Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!
Instagram vs. Reality: What Actually Works?
15
items I tested 15 of the most hyped beauty products from Instagram and TikTok. Some totally lived up to the hype… others, not so much. Here's my honest take 👇
Instagram says: A glowy, glass-skin finish. Reality: Delivers a beautiful natural glow and slightly evens out the skin. Can be too shiny for oily skin. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ – Great for dry skin and dewy makeup lovers.
Hollywood Flawless Filter - Shade 4 - Complexion Booster | Charlotte Tilbury
Instagram says: Extreme length and volume. Reality: Really lengthens, but can clump if you apply too many layers. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ – Awesome length, but go easy on application.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara
Instagram says: Intense, glass-like sparkle. Reality: It’s more glittery than glowy – not for everyday wear. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟☆☆ – Fun for a night out, but too much for daily looks.
Diamond Bomb All-Over Highlighter
Instagram says: Super pigmented and long-lasting. Reality: A little goes a long way. Easy to blend and really does last all day. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 – Totally worth the hype (but use sparingly!).
Soft Pinch Liquid Blush | Long-Lasting Dewy & Matte Blushes
Instagram says: Non-sticky and long-lasting shine. Reality: Great color and shine, but can flake after a few hours. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟☆☆ – Perfect for short outings, not all-day wear
Shine Loud High Shine Lip Gloss | NYX Professional Makeup
Instagram says: Full coverage and flawless finish. Reality: Covers everything but can feel heavy. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ – Ideal for events, too much for everyday use.
#FauxFilter Luminous Matte Foundation
Instagram says: Shrinks pores and clears acne. Reality: Works well on oily skin, but can dry out sensitive or dry skin. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ – Effective but use with caution if you have dry skin.
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Instagram says: Cleanses without stripping. Reality: Very gentle and hydrating, though not strong enough to remove full glam makeup. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ – Great for morning routines or dry skin
Hydrating Facial Cleanser: Skin Refresh
Instagram says: Lightweight with lasting coverage. Reality: Good coverage and longevity, but may oxidize on some skin types. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ – Solid drugstore foundation. Test the shade before buying.
Foundations
Instagram says: Natural contour and warmth. Reality: Blends nicely and looks natural, but can be a bit dark for fair skin tones. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ – Classic favorite, just choose the right shade.
Hoola Matte Bronzer powder bronzer for face
Instagram says: Perfect, precise brows. Reality: Very precise and natural-looking, but it runs out quickly. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ – Love it, just wish it lasted longer.
Brow Wiz
Instagram says: Dramatic volume and lift. Reality: Adds volume, but tends to flake throughout the day. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟☆☆ – Gorgeous at first, but not long-wearing.
Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara
Instagram says: Locks makeup in place all day. Reality: Keeps makeup intact for hours, though it can feel a bit tight on the skin. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ – Great hold, but not for every single day.
All Nighter Waterproof Makeup Setting Spray
Instagram says: Covers and brightens under eyes flawlessly. Reality: Excellent coverage and blends easily, but can crease without setting powder. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ – A go-to for many, just be sure to set it
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer
Instagram says: The perfect red for all skin tones. Reality: Gorgeous and long-lasting, but pretty drying. Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ – A true classic, but prep your lips well!
MAC Retro Matte Lipstick | Ruby Woo, All Fired Up, Dangerous & More