Beauty Bits

THE EYE SHAVE IT

Long, thick, full eyelashes are a must-have for make-up lovers – but far too many products promise more than they can deliver. To help you achieve flutter-worthy lashes, we’ve tested which brands will give you a false effect and which will leave you with nothing but dark smudges.

Smashbox Super Fan, £17.50

Easy application, lashes still looked lovely at the end of the day. The one downside is that if you rub your eyes, it will flake off. Verdict 3/5

Arbonne It’s a Long Story, £31

This mascara really lifts and lengthens the lashes and gives a voluminous look. It’s water-resistant too. Top marks. Verdict 5/5

Beauty Pie, Uber Curl Drama, £20 (non-members) or £3.76 (members)

Although there were no clumps and the mascara creates a false-lash effect finish, it was a little messy to apply. Verdict 4/5

Too Faced Better Than Sex, £19

Sadly clumped in a few places and felt very thick going on. Seemed to leave a residue on the eyelid. Verdict 3/5

Pur Volume Vixen, £16

Claims to deliver the same volume separation, strength and length as false lashes and it did. Lashes looked lovely and full. Verdict 4/5

Pure Anada Natural, £14

The natural curve of the wand makes this mascara easy to apply. The soft, almost velvety, finish was a very pleasant surprise. Verdict 3/5

Laura Geller LASHBOSS, £19

Gives a fanned-out, clump-free finish. You’ll need a few coats for an evening look, but one swipe is enough for easy everyday make-up. Verdict 4/5

Zoeva Graphic Lash, £8.50

Promises volume and it certainly delivers. The wand looked a little gloopy but it glided on to the lashes really well. Verdict 4/5

diego dalla palma Mascaratube, £16

The thick bristles on this wand give excellent coverage and a big-impact finish. Verdict 5/5

Nudestix Lash Lengthening £20

Helps your lashes’ natural growth rate, as well as colouring them, leaving them longer and thicker. Almost like wearing fine false lashes. Verdict 3/5