Soin des lèvres au Lait de Jument de Camargue

RRP: 8€

--What does the promo say?—

"Moisturisation and protection guaranteed with our SOIN DES LEVRES! This lip balm is so rich that it will quickly repair and protect your lips from the effects of the cold and the sun. Good for cracked and sore lips, it is rich in moisturising ingredients such as shea butter and beeswax, which reinforce the qualities of Camargue mare’s milk. It nourishes, softens and protects your lips to the maximum. It does not contain a UV filter and is a natural product containing no chemical ingredients. (Any conservation agents used have been approved by Ecocert.) Suitable for daily use."

--Ingredients--

Shea butter, grapeseed oil, beeswax, aloe vera, jojoba oil, argan oil, lemon essential oil. 

--Packaging--

The SOIN DES LEVRES comes in a standard lipstick format. It has a paper wrap- around label with discreet logo of a horse’s head, the Camargue cross, the name of the product in black and green lettering and an attractive picture of mares in the Camargue.

--Application--

Apply like a lipstick, to top and bottom lip, and rub lips together to smooth the product in thoroughly.

--Appearance--

The SOIN DES LEVRES is a solid creamy-yellow stick.

--Scent—

The scent on this is very faint indeed, which I prefer to other lip balms I have used. You are not left with a strong taste on your lips. It feels completely natural.

--Texture and consistency--

The texture is quite solid and hard. I have a feeling that it will last longer than most sticks of this type because it doesn’t ‘melt away’ or wear down quickly as some do.

--Effects on the lips —

My lips feel instantly hydrated and the effect lasts a long time. A bonus: I also apply it around the contours of my lips to reduce the fine lines and it works a treat. Used before going to bed, it keeps my lips moisturised all through the night.

--Value for money--

Very good value for the quality of the product and the fact that it will last a long time.

perfect partners

CRÈME DE SOIN VISAGE (Face cream) 30€

LAIT DEMAQUILLANT (Make-up remover), from €9

CRÈME PEAU SECHE ET SENSIBLE (Cream for dry and sensitive skin), from €9

SAVON AU LAIT DE JUMENT NATUREL ET HYDRATANT (Natural moisturising mare’s milk soap), from €2

CRÈME POUR LES MAINS (Hand cream), 11.90€ 

CRÈME POUR LES PIEDS (Foot cream), 11.90€

COMPLEMENTS ALIMENTAIRES (dietary supplement capsules), 29.90€ 

https://laitdejumentdecamargue.fr/

Pepsi Lip Balms Tear 'n' Share

RRP: £2.50

--What does the promo say?--
"Share a guilt-free sweet treat with your bestie! Keep your lips soft and hydrated with these Pepsi and Pepsi Cherry flavour lip balms."

--Packaging--
The heart-shaped cardboard backing is emblazoned with the Pepsi logo and the brand colours of red, white and blue. This tears neatly down the middle thanks to a perforation. The two lip balms themselves are protected by a plastic casing, with the Pepsi Cherry lip balm distinguished by a red lid. Both lip balms can be twisted up from the bottom as normal in order to reveal the product.

--Usage--
Twist the bottom of the casing up to reveal the product. Apply liberally to dry lips, as often as you feel is necessary.

--Appearance--
The Pepsi balm is a light brown colour, while the Pepsi Cherry balm is a vibrant red. Both, however, go transparently onto the lips.

--Scent--
Playful, fizzy, and in the case of the cherry variant, fruity. Taste-wise, however, they are more beeswaxy (which is probably just as well).

--Texture and consistency--
Smooth without being greasy or indeed overly waxy.

--Effects on the lips--
Chapped lips feel immediately soothed and smoothed - so the desired effect.

--Value for money--
At £2.50 for the pair (i.e. £1.25 each) these are cheap, cheerful, fun, and in short, do what they say on the tin. Primark does it again!

Glo Minerals Exfoliating Lip Wand

RRP: £9

--What does the promo say?--
"Exfoliate and moisturize lips in one quick step. Jojoba and nourishing wax microcrystals combine to soften, smooth and hydrate lips. Apply throughout the day as needed to exfoliate and hydrate lips. Nourishing wax microcrystals gently slough away dry skin particles to reveal a softer, smoother lip surface then melt on contact and seep into the exfoliated surface to deliver supreme moisturization."

