New! Butter London's Tinted Balms: Review And Swatches

Butter London has been at the top of the nail game since their shiny talons appeared in 2005.

But they are nailing (geddit?) their cosmetic colours to the mast with the launch of their Rock Your Colour make-up range. I got my hands on their new Lippy Tinted Balms (€20) to see if the quality that their polishes are known for made it into this new line.

So let's investigate this new kid on the block.

The Lippy is one of those products, like the Revlon Lip Butters, that occupies the hybrid space between a balm and a lipstick. It slicks on like a balm and is quite hydrating (its formula is infused with avocado, mango seed, cocoa, and shea butter). But the colour pay-off is decent, without being full-on - great for a day time look or for those who veer away from a very strong lip.

Top l to r: Axis Kiss, Apricot Sunray, Abbey Rose Bottom l to r: Black Cherry, Strawberry Field, Toasted Marshmallow Top l to r: Axis Kiss, Apricot Sunray, Abbey Rose
Bottom l to r: Black Cherry, Strawberry Field, Toasted Marshmallow

The great thing about these hybrids is that you can slick them on without worrying about exact and precise application. The formula is forgiving and mistakes aren't obvious - you can skip liner and brush without it telling tales on you.

This one comes in six shades, each true to colour:

Advertised
  • Axis Kiss -  punchy pink
  • Apricot Sunray - bright coral
  • Abbey Rose - pretty rose
  • Black Cherry - rich wine
  • Strawberry Field -  mellow red
  • Toasted Marshmallow - simple nude

The texture is creamy and while the finish colour is more sheer than a lipstick, the pigment delivery is still good. And if you want a more intense pop, the colour is buildable.

Swatches: Axis Kiss, Apricot Sunray Swatches: Axis Kiss, Apricot Sunray

It has a semi-matte finish which I quite like for a casual look. But if you want to add some shine, you could layer a little gloss on top. Or if you want a more traditional matte finish, simply blot with a tissue (or just dab it against the back of your hand) to reduce the shine.

It does need to be topped up more often than a regular lipstick but it did deliver a good three hours colour from one application. And it left my lips nicely hydrated.

It gets a thumbs up from me and 'll be picking up their Strawberry Field to add to my collection.

Advertised

You'll find it in Avoca stores, blowing hydrated and gently pigmented kisses at you.

What do you think of the hybrid Lippy? Are you tempted to give it a whirl? Tell us in the comments!

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