing endorsements (eye health expert validation). Feedback confirms low irritation risk overall; however, those prone to allergies should note preservative inclusion like phenoxyethanol (common cosmetic preservative) might be sensitizing factors for some individuals.

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Smudge & Wear Resistance

While promising all-day wearability via a tubing-like glide system facilitating easy removal without harsh rubbing, user reports reveal mixed experiences regarding smudging and flaking under humid conditions or oily skin types. Its moderate smudge resistance ranks below waterproof alternatives but offers easier nightly cleansing routines compared against heavier formulas prone to stubborn residue—making it suitable mostly where mild durability suffices rather than extreme endurance demands.

Brush Applicator Effectiveness

The iconic hourglass-shaped brush is the star player, designed to separate and coat lashes evenly from root to tip. This shape aims for precise application, delivering volume without clumping—though some users note that layering requires care to avoid buildup. Experts praise its ability to reach every lash with minimal effort, creating a defined yet dramatic look. The wand’s design also facilitates curling support when paired with a curler, aligning well with brand claims of enhanced lash definition and separation.

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Conclusion

Navigating the world of mascara demands a brush that masters precision, and here the hourglass applicator earns its stripes with thoughtful lash separation. Its formula champions volumizing power without sacrificing subtlety, while bamboo fibers weave in an elegant touch of lengthening effect that users appreciate for natural elongation. The promise of being gentle rings true through its ophthalmologist-tested safety, catering to sensitive eyes without compromise. Yet, this mascara’s journey is marked by moderate smudge resistance, reminding wearers it’s no waterproof warrior. Conditioning benefits add nourishing flair but don’t overshadow occasional reports of clumping if layered too thickly. This blend suits those who seek drama with care—a middle ground where bold meets breathable lashes. For enthusiasts embracing clean beauty yet craving visible impact, it offers a distinct profile worth exploring before committing to your next eye-opening upgrade.

Feature Scores Icon

Feature Scores

This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.

Performance

Lengthening Effectiveness

4/5

Volumizing Effectiveness

4/5

Curl Retention

4/5

Smudge Resistance

3/5

Buildability

4/5

Value

Price-to-Quality Ratio

4/5

Size Quantity

4/5

Design

Brush Applicator Design

4/5

Shade Range

3/5

Packaging Aesthetics

4/5

Health

Ingredient Safety

4/5

Ophthalmologist Tested

5/5

Lash Conditioning Benefit

4/5

Safety

Contamination Controls

3/5

Allergen Transparency

4/5

Sustainability

Recyclable Packaging

2/5

Cruelty Free Availability

5/5

Refillability

1/5

Experience Style

Range of Formula Options

3/5

Customization

2/5

Specifications Icon

Specifications

This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.

Performance

Value

Design

Safety

Sustainability

Experience Style

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Frequently Asked Questions


3 Questions