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essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara Review

Conical-brush mascara aimed at a false-lash effect.

Category Makeup Updated Sep 18, 2026
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essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara Review

Quick Verdict

A budget mascara that punches well above its price. essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara uses a cone-shaped fibre brush to build dramatic volume and length. It is one of the most talked-about cheap mascaras for good reason. It can feel a little dry and flaky by the end of a long day, and it is not a subtle, natural-lash formula.

Few makeup products have built a reputation quite like Lash Princess. At a very low price point, it became a regular in “drugstore dupes” videos and best-seller charts, often compared with prestige mascaras costing several times more. In this review we look at what it is designed to do, how to get the best result from it, and who might prefer something else.

This review draws on essence’s product information, current retailer listings and the general pattern of customer feedback. We have not tested it ourselves, and we separate documented facts from editorial opinion throughout.

Product Overview

essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara is a volumising and lengthening mascara. essence describes its brush as cone-shaped with fibre bristles, designed to coat lashes and create a dramatic, false-lash look. The brand positions it as buildable for volume and length. A waterproof version is also available.

essence is known for low-priced makeup, and the brand markets itself as cruelty-free. Check the current listing for full ingredient details and any claims about suitability for sensitive eyes.

Key Features

  • Cone-shaped fibre brush
  • Designed for volume and length
  • Dramatic, false-lash effect
  • Buildable formula
  • Washable and waterproof versions
  • Very accessible price

What It Is Designed For

As the name suggests, Lash Princess is designed to mimic the look of false lashes: long, full and noticeable. It is aimed at people who want dramatic lashes without paying prestige prices, and it works for nights out, events and anyone who simply prefers a bold everyday look.

The Cone-Shaped Brush

The brush is wider at the base and narrows towards the tip. The wide section loads product onto the main lash line for volume, while the tapered tip reaches smaller lashes in the corners and on the lower lash line. It is a practical design that lets one brush do two jobs.

The fibre bristles help grab and separate lashes, but with a generous formula it is still worth wiping the brush before the first coat. Too much product at once is the main cause of the clumping some people mention.

How to Apply It

Curl lashes first, then wipe the wand on the edge of the tube. Start at the base of the upper lashes, wiggle the brush slightly, and sweep upwards. Use the narrow tip to reach the inner and outer corners. Add a second coat before the first dries for extra drama, then run a clean spoolie through if lashes stick together.

For a softer daytime look, one coat on the upper lashes only is often enough. Because the formula is designed to build, it is easy to go from natural to dramatic, but harder to go back once you have layered heavily.

Wear Through the Day

Lash Princess is appreciated for how quickly it builds volume, but some customers report that it can feel slightly dry or flake a little towards the end of a long day, especially with multiple coats. A few thin coats rather than one thick one, and avoiding the lower lashes if you tend to get smudging, usually help. The waterproof version is the better choice for humid weather or emotional events.

Keeping It Fresh

Budget mascaras are easy to replace, which is actually an advantage: mascara should be swapped every few months anyway for hygiene. Avoid pumping the wand in and out of the tube, which pushes air inside and dries the formula faster. If it starts to smell, clump badly or flake more than usual, it is time for a new tube.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Dramatic volume and length for a very low price
  • Cone-shaped brush reaches corner lashes
  • Buildable from everyday to bold
  • Waterproof version available
  • Easy to replace regularly

Cons

  • Can feel dry or flake by the end of the day
  • Can clump with too much product
  • Not ideal for a very subtle, natural look
  • Waterproof version needs an oil-based remover

Who Should Buy It?

Buy essence Lash Princess if you want dramatic, full lashes on a small budget, if you like to replace mascara often, or if you are curious whether a budget mascara can compete with prestige ones.

Who Should Skip It?

If you prefer a soft, natural look, or if flaking bothers you, a more flexible formula may suit you better. L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise offers a creamier feel, and Maybelline Sky High focuses on clean length.

Price and Value

We do not quote prices because they change; the button on this page opens the current listing. essence Lash Princess sits at the very low end of the market, making it one of the best-value mascaras available.

How It Suits Different Lashes

Short lashes: the lengthening effect helps, and the narrow tip reaches small lashes in the corners. Two thin coats usually look better than one heavy coat.

Straight lashes: curl first. A heavier volumising formula can pull straight lashes down, so the waterproof version, which tends to hold a curl better, may be the better choice.

Sparse lashes: this is where Lash Princess tends to impress most, since it builds visible fullness quickly.

Sensitive eyes: check the current listing for the brand’s claims, and stop using it if you notice itching or watering.

Removing It Gently

Volumising mascaras cling to lashes, so removing them by rubbing can pull out lashes over time. Soak a cotton pad with makeup remover, hold it over the closed eye for a few seconds, then wipe downwards. For the waterproof version, an oil-based remover or cleansing balm is the easiest option. Gentle removal keeps lashes in better condition, which in turn makes any mascara look better.

Is It Too Much for Everyday?

It does not have to be. One thin coat on the upper lashes, with the brush wiped first, gives noticeable definition without the full “false lash” effect. Save the second and third coats for evenings, and essence Lash Princess can cover both situations from a single tube.

Alternatives

For a creamier volumising formula, try L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise. For length and separation, look at Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High.

FAQ

Is Lash Princess really comparable to high-end mascaras?
Many customers compare it favourably, but results vary with lash type and preference.

Does it flake?
Some people notice light flaking late in the day, especially with many coats.

Is it cruelty-free?
essence markets itself as cruelty-free; check the current listing for details.

Is there a waterproof version?
Yes, essence offers a waterproof version.

How do I avoid clumps?
Wipe the brush first and build coats while wet.

How often should I replace it?
Commonly every three months.

Final Verdict

essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara delivers a bold, dramatic look at a price that makes it an easy experiment. It is not the most natural-looking or flake-proof formula, but for volume and length on a budget, it has earned its cult status.

essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara
Where to buy

essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara

Conical-brush mascara aimed at a false-lash effect.

Check Price on Amazon

Price and availability may change. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases.

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