Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara Set

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77%
23%
88%
Volumizing Performance
74%
Lengthening Effect
71%
Wear Longevity
66%
Smudge Resistance
86%
Brush Design
84%
Primer Effectiveness
78%
Formula Comfort
63%
Ease of Removal
81%
Value for Money
83%
Packaging & Presentation
76%
Application Ease
69%
Lash Curl Retention
82%
Buildability
More

Overview

The Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara Set is a two-step lash system that pairs a conditioning primer with a volumizing mascara — and crucially, both are full size, which immediately separates it from the travel-sized fillers that tend to populate beauty gift sets. Too Faced has earned real standing in the prestige mascara category, and this duo leans into that reputation rather than coasting on it. That said, expectations should be calibrated: this is a kit for someone who genuinely invests in their lash routine, not a casual buyer looking for a basic everyday option. Think of it as a considered upgrade, not a novelty purchase.

Features & Benefits

The primer goes on first, coating lashes with a moisturizing formula that plumps and primes each fiber before the mascara is applied — that base layer is what does much of the heavy lifting. The mascara then uses an hourglass-shaped wand designed to fan out and grip lashes from root to tip, building volume without piling product into the corners. Because both formulas are liquid and include moisturizing agents, wear stays flexible throughout the day rather than turning stiff or flaky. The combined effect is a layered lash result that a single mascara, however well-formulated, genuinely struggles to replicate on its own.

Best For

This lash primer and mascara kit suits anyone who already enjoys mascara and wants to push their results further — especially people with sparse or short lashes who find a single coat never quite delivers the density they want. It also holds up well as a gift: both pieces are full size and come from a recognizable brand, so it reads as thoughtful and complete rather than a thrown-together bundle. If you already reach for the Better Than Sex mascara daily and have wondered whether the primer is worth adding, this set answers that question neatly. Casual makeup wearers who prefer a quick single-step routine may find the layering process more involved than they want.

User Feedback

Buyers consistently report that the primer noticeably changes their results — lashes look fuller and hold their curl longer than with mascara alone. The wand shape earns praise for performing well across varied eye shapes, including hooded and deep-set lids. On the downside, humidity and heat remain a recurring concern, with some users noting light smudging by midday in warm or oily conditions. Removal also requires a dedicated cleanser; many reviewers recommend an oil-based option to avoid tugging. On value, most buyers note the set costs less than purchasing each piece separately, which lands well. Those with sensitive eyes occasionally report mild irritation, making a patch test a sensible precaution before daily use.

#Mascara
#Eyes
#Makeup
#Beauty & Personal Care

Pros

  • Both pieces are full size, making this one of the more complete and honest gift sets in the prestige mascara category.
  • The primer conditions lashes before application, which visibly improves how well the mascara grips and builds.
  • The hourglass wand shape works across a range of eye shapes, including hooded and deep-set lids.
  • Moisturizing formula in both products helps keep wear flexible, reducing flaking and brittleness throughout the day.
  • Buying the duo together is more cost-efficient than purchasing the mascara and primer as separate full-size items.
  • The two-step system produces a noticeably denser, more layered lash look compared to mascara applied alone.
  • Compact, well-packaged design makes this lash primer and mascara kit practical to store or gift without additional wrapping.
  • Too Faced has a long track record with this mascara line, so the formulas are well-tested and widely reviewed.

Cons

  • The two-step application adds meaningful time to a morning routine, which is a real trade-off for busy wearers.
  • Hold in humid or hot conditions is inconsistent — light smudging by midday is a recurring complaint from users in warm climates.
  • Removal requires a dedicated, preferably oil-based cleanser; standard face wash is often not enough and can cause tugging.
  • People with sensitive or reactive eyes may find the layered formula load causes mild irritation with daily use.
  • The formula is not waterproof, which limits its reliability for outdoor events, workouts, or high-humidity environments.
  • Results lean strongly toward volume and fullness rather than length, which may not align with every buyer's lash goals.
  • At a prestige price point, it is a harder recommendation for first-time buyers who are unsure they will commit to the two-step routine.
  • The combined volume across both products is relatively modest, so frequent users may find the set runs out faster than expected.

