Here at Milabu Co., we take a lot of consideration when testing products, past the simple “is it good or not?” We’ve developed our own rating systems to reflect what we think are the most important elements when considering if a product is good or not. The most important element is if a product meets its claims. Brands can claim what they want, but will the product actually deliver? We strive to be unbiased in our ratings and test products thoroughly to get a full picture of the performance. Do keep in mind what works or doesn’t work for us, might be a bit different for you. That’s why we keep our ratings based on performance and state our opinions clearly.

Because the makeup world is full of so many different products, we have developed rating charts for different categories, to include Face Bases, Complexion Enhancers, Mascara, Eye Color, Lips, and more. Our ratings are subject to change as new products enter the beauty market and as technology develops.

At the end of the day, makeup is meant to be fun! The beauty community is always growing and there is an overwhelming amount of products going viral. We’re here to get straight to the point with you (and your dollars) in mind.

RATING CATEGORIES


VALUE ***** (1.0 – 5.0)

This is the price for the amount of product. Is it worth it’s price tag?

The average amount for eyeliner pencil is 0.04 oz. The average amount for eyeliner retractable pencil is 0.011 oz. The average amount for eyeliner pen is 0.03 oz. The average amount for eyeliner gel pot is 0.16 oz.

* (1 – 2)

Outrageous price for performance and volume. Wasteful packaging

Value

$25+

Pro & luxury

$50+

*** (2 – 4)

Meets some claims; Priced right for its performance; Average amount of product.

Value

$25 – $15

Pro & luxury

$50 – $30

***** (4 – 5)

Meets all claims; Excellent performance for its price; Functional packaging

Value

$15 – $5

Pro & luxury

$30 – $15


APPLICATION ***** (1.0 – 5.0)

Is the formula easy to apply? Does the formula tug, pull or skip? Is the applicator user-friendly, precise? Can you layer and build without lifting?

*** (1 – 3)

Formula is hard to work with; formula tugs on eyelid, applicator is not precise or user friendly; cannot build or layer

**** (3 – 4)

Formula is workable with TLC; applicator is user friendly and somewhat precise; formula can pull on eyelid if not careful;

***** (4 – 5)

Formula is creamy and blendable; does not pull on eyelid; applicator is foolproof; applicator stays precise;


PIGMENT ***** (1.0 – 5.0)

How pigmented and opaque is eyeliner formula? With one swipe can you achieve full pigmented shade?

*** (1 – 3)

Hard to achieve pigment with multiple layers; patching results

**** (3 – 4)

Can achieve pigment with 2 layers or less

***** (4 – 5)

Achieve full pigment with one swipe or layer; not patchy


LONGEVITY ***** (1.0 – 5.0)

Does it meet product wear time? If it’s a long wear promise, does it wear for at least 8 hours? Free of smudging, transferring, drying out, flaking, etc.

* (1 – 2)

< 4 Hours

** (2 – 3)

4-6 Hours

*** (3 – 4)

6-10 Hours

**** (4 – 5)

10+ Hours


EXTRA BENEFITS ***** (1.0 – 5.0)

This includes claims such as water resistant and/or waterproof, sweat/humidity resistant, transfer proof, flake free, clean formulation, sustainability practices, Ophthalmologist tested, suitable for sensitive eyes & contact lens wearers.

*** (>3)

3 benefits or less; Obscure claims such as specific, patented technologies

**** (3 – 4)

Water Resistant; Transfer resistant; Smudge Proof; Flake Free; Sweat/humidity resistant; Unique or specific applicator; Ophthalmologist tested

***** (4 – 5)

Cruelty free, vegan, and clean ingredients + sustainability practices; Skincare benefits; Plus other benefits

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