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Despite the countless lip products that are available on the market, there’s only a few that I’ve been loyal to for more than a few weeks (Dior Lip Glow Original, Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk, Chanel Les Beige Healthy Glow Lip Balm and the Olio E Osso Lip and Cheek Balm, for anyone curious).
But there’s a first for everything, including my initial swipe of the just-launched Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm. For context, I like my lip products natural-looking, low maintenance and easy to apply. Hydration is an added bonus, as is longevity and a slight sheen.
The Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm is described as a “3-in-1 hybrid nourishes and hydrates like a lip balm, visibly plumps for fuller-looking lips, and delivers the high-shine finish of a lip gloss.” It’s packed with ingredients like argan oil, mango seed butter, shea butter and avocado oil to nourish and soften, as well.
READ MORE: HIT OR MISS? AN EDITOR’S VERDICT ON CUSTOMISABLE BLUSH
It comes in a small, solid stick format that’s easy to swipe on. My first thoughts were about just how plush and cushiony it felt — like a buttery balm that melted when it came into contact with my lips. It is glossy, but not so much as a traditional gloss. The colour payoff is medium to sheer — I used shade Mist, the soft peachy pink as seen below:
What really stands out to me about this formula is how great it makes your lips look; it plumps and adds shine but not in an obvious way. It’s incredibly comforting, non-sticky, and while it’s not long-lasting, it couldn’t be easier to re-apply. It’s also versatile — a few swipes paired with a complimentary liner is enough to serve up a full look, or you can simply pat it on the centre of your lips and blur with fingers for a natural finish. Since I got it, I haven’t stopped using it — a telltale sign that I’ll be using it until it runs empty.
Shop it via Mecca below:
Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm, $50. SHOP NOW