Ratings

The scores below reflect our AI-driven analysis of verified buyer reviews for the Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara Set, collected from global markets and actively filtered to exclude incentivized, bot-generated, or otherwise unreliable submissions. Each category captures both the genuine strengths and the recurring frustrations real users have reported, so you get an honest picture of what this lash primer and mascara kit actually delivers day-to-day.

Volumizing Performance
88%
The combination of primer and mascara produces a noticeably denser lash look that most users could not replicate with their previous single-step routine. People with naturally sparse or fine lashes in particular report a buildable fullness that holds its shape through the morning without needing a touch-up.
A small segment of users with already-thick lashes find the added volume tips into clumping territory if they apply more than two coats. The sweet spot requires some trial with coat count, and that calibration period frustrates buyers who expect consistent results from the first application.
Lengthening Effect
74%
26%
The hourglass wand does a reasonable job of fanning lashes outward, which creates a widening effect that reads as added length on lashes that start relatively short. Users with monolid or almond eye shapes in particular mention that the horizontal spread improves the overall eye-opening result.
This mascara duo leans clearly toward volume rather than length, and buyers who prioritize elongation over density are often underwhelmed. Several reviewers who switched from length-focused mascaras reported the extension effect was modest and did not justify the added primer step on its own.
Wear Longevity
71%
29%
Under typical indoor office conditions, the formula holds reasonably well through an eight-hour day without significant fading or crumbling. Users in drier climates or air-conditioned environments consistently report clean, intact lashes from morning meetings through an evening out.
Humidity and heat are genuine weak points — users in coastal cities or those who commute in warm weather frequently report light smudging under the eyes by midday. The non-waterproof formula is the root cause, and no amount of primer layering fully compensates for that limitation in challenging conditions.
Smudge Resistance
66%
34%
On days without excessive heat or moisture exposure, the Better Than Sex set behaves well and leaves no visible transfer on the under-eye area for most users. Those with normal-to-dry skin generally report cleaner wear throughout the day compared to thinner, less-pigmented mascaras they have used previously.
Oily-lidded users and those living in humid regions rate this aspect significantly lower, with transfer to the under-eye skin becoming noticeable within four to five hours of application. It is one of the most frequently cited complaints in negative reviews and is almost always tied to skin type or climate rather than product defect.
Brush Design
86%
The hourglass wand shape receives consistent praise for its ability to reach lashes in the inner and outer corners without requiring awkward angles or multiple repositioning passes. Users with deep-set and hooded eyes specifically mention that the curved shape grips lashes at the root more effectively than a straight cylindrical brush.
A minority of users with very straight or downward-pointing lashes find the brush shape less intuitive to work with, as the curve can deposit slightly uneven product before lashes are properly curled. A lash curler before application largely resolves this, but it adds yet another step to what is already a multi-product routine.
Primer Effectiveness
84%
The primer earns strong marks for making a visible difference to the mascara result — users who tested the mascara alone versus over the primer almost universally preferred the primed result for density and staying power. It also conditions lashes during wear, which a handful of long-term users credit with reduced lash breakage over time.
The primer requires a brief drying window before mascara application, and users who rush this step frequently report clumping and an uneven finish. There is no on-pack timing guidance, which leaves new users guessing and occasionally writing off the primer as ineffective when the real issue is application sequence.
Formula Comfort
78%
22%
The moisturizing ingredients in both formulas mean the products wear comfortably without the tight, brittle feeling that cheaper mascaras can leave on lashes by late afternoon. Contact-lens-free users with normal eye sensitivity generally report no irritation across a full day of wear.
Users with sensitive eyes or a history of reactions to prestige mascara formulas report occasional mild irritation, particularly when the products are used daily without breaks. The layered formula load — two products rather than one — increases the cumulative exposure to preservatives and pigments, which is a real consideration for reactive eyes.
Ease of Removal
63%
37%
When removed with a proper oil-based cleanser and a gentle press-and-hold technique, the formula comes off relatively cleanly without leaving significant staining on the eyelid. Users who already incorporate a double-cleanse routine into their evening skincare report no additional friction in removing this lash primer and mascara kit.
Attempts to remove the mascara with standard micellar water or a regular face wash are widely reported as insufficient, often leaving residue that requires rubbing — which pulls on the lash line and under-eye skin. This is a meaningful inconvenience for users who prefer a minimal evening routine and do not typically use dedicated eye makeup removers.
Value for Money
81%
19%
Purchasing this duo as a set costs less than buying the mascara and primer individually at full retail, which most buyers are quick to flag as a genuine saving. For someone already sold on the Better Than Sex line, the bundled price represents a straightforward efficiency that removes any hesitation about adding the primer to their routine.
For a first-time buyer unsure whether the two-step system will work for their lash type, the price point is a meaningful commitment to an untested routine. A few users who found the primer underwhelming in their specific case felt the set pricing gave them less flexibility to cut their losses than if they had bought each item separately.
Packaging & Presentation
83%
The set arrives in compact, clean packaging that reads as an intentional gift rather than a promotional bundle, which buyers consistently mention when describing it as a beauty present. The overall dimensions are practical — it fits neatly into a makeup bag without the awkward bulk that larger gift sets can create.
Some buyers note that the outer packaging, while attractive at unboxing, is not particularly durable and shows wear quickly if kept on a vanity or used for travel storage. The presentation is better suited to gifting than to long-term functional use as a carrying case.
Application Ease
76%
24%
For users with prior mascara experience, the two-step application process feels intuitive within a few days and adds only a modest amount of time to a morning routine. The primer wand is a similar form factor to the mascara wand, so the muscle memory transition between steps is minimal.
Mascara beginners and anyone used to a single-product routine find the layered process noticeably more involved than expected. Timing the primer dry-down correctly, managing two wands, and avoiding transferring product to the upper lid are all small friction points that add up for infrequent or casual makeup wearers.
Lash Curl Retention
69%
31%
Users who curl their lashes before applying the primer report that the layered formula does a reasonable job of locking the curl in place compared to lighter mascaras that let curl drop within a couple of hours. The added coating weight from two products appears to help anchor the curl when lashes are prepared correctly beforehand.
Without pre-curling, straight or downward-growing lashes are not reliably lifted by this system alone. Several users with Asian lash types specifically note that they still need a heated curler after application to achieve the upward result they are after, which adds steps to an already multi-stage routine.
Buildability
82%
18%
One of the more consistently praised aspects of the Better Than Sex set is how well the mascara responds to additional coats — coverage builds gradually without the product turning tacky or forming visible fibrous clumps between layers. This makes it a practical choice for anyone who adjusts their lash intensity depending on the occasion.
The buildability window closes relatively quickly once the first coat begins to dry, meaning users who apply a second or third coat too late in the drying process do encounter clumping. This is a common technique issue rather than a formula defect, but the lack of on-pack guidance means many users discover the limit only after a frustrating application.

