I’ll be honest—mascara and I have had a love-hate relationship. Over the years, I’ve swiped on countless tubes, only to be left with clumpy, smudgy messes or formulas that irritated my sensitive eyes. So when I heard about Covergirl’s Lash Blast Cleantopia Mascara, with its clean, vegan formula and plant-based hype, I was intrigued but skeptical. Could a drugstore mascara really deliver the volume and length I craved while being gentle on my eyes? Spoiler alert: it did, and then some.

My Journey With CoverGirl Cleantopia Mascara

My first encounter with Cleantopia was pure serendipity. I was browsing the makeup aisle at my local drugstore, and the mint-green packaging caught my eye. The promise of “100% cellulose plant fibers” and ingredients like aloe leaf extract and sustainably sourced rainforest maracuja oil sounded like something out of a high-end beauty boutique, not a $12 drugstore find. I grabbed the Black Brown shade, thinking it’d suit my fair complexion and hazel eyes for a softer, natural look.

The first time I applied it, I was hooked. The hourglass-shaped brush glided through my lashes like a dream, coating each one from root to tip without leaving a single clump. I wiggled the wand at the base and pulled it upward, just as the brand suggests, and my lashes instantly looked longer and fuller. I didn’t even need to curl them beforehand, which is a huge win for my lazy makeup days. After two coats, my eyes popped in a way that felt subtle yet striking—like I was channeling Hailey Bieber’s effortless vibe. Best of all? It felt lightweight, almost like I wasn’t wearing mascara at all.

I wore it through a long day—think morning coffee runs, a sweaty gym session, and an evening out with friends—and it didn’t budge. No smudges under my eyes, no flakes on my cheeks. Even when my allergies acted up and my eyes got watery, Cleantopia held strong. Removing it was a breeze, too; just warm water and a gentle cleanser, and it slid off without tugging at my lashes. For someone with sensitive eyes and a history of mascara-induced irritation, this was a revelation. I was sold, but let’s dig into what makes this mascara shine (and where it might fall short).

The Pros of CoverGirl Cleantopia Mascara

Voluminous Lashes Without the Clump Drama: Let’s talk about the star of the show: volume. Cleantopia delivers up to 302% more volume, according to Covergirl’s consumer study, and I believe it. With just one or two swipes, my thin, barely-there lashes transform into full, fluttery fans. The hourglass lush brush is a genius design—it grabs every lash, even the tiny ones in the corners, and coats them evenly. Unlike some mascaras that leave you with spidery clumps, this one separates lashes beautifully, giving you that clean, defined look. I’ve gotten compliments on my lashes looking “naturally long,” which is the ultimate mascara win.

Clean, Vegan Formula That’s Kind to Your Eyes: If you’re like me and care about what’s in your makeup, Cleantopia’s formula is a breath of fresh air. It’s 72% natural-origin ingredients, infused with aloe leaf extract, ceramides, and maracuja oil. No parabens, mineral oil, talc, fragrance, or sulfates here, which means it’s less likely to irritate sensitive eyes or skin. As someone who wears contacts and deals with occasional allergies, I can confirm it’s ophthalmologically tested and gentle. I’ve worn it for 12-hour days without a hint of discomfort, and that’s saying something.

Smudge-Proof Staying Power: There’s nothing worse than checking the mirror mid-day and finding raccoon eyes staring back at you. Cleantopia’s smudge-proof, flake-free formula lasts up to 24 hours, and it’s not just marketing fluff. I’ve tested it through humid summer days, emotional movie nights, and even a light drizzle, and it stays put. Yet, when it’s time to take it off, it doesn’t require a wrestling match. A quick double cleanse or some micellar water does the trick, leaving my lashes feeling nourished rather than stripped.

Budget-Friendly Brilliance: At around $11-$14 depending on where you shop, Cleantopia is a steal. You’re getting a high-performing, clean mascara that rivals luxury brands without breaking the bank. I’ve spent triple that on mascaras that didn’t deliver half the results, so this feels like a victory for my wallet and my lashes. Plus, it’s widely available at drugstores, Target, and online, so you don’t have to hunt it down.

The Cons of CoverGirl Cleantopia Mascara

The Brush Can Be a Bit Bulky: While I love the hourglass brush for its volumizing magic, it’s not perfect. The wand is on the larger side with long bristles, which can make application tricky if you have smaller eyes or less dexterity. I’ve accidentally smudged it on my eyelids a couple of times, especially when I’m rushing. It wipes off easily before it dries, but it’s something to keep in mind. If you’re used to slim, precise wands, you might need a little practice to master this one.

