I wasn't a fan of the popular Benefit Bad Gal Lash mascaras but I'm never one to judge a brand on one or two products that don't work for me in particular. Benefit recently launched their new mascara called 'They're Real!' (priced at £18.50) and after reading a couple of reviews, I was keen to try it out for myself.
Here's the product blurb:
"They're real! lengthens, curls, volumizes, lifts & separates. Our jet black, long-wearing formula won't smudge or dry out. A specially designed brush reveals lashes you never knew you had!
- WHAT ELSE YOU NEED TO KNOW
product details
They're real and here's the proof!
94% saw dramatic length & volume
90% saw base-to-tip curl
94% saw visible lift
100% saw long-wearing results"
The brush is a long slim rubber wand with tiny spikes, along with a rounded end for precise application. It's designed to be used in the traditional horizontal method but also vertically to grab each lash, separate and lift to create a fuller, lengthened and more voluminous appearance.
I really like the slick metallic packaging and angular shape which lends a retro feel that sits well with the kitsch Benefit brand.
So what were my thoughts on this mascara that promises so much? Well, let me break it down into pro's and con's:
PRO'S
The brush is easy to use and minimises the chance of getting mascara everywhere.
The formulation is indeed super black and gives lashes that really dark sooty look.
It doesn't smudge or flake AT ALL.
It gives lashes good length and a lot more curl.
The brush grabs every single little lash to make the most of what you have.
CON'S
It didn't volumise my lashes as much as I had hoped.
It was a bit more difficult to remove at the end of the day.
It does go slightly clumpy if you apply more than two coats (which I don't anyway).
So in conclusion, this mascara is a good, reliable every day product that will really define your lashes and add length without looking over the top or clumpy. It IS super black and adds curl BUT since I'm more a fan of volume, having fine lashes and all, it's not an HG mascara for me. I was impressed by the formula and the fact that it didn't budge all day but mascaras that are difficult to remove are a bit of a bug bear for me. I hate having to rub at my eyes (yes...I'm a big baby!).
Don't get me wrong, it's a nice product, but I would rather pay the extra £3.50 and get Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Mascara which does fulfil all of my mascara needs. It really depends on what you are looking for in a mascara.
I am very curious about the Bourjois Volumizer Mascara after hearing Tanya over at Pixi2woo raving about it...