Suitable for:

The Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara Set is a strong match for anyone who already has a genuine interest in their lash routine and wants to push their results further without piecing together a system on their own. It works particularly well for people with naturally sparse, short, or straight lashes who rely on mascara to create visible definition — the primer step adds a foundational layer that gives the mascara more to grip and build on. Beauty gift shoppers will also find this an easy win: both pieces are full size, the brand is widely recognized, and the set arrives without needing any additional thought or curation. Existing fans of the Better Than Sex mascara who have been curious about the primer counterpart get a convenient and cost-effective way to try the complete two-step routine. Anyone who regularly attends events, works in environments where appearance matters, or simply enjoys a more polished daily look will find the extra application step pays off visually.

Not suitable for:

The Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara Set is not the right pick for someone who wants a fast, minimal morning routine — applying primer, waiting briefly, then layering mascara adds time and attention that a single-step routine simply does not require. Buyers with sensitive or reactive eyes should approach with caution, as the layered product load can increase the chance of irritation, and the formula is not specifically formulated for contact lens wearers or those prone to reactions. If you are looking for a waterproof formula that holds up through swimming, intense exercise, or very humid climates, this set will likely disappoint — smudging under sustained moisture is a noted limitation. The duo is also not well-suited to someone on a tight beauty budget who is trying the brand for the first time, since the price point reflects a prestige tier and the two-step commitment may not convert to everyday use for a mascara newcomer. Finally, buyers hoping for dramatic lengthening over volumizing may find the results weighted more toward fullness and density than dramatic extension.

