Benefit Mascara Showdown: An In-Depth Review of Every Formula
Our comprehensive guide reviews all Benefit mascaras—see before-and-afters, pros, cons, and find your perfect formula for fanned, curled, or dramatic lashes.
When it comes to mascara, few brands are as iconic as Benefit Cosmetics. With a range of formulas targeting everything from length and curl to dramatic volume and separation, it’s no wonder Benefit has become a top contender in the beauty world. But with so many options—Fan Fest, BADgal Bang, Roller Lash, They’re Real!, and more—which mascara is truly best for your lash goals? We put every Benefit mascara formula to the test, including real-world before-and-after results, expert tips, and comprehensive pros and cons for each wand. Prepare for some serious lash envy and find your perfect mascara match below.
The Case for Benefit Mascaras
Benefit Cosmetics has earned its place in the top tier of mascara innovation. Each of their formulas is designed with unique wands and ingredients to tackle specific lash dilemmas—whether you’re after fanned-out volume, a gravity-defying curl, or that coveted false-lash look. Here’s why these mascaras dominate the market:
- Innovative brush designs tailored for separation, curling, or drama
- Nourishing ingredients like B5 and cranberry extract in select formulas
- Long-lasting wear—smudge- and flake-resistant throughout the day
- Buildable formulas that layer easily with minimal clumping
Benefit Cosmetics Fan Fest Fanning & Volumizing Mascara
Price: $28 | Shades: 1 (black)
Best for: Fanned-out length and fullness
Pros
- Delivers immediate fanned-out volume and defined separation
- Natural bristle wand curves to hug each lash for even application
- Formula is buildable without weighing down lashes
- Results last all day with minimal touch-ups
Cons
- Formula may feel slightly dry to some users
- Currently only available in black
Editor verdict: “Hands down, this is the best Benefit mascara, and dare I say, my favorite mascara ever. I wear it daily for lashes that look awake, bright, and impossibly fanned.”
The Fan Fest Mascara earns accolades for its unique curved brush and bristle design, which make it easy to coat every lash from root to tip. Testers rave about its stunning doe-eyed effect and healthy, separated finish—ideal if you crave both length and fullness without the heaviness. Add another layer before going out to elevate your evening look, or wear a single coat for effortless all-day volume.
Key Ingredients: B5, cranberry extract help condition and strengthen lashes over time.
Benefit Cosmetics BADgal Bounce Volumizing Mascara
Price: $29 | Shades: 1 (black)
Best for: Soft, plush volume and pigment-rich drama
Pros
- Double-sided wand coats and combs through lashes for volume without clumping
- Flexible fiber side adds fullness; plastic comb side separates and lifts
- Super pigmented black makes eyes pop
- Formula stays put with no flaking or smudging
Cons
- Lash effect is more plush than spiky or ultra-dramatic (which may be a pro for some)
- Takes a little practice to master the wand’s two sides
Editor verdict: “Every time I use this, someone asks if I’m wearing lash extensions. Fluffy, thick, separated, but still feather-light—my lashes look noticeably fuller!”
What others are reading
The BADgal Bounce mascara is all about maximum volume with minimal clumps. Its double-sided brush is the secret: use the brush’s fiber-packed side to apply the formula, then use the plastic comb side to brush out any extra product for lush, separated lashes. The result? Plush, feathery fullness and bold pigment that makes your eyes pop—even behind glasses or in a Zoom call. If you want full lashes without crunchiness or heaviness, Bounce delivers on its claims.
Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara
Price: ~$34 | Shades: Multiple (including black and brown)
Best for: Long-lasting curl and length
Pros
- Innovative Hook ‘n’ Roll™ brush lifts and curls lashes instantly
- Holds curl for hours—ideal for stubborn, straight lashes
- No clumping; perfect separation
- Jet-black hue enhances lash drama
- Travel size available
Cons
- Less volumizing than some formulas—focus is on lift and curl
Editor verdict: “If I want a natural, defined curl that lasts all day, this is my go-to. Paired with eyeshadow or a bold liner, it creates an instant ‘open eyes’ effect.”
The Roller Lash Mascara is beloved for its curling abilities—especially for lashes that need help holding shape. Its curve-hugging brush grabs even the tiniest lashes, lifting and separating for a wide-eyed, fluttery finish. The waterproof formula ensures your curl won’t droop or smudge throughout the day. It’s ideal for those prioritizing shape and precision over big, bold drama.
