Benefit 'They're Real' Eyeliner and Mascara Review

Benefit have always been one of my 'go to' brands, so I was over the moon when I heard about their recent offer in all their Boots counters in the UK. If you bring in an old eyeliner and hand it in, you receive a small tester of their 'They're Real Push Up Liner'. I personally wouldn't recommend donating an eyeliner that has a lot of life left in it because the tester is TINY. However, it's a great way to try out the new product before committing yourself to spending a hefty £18.50.

The free sample is not completely true to the actual product, as the normal size has a 'twist' mechanism to distribute the product, whereas the sample means you squeeze the product up. The normal size would ensure an even distribution of product, however you can't complain much if it's free!

The liner itself is a black gel, which I find to be the perfect middle ground between a pencil and liquid liner. It gives the depth and colour of a liquid liner, however the gel is easier to smudge, meaning you can create a softer look as well as a dramatic line. The applicator is unique, with an almost pen like 'nib' in which the product is distributed. This means the sides of the applicator are clean, and act as a barrier between the lid and lashes to ensure a smoother line. This is especially good as I tend to find that liquid liners and gel brushes get the product over the lashes and can create a clumpy look if mixed with mascara.

The first application of the product was excellent, however the second time I found it had dried a little and was quite clumpy - I would recommend warming the product with your hands to soften the gel a little. However this could also be due to the applicator on the sample, as the twisting mechanism may be easier.

The first time I wore the liner I went  out for a friend's birthday, and it's staying power is phenomenal. It looked the same when I came home as it did when I left!

The liner without mascara or eyeshadow

The liner is part of the 'They're Real' range, and complements the 'They're Real' mascara. Unfortunately there is no free sample for this at Benefit counters, however I thoroughly recommend giving it a try. The unique applicator means even the end of the mascara wand can be used, with small brushes which allow you to apply mascara to the tiniest lashes in the corners of your eyes. Like the liner, its staying power is excellent and lasts from the daytime to the evening without budging. It's quite expensive at £19.50 but lasts for a long time and will not disappoint. It creates quite a dramatic look so may not appeal to those who are trying to go for a more natural look, however I happily wear this every day, as the difference is phenomenal.

One eye with, one without - look at the difference!

Both eyes with the liner and mascara

Here is softened the liner with a brown eyeshadow and a pink on the inner lid - both from a duo from Lancome that sadly no longer exists! Thought I'd go for mainly Benefit today since I'm reviewing them! I'm wearing Benefit Oxygen Wow foundation in Believe in Me Ivory, Bella Bamba blusher, High Beam and Posie Tint on my lips

Alice, x