--Packaging--
The silver tube is sleek and futuristic, and the lid fastens securely.

--Application--
With winter on its way, I'd recommend applying this one daily, or perhaps even more frequently. Apply to lips using a brush or straight from the tube as preferred. Can be worn alone, or as an undercoat for lipstick or lip gloss.

--Appearance--
Virtually invisible. Possibly a slightly pale sheen, but nothing more.

--Scent--
None, particularly.

--Texture and consistency--
Delightfully scrubby without being rough - and thankfully, as promised, the exfoliating beads really do dissolve, meaning that you don't feel like you've just been for a walk along the beach in a windstorm.

--Effects on the lips--
Eliminates dry patches and moisturises perfectly.

--Value for money--
Again, this one was free, but is worth every penny of the £9 asking price, in my view. Trumps even my previous favourite - the £8 Body Shop Lipscuff.

perfect partners
Protective Liquid Foundation, £37
Bronze, £30.50  

Green People Scent-Free Soft Lips SPF8

RRP: £4.95

--What does the promo say?--
"A natural lip balm which keeps your lips soft and protected. Conditions and protects, giving a natural sheen. Excellent for dry, sore and chapped lips. Gives SPF8 UV protection. ‘Scent Free' formulation ideal for sensitive lips (very mild taste from natural plant oils used as the product base). Contains organic coconut, cupuaçu, vitamin E, and berry wax. Green People Scent Free Soft Lips SPF8 is made without artificial perfumes, alcohol (ethyl alcohol, ethanol), parabens, petrochemicals, colourants, lanolin and phthalates to bring you the purest lip salve that nature can offer. 65% certified organic ingredients. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans."

 --Packaging--
A small white plastic tube that'll fit right in even the smallest pocket. The orange band is distinctive and cheerful and the screw-top lid proves secure and hygienic.

--Application--
The website advises applying a small amount of Scent Free Soft Lips only, and it's true that you'll only need a pea-sized amount. You also can apply from the tube to your lips directly, with no need to go via your fingers. Wear alone, or over lipstick for a subtle gloss effect.

--Appearance--
An opaque cream-coloured gel, which turns into an attractive sheen on the lips.

--Scent--
As promised, it's completely scent-free. They warn that a mild taste is possible, but I couldn't detect it.

--Texture and consistency--
While it appears slightly thick and lumpy, it still comes out of the tube easily without control being lost or product being wasted. On the lips, it's completely smooth and without stickiness. Definitely the love child of gloss and balm; Green People should definitely make colour versions!

--Effects on the skin--
Moisturises lips, protects from cold winds and sunshine, and is definitely scent-free. Top stuff.

--Value for money--
At £4.95, it's not the cheapest balm out there, but it's probably the cheapest it can be given the high quality of the ingredients and the brand's ethical credentials. The price means it's also competing with brands such as Burt's Bees, Avene, and Cowshed, meaning it's appropriately valued at worst and excellent value at best. Would recommend.

perfect partners
Neutral Scent-Free 24 Hour Cream, £14.95
Scent-Free Sun Lotion SPF25

Chapstick Lipsations Shimmer

 
RRP: £1.99
Number of varieties: 2 (Berry and Tropical)

--What does the promo say?--

"Add a bit of glamour to your lip care as the sun starts to shine, with new ChapStick® Lipsations Shimmer. This fabulous new duo offers the perfect combination of moisture, softness and protection with a beautiful pearlescent shine.

Perfect for making lips irresistibly kissable, the smooth formulation gives a subtle highlight with fine shimmer particles.  Available in two tempting flavours, Berry and Tropical, these glamorous new additions to the ChapStick range are a perfect pick to add a touch of sparkle, while 10 different moisturisers help to keep lips soft and looking healthy.

ChapStick Lipsations Shimmer has a special formulation to:

·         Give lips a radiant shine

·         Provide a subtle accent to ensure lips look beautiful and healthy

·         Maintain moisture balance to keep lips protected and soft

Why not also try using ChapStick Lipsations Shimmer as a top coat to your lipstick to give it that extra special shine and radiance? Perfect for taking your look from day to night!"

--Packaging--
A compact tube whose colour immediately shows you the flavour you've chosen (red for berry, orange for tropical). The lid stays on securely, yet pulls off easily when you want to use it. There is a screw wheel at the bottom of the tube to push more lip balm up when needed, and this is easy to use, working immediately (no sitting there endlessly and fruitlessly twisting the wheel for us!).

