Finding the perfect mascara may be one of the most difficult beauty quests, especially when payday hasn’t come round yet. The BSA team tested four budget options – here’s what we thought:
GOSH Rebel Eyes Lengthening Mascara, R160.00
What they say: Builds visibly longer, fuller lashes with just a few strokes. The mascara contains special polymers to lengthen each lash. A complex mixture of film-formers makes sure the mascara adheres to lashes all day long. Lashes are sculpted to the max, with no clumps. Suitable for all types of lashes.
What we say: I’ve been using mascara since I was in high school and in my 10 plus years since then, this one is definitely one I’ll be buying for more years to come. GOSH Rebel Eyes Mascara separates all my lashes even the teeny ones and coats each one giving them a fuller length. Just a few strokes and your lashes look like a lush paint brush ready for the day. No clumps and long-lasting. – Matty
Palladio Twisted in Love Intensifying Mascara, R125.00
What they say: Equipped with a “twisted” heart-shaped brush, achieve amplified volume and precise definition with a reservoir that charges lashes with rich black colour while elongated bristles comb and separate each lash for maximum fullness.
What we say: Mascara is the beauty item I cannot live without, so finding the perfect mascara is crucial. The Palladio mascara application is light and not too heavy on the eyelashes. There’s no smudges, but I wish the formula was thicker. The mascara is perfect for a day in the office as the finish look is neat and natural. I also like that there is no mess or smudges throughout the day so it should be fine for those who wear mascara when exercising. I would recommend this if you’re wanting a clean look but not if you want thick, glossy, full looking lashes for a night out. – Meryl
Essence Lash Princess Sculpted Volume Mascara, R64.95
What they say: Dramatic volume or defined lashes – this mascara with a special tapered brush can do both and sculpts the lashes individually.
What we say: What I like about this mascara is that it grips every lash, coating it from the root, giving my lashes volume and length. The wand separates the lashes nicely and it doesn’t smudge or clump. It is well priced and great for everyday use. – Sam
Maybelline The Colossal Big Shot Volum’ Express Mascara, R149.95
What they say: Let your lashes do the talking with incredible root-to-tip volume. Lash like a boss with Big Shot mascara. A unique wavy brush cradles and lifts lashes while increasing fullness and density thanks to a collagen-enriched formula.
What we say: This is my favourite Maybelline mascara by a long shot. It stays true to its promise of lifting the lashes and increasing volume, in fact, I’m tempted to say it’s one of the best volume mascaras I’ve used. I like the brush and I find application super easy. Every single lash gets coated without clumping and it really exaggerates the length of my lashes and makes them look much fuller. I would definitely re-purchase! – Anien
6 Responses
Essence Mascaras are amazing taking their price into consideration. They also have a wide range of mascaras
I have always used the essence mascara and have been pleasantly happy with the results it’s given me over the years .It does an awsome job of separating the lash hairs leaving them more defined while the Meybelline colossal big shot definitely lives up to its claim if you’re looking for a mascara that’s more volumizing
I’ve generally long and thick eyelashes so stick on’s dont float my boat. I love the Maybelline The Colossal Big Shot Volum’ Express Mascara. It transforms my eyelashes into the next level. I even had my sister once pull on my lashes asking if it’s real :)
My fav mascara would have to be Loreal Miss Manga Punky but it has been discontinued. I recently purchased the Revlon Ultimate All in 1 Mascara Blackest Black and it is quite good with no smudging or clumping but i feel it just doesnt have the same effect as Miss Manga Punky
I have been using Essence mascaras for as long as I can remember and I really cannot complain about it. Their waterproof range does not go anywhere, it lasts for over 24 hours, however it smudge when kept on overnight. The wands grip onto the lashes well and really helps with separation. Inexpensive but does not compromise on quality.
I am definitely going to buy the Essence mascara this weekend. My lashes need some volume