Yahoo Life Shopping
Why you can trust us

We independently evaluate the products we review. When you buy via links on our site, we may receive compensation. Read more about how we vet products and deals.

I tried this popular brown mascara, and my eyes look so much more natural

This clump-resistant top-seller from Tarte offers a youthful sparkle — it's way less harsh than traditional black.

I like makeup, but I love skin care. I tend to focus on keeping my skin healthy rather than layering on foundation just to make it look like it is. Don't get me wrong — I still appreciate a glam smokey eye, but my everyday look is tinted sunscreen, a little concealer, bronzer and mascara. That's why I was so intrigued when brown and burgundy mascaras started trending on social media. With my blonde hair and light complexion, the muted hues seemed so much more natural than black mascara. But which brown mascara? I tried Tarte's uber-popular Tartlette Tubing Mascara, and here's how it all worked out.

Brown was recently added to this mascara's roster, and suffice it to say that it's popular — it keeps selling out!

$27 at Tarte

Brown mascara exploded in popularity in October 2023, but the trend has had staying power for beauty buffs this year. One of the most popular brown mascaras to try, according to TikTokers, is this tubing mascara option from Tarte.

Tubing mascara uses polymers that wrap around each individual lash to create a "tube," rather than just painting the product on. In turn, the "tubes" make lashes look thicker and longer, but not clumpy. Personally, I love how tubing mascaras look, but I especially love that they're water-resistant, sweat-resistant and smudge-proof, yet they're easy to take off at the end of the day. The mascara comes off with water and very gentle rubbing.

So that's what led me to try Tarte's Tartelette Tubing Mascara in brown, and I'm happy to report that I'm a fan — a big fan, actually. I have naturally blonde eyelashes, so the brown really opens up my eyes without looking too harsh. And I love it for a no-makeup-makeup look. When I want to take it off, I just wash my face and it's gone.

All you need is a single coat. The lash comb is silicone and lifts and separates each lash as you apply it. The formula is also pretty impressive — it contains shea butter and castor oil to help keep your lashes long and healthy. If you have sensitive eyes, you should know that it's been ophthalmologist-tested, dermatologist-tested and labeled safe for contact lens wearers.

before and after pictures of three models wearing Tarte's Tartelette Tubing Mascara
Talk about an eye-opening transformation. (Tarte)

Anyone can wear brown mascara, but it will make blue, green and hazel eyes really pop. Like I said, I'm a fan, but over 1,100 reviewers on Tarte's website give it a collective 4.4 out of 5 stars.

"Best tubing mascara I have found!" said one fan. "I am in love with this mascara. It has been everything I needed it to be — it helps make my lashes look full, and it's easy to clean off with warm water. Perfect mascara."

"I have been using the black for about a year, but just tried the brown and love it even more!" said another. "With my fair skin, I love how natural it looks with or without a full face of makeup. The brown washes away effortlessly with no scrubbing (I usually have to do a light scrubbing with the black). I will definitely be repurchasing!"

"As I age, my eyes get smaller and my lashes more sparse, so I like a good mascara to make them look bigger and brighter. You will not be disappointed with this one. I love it!" wrote another shopper.

Now, if you want to try it, be warned: The mascara keeps selling out in brown. Right now, you can get it on Tarte's website in full size and travel sizes. It was also just restocked at Sephora this week! Play it safe and order soon if you want to get your hands on it.

Not ready to commit to the full size? Try the travel size for less.

$15 at Tarte

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.