Hey beauty lovers! After seeing TONS of reviews about the Maybelline Total Temptation Waterproof Mascara in Very Black, I wanted to share what seems to be the honest truth about this product. Is it actually worth your money? Let’s dive in!
First Impressions: Packaging & Scent
The Total Temptation mascara comes in a pretty cute bottle – nothing revolutionary, but definitely eye-catching enough to stand out in your makeup collection. Several reviewers mentioned there’s a coconut or vanilla scent to this mascara, which is actually quite pleasant and sets it apart from other mascaras that can have harsh chemical smells. If you’re sensitive to fragrances though, this is something to consider!
The Brush & Application Experience
The brush design seems to be a bit polarizing. Some users LOVE it, while others find it a bit problematic. It has a fuller brush with bristles (not plastic), which many mascara lovers prefer for building volume.
When it comes to application, most reviewers found it:
- Easy to apply without making a mess
- Builds well with 1-2 coats (some mention you can go for a dramatic look with 2 coats)
- Doesn’t require a lot of effort to get good coverage
- Separates lashes reasonably well
However, there were definitely some complaints:
- Some received tubes that seemed dried out upon arrival
- A few mentioned it can get clumpy if you’re not careful
- The wand might collect too much product, requiring you to wipe off excess
The Performance: Does It Actually Work?
What Most Users Love:
- Length & Volume: Many reviewers were IMPRESSED with how it dramatically increased the appearance of their lashes, making them look fuller and longer.
- Curl Holding: This seems to be a major win! Lots of users mentioned that it holds a curl really well, which is crucial if you have straight lashes.
- Color Payoff: The “Very Black” shade lives up to its name for most users, giving intense color.
- No Raccoon Eyes: A good number of reviewers mentioned no smudging or flaking throughout the day.
The Not-So-Great Stuff:
- Waterproof Claims: This is where opinions really diverge. While many said it truly is waterproof and holds up during swimming and water sports, others experienced raccoon eyes after a few hours in humidity or after crying.
- Flaking: Some users mentioned experiencing flaking throughout the day, which can be super annoying.
- Consistency Issues: There seem to be quality control issues – some tubes arrive perfect while others are dried out or goopy.
Removal Experience
This is interesting – despite being waterproof, many users mentioned it’s actually not too difficult to remove! Some said it comes off with just soap and water (which is RARE for waterproof mascaras), while others use oil-based makeup removers or cleansing wipes specifically for waterproof products.
Several reviewers mentioned this as a huge plus because it doesn’t damage lashes during removal like some stubborn waterproof formulas can.
Longevity & Value
The price point is definitely a win – it’s significantly less expensive than high-end brands but, according to many former luxury mascara users, performs just as well or BETTER!
As for how long the tube lasts:
- Most seemed pleased with the lifespan
- Some mentioned it dried out faster than they’d like
- A few noted receiving dried-out tubes (possibly old stock)
Who Would Love This Mascara?
Based on the reviews, this mascara would be perfect for:
- Active people: Those who need their mascara to stay put during workouts or water activities
- People with straight lashes: Since it holds a curl exceptionally well
- Those who want drama without falsies: Many mentioned it makes lashes look like false lashes
- Sensitive eyes: Several reviewers with sensitive eyes or contact lenses found this didn’t irritate them
- Budget-conscious beauty lovers: You’re getting luxury-level performance at a drugstore price
Who Should Probably Skip It?
- Those who prefer super wet formulas: This seems to be on the drier side
- People looking for a natural look: Most reviews suggest this gives more of a dramatic effect
- Anyone in extremely humid environments: Mixed reviews on humidity performance
The Verdict: Is It Worth Your Money?
Overall, the Maybelline Total Temptation Waterproof Mascara seems to be a SOLID choice for most people. While there are some consistency issues between tubes, when you get a good one, it appears to rival much more expensive brands.
The fact that it’s both legitimately waterproof for many users AND relatively easy to remove makes it somewhat unique in the mascara world. The pleasant scent is also a nice bonus that many reviewers appreciated.
For the price point, it’s definitely worth trying if you’re in the market for a new waterproof mascara that gives impressive length and volume!
Pro Tips From Reviewers:
- Prep matters! Several users mentioned using a lash curler and primer before application for best results.
- Less is more. Wipe excess product off the brush to avoid clumping.
- Check who you’re buying from. Some mentioned quality differences depending on the seller, so buying directly from Amazon or Maybelline is recommended.
- Two coats for drama. One coat works for a more natural look, but two coats will give you that falsies effect.
- Oil-based removers work best. While some said soap and water works fine, most recommended using proper makeup remover for complete removal.
The “Trying to Find It” Struggle
An interesting note: Several reviewers mentioned this mascara can be difficult to find in stores, with some even worrying it might be discontinued. This could explain why so many are turning to Amazon to purchase it. If you find a tube that works well for you, you might want to stock up just in case!
Final Thoughts
The Maybelline Total Temptation Waterproof Mascara seems to be genuinely beloved by many users who have made it their go-to daily mascara. While no product is perfect for everyone (and there definitely seem to be some quality control issues), the positive reviews far outweigh the negative ones.
At this price point, it’s definitely worth adding to your makeup bag, especially if you’re looking for a mascara that can keep up with an active lifestyle while still being kind to your lashes.
Have you tried it? I’d love to hear your experiences too! 💕
Buy on Amazon: Here