--Application--
Sweep over lips whenever more protection is needed. Can be used alone, or as a top coat to lipstick as suggested by Chapstick for extra shimmer. You could do the latter, but you may find the Chapstick gets messy if you do it often.

--Appearance--
On the lips, the berry version appears a very natural colour with a hint of shimmer. The tropical version is a nude/clear shade.

--Scent--
The red berry version is definitely faithful to the product concept, and tastes like it on the lips as well (in addition to being slightly sugary). This applies equally to the tropical variant, which smells and tastes primarily of pineapple and secondarily of coconut. (The kiwi featured on the packaging with these two fruits does not really figure, however.)

--Texture and consistency--
Smooth and soft; not a hint of stickiness. 

--Effects on the lips--
Provides an effective barrier against sun and wind. No complaints here.

--Value for money--
At a mere £1.99, this definitely counts as an affordable luxury. Even though I was sent these for free by the lovely folks at Chapstick, I would without doubt purchase these myself and recommend them to others. 

Blistex MoistureMax

RRP: £2.49

--What does the promo say?--

"A refreshing and super-hydrating lip balm that contains soft melting moisture beads. Each visible bead contains Shea Butter and Aloe Vera for intensive, long lasting, super-hydration from first application."

--Packaging--

The transparent tube means you can always see how much is left of the pale blue gel, which has dark blue particles suspended in it. The dark blue decoration at one end of the tube is a nice touch and the flat applicator is practical and easy to use.

--Application--

Use whenever your lips need revitalising, say Blistex. No problems here: just twist off the lid, squeeze the tube lightly, and massage the gel onto your lips with your fingers or the tube applicator, or simply by rubbing your lips together.

--Appearance--

The blue of the gel may strike fear into the hearts of some, but there's really no need - this gives a great natural sheen without making you look frostbitten. The dark blue moisture beads also absorb instantly and invisibly for an added hit of hydration.

--Scent--

This lip balm is scented with a blue raspberry flavour, which I love - but then again it always was my favourite Slush Puppy flavour. It's also not too overpowering, meaning it shouldn't put off too many people, but does mean it isn't as unisex as some of Blistex's more medicinal products.

--Texture and consistency--

In spite of my description above of this product as a 'gel', it's silkier and more velvety than this, making it feel like a really luxurious product. It's not at all slimy or sticky, and it sinks into the lips perfectly.

--Effects on the skin--

Rehydrates lips significantly, making them feel smoother for days after use even if the product is not used daily. This means your tube should last longer as a result too - great for moneysavers.

--Value for money--

As mentioned above, this product is terrific value for money. The long-lasting effects of the product combined with the low RRP mean one tube should last anyone a long time, and its utilitarianism (don't forget it has an SPF of 15 too) combined with a hint of luxury make it one of my new faves. Who can resist a product that does it all? Well done, Blistex.

Blistex Lip Brilliance

RRP: £2.49

--What does the promo say?--

"Blistex Lip Brilliance is an exciting multi-benefit lip balm with real silk extracts to condition your lips, along with a touch of subtle colour and shimmer to keep them looking beautiful. The addition of Hyaluronic Filling Spheres provides a natural fuller lip effect, and SPF 15 protects from sun damage. Lip Brilliance is the only lip product you will need to ensure your lips are feeling and looking their best."

--Packaging--

Nothing radical about the dark baby pink colour, plastic pull-off lid and twist-up mechanism. Lid stays on when you want it to, comes off easily when you don't. Simples, as they say.

--Application--

Apply to lips regularly to combat dryness and protect from sunlight. Nothing hard about that.

--Appearance--

Despite the dark pink colour of the stick, on the lips a very natural, non-glittery sheen is given. Great for men, women and children.

--Texture and consistency--

Slides on easily without being slippery or sticky. Moisturises more than satisfyingly.

--Scent--

My only major bugbear with this product! It has a very artificial strawberry smell which reminds me of a Haribo product that's sold in France (not in the UK, though) which I dislike (if any of you are familiar with the Tagada sweets, you'll know what I mean). Very disappointing. Girls under 10 would probably like it, but I think it counts out just about anyone else.