Benefit Cosmetics BADgal Bang! Volumizing Mascara
Price: $29 | Shades: Black
Best for: Dramatic, high-impact volume and wear
Pros
- Delivers intense, dramatic volume with just one coat
- 36-hour wear—extremely long-lasting
- Tapered brush reaches every lash, even the tiniest corners
- Smudge-proof and water-resistant
Cons
- Can be a bit heavy for those who prefer natural lashes
- More difficult to remove at the end of the day
User verdict: BADgal Bang! is the mascara for those who crave the most volume and drama possible. A true favorite for nights out, photos, or any time you want lashes that can rival falsies. Its ultra-black formula and tapered wand enable 360° reach, grabbing even the shortest, stubborn lashes for a full fan effect. The staying power is legendary—perfect for long days or special occasions.
Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara
Price: ~$34 | Shades: Multiple
Best for: Natural, lengthened lashes with subtle drama
Pros
- Extends and defines even short or sparse lashes
- Wand tip allows for precise application and corner-detailing
- No clumping or smudging
- Easy to remove
Cons
- More subtle finish—not the most volumizing
Editor verdict: “This is my daily, natural look staple. My lashes look longer and more defined, never spidery or overdone. It’s ideal for work and casual days.”
If you’re seeking definition and believable length without over-the-top volume, They’re Real! delivers the look of subtly natural extensions. The custom domed wand reaches every lash, providing separation and length with a formula that stays put yet washes off with less effort than most. It’s the ultimate beginner-friendly mascara and is especially well-suited to makeup minimalists.
Quick Comparison Table: Benefit Mascara Highlights
| Mascara | Best for | Brush Type | Standout Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fan Fest | Fanned volume, separation | Curved, natural bristle | Long-lasting fan & lift, never clumpy | $28 |
| BADgal Bounce | Soft, feathery volume | Double-sided (fiber + comb) | Deep black; separates & plumps | $29 |
| Roller Lash | Curl & length | Hook ‘n’ Roll curved plastic | Holds stubborn curl; clean definition | $34 |
| BADgal Bang! | Maximum volume, all-day wear | Tapered, slim | 36-hour power, water-resistant | $29 |
| They’re Real! | Natural length & separation | Dome-tipped rubber | Easy removal, defined finish | $34 |
Pro Application Tips for Benefit Mascaras
- Wiggle at the roots: Place the brush as close to your lash line as possible and wiggle side-to-side. This ensures maximum pigment and lift at the base for a wide-eyed look.
- Layer for drama: All Benefit mascaras are buildable. Wait for the first layer to get tacky, then sweep on a second coat for even more volume and separation.
- Target tiny lashes: Use the tip of the wand (especially with They’re Real! and BADgal Bang!) to reach inner and outer corners, ensuring all lashes are coated.
- Comb through: If clumps appear, use a clean spoolie or the comb side of BADgal Bounce to separate and perfect your look.
- Removal: Benefit’s formulas are long-wearing but come off best with an oil-based or bi-phase eye makeup remover.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which Benefit mascara is best for holding a lash curl?
A: Roller Lash is specifically designed for curling and lifting, with its Hook ‘n’ Roll™ brush grabbing and holding even the straightest lashes all day.
Q: I want maximum volume. Which mascara should I choose?
A: For dramatic, plush volume, BADgal Bang! and BADgal Bounce are top picks. BADgal Bang! is more intense and long-wearing, while Bounce gives a fluffy, separated finish.
Q: What’s the best Benefit mascara for a natural look?
A: They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara excels at delivering believable length and clean separation for a subtle, everyday effect.
Q: Are any of the mascaras waterproof?
A: Yes, Roller Lash and BADgal Bang! both offer water-resistant, smudge-proof formulas for lasting wear, even in humidity or through tears.
Q: Is there a Benefit mascara that conditions or helps lashes grow?
A: While none are true lash-growth serums, formulas like Fan Fest include conditioning ingredients (like B5 and cranberry extract) said to promote healthier, stronger lashes over time.
Editor’s Final Picks
- Best for Everyday: They’re Real!
- Best Dramatic Volume: BADgal Bang!
- Best Curl & Definition: Roller Lash
- Best All-Around, Hybrid Effect: Fan Fest
- Best for Fluffy, Plush Lashes: BADgal Bounce
Whether you crave fluttery separation, sky-high curl, or bombshell volume, there’s a Benefit mascara to match your lash ambitions. Use this expert guide as your beauty shopping cheat sheet, and say goodbye to one-size-fits-all mascara forever.
References
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g63777126/benefit-mascaras-review/
- https://www.accio.com/business/benefit-mascara-best-seller
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/makeup/a45155311/benefit-fan-fest-mascara-review/
- https://www.ipsy.com/blog/benefit-cosmetics-roller-lash-mascara-review
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zEM1CiW7Mkw
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cT4nF_PIZiA
- https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a39296436/benefit-magnet-mascara-review/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
