Benefit They’re Real mascara review
If you’ve been searching for a mascara that lengthens and lifts your eyelashes, this one has beauty lovers abuzz.
These products are hand-picked by our team to help make shopping easier. We may receive payments from third parties for sharing this content and when you purchase through links in this article. Product prices and offer details are not assured, and should be confirmed independently with the retailer. Learn more
“They’re real, actually!” was the response I got from a former work colleague when I inquired about what I assumed were her lash extensions.
Charitably, she informed me that not only were her lashes real, she was using Benefit Cosmetics’ They’re Real Mascara.
As someone who is always searching for the perfect lengthening mascara, I had sourced a tube of the stuff within hours, keen to try the black goop on my own lashes.
THE TEST DRIVE
After swiping on a couple of coats of They’re Real I was instantly impressed. The formula covered my lashes evenly from root to tip – praise be, no clumps! – and had a push-up bra effect on my now perky and seemingly longer lashes.
The secret to its noticeable lengthening powers? Benefit Cosmetics Field Education Manager Samantha Tonkin says it’s down to two things.
“What makes They’re Real such an exceptional mascara is the unique formula and wand specifically designed to lengthen the lashes,” Tonkin tells me.
“The wand is designed with specially placed bristles around the body of the wand and on the tip to make both horizontal and vertical application possible. The oil-free, jet black formula has a soft glossy finish leaving your lashes looking supple and even conditions them while you wear it.”
I’m not the first person who’s become utterly obsessed with this silver tube of goodness, with one They’re Real selling every 10 seconds globally.
Since entering the Australian market in 2011, it’s become Benefit Cosmetics’ best-selling mascara, and the online reviews show why.
One Sephora shopper called the product their “new favourite mascara”. “I believe the formula is good but I think mostly the wand is what makes it great. The wand separates the lashes nicely, and the tip is rounded so you can use it to define any little part that the regular part didn’t do,” they wrote.
Another convert on Adore Beauty called They’re Real “the best mascara I’ve ever used”. “It separates and elongates your lashes. The brush has little bristles on the very end which help to reach every single lash. Love this,” they wrote.
THE VERDICT
4.5/5
While $44 for a mascara certainly doesn’t fall into the ‘budget’ category, if mascara is your thing – like it is mine – it’s worth the price tag.
If you’re after a mascara that lengthens and curls, I’d recommend giving this one a crack, however if you’re more of a volume mascara loving girl, it’s probably not going to be precisely what you’re after.
The best part of my quest for longer-looking lashes? I’m now the one being asked if my lashes are real.
SIMILAR OPTIONS TO TRY
Estee Lauder Sumptuous Rebel Length Lift Mascara, $59, Adore Beauty
Like They’re Real, this mascara delivers lengthening and lifting results.
Maybelline Great Lash Mascara, $12.95
One of Maybelline’s most trusted and iconic mascara’s Great Lash coats and lengthens lashes for a subtle finish.
How do I apply mascara correctly?
If you own one, curl your lashes with an eyelash curler so they’re primed and ready. Then, pull the mascara wand out of the tube and, starting at the roots of your eyelashes and moving to the tips, wiggle the spoolie gently to ensure your lashes pick up the product evenly. For a more dramatic look, coat your lashes one or two more times.
How do I remove mascara?
It’s important to be really gentle with your eye area, so pick a specific eye makeup remover product to do the job. Apply some product onto a cotton pad, or reusable makeup remover, and gently press it to your closed eye for a moment before swiping it over slowly in the natural direction of your lashes. Repeat with the other eye then cleanse your face as you normally would.
What is a lengthening mascara?
While some women choose mascaras that add volume to their lashes, a lengthening mascara focuses on – you guessed it – making your lashes appear longer. You’ll notice that lengthening mascaras are less clumpy and their wands often have comb-like bristles that aim to coat every hair with the formula.
While you’re here, check out our guide to the best anti-ageing facial creams for every stage of life. Plus, we found the best hyaluronic acids from affordable to high-end.Then, don’t miss the news.com.au Coupons page for all the best discounts on top brands including Sephora and Adore Beauty.
’Magic’ masks that ’unpuffs eyes’ instantly
Shoppers are flocking to these super affordable eye masks, calling them a “lifesaver” in getting rid of “racoon eyes every time”.
‘Wow’: Best mascaras to buy for ‘incredible lashes’
Forget the panda eyes, this innovative mascara formula slides right off the lashes with just water – and it rings in at under $30.
Shoppers flock to Benefit’s new ‘holy grail’ item
This is why users are calling Benefit’s newest brow product their “holy grail”.
‘The tits’: Sellout mascara Celeste loves
The bestselling mascara has been labelled a “holy grail” by fans, including Celeste Barber.