If you’re in the makeup world then you’ll know that there’s a never-ending war between high-end makeup vs low-end makeup. Now, while I love a good high-end product that does the most with very little effort… I appreciate my low-end products that do an amazing job without breaking the bank. Welcome to Essence cosmetics products *cue dramatic diegetic sound*. Essence is a German makeup brand that offers cheap makeup products. While it’s not known for its diversity or inclusivity it bears some pretty cool gems. All Essence products are available at Clicks & Dischem stores in South Africa.
Essence Clear Brow Gel
This is my holy grail. If you want your brows to be on and stay on, this product is for you. It helps your tiny eyebrow hairs to stay in place all day and if you have drawn your eyebrows on, this product will give you a more hair like finish. Check out the brow created here
Retail price: R41.95
Rating: 5/5
Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara
This waterproof mascara gives your lashes incredible volume with just one swipe of the wand. One can add a few more layers to mimic full, voluminous and a lustrous eyelash. The only downside is that the wand may be too large for us girls with damn near non-existent lower lashes. Thus resulting in a smudge, painful!
Pro tip: use the tip of the wand to add mascara to your lower lashes… thank me later!
Retail price: R64.95
Score: 4/5
Essence Shine Shine Shine Wet Look Lipgloss
Have you ever heard the saying “all lip-glosses are equal but some are more equal than others”… yup, I think they were talking about this baby right here. If you want that extra plump, juicy, kissable finish with your lip-gloss then say no more. Essence’s shine shine shine will do just that…make you shine shine shine! And at R30 a pot, I’d say it’s a good enough reason to stock up. Mwah!
Retail price: R29.95
Rating: 5/5
Essence Peel Off Lash Glue
I was mindlessly scrolling through Instagram when one of my favourite beauty bloggers raved about this lash glue. So, I did what any influenced girl does, I took a screenshot, headed for the essence counter and boy was I disappointed. This glue just wouldn’t stick! I tried it on many of my clients and each time, it gave me trouble. After 7/8 unsuccessful attempts…I’ve decided, it’s not me…it’s the glue.
Retail price: R51.95
Rating: 2/5
Essence Kajal pencil
I purchased the shade “04 white” pencil with one goal in mind… to use it on my water line to give me that “bright and awake” look. Now, I won’t deny that the pencil glides smoothly on to the water line but, fades very quickly. I’ve found that I would have to reapply it and still use a white eyeshadow to top it off and make it pop. I’d give this product a miss.
Retail price: R18.95
Rating: 2.5/5
essence Metal Shock Eyeshadow
If you want Stila’s Magnificent Metals range at a fraction of the cost then you’ve come to the right place. I purchased the “01 solar explosion” as well as the “07 1 second to mars” and I love them. They are easy to use and get the job done with little to no effort. However, the wand will not give you the neatest application to your lid. It can be used on its own or as a base to get the most out of your shimmer shadows.
Retail price: R79.00
Rating: 4/5
Essence get your glitter on!
These loose glitters are a sure fire way to add a pop to any of your look and get you festival ready or popping for a girl’s night out at the clurrbb. Essence has released a line of 15 loose glitter pigments with a bunch of colours to choose from. What makes this loose glitter range unique is that the glitter comes in different shapes and sizes. Here’s how I’ve played with “06 golden nuggets” (https://www.instagram.com/p/B9D3WiZBoEG/). These glitters are perfect for both face and body and I can’t wait to experiment more with them.
Retail price: R59.95
Rating: 5/5
That’s that on that, dolls. I hope that you’ve learned something and are keen to try out some essence makeup products. If your experience has been different (or similar) to the above mentioned products, do comment below. I love hearing from you.
Until next time, stay safe!
