Mascara is the unsung hero of most makeup routines—it’s the one step that instantly makes you look more awake, polished, and ready to face the day.
But here’s the real question: do you really need to spend $25–$40 on a tube for fluttery, lifted lashes? Beauty lovers everywhere are proving the answer is no. Enter the Essence Lash Princess Curl & Volume Mascara, a $5 cult favorite that’s gone viral on TikTok, earned glowing editor reviews, and continues to outperform mascaras triple its price.
In this article, we’ll explore exactly why this little tube has become a budget beauty legend. From its one-of-a-kind brush and lash-loving formula to real user results and application hacks, you’ll see why this mascara is one of the best bargains in beauty.
The Budget Beauty Secret Everyone’s Talking About
Let’s be honest—finding a mascara that does it all is like chasing a unicorn. Some lengthen but don’t add volume. Some curl but flake by midday. Others promise “false lash” effects but clump after one coat. That’s what makes the Curl & Volume version of the Lash Princess line so exciting—it manages to check multiple boxes while keeping your wallet intact.
At less than the cost of a fancy coffee, it delivers dramatic volume, noticeable lift, and defined separation. No wonder it’s become a favorite not only among college students on a budget but also among seasoned makeup artists looking for a reliable everyday option.
What Makes Essence Lash Princess Curl & Volume Unique?
The peanut-shaped brush is where the magic begins. Unlike straight or tapered wands, its hourglass design curves with your lash line, grabbing every lash—yes, even the tiny ones in the corners you usually miss. It coats evenly while gently lifting and separating, so lashes look fuller without turning into a clumpy mess.
Clean, Conscious Formulation
One of the best things about this mascara is its ingredient list. Made in Luxembourg, it’s completely vegan and cruelty-free—something you don’t always find in budget-friendly formulas. On top of that, it’s paraben-free and fragrance-free, making it a solid option for people with sensitive eyes or those who wear contact lenses.
Nourishing Ingredients
What sets this mascara apart is its built-in lash care. Instead of harsh formulas that can leave lashes brittle, it contains jojoba, sunflower, and sweet almond oils. These nourishing oils help condition your lashes over time, keeping them healthier and softer even with daily wear. It’s like getting a treatment and a cosmetic in one tube.
Exceptional Value
Luxury mascaras can set you back anywhere from $25 to $35 for a single tube. The Lash Princess Curl & Volume? Just $4.99 for a full-sized 0.4 fl oz. And if you’re the type who doesn’t want to run out, the 3-pack (around $14.97) makes it even more cost-effective. At that price point, you can stock up, stash one in your purse, another in your car, and still spend less than you would on a single designer mascara.
Application Tips for Maximum Impact
Getting the most from this mascara is all about technique. Start at the base of your lashes, then gently wiggle the wand upward as you sweep to the tips. This ensures every lash gets coated and maximizes curl. For everyday wear, one coat is enough for definition. For bolder, more dramatic looks, 2–3 coats add serious volume without creating spidery lashes.
Pro tip: because of its curling brush design, many users say they’ve ditched their eyelash curler altogether. The mascara does the lifting for you. That’s one less tool in your routine.
Removal Without Damage
Another perk is that it removes easily with gentle oil-based or dual-phase removers, meaning less tugging on delicate lashes. Essence even recommends pairing it with their own Remove Like A Boss Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover, though most micellar waters or cleansing balms will do the trick.
Real Results: What Beauty Editors and Users Say
Beauty experts and consumers alike are singing its praises:
- Editors rave: Refinery29 called out its smooth application and lasting wear, while PopSugar highlighted how it delivers a wide-eyed, lifted look that holds throughout the day.
- Users gush: MakeupAlley reviewers consistently note its superior curl and separation compared to other drugstore mascaras, with many calling it their “holy grail.”
- The flip side: Not every review is glowing. Some users report flaking or smudging depending on their skin type or environment. A blogger at EmmiliesBeautyLife liked the lightweight formula but ultimately preferred other versions in the Lash Princess family.
Still, the overwhelming majority agree—it’s a standout mascara, especially for the price.
How It Compares to Other Budget Mascaras
When stacked against other drugstore options, Lash Princess Curl & Volume comes out strong:
- Better separation: While many budget mascaras clump after two coats, this one layers beautifully.
- Cleaner ingredients: Free of parabens and artificial fragrance, it feels like a “clean beauty” option without the clean beauty markup.
- Conditioning power: Those lash-friendly oils set it apart from most under-$10 mascaras.
- Availability: No hunting required—you’ll find it at Ulta, Target, Amazon, and practically every major drugstore.
Why This $5 Wonder Belongs in Your Routine
At the end of the day, the Essence Lash Princess Curl & Volume Mascara proves you don’t need to splurge to get full, fluttery lashes. Its smart brush design, conditioning formula, and unbeatable price make it a true standout in the world of drugstore beauty. It may not be perfect for absolutely everyone, but at $5, it’s worth the experiment—and might just replace your high-end favorite.
You can grab it easily on Amazon, and while you’re there, don’t forget to explore the other Lash Princess variants—from the False Lash Effect to Sculpted Volume. At these prices, it’s easy to find the perfect one (or two) to suit your lash style.
