I've had this post in my drafts for a couple of weeks now as I just haven't been sure enough how I feel about them. Truth be told I'm still not 100% but I think that in itself says something, doesn't it? For a low cost brand such as Essence I usually expect to love a product and be bowled over at the value for money or really dislike it and assume 'you get what you pay for' with that range. Neither of these items massively impressed me but they're good enough at what they do if you're looking for some new low cost options.

Both mascara and liquid liner are products I struggle to find and like no matter the cost. This liner has a nice, flexible brush with no loose strands or jagged edges (sounds picky but you'd be surprised what makes a difference here) and the colour is a good solid black. Not at all watery which is great but it dries super fast and it can flake if you're not careful.. I'm a face toucher! The mascara was initially a big win, as I was applying it I really liked that it was lengthening AND volumising BUT on the second coat it clumped all of my lashes together.. the after photo you see above was more the result of a lash comb I had to use to seperate them again. Not ideal for a review photo, I know but I was getting ready for work and didn't want to have to start over if I let it set! I'd say it would be more suitable to those with already long lashes who want a bit of oomph.. one coat and no more would be my advice!

I really like the mascara packaging, the rubbery design on the lid is cute as is the hourglass shape to the tube. The liquid ink is slightly less showy but it does the job and doesn't NEED to be fancy. One thing I really liked was that they offered both a matte and a shiney finish liner.. I much prefer matte but I know not everyone does and I've never seen another drugstore brand cater for both. I haven't tried the other yet, it might have better staying power but if you have feel free to comment with your own experience! Overall neither were anything to write home about but both were good enough and especially on the mascara front it's not a once size fits all product so although I didn't love it you might.

False Lash Effect Mascara and Liquid Ink and available online here or in your local Wilko's store. If you know of other local stockists to you let me know as I've heard they're branching out in to other retailers!

Miss BB