Tuesday 10 May 2011

Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturising Lip Colour Balm

RRP: £14/2g

--What does the promo say?--
"Super-nourishing balm is loaded with mango and shea butters. Just what dry, delicate lips need to feel comfortably soft and smooth. Eight mouth watering lip tints in all, each with a subtle sheen."

--Packaging--
Differentiated from other lipstick pencils on the market by the silvery lid and end (you twist the end to get more stick when required). At the same time, though, it fits in well with Clinique's overall image of being glamorous yet easy to use. The lid is also 100% secure, with it fitting well onto the end of the stick and not falling off in your makeup bag or handbag (meaning no ruined lipstick, and no ruined bag. TOP.).

--Application--
Just slick it on as with a normal lipstick, twisting the end for more stick if needed. The pointed 'pencil' of the stick also means you can apply the stuff with total precision. No mess, no fuss.

--Appearance--
The colour I was sent (Graped Up) is not as brown as it looks on Clinique's website; in fact, it has an incredibly natural and classic feel to it, blending brilliantly with my English-rose complexion and matching the natural colour of my lips while still making me look like I've made an effort. The stick colour itself also looks natural with a slight shine, although the overall effect on the lips is more matte; a slightly unusual effect for a balm, therefore. The emphasis is definitely on colour rather than shine.

--Scent--
None - so good if you're picky about this. The mango and shea butters are undetectable, then - to the nostrils of us mere mortals, at least.

--Texture and consistency--
It's perhaps not as super-nourishing as some dedicated balms, but you can't argue that it does make your lips feel soft and smooth. For a lipstick/lip balm lovechild it does amazingly well, and it's light and non-sticky to boot.

--Longevity--
Colour bears up for at least four or five hours, maybe even six; if you eat or drink anything in that time, however, you can expect this to be reduced, as like most lip products, it doesn't fare tremendously in standing up to the onslaught of a cup of tea.

--Value for money--
As expected, this balm competes in the same ring as Clarins, Estée Lauder, Décleor, and Philosophy, as well as lesser-known brands such as Lab Series and Primavera. However, its sheer wearability and total lack of stickiness is probably what makes it stand out ahead of some of these other products, which even with their price tag and reputation will leave you washing and picking lip gloss out of your hair.

perfect partners
Moisture Surge Tinted Moisturiser SPF 15, £21
Liquid Facial Soap, £13
Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion, from £15

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