Specifications

  • Brand: Manufactured by Too Faced, a prestige cosmetics brand widely distributed in specialty beauty retail.
  • Set Contents: Includes one full-size Better Than Sex Foreplay Mascara Primer and one full-size Better Than Sex Mascara in Black.
  • Item Form: Both the primer and mascara are liquid formulas delivered via wand applicators.
  • Total Volume: The combined product volume across both items is 0.54 fl oz.
  • Color: The mascara is available in Black in this set configuration.
  • Brush Shape: The mascara uses an hourglass-style wand designed to grip lashes from root to tip and build volume evenly.
  • Formula Feature: Both products include moisturizing agents intended to maintain formula flexibility and reduce flaking during wear.
  • Finish: The mascara is formulated to deliver a dramatic volume and length finish on the lash line.
  • Dimensions: The packaged set measures 5.2 x 1.57 x 0.79 inches, making it compact enough for a vanity drawer or travel bag.
  • Weight: The complete set weighs approximately 3 ounces including packaging.
  • UPC: The product UPC is 651986022687, corresponding to this specific duo configuration.
  • Market Tier: Positioned in the prestige beauty segment, this set is priced above mass-market alternatives.
  • Primary Use: Designed as a two-step lash enhancement routine — primer applied first, mascara layered over once the primer has set.
  • Waterproof: Neither the primer nor the mascara in this set is a waterproof formula.
  • Removal Method: An oil-based or dedicated eye makeup remover is recommended for clean, gentle removal without tugging.
  • Suitable Eyes: The hourglass wand is designed to be functional across varied eye shapes, though sensitive-eye users should conduct a patch test before regular use.

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FAQ

Yes, a brief wait is recommended. Applying the mascara while the primer is still wet can cause clumping. A 30-to-60-second pause is usually enough to let the primer coat set before you layer the mascara over it.

Both are full-size products, which genuinely sets this kit apart from a lot of beauty gift sets that include miniatures. You are getting the same size you would buy if you purchased each piece separately from a beauty counter.

Technically yes, but you would not be getting the full value out of the set. The primer is specifically formulated to amplify what the mascara does, so skipping it means the two-step investment is not really being used as intended. If you only want the mascara, buying it as a standalone product would likely be more cost-effective.

For most people in normal indoor conditions, wear through the day is solid. However, this is not a waterproof formula, and users in humid climates or those with oily lids report some transfer or light smudging by midday. If that is a concern, a lash sealant applied over the top can help extend wear.

The formula is not specifically labeled as contact-lens safe. Contact lens wearers should check the ingredient list against any known sensitivities and may want to consult with an eye care professional before making this part of a daily routine.

An oil-based eye makeup remover works best here. Soak a cotton pad and hold it gently against the lashes for a few seconds before wiping, rather than rubbing immediately. This approach prevents unnecessary tugging on the lash line and gets both layers off cleanly.

Probably not the ideal choice. This lash primer and mascara kit is built around a two-step system that works best for people who already have some comfort with mascara application. For a beginner, the routine can feel unnecessarily involved, and the learning curve might reduce how much they actually use it.

Technically you can, but the primer is formulated to complement the Better Than Sex mascara specifically. Compatibility with other mascara formulas is not guaranteed, and some combinations can cause clumping or patchy coverage. Sticking with the intended pairing gives you the most predictable results.

The hourglass shape is actually well-suited to shorter and sparser lashes because it is designed to grip individual lashes from the base rather than just coating the tips. Paired with the primer, the buildable nature of the system tends to show the biggest visible difference on lashes that need more help.

With standard daily use, most wearers find the mascara lasts around two to three months before the formula starts to dry out — which also aligns with the general recommendation to replace mascara every three months for hygiene reasons. The primer, used in thinner coats as a base layer, tends to last a similar amount of time in this set configuration.