Reviews

Posted by Tamara in opinion | Comments Off

In light of a few written reviews in my pending queue, I wanted to address something. It was actually touched on a few days ago on Twitter with Rai and I felt like it was about time I talked about it in full.

One of my favourite things about the online beauty community is the ability to read up on or watch what products other people are loving (or hating). Reviews are a good way to help determine what may be a good pick for you, and while they’re not absolute (since we’re all different), it can be a helpful guide in the endless ocean of products available.

There have been many reviews that have either introduced me to new brands and products, and just as many that have helped to prevent what would have been poor purchases. Reviews come in all shapes and sizes, while maintaining their effectiveness. Some people choose the written form, others go for video format. Some reviews are very in-depth and detailed, while some are more succinct and to the point. A good review can be any combination of these.

But I’m not here to talk about those reviews. I’m here to talk about the reviews that I feel are detrimental to the entire concept. In my opinion, there has been a steady increase in questionable reviews recently. To me, a review is more complex than a simple opinion. It’s an experience, or even better, a series of experiences.

I can’t help but question someone who will publish a review on brushes after using them for a few days, or someone that will rave about a nail polish the same day they put it on. What about longevity? To me, that’s a key component when I’m deciding to buy something. Brushes have always been investments to me (regardless of the price), so if they fall apart after a few months – I’m not interested. If a polish chips after a day or two, why bother?

There’s definitely an element of wanting to be the first to review a particular product, but I can’t help but question a person’s credibility and integrity when a review comes across as rushed and thoughtless. If the entire point of a review is to help others, how can you call it a review when it’s entirely un-helpful?