Clumping Risk with Over-Application: Cleantopia’s formula is buildable, which is great for layering, but there’s a catch. If you get carried away with too many coats—say, four or more—you might notice some clumping. I learned this the hard way during a bold makeup day when I went for drama and ended up with slightly sticky lashes. To avoid this, I stick to two or three coats and wipe excess product off the wand before applying. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it requires a bit of finesse.

Limited Shade Range: Cleantopia comes in five shades: Extreme Black, Black, Black Brown, Brown, and Ultramarine Black. While I adore the Black Brown for its soft, natural look, I wish there were more options, especially for those who love experimenting with colors. The Ultramarine Black, with its subtle blue tint, is fun for a playful vibe, but it’s not as versatile for everyday wear. If you’re someone who likes a rainbow of mascara shades, you might find the selection a tad limiting.

Not Waterproof (But Water-Resistant): This isn’t a full-blown con, but it’s worth noting: Cleantopia is water-resistant, not waterproof. It handles light moisture like tears or sweat like a champ, but if you’re swimming or caught in a downpour, it might not hold up. Covergirl does offer a waterproof version, which I haven’t tried yet, but if you need bulletproof staying power, you might want to explore that option.

How Cleantopia Stacks Up Against Other Brands

Maybelline Sky High Mascara: Maybelline’s Sky High Mascara has been a drugstore darling for years, and I get why. Its flex tower brush and lightweight formula give insane length, making it a go-to for those “my lashes but better” days. I’ve used it religiously in the past, and it’s fantastic for separating lashes. However, Cleantopia edges it out in volume and staying power. While Sky High can sometimes flake after a long day, Cleantopia stays flawless. The clean formula of Cleantopia also feels like a step up, especially if you’re avoiding synthetic ingredients. That said, Sky High’s slimmer brush is easier to maneuver, so it’s a toss-up if precision is your priority.

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise: L’Oréal’s Lash Paradise is another heavy hitter in the drugstore mascara game, promising plush, voluminous lashes with a creamy formula. I’ve swiped it on for special occasions, and it delivers a glamorous, full-lash look. However, it can feel heavier than Cleantopia, and I’ve noticed some smudging under my eyes by evening. Cleantopia’s plant-based ingredients and gentler formula make it a better pick for sensitive eyes, and its easy removal is a big plus. Lash Paradise might win for dramatic evening looks, but Cleantopia is my everyday MVP for its balance of performance and comfort.

Benefit They’re Real! Mascara: Benefit’s They’re Real! Mascara is a cult favorite, and I’ve splurged on it for its lengthening and defining powers. The spiky wand grabs every lash, creating a fanned-out effect that’s hard to beat. But at $29, it’s a pricey commitment, and the formula isn’t as gentle as Cleantopia’s. I’ve had moments of irritation with They’re Real!, especially after long wear, which I never experience with Cleantopia. For the price and clean credentials, Cleantopia holds its own, offering comparable volume and length without the luxury price tag or eye discomfort.

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara: Too Faced’s Better Than Sex Mascara is the gold standard for bold, va-va-voom lashes, and I’ve reached for it when I want to make a statement. Its hourglass brush, similar to Cleantopia’s, packs on volume, but the formula can be wet and prone to clumping if you’re not careful. Cleantopia feels lighter and less fussy, with a smoother application that doesn’t require constant combing. Plus, Too Faced isn’t vegan or clean, which matters if you’re conscious about ingredients. For everyday wear, Cleantopia’s ease and affordability make it a stronger contender, though Better Than Sex still rules for over-the-top glamour.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Cleantopia Mascara

Store It Properly to Keep It Fresh: To keep your Cleantopia mascara in tip-top shape, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. I keep mine in a makeup drawer rather than my bathroom, where humidity can mess with the formula. Avoid pumping the wand in and out of the tube—this lets air in and dries out the product faster. Instead, gently twist the wand to pick up product. I’ve found that proper storage helps the mascara stay smooth and clump-free for the full three months I typically use a tube.

Clean the Wand for Smooth Application: If you notice the wand getting gunky, give it a quick clean to maintain that flawless application. I wipe mine with a clean tissue every couple of weeks to remove dried mascara buildup. For a deeper clean, soak the wand in warm water with a drop of gentle cleanser, then rinse and pat dry. This keeps the bristles flexible and ensures you’re not transferring old product onto your lashes. A clean wand makes a huge difference in avoiding clumps, especially as the tube gets older.

