Benefit They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara
Published By Laura Townsend
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Our Verdict
Benefit They're Real! mascara delivers noticeable lengthening with its unique brush, effectively separating and defining lashes. However, its drier formula can be challenging for beginners, requiring careful application to avoid clumping. Removal also requires dedicated eye makeup remover. While the lengthening effect is undeniable, the higher price point doesn't justify the difficult application and removal process for everyday use. Consider this mascara if dramatic length is your priority and you're comfortable with a drier formula. If you prefer easy application and removal, or have sensitive eyes, explore other options. Ultimately, its value is subjective and depends on your makeup priorities and skill level.
Audience Score
Pros
- It delivers dramatic length and noticeable volume.
- The specially designed brush separates and defines lashes.
- It has a long-lasting formula that resists smudging and flaking.
- It's a deep black color that intensifies the eyes.
- The wand reaches even the smallest inner corner lashes.
Cons
- It can be difficult to remove.
- It can clump or flake throughout the day.
- The wand can be tricky to use and can poke the eye.
- It can be drying to lashes.
- It is expensive compared to some drugstore mascaras.
Before
After
Comparison
The most similar products compared
| Audience Score | 86 Great! | 89 Great! | 84 Great! | 82 Great! |
| Price | $29 | $6.96 | $12.99 | $29 |
| Size | 0.3 oz/ 9 g | 0.34 oz | 0.28 oz | 0.27 oz/ 8 mL |
| Sensitive | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Volumizing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lengthening | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Curling | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Vegan | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Tubing | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Hypoallergenic | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Waterproof | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Who Should Buy
This mascara is an excellent choice for anyone looking to achieve dramatically longer, defined lashes. If you crave length and a fanned-out effect, this product is designed for you. It's also a great option for those who struggle with short or sparse lashes that need a boost. The specially designed brush helps to reach every lash, even the tiny ones, maximizing their potential. If you prefer a mascara that delivers a noticeable lengthening effect without feeling heavy or clumpy, this could be your new go-to. Finally, if you're looking for a long-wearing formula that holds a curl and doesn't smudge or flake throughout the day, this mascara is worth considering.
Who Should Not Buy
This mascara may not be ideal for individuals who prioritize extreme volume over length. While it does provide some volume, its primary focus is on creating long, separated lashes. If you prefer a very natural, barely-there look, this mascara might be too dramatic. Those with very sensitive eyes or allergies might want to proceed with caution, as some users have reported irritation. Always perform a patch test before applying any new eye product. Finally, if you're strictly looking for a tubing mascara that slides off with warm water, this isn't the right formula for you. It requires a dedicated makeup remover for complete removal.
Lengthening
This mascara excels at lengthening. The formula coats each lash from root to tip, creating the illusion of significantly longer lashes. The unique brush design, featuring a staggered bristle arrangement and a precision tip, plays a crucial role in achieving this effect. The bristles grab and separate each lash, ensuring even coating and preventing clumps. The precision tip allows you to reach even the smallest lashes in the inner and outer corners, maximizing length and creating a fanned-out effect. The overall result is dramatically longer, defined lashes that open up the eyes.
Sensitive
While not specifically formulated for sensitive eyes, this mascara is generally well-tolerated. However, some users with particularly sensitive eyes have reported experiencing irritation or redness. It's always recommended to perform a patch test before applying any new eye product, especially if you have a history of sensitivity. If you experience any discomfort, discontinue use immediately. The formula is not hypoallergenic, so those with known allergies to specific ingredients should carefully review the product's ingredient list before use.
Volumizing
While lengthening is the primary focus, this mascara also provides a noticeable volumizing effect. The formula coats each lash, adding thickness and creating a fuller appearance. The brush design further enhances volume by separating and lifting the lashes, preventing them from clumping together. However, if you're looking for extreme volume, this mascara might not be enough on its own. You could consider layering it over a volumizing lash primer for added fullness. The overall result is a balance of length and volume, creating defined and dramatic lashes.
Tubing
This is not a tubing mascara. Tubing mascaras typically form tubes around each lash, which slide off easily with warm water. This mascara, on the other hand, adheres to the lashes with a traditional formula that requires a makeup remover for thorough removal. While this may require a bit more effort during the cleansing process, it also means the mascara is more resistant to smudging and flaking throughout the day. The long-wearing formula ensures your lashes stay looking their best from morning to night.
Curling
This mascara helps to hold a curl, keeping your lashes lifted and perky throughout the day. While the formula itself doesn't necessarily curl the lashes, applying it after using a lash curler helps to set the curl and prevent it from drooping. The slightly drier formula helps to hold the shape of the lashes without feeling stiff or crunchy. The result is long, lifted lashes that open up the eyes and create a more youthful appearance.
Hypoallergenic
This mascara is not hypoallergenic. While generally well-tolerated, individuals with sensitive eyes or known allergies should proceed with caution. It's always a good idea to perform a patch test before applying any new eye makeup, especially if you have a history of sensitivity. Carefully review the ingredient list to ensure it doesn't contain any known allergens. If you experience any irritation or discomfort, discontinue use immediately.
Clumping
This mascara is formulated to minimize clumping. The specially designed brush, with its staggered bristles and precision tip, helps to separate and define each lash, preventing them from sticking together. The formula itself is also relatively dry, which further reduces the likelihood of clumping. However, applying excessive coats can lead to some clumping, so it's best to start with a thin layer and build up gradually as needed. For optimal results, wiggle the brush back and forth to ensure even coating and separation.
Vegan
The status of this mascara being vegan can vary. It's crucial to check the most up-to-date information provided by the manufacturer to confirm. Formulations and ingredient sourcing can change, so relying on older information might not be accurate. Visit the official Benefit Cosmetics website or contact their customer service to get the latest information regarding the vegan status of this mascara. Double-checking will ensure you have the most accurate information and can make an informed purchase decision aligned with your values.