--Effects on the lips--

As mentioned, it moisturises, soothes and protects adequately for those who don't require a more heavy-duty product, like some of the other more medicated options from the Blistex range. I can't say I noticed any extra-special plumping effect, though. To have SPF in a product is always nice :)

--Value for money--

There are lots of choices in this price bracket, including other high street favourites such as Carmex, but I think Blistex remains competitive thanks to its stick format: many of the other products for this price are in tins/pots or squeezy tubes. However, I would ultimately not purchase this product - the smell, for me, just makes it far too off-putting. A shame, as it has a lot to offer in other areas.

perfect partners

Blistex Intensive Moisturiser Lip Cream, £2.59

Blistex MedPlus Balm, £2.59

Blistex Relief Cream, £2.85

Montagne Jeunesse Weather Screen Lip Balm

--What does the promo say?--

"Are you a Busy outdoor Bee? Then protect your best feature from the elements with Wheatgerm & Black Pepper for a subtle tingly sensation, and flavour with a kick. The Olive Oil safeguards your skin whilst Shea Butter and 100% pure Beeswax soothes and locks moisture in."

--Packaging--

The honeycomb cartoon on the front of the tube is cheerful and the pull-off plastic lid stays secure, but is not difficult to remove when you do need to use it. More balm is exposed by twisting the bottom of the tube. It also features the Vegetarian Standard mark from the Vegetarian Society, but I don't know if the tube itself is recyclable (although the paper and plastic sleeve it comes in definitely is).

--Application--

Slap on to clean, dry lips and go about your daily business. Simples.

--Appearance--

The balm is a fairly solid white-yellow creamy block that leaves a slight, barely detectable sheen on the lips once applied.

--Scent--

The smell of shea and cocoa butters is dominant, which is a little boring; given the emphasis on beeswax, a honey-scented product might have been more pleasant and different.

--Texture and consistency--

Smooth, soft and absorbs well.

--Effects on the skin--

Softens and smoothens lips, but no better or worse than any other commercial lip balm. I also don't really "get" the weather screen part - it contains no SPF, so I don't see how it would provide any beyond-superficial protection to your lips. If the variety of essential oils that have been used do in fact have this effect, it needs to be explained on the pack, as it isn't really common knowledge.

--Value for money--

The main appeal of this product is its 99.5% natural claim. However, there are definitely other products out there for the same price that do just as well or better - Fair Squared's lip balms, for instance, are not only 99% organic but also vegan due to their lack of beeswax; Jason and Optima also offer natural lip balms for this price, and Optima's contain SPF too. This means that Montagne Jeunesse needs to constantly keep its eyes on the competition so as to constantly develop its products for the better. I'm loving the all-natural thing, but would prefer such a product to have a more obvious SPF in it - and if that SPF can be natural, so much the better.

Beauty Byte: Free Blistex Raspberry Lemonade Lip Balm

Blistex have recently launched a new product: Raspberry Lemonade Blast.

A summery, fun lip balm which contains moisturising ingredients and sun protection, its launch is being celebrated with Blistex giving away FREE samples of the lip balm via its Facebook page. Like the page, fill in your details, and a sample will be winging its way to you.

Samples are limited, so make sure you get in there quickly. Enjoy!

Blistex Lip Massage

 RRP: £1.83 (Boots.com)

--What does the promo say?--

"A softening treatment formula of shea butter, aloe vera and squalane applied with its unique massaging tip for smooth, refreshed and gorgeous lips. Dermatologically tested. SPF15."

--Packaging--

The shiny dark blue is an unusual touch and the tapered, textured top of the plastic tube only furthers this. The pull-off lid is secure, stays on well and comes off easily when you want it to. Simples! One complaint by other reviewers has been that the textured top becomes dirty too easily and requires constant cleaning; I personally haven't found this. Just remember that a little of this stuff goes a long way and you'll be fine.

--Application--

Blistex say: "Twist the cream and use the applicator tip to gently massage all over your lips (first use may take up to 10 turns, subsequent uses should only require one turn). Reapply frequently during prolonged exposure to dry, cold or sunny environments - the soft touch tip smooths away rough spots to achieve soft, smooth and gorgeous lips." No reading between the lines here; does exactly what it says on the tin.

--Appearance--

An opaque, creamy-coloured stiff lotion that gives a slight sheen to the lips once applied.

