What Is Tubing Mascara? How It Works, Who It Suits and How to Remove It
Quick answer: Tubing mascara wraps each lash in tiny water-resistant polymer "tubes" instead of painting it with oils and waxes. It won't smudge or flake through the day, and it slides off with warm water instead of a heavy eye make-up remover. If that's the kind of easy, no-panda-eyes wear you're after, try Big N Bad Mascara, which washes away with just warm water.
Make-up artists have loved tubing mascaras for years, and it's easy to see why: no smudging under the eyes, no flakes on your cheeks and no scrubbing at the end of the day. Here's how tubing mascara works, who it suits, how to apply and remove it, and a warm-water mascara option from Thin Lizzy.
What Is Tubing Mascara?
Regular mascara uses oils, waxes and pigments that sit on the surface of your lashes. Tubing mascara uses film-forming polymers instead. As it dries, the formula sets into a flexible "tube" around each individual lash. Because the tube grips the lash rather than smearing across it, it doesn't transfer onto your lids or smudge under your eyes.
Tubing Mascara vs Regular and Waterproof Mascara
- Regular mascara: easy to build volume, but can smudge or flake, especially on oily lids or in humid weather.
- Waterproof mascara: very long-wearing, but usually needs an oil-based remover and some rubbing to take off, which is hard on delicate lashes.
- Tubing mascara: resists smudging and flaking during the day, then comes off with warm water and gentle pressure. It's water-resistant rather than fully waterproof, so it may not hold up to swimming.
Who Is Tubing Mascara Best For?
- Anyone who gets "panda eyes" by the afternoon.
- People with oily lids or hooded eyes, where mascara often transfers.
- Anyone who wants a quick, gentle make-up removal routine.
- Mature lashes, which benefit from less rubbing at the end of the day.
If you have very sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses, check the ingredient list and patch test any new eye product first.
Looking for Easy Wear and Warm-Water Removal?
Big N Bad Mascara
Best for: length and lift that stays put all day and washes off with warm water.
A purpose-built precision brush separates and coats every lash, even the short ones at the inner corner and along the lower lash line. The silky, lightweight formula visibly lengthens, lifts and thickens with minimal clumping, and gives all-day hold that resists smudges and flakes. At the end of the day it washes away with nothing more than warm water: no scrubbing and no harsh remover.
- One coat for definition, two for drama
- Resists smudging and flaking
- Washes off with warm water
How to Apply Tubing-Style Mascara
- Start with clean, dry lashes. Oily residue from eye cream or remover can stop the formula from gripping.
- Curl first if you like extra lift. Don't curl after applying.
- Wiggle at the root, then sweep up to the tips in one smooth stroke.
- Add a second coat quickly, before the first one sets. These formulas dry fast, and layering over a dry coat can clump.
- Use the tip of the wand for the inner corner and lower lashes.
How to Remove It
- Splash or hold a warm, wet cloth over closed eyes for 20–30 seconds to soften the formula.
- Press gently and slide downwards. The mascara should come away from the lashes.
- Repeat on any stubborn spots. Avoid tugging or rubbing.
Want Even More Volume?
Max Lash Mascara
Best for: a fuller, lash-extension look without glue or falsies.
A fibre mascara that uses 3D fibres to build and enhance your lashes for longer, thicker-looking results. You control the application, from big to extreme.
Prefer instant drama? See our guide on how to use magnetic lashes.
What Customers Say About Big N Bad Mascara
"Really LOVE it! So easy to use. Really lengthen your eyelashes and the best thing is it stays on all day and doesn't smudge. Washes off with water."
Wendy D., verified customer
"I gave one to my daughter who absolutely loves it, stays on all day, yet easily removed. Perfect."
Susan W., verified customer
"I am very happy with this mascara, it does absolutely what it claims and lasts the whole day!"
Margaret I., verified customer
Read all Big N Bad Mascara reviews →
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tubing mascara waterproof?
Not fully. Tubing mascara resists water, sweat and tears during the day, but it's designed to come off with warm water, so it may not last through swimming.
Does tubing mascara add volume?
Tubing formulas are usually best for length and definition. For extra volume, layer a second coat quickly or try a fibre mascara.
Why is my mascara flaking?
Flaking often happens when mascara is old, dried out or layered over a coat that has already set. Replace mascara every three months and apply coats in quick succession.
How do I stop mascara smudging under my eyes?
Keep eye cream away from the lash line, set your lids with a little powder, and choose a smudge-resistant formula.
Can I buy Thin Lizzy mascara in stores?
Yes. Thin Lizzy is available at Priceline, TerryWhite Chemmart and Wizard Pharmacy stores across Australia. The range can vary by store, so the easiest way to get the full range, bundles and online deals is to shop online. See our FAQ page for stockist details.
Looking for a deal? Many of our best sellers are available in bundle offers from time to time. See our current Bundle Offers →
Final Thoughts
Tubing mascara is a simple way to get clean, smudge-free lashes that come off without a fight. Whatever formula you choose, apply it to clean lashes, layer quickly and remove it gently.
