I had a sudden rush to the head and ordered a whole lot of coloured lip balms last week. I just needed to see what’s out there from brands I don’t usually hear anything from. I’m quite picky about balms – I did a reel the other day testing out all of the Lisa Eldridge Velvets and my lips are in deep unhappiness not because of the matte formula but because taking off and putting on just seeps out any moisture whatsoever. So I am slathering on Tatcha, Chanel and Biossance on rotation and on repeat. I came across this set from Benefit and loved the idea of three balms in one box, albeit minis. In fact, for testing purposes, minis are more than adequate.
I also think the packaging is a bit of a return to Benefit’s roots – I love it. Each balm is a mini of the full size California Kissin colour balms in shades Spiced Red, Ruby and Berry.
From left to right: Spiced Red, Berry and Ruby.
And in the same order in the swatch. The texture is more moisturising lipstick-like than balm and actually I find them too pigmented. If I’d wanted a moisturising lipstick, that’s what I would have got. I expected a more sheer finish from a balm and although it’s juicy looking, it’s not glossy as such. What I’m discovering with my new balms is that the word ‘balm’ is a very moveable feast. However, if you don’t mind more pigment in your lip balm, it’s a great buy – Escentual has it for £16.55 instead of £19.50.