Apply It Like a Pro: For the best results, apply Cleantopia with intention. Start by wiping excess product off the wand on the rim of the tube—this prevents overloading your lashes. Hold the wand horizontally and wiggle it at the base of your lashes, then sweep upward to the tips. I like to use the tip of the wand to coat those hard-to-reach corner lashes. If you want extra volume, wait 30 seconds between coats to let the first layer set. And don’t skip curling your lashes beforehand if you want that wide-eyed effect—it amplifies Cleantopia’s lifting power.

Remove It Gently to Protect Your Lashes: Cleantopia’s easy-to-remove formula is a blessing, but you still need to be gentle to avoid lash fallout. I use a micellar water-soaked cotton pad, pressing it against my closed eyes for a few seconds to loosen the mascara. Then, I wipe downward softly, never tugging or rubbing. Follow up with a gentle cleanser to remove any residue. This routine keeps my lashes healthy and ensures I’m not stressing them out. If you wear contacts like me, make sure your hands are clean to avoid irritation.

Replace It Every Three Months: Mascara isn’t meant to last forever, and Cleantopia is no exception. I replace mine every three months to keep the formula fresh and avoid bacteria buildup, which can lead to eye infections. If you notice the mascara starting to smell funky or feel thicker than usual, it’s time to toss it. I mark the purchase date on the tube with a Sharpie so I don’t lose track. A fresh tube ensures you’re getting that smooth, voluminous application every time.

Also read: My Thoughts on CoverGirl Exhibitionist Mascara Reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Covergirl Clean Mascara Really Clean?

The term “clean” in beauty can be a bit murky, but Covergirl’s Lash Blast Cleantopia Mascara lives up to the hype for the most part. It’s formulated without parabens, mineral oil, talc, fragrance, or sulfates, and 72% of its ingredients are of natural origin. The inclusion of plant-based cellulose fibers, aloe leaf extract, and sustainably sourced maracuja oil adds to its eco-friendly cred. However, some purists might point out that ingredients like paraffin and synthetic wax aren’t “green” in the strictest sense. For a drugstore mascara, it’s a solid step toward cleaner beauty, especially for sensitive eyes.

Does Cleantopia Mascara Smudge?

In my experience, Cleantopia is impressively smudge-proof for a non-waterproof formula. I’ve worn it through long days, sweaty workouts, and even teary moments without those dreaded under-eye smudges. It’s water-resistant, so it holds up to light moisture, but heavy water exposure (like swimming) might cause it to run. If smudging is a major concern, the waterproof version could be worth trying. For everyday wear, I’ve found it stays put beautifully, even in humid conditions.

Which Covergirl Mascara Is the Best?

Choosing the “best” Covergirl mascara depends on your needs, but Cleantopia is my top pick for its balance of volume, clean ingredients, and ease of use. I used to swear by the classic Lash Blast Volume (the orange tube) for its bold, full-lash effect, but its fragrance was a dealbreaker once my sensitivities kicked in. Cleantopia does everything the original did—volume, length, separation—without the irritation. If you prefer a more dramatic, clumpy-on-purpose look, the Clump Crusher might suit you, but for versatility and comfort, Cleantopia wins.

Is Covergirl or L’Oréal Mascara Better?

This is a tough one, as both brands have their strengths. Covergirl’s Cleantopia shines for its clean, vegan formula and gentle application, making it ideal for sensitive eyes and daily wear. L’Oréal’s Voluminous Lash Paradise offers a richer, more dramatic look, but it can feel heavier and occasionally smudges. If clean ingredients and affordability are your priorities, Covergirl takes the crown. If you’re after high-glam volume and don’t mind a slightly fussier formula, L’Oréal might edge out. For me, Cleantopia’s ease and comfort make it my go-to.

Final Thoughts

After weeks of testing Covergirl Cleantopia Mascara, I’m convinced it’s a must for anyone who loves lush lashes with a conscience. Its clean, vegan formula, unbeatable volume, and smudge-proof staying power make it a standout in the drugstore aisle. Whether you’re a mascara newbie or a seasoned pro, this $12 gem delivers luxury-level results without the price tag. Grab a tube, swipe it on, and get ready to fall in love with your lashes. Your eyes—and your wallet—will thank you.

CoverGirl Cleantopia Mascara Reviews: Is It Worth It?