--Scent--

An overwhelmingly fruity scent which contrasts the menthol and vanilla scent you get from Blistex's other products. Could put the blokey contingent off, but I like it - it's a natural fruity smell too (although I can't work out where it comes from), unlike Carmex's fruit-style confections.

--Texture, consistency and sensation--

As mentioned, this is a stiff and creamy lotion, but it absorbs easily and is not at all sticky. Slight tingling sensation which fulfils the refreshing feeling promised by the promotional material. Equally, the textured tip offers a comforting and soothing 'massage' feeling when dragged across the lips, which is so simple and effective that I can't believe other lip care manufacturers haven't yet seized on similar devices.

--Effects on the lips--

All as promised: lips are soothed, smoothed and massaged. Top stuff.

--Value for money--

Prices vary widely across the web, even running as high as £3.50, so be careful. Boots offers it at £1.83 on special offer, but even at its normal price of £2.50, I'd say it's still a steal for an effective and unique product.

Blistex Daily Lip Conditioner

RRP: £1.49 (Superdrug)

--What does the promo say?--

"For beautifully cared for lips that are healthy and in tip top condition. Now bursting with even more Vitamin E and with added Aloe Vera and collagen, this daily lip balm has all the ingredients for keeping your lips gorgeously soft, healthy and younger looking.

Care - your lovely lips will feel smooth and super soft from all the goodness of daily conditioner."

--Packaging--

The green and cream combination is unusual - a lot of lip balm containers seem to burst off the shelves in bright primary colours - and evokes the idea of natural ingredients being used. Despite the appearance of the cardboard sleeve, the balm itself comes in a small plastic pot that you need to dunk your finger into to extract the balm. Generally no complaints apart from the fact that the screwtop lid can occasionally come a bit loose in a pocket or bag - although not so loose that you can't fix it before it falls off and makes the balm all sticky and gross.

--Application--

Use your fingers, or perhaps a lip brush, to apply the balm onto the lips. Much easier to control than other Blistex products such as the Relief Cream.

--Appearance--

A creamy-coloured balm in the pot which is invisible on the lips, delivering only the slightest sheen and thus making it suitable to be used by men, women and children.

--Scent--

A lovely vanilla smell - which may make it appeal less to men! It's a natural-seeming smell, though, and it's not strong enough to be offensive.

--Texture and consistency--

Smooth, soft, slightly waxy, and not at all irritating.

--Sensation--

Gives a slight tingling feeling, making your lips feel fresh and nourished. 

--Effects on the lips--

Sends dry skin packing with ease, leaving lips smooth in the long and short term. It also has SPF15 in it, so you don't need to worry about being out in the sun. Nice one, Blistex.

--Value for money--

My favourite kind of product: utilitarian, luxurious, portable, and best of all, affordable. Would I buy again? DEFINITELY.

perfect partners

Intensive Moisturiser Lip Cream, £2.34

Tint & Shine, £2.59

Med Plus Cherry Berry Lip Balm, £2.34

Blistex Relief Cream

RRP: £2.85/5g

--What does the promo say?--

"A soothing, penetrating formulation for quick relief of occasional cold sores, cracked lips or chapped lips. When you need a penetrating & soothing remedy to relieve & treat occasional cold sores and cracked & chapped lips, leaving your lips feeling soft again. Cold Sores - when first symptoms arise, gently apply every hour to rapidly relieve any discomfort. You are more vulnerable to developing a cold sore if you are feeling stressed & rundown. Lip care - your lips are more sensitive during extreme weather conditions, so may need a little more care than normal. Apply Blistex Relief Cream frequently to quickly relieve sore, cracked and chapped lips."

--Packaging--

The soothing and utilitarian blue colours of the cardboard packaging are echoed again on the small metallic tube, which also uses white and red in its design. The nozzle is too thin to be practical; a wider applicator would be easier to use. Leakages could also be better controlled (see below) - the first time I opened the tube and squeezed, all that came out was a clear liquid which went all over my fingers. NICE. The cream came only later.

--Application--

Squeeze a little of the product out of the tube. Really only a tiny amount is required, but as mentioned above, the nozzle is a bit small to control application thoroughly or to apply the product directly to the lips, so the best way seems to be to squeeze some product onto your index finger and apply from here to your lips. Although it is advised to apply the product every hour, certainly in summer this is not necessary, as it is more effective than this.

