Wearing mascara can be a drag. Eyelashes can feel stiff and sticky; the slightest drop of moisture can send dark rivulets running down your face, and let’s not even talk about unsightly morning-after panda eyes…
That said though, mascara is still the most effective tool to open up and make your peepers pop. One swipe of magic mascara wand over lacklustre lashes and instantly they’re darker, longer and thicker.
We asked our BB mascara mavens to select five of their best mascaras – products that even the most virulent of mascara-haters will come to swear by – and here’s what they said…
THE NOURISHER
THE PRODUCT: Hean Volume + Growing Lash Stimulator (R170, Glamore Cosmetics)
UNIQUE FEATURES: Enriched with deep colour and a conditioning treatment, this mascara stimulates the natural growth of eyelashes. Widelash, Wheat protein, D-panthenol and Keratin protect and nourish lashes to encourage growth.
THE LENGTHENER
THE PRODUCT: ALMAY One Coat Triple Effect Mascara (R165, Clicks)
UNIQUE FEATURES: This triple action gel formula makes lashes longer, fuller and curvier with just one coat. It contains Aloe and Vitamin B5 to condition lashes as well as a triple impact brush to ensure even application.
THE SMUDGE-PROOFER
THE PRODUCT: Sensai 38 Degrees (R410; Edgars stores)
UNIQUE FEATURES: Ideal for hot climates or swimming, this mascara is only removable in hot (hence the ‘38 degree’ reference) water, making it resistant to sweat, humidity, and tears.
THE BUDGET BEATER
THE PRODUCT: Avon Super Extend Winged Out Mascara (R140, Avon representatives)
UNIQUE FEATURES: This mascara creates extreme winged-out lashes for the ultimate glamorous effect. A specially moulded brush ensures super-smooth application and separated lashes.
THE EASY-ON/EASY-OFF OPTION
THE PRODUCT: Benefit They’ Real Mascara (R295, Edgars)
UNIQUE FEATURES: This mascara features a cleverly designed brush to effectively coat all lashes for length, curl and lift. The jet-black liquid is long-wearing and smudge-proof, and secret ingredients in the formulation prevent it from drying out – making it ultra easy to swipe on and wipe off.
Any other BB mascara mavens out there? Share your top tips and favourite beauty buys for luscious lashes below…