When I got a little surprise package the other day, I initially thought it may have been for someone else.

2011 X Factor winners Little Mix have collaborated on a makeup range with Collection 2000, and I was sent some samples. Now, I’m not a teen, or a tween. Plus I don’t know much about Little Mix (though I do know that Perri is engaged to that Zayn off One Direction, so I’m not that out of touch).

However, I am a fan of Collection 2000. Whilst I used to think that their range was the reserve of schoolgirls with small change, I totally changed my mind when I reviewed their eyeshadow pencils. The thick, shimmery pencils look amazing, last forever without creasing and are great value.

So, back to Little Mix. Well, I was given a mascara and two bronzers to try out for size.

The mascara is part of Jade’s collection – yes, each girl has their own unique range. Initially I was a little unsure about the mascara. The wand is thin with short bristles, rather than the full and fluffy mascaras I normally use.

I tried one coat, and felt that it didn’t really elongate my lashes. However, after a second, more thorough and generous application, my eyelashes were transformed a la Kim K. OK, maybe not her exaggerated proportions, but nonetheless, I was left with an impressively long flutter.

The one criticism I would have (and I must have one) is that the mascara didn’t quite separate the lashes as much as other, more expensive brands I have tried.

I wouldn’t say they were clumpy, but some lashes stayed together. However, a bit of rigorous brushing, or a lash comb can resolve this.

Thankfully, the mascara didn’t cause any discomfort or itchin ess, unlike other more expensive brands.

Which of course, leads me to my last point – the value for money. At £2.99, Little Mix’s mascara is a lot cheaper than many rival brands. And in fact, it’s a lot better than others. So having tried and tested, I’ve decided I won’t be giving my Jade mascara to my teenage sister. It’s not just for tweens and teens.

Little Mix’s Jade mascara is available at most supermarkets and pharmacies, as well as Boots and Superdrug.