--Appearance--

Although the cream blends invisibly onto the lips, delivering only a slight and quite natural sheen, the cream itself is a creamy, slightly off-brown colour. Some clear liquid also seeps out of the tube with every application, which again does not appear visibly on the lips.

--Scent--

A very strong menthol-style smell.

--Texture and consistency--

Smooths onto lips easily and absorbs well - not too quickly or slowly. Not in the least bit sticky. The clear liquid that seeps from the tube with each application is also not sticky or tricky to absorb, but is just annoying and watery and makes more of a mess of your fingers.

--Effects on the lips--

Lips are smoothened and irritation is rapidly soothed after only one or two applications; definitely speeds up the healing process. Really very effective.

--Value for money--

This product packs prescription power punch at a price to suit all, and all in an off-the-shelf product; however, there are still a few kinks that need ironing out. The smell is not offputting to me (I like mint) but may be to some, and the runny liquid that accompanies the cream needs to blend better with it inside the tube.

Carmex Strawberry Lip Balm SPF 15 Tube

RRP: £2.69/10g

--What does the promo say?--

"A favourite with celebrities and make up artists all over the world, Carmex now comes in a new juicy strawberry flavour! Not only does this fruity balm heal dry, cracked lips, it also acts as a sunscreen with the added protection of SPF 15."

--Packaging--

I can't say I find it especially appealing: while the vintage-style fonts are cute, the fact that the tube is yellow means that it is distinctly reminiscent of a certain well-known superglue brand, and the lid just.would.not.come.off. I tried just using my hands. I tried running the lid under hot water. I tried wrapping an elastic band around the lid for extra grip. Not even my husband could get the lid off unassisted. He ended up getting out a pair of pliers (or some other blokey implement from his toolbox) and literally wrenching off the lid. After that initial breakin, the lid seemed to work fine, but the problem is that the plastic that the tube is made from is too soft, meaning it is quite liable to just bend when you try to turn the lid, rather than working with you. Bad times. The only good part is that the application tip is precise and easy to control by squeezing the tube.

--Application--

Once you've got the accursed thing open, squeeze out a small amount of lip balm and spread evenly over your lips; thankfully, no problems here.

--Appearance--

The balm is a creamy colour that appears transparent on the lips, giving a very natural look overall.

--Scent--

Sorry, I just did not like this. While it did smell strawberryish, it seems that this is only in the most artificial of capacities. This perhaps should have been obvious to me from the outset by the fact that the strawberry scent comes only, according to the ingredients list, from the suitably vague 'Flavour'. The menthol and camphor in the ingredients, however, are also detectable in the smell - this is not unpleasant but sadly it does not compensate for the superficiality of the 'strawberry' scent for me.

--Texture, consistency and sensation--

A very smooth lip balm which is not sticky at all. The menthol and camphor also makes your lips tingle in a really pleasant way which makes you feel like it is really working.

--Effects on the lips--

Makes lips smooth and soft, but not miraculously so. I suppose it comes down to how long you can stick the scent for as to how long you can keep applying it and thus see maximal results.

--Value for money--

I suppose this works well enough, but for me the value for money is diminished by the horrible scent and sheer uselessness of the packaging. For this price range, I would be more inclined to plump instead for Dove, Blistex or Burt's Bees lip balm - but perhaps once I have tried the mint tube my opinion will change.

Sally Hansen Diamond Lip Treatment

RRP: £1.95 at www.thecosmetichouse.co.uk
# of shades available: 8

--What does the promo say?--
"Sally Hansen Diamond Lip Treatment is a gorgeous lip gloss which deeply conditions and moisturises your lips while providing a beautiful, luminous diamond shine. With Aloe, Shea Butter and Vitamin A it provides instant hydration and improves lip texture."

--Packaging--
Some might think the faux diamond on the front of the tube is tacky, but I quite like it: it makes it stand out from other products when it might otherwise be passed by. The company name doesn't feature at all on the tube; whether this is a good or bad thing is up to you.

--Application--
Sweep a thin layer across your lips and you are good to go. Super easy.

--Scent--
Almost slightly floral; it has a perfumey quality to it that I had not expected and does not smell cheap or chemical like many other lip glosses in this bracket.

--Texture and consistency--
Not at all sticky; it feels solid, hardwearing and dependable, but comfortable and smooth, while the glitter particles don't grate or irritate at all. Feels as light as a feather on the lips, but not at all weak or watery in application.

