Beauty Review: Clinique Almost Lipstick

It’s the new trend in beauty – a product that boasts perfect balance of lipstick and lip balm in one tube. I have small lips and they’re insatiable when it comes to moisture, so I’m always on the hunt for a product that provides enough pigmentation without leaving my lips resembling a wrinkled prune. So, I was pretty pleased to read that mattes were out (temporarily) and sheers are in. Today I’ll be reviewing Clinique’s Almost Lipstick in two shades.

PRODUCT AND PACKAGING

This product is housed in a chic, slim brushed silver tube, with a full metal body and cap. I love the look of it, but it doesn’t show the colour of the product inside, so a clear window at the top would make shade identification easier. Don’t let the colours fool you – as the name suggests, the colours are beautifully sheer. ‘Shy Honey’ is an intense O.M.G. fuchsia in the tube, but applies as the slightest hint of pink with shimmer. ‘Black Honey’ looks well…black in the tube and applies as a universally flattering berry tint. Out of the two shades, I preferred ‘Black Honey’ as it was more pigmented, flattering to my skintone, whilst ‘Shy Honey’ was more like a clear lipbalm and I found difficulty building the colour up to the desired intensity.

APPLICATION

On application, both the lipsticks were extremely moisturising and had a soft, glossy finish. They didn’t bleed and faded evenly. Due to the high levels of emollients in the product, the lasting power of the product is compromised – this is exactly what I expected. I certainly enjoyed whipping out the luxurious tube for reapplication, and as the colour is so sheer, you don’t need a mirror for precise application.

OVERALL VERDICT

This product is perfect for those who shy away from loud colours, as it’s the best way to transition from lip balm to lipstick. For all the Tinted-Lip-Balm-Aficionados, Clinique’s Almost Lipstick is sure to impress. Its highly nourishing and hydrating formula make it also perfect to prevent windburn or chapped, dry lips. Yes, I am looking at YOU, Winter. What a cruel, punishingly-cold season you are!

PRICE: RRP $36 at your local Clinique counters or www.clinique.com.au

Rating: Black Honey 5/5, Shy Honey 4/5