Stains, tints, and balms

Everyone wants longer lasting color that can be paired with moisturizing lip balms or chap stick. I have been search for the right shades and brands.

When lip and cheek stains first came out, most of the colors were too red for most women to wear comfortably and the application methods were difficult because of the high concentration of pigments and liquid form. Since then, lots of new colors and application methods have come out.

I've chosen three products that possess the color that most women are comfortable with: Lush's Snow Fairy Lip Tint, Posietint Lip & Cheek Stain by Benefit, and Just Bitten Lipstain + Balm. I'll review the color, application and longevity of each.

Application - Just Bitten has a dual end applicator. The color applicator basically looks like a marker. The balm is a just a stick. I wish it was retractable because I definitely broke off the end of my balm. But I like the precision of the marker end. Posietint is a brush on stain. The thin, nail-polish like brush works well on lips. To apply to checks, I usually swipe some onto a blush or kabuki brush and apply to lips in circular motions. Snow Fairy Lip tint comes in a pot. It doesn't come with an applicator. You can apply is with your finger or for more precision use a lip brush, but that of course is not included.

Color - All three are in fresh, pink colors. The brightest is definitely Just Bitten which I purchased in "Passion." You definitely have to be confident to pull it off. I would say that Snow Fairy is the second most bright. Posietint is the most subdued, but the shade is right on for everyday wear.

Longevity - Snow Fairy has moisturizing properties so it doesn't stain quite in the same way. It leaves more of a hint of the color, but it is soft enough it can be used over and over. Posietint has definite staying power but comes with nothing to moisturize. Just Bitten stays very well. It requires you to allow it to dry for thirty second before applying the balm. I love the glossy finish the balm gives it.

Overall Favorite - For the color, I love Posietint. But as an overall product package, I my favorite is Just Bitten. Proof that the best product can come from the discount retailers.












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