--Appearance--
Finally to the most important aspect! I possess the now-defunct Pink Bouquet shade, which is a delightful inbetween pinky-red colour, studded with tiny particles of glitter. However, despite the deep shade, it is a natural match for my lips, delivering a rosy sheen that shimmers beautifully. The range of shades available, though, leads me to believe that there would be a shade out there for just about everyone, from the transparent Diamonds to the red Royal Romance, with several pink, orange and brown shades in between.

--Longevity--
It is unfortunately not perfect; expect to reapply throughout the day. It will last a couple of hours but not much more, and definitely doesn't survive a meal.

--Value for money--
As already mentioned, this gloss doesn't quite tick all the boxes, so if it's an all-day and all-night gloss you want, then you may wish to look elsewhere. However, I sincerely believe that at this price, it's the best 'cheap' lip gloss around, especially given that it contains such fabulous caring natural ingredients that are normally limited to glosses whose prices are out of this one's league (normally for under £2 you're restricted to 17 and Collection 2000). A sparkling summer essential.

perfect partners
Cornsilk Zero Shine Powder and Concealer in One, £4.95 @ www.thecosmetichouse.co.uk
The Original Cornsilk Shineless Matt Powder, £5.95 @ www.thecosmetichouse.co.uk
Healong Beauty Professional Brow Kit, £4.25 @ www.thecosmetichouse.co.uk

Lloydspharmacy YOUR Organics Eye and Lip Lift

RRP: £4.99 for 15ml
Retails at: Lloydspharmacy branches across the UK, and at www.lloydspharmacy.com

--About the brand--
Lloydspharmacy is one of Britain's leading pharmacy chains, with over 1700 branches across the UK. As well as dispensing more than 145 million prescription items annually, the company sells at home treatments, makeup, face and body care.

--What does the promo say?--
"The star of the YOUR Organics line-up, the Eye & Lip Lift, contains organic camomile to give eyes and lips an instant boost. Camomile has been used for centuries for its calming effects on skin and research has identified camomile's specific anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, making it a hero product in skincare. Use with your existing skincare regime."

--Packaging--
Given the emphasis of this line on the use of pomegranate, shea and rosewater (though not so specifically in this product), I would have expected a bigger deal to be made of this on the packaging, perhaps with a vibrant image of pomegranate seeds or with the calming pink of rosewater. Instead, what we get is a slightly insipid light blue scheme across the range. Still, never mind: the pump mechanism for this product is effective, sturdy, and easily controllable, and I'd have no qualms about taking it on my travels.

--Application--
Smooth around the eye contour area, and vertically alongside your lips (extending down from your nose, where lines first begin to appear). Rub in until fully absorbed; apply morning and night.

--Scent--
The camomile does not come across strongly, but this is no bad thing: we get a calm, neutral and fresh smell that doesn't come across as being at all chemical.

--Texture/consistency--
A stiff cream that turns slightly water-like immediately on contact with the skin. Rubs in excellently.

--Appearance--
White, but turns transparent when rubbed into the skin.

--Does it do what it says it will?--
It goes 50% of the way: as with all eye creams, I did not notice any difference whatsoever on the fine lines under my eyes. However, I was very impressed by how it targeted the fine lines that were beginning to appear around the lip area and sent them packing. I will definitely continue to use this as a lip cream as it delivers visible results in just a couple of weeks.

--Value for money--
As a lip cream, this is really excellent, delivering noticeable results quickly and cheaply. However, it doesn't really cut it as a multi-use product, with no improvement around the eye area. I'd recommend purchasing this as a lip cream alone, and continuing on your quest for the perfect eye cream elsewhere.

perfect partners
Soothing Cleansing Milk, £3.99 for 200ml
Invigorating Face Exfoliator, £3.99 for 50ml

Kiehl's Lip Balm #1

RRP: from $6.50/£7/€10
also available in a scented version and as a World Aids Day limited edition

--What does the promo say?--
"Relieves cracked or chapped lips with cotton seed oil and protects them with SPF4 sunscreen. Not tested on animals."

--Packaging--
Finally a Kiehl's package which is travel friendly and not useless! The Kiehl's bottles are notorious for their brittleness and general breakability, but this is a sturdy, no-nonsense white plastic tube with black writing and screw-top lid. All very unisex. The only weakness is the fact that the nozzle is not tapered in any way, meaning that it can be a little rough when dragged over the lips.

