Let’s be real for a second. Finding a mascara that actually survives a mental breakdown, a humidity-soaked subway ride, or a literal dip in the pool is harder than it should be. Most waterproof formulas are basically just black cement that flakes off into your eyes by noon. But then there’s Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara Too Faced. It has this weird, cult-like status. People either swear it’s the only thing keeping their lashes upright or they complain that it’s a nightmare to scrub off at 11 PM.
Honestly, it’s a polarizing product.
You’ve probably seen the iconic teal tube with the raised water droplets on it. It looks cool, sure, but the chemistry inside is what actually matters. Too Faced launched the original (pink tube) version years ago, and it became the number one selling prestige mascara in America almost instantly. But the waterproof version? That was the response to everyone who loved the volume but hated the "raccoon eye" smudge that happens when you breathe too hard in a humid climate.
Why Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara Too Faced Is Actually Different
Most waterproof mascaras rely heavily on petroleum-based waxes. It’s effective, but it makes your lashes feel like stiff plastic needles. Too Faced took a slightly different path here. They used a combination of high-performance water-resistant polymers and—oddly enough—porcelain flower extract.
Does the flower extract do much? Probably not in terms of structural integrity, but it does help the formula feel less "crunchy" than your standard drugstore waterproof goop. The real magic, though, isn't just the liquid. It's the brush.
The Hourglass Architecture
The brush is shaped like an hourglass. It’s dense. It’s chunky. It’s designed to mimic the curves of a woman's body, according to the brand's founder Jerrod Blandino. But from a purely functional standpoint, that dip in the middle of the wand allows the bristles to grab the tiny lashes in the center of your eye while the flared ends pull the outer corners upward. This creates that "falsies" look without the lash glue drama.
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Wait, there's a catch.
Because the brush holds so much product, it’s incredibly easy to overdo it. If you go in with three heavy coats immediately, you’re going to end up with three giant, stuck-together lashes. It requires a bit of finesse. You have to wiggle it at the base. Pull through slowly. Don't pump the wand in the tube—that just shoves air inside and dries it out faster.
The Science of "Deepest Black"
There is something uniquely dark about this pigment. Too Faced uses a specific carbon black that doesn't lean blue or grey. When you’re looking for high-contrast eyes, especially for photography or a night out, the "deepest black" claim actually holds up. It makes the whites of your eyes look brighter by comparison. It's a classic color theory trick that works.
The Waterproof Test: Does It Actually Stay On?
I’ve seen people wear Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara Too Faced through weddings, funerals, and Florida thunderstorms. It doesn't budge. The formula is a "film-forming" type, meaning it wraps around the lash and creates a barrier that repels H2O.
However, "waterproof" does not mean "oil-proof."
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If you have very oily eyelids or you’re wearing a heavy, oil-based undereye concealer, you might still see some transfer. This isn't a defect in the mascara; it's basic chemistry. Oil dissolves the polymers that hold the mascara in place. If you find it smudging, try setting your undereye area with a translucent powder. It creates a dry bridge that keeps the lashes from "melting" onto your skin.
Removing the "Unremovable"
Let's talk about the struggle. You cannot—I repeat, cannot—remove this with a standard foaming face wash. You will just irritate your eyes and lose three eyelashes in the process. You need a dedicated oil-based cleanser or a bi-phase makeup remover (the kind you have to shake up).
Brands like Bioderma or even Too Faced’s own "MascarOff" are designed for this. You soak a cotton pad, press it against your closed eye for at least 30 seconds, and let the oil break down the wax. Don't scrub. Just wipe. If you're impatient, this mascara isn't for you. It demands a slow nighttime routine.
Common Misconceptions and Why People Get Mad
There are thousands of reviews online, and a good 20% of them are people complaining that the formula is "too dry." Here’s the insider truth: waterproof formulas are drier than original formulas by design. Water is a moisturizing agent. When you remove it to make a product waterproof, you’re left with a higher concentration of solids and waxes.
- The Flaking Issue: If your mascara is flaking, it’s usually because the tube is more than three months old or you’ve been "pumping" the wand.
- The Clumping Issue: Use a clean spoolie (a dry lash brush) to comb through after the first coat. It changes everything.
- The Lash Health Concern: Some people worry that waterproof mascara ruins lashes. It doesn't, provided you aren't ripping it off. The damage usually comes from aggressive removal, not the product itself.
It’s also worth noting that Too Faced is a cruelty-free brand. While they are owned by Estée Lauder now, they’ve maintained their PETA certification. For a lot of people, that’s a non-negotiable part of their beauty kit.
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Comparing the Original vs. Waterproof
People often ask if they should just stick to the pink tube.
The original version is creamier. It's easier to layer. It feels "fluffier" on the lashes.
But if you have straight lashes that refuse to hold a curl? The waterproof version is your only hope. The waxes in the waterproof formula act like hairspray for your eyelashes. Once you curl them with a metal curler and apply the waterproof coat, they stay locked in that upright position. The original formula has too much moisture and will often weigh the lash down, making it go flat after an hour.
Actionable Tips for Professional Results
To get the most out of Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara Too Faced, you need to treat it differently than a $5 drugstore find. It’s a high-maintenance product that gives high-impact results.
- Warm it up: Before applying, stick the tube in your pocket or hold it in your hands for two minutes. This softens the waxes and makes the application much smoother.
- The "Wipe" Technique: When you first pull the wand out, wipe the very tip on a tissue. The "blob" at the end of the brush is the enemy of a clean application.
- Layering Logic: Do one eye at a time. Don't let the first coat dry completely before adding the second, or the brush will snag on the hardened wax.
- The Removal Hack: If you’re out of makeup remover, high-quality coconut oil or olive oil works in a pinch. Just be careful not to get it in your eye, as it can blur your vision for a few minutes.
Ultimately, this mascara is for the person who wants drama. It’s for the person who wants their lashes to be the first thing people notice. It isn't a "no-makeup makeup" look. It’s thick, it’s dark, and it’s incredibly resilient. If you’re willing to put in the effort to remove it properly at the end of the day, it’s arguably one of the most reliable tools in a makeup artist’s kit.
To ensure your lashes stay healthy while using a heavy-duty waterproof formula, always apply a lash primer or a tiny bit of vitamin E oil at night after removal. This keeps the hair follicle hydrated and prevents the brittleness that can sometimes happen with daily waterproof wear. If you find the formula too intense for every day, save it for events, gym sessions, or rainy days when you absolutely cannot afford a smudge. Check the batch code on the bottom of your tube to ensure it hasn't been sitting on a shelf too long; fresh mascara always performs significantly better than a tube that's been open for months.