Makeup Terminology

Satin vs matte, coverage vs opacity, undertones, skin tint vs foundation — the vocabulary defined clearly.

All Troubleshooting Technique Ingredients Labels & Claims Terminology Comparisons

Tubing Mascara vs Traditional Mascara

Three things everyone says about tubing mascara are wrong: that you can spot one from the ingredient list, that they're wax-free, and that warm water alone removes them. The patents say otherwise.

July 28, 2026

Terminology11 min read

Transfer-Resistant vs Water-Resistant vs Waterproof

One of these three words is regulated, and only on sunscreen — which the US doesn't classify as a cosmetic at all. On mascara and foundation, all three mean whatever the brand decided.

July 28, 2026