Category: lips

fresh Sugar Lip Duo

These adorable little tubes are mini versions of the full-sized fresh Sugar Lip Treatments. But they still are packaged in the same fabulous metal material with a screw top lid.  I felt like this was a perfect way to try out lip treatments that have earned rave reviews and awards.  Both flavors leave just a hint of color and are incredibly nourishing.  While you can build the color up, I think it looks great just giving a wash of pink or violet. You know that beauty junkie on your Christmas list?  She would love these.

And, oh, have you entered my giveaway yet? The prize is valued at $100!

Yves Saint Laurent Golden Gloss Shimmering Lip Gloss

I used to think glittery lip gloss was juvenile.  And then I met Yves Saint Laurent Golden Gloss.  Naturally, YSL dresses up sparkly lip gloss with real 24-carat-gold flecks and mother-of-pearl.  The finished look is festive and refined.   There are no grainy bits, but nourishing Nigelle and Cameline Oils that hydrate winter lips.  I went all out and selected Simply Gold (seen on the right): sheer with a subtle sparkle.  I think this shade really lets the gold shine through.

 

 

 

NARS Lipstick All-Star Shades

Lately, it seems every time I compliment someone on their lipstick, it turns out to be NARS.  Not surprisingly because the man behind NARS cosmetics built his brand off 12 lipsticks, initially sold in Barneys.  And so I was off on the hunt for my perfect, bright NARS lipstick.  The contenders were:

  • Heat Wave: a semi-matte, orangey red
  • Jungle Red: a semi-matte, bright red with slightly more blue undertones
  • Funny Face: semi-matte, true fuchsia

The semi-matte finish has the perfect shine that wears into a more matte, stained look. But the color stays true: Nars Lipsticks are enriched with vitamin E to increase wearability and keep true color intact. I definitely get a solid four hours of wear out of an application. The creamy formula is insanely pigmented.

Honestly, I love them all. But Jungle Red looks best on me. If you try these shades out, I would love to know what looks best on you. If you love a nude lip, check this out.

eos Smooth Sphere Lip Balm

I’d heard great things about these little balls of lipbalm goodness, but had never come across one in person.  Didn’t take but two seconds for me to plop a couple in my basket at CVS this past week. I had to see what the fuss was all about.

These have zero color, but are incredibly nourishing – perfect as part of the nighttime ritual.  They pretty much covered all the bases here as far as unwelcome ingredients:

  • Gluten-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Petrolatum-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • 95% organic
  • 100% natural

The sphere actually works really well – no edges and even application.  Unlike a tube, you don’t nick the edge of the balm when replacing the cap.  The packaging is very similar to what you find your NARS products in –  soft, velvety plastic.  And one of the highlights for me: surprisingly easy to find in my massive purse.   Right now, I can’t stop using summer fruit as I am craving a beach vacation.  But sweet mint is a close second.

Yves Saint Laurent ‘Rouge Volupté Sheer Candy’ Glossy Lip Balm

When I first saw, these I thought “What is the point?”.  They are ultra-sheer and nothing like a lipstick.  But that’s what is so wonderful about them.  Ever since I bought “Dewy Papaya” it has been my constant companion. 

This is the ultimate “lip balm” with very little color, but great hydration. I use it far more often than the eight-hours of promised hydration, but that might be because it smells so darn good.  They say it is mango, but I think it is more grapefruit.  Launched as part of the summer collection, the Sheer Candys are even better for fall and winter.  Wear them during to day to cure “season-change” dryness so your pout will be ready for the rich berry hue that night or the next day!

Bottom line, you probably are paying loads for the packaging but it is a stunner!  I love all the colors and even know a couple of fellow bloggers who have them all.

Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Honeysuckle

I have walked by this stuff in the store hundreds of times, unwilling to shell out the $7 for some lip balm.  But yesterday, I broke down.  And I am so glad I did. After my dogs fervently and completely chewed up my last two lip smackers (why they do this, I have no idea), I was in need of a replacement.

I went for the lightest color, Honeysuckle.  I have been overdoing it on the berry colors for fall.  Who knew I was about to discover the nude “lipstick” I have been hunting for all summer?  Other than NARS Cosmetics Satin Lipstick – Honolulu Honey, I hadn’t found anything.  To my amazement, Honeysuckle was the perfect, semi-sheer nude lip.  It doesn’t require a liner (or a mirror) and it is fantastically hydrating.

I was a little irritated with the packaging… why do we need a big cardboard tube for your basic lip balm dispenser.  But after all that tugging and tearing, I unvieled a little treasure in a brown tube.  The fragrance is floral but very subtle. Now, that was a $7 well-spent.

color swatches via: http://stylemethrifty.wordpress.com/