--Application--
Just squeeze the tube a little to bring some of the balm to the surface of the nozzle. Rub onto lips, either using your fingers or directly from the nozzle, and you're good to go.

--Scent--
None.

--Appearance--
This is officially the love child of a high octane gloss and a high quality lip balm. Doesn't have any of the usual lip balm opacity or matte appearance, delivering instead a lip-gloss style shine (perhaps not so good if you happen to be male). The balm itself is clear/transparent.

--Texture/consistency--
Soft, smooth and not at all runny or sticky. A class act all the way.

--Does it do what it says it will?--
Incredibly, this is probably the most modest promotional statement I've ever seen on a product. What it doesn't tell you is that this is like the Atrixo of lip care; in other words, nothing short of a miracle. I had slightly chapped and painful dry lips which my Body Shop lip balm was just refusing to sort and which I didn't much fancy taking the Lipscuff to. Two applications of this stuff later, I had totally smooth, non-chapped, non-painful lips again. This condition was maintained even without further applications.

--Value for money--
Need I say more? This is an essential part of any man or woman's essential extreme seasons kit, along with Atrixo's hand cream and Liz Earle's Intensive Moisturiser. To the shops, people!

perfect partners
Ultimate Strength Hand Salve, from $12.50/£11.99/€16
Superbly Efficient Anti-perspirant Deodorant, from $11.50/£10.25/€15

Clarins Moisture Replenishing Lip Balm

RRP: £14.69 for 15ml

--What does the promo say?--
"A balm formulation choc-full of key ingredients. Because of its super-concentration, chapped, dry, cracked lips are a thing of the past. Instead lips are soft, smooth and given a new lease of life. Perfect for the entire family, it protects and delivers continuous moisture."

--Packaging--
Classic Clarins in unisex white and dark red (although, saying that, their men's range is white and dark blue). Refreshingly uncomplicated.

--Application--
The Clarins website recommends the following: "Apply morning and/or evening and several times during the day if needed. Gently squeeze the tube and apply pressing the slanted tip against lips." I'm surprised they actually recommend reapplication several times a day, as it implies that the balm doesn't hold for long. Is this a stupid mistake? Are they just trying to get you to apply it liberally so that you buy more of it? Or are they just being honest?

--Appearance--
A beautiful peachy colour that looks wonderfully natural, while still delivering high shine on the lips, and which also makes lips appear bigger.

--Scent/taste--
Unfortunately, this smells and tastes much like soap. A shame, as the peachy colour leads you to expect something fruitier. Even more unfortunately, the taste really lingers in the mouth if you happen to catch it on your tongue. Make sure you have a box of Tic Tacs ready.

--Texture/consistency--
Wonderfully sumptuous and thick without being sticky, stringy or heavy.

--Longevity--
This has excellent tenure - it isn't perfect, but certainly puts up a better fight than the majority of high street glosses and balms. Reapply 2-4 times a day.

--Effects on the lips--
Short-term and long-term, this provides an effective barrier against cold winds and keeps your lips soft and smooth.

--Value for money--
A versatile and effective product that combines the glamour of gloss with the utility of a lip balm, this is a great way to sex up those dull winter days, and certainly worth your £14 - especially since you need so little per application. However, they really really need to sort that taste out - it's the only thing stopping this from being a virtually perfect product.

perfect partners
Gentle Facial Peeling, £20.55 for 40ml
Thirst-Quenching HydraCare Mask, £25.45 for 50ml

Body Shop Born Lippy (Passionberry)

RRP: £4 for 10ml
# of flavours available: 7 (passionberry, mint, satsuma, mango/peach, strawberry, raspberry, and watermelon)
contains: beeswax and lanolin (both natural moisturisers)

--What does the promo say?--
"A glossy and moisturising lip balm with an exotic berry flavour, that leaves lips looking and feeling soft, smooth and kissable."

--Packaging--
The label for these used to be natural-looking, artistic images of fruit, but now they're more modern and jazzy in a computer-art type way. They look good both ways: not sure which I prefer. Simple plastic circular screw-top pot, of a size that fits easily in your pocket. Closes securely, but is easy to open when you need to use it. It also seems to preserve the lip balm itself quite well, protecting it from age or from extreme temperatures.

--Application--
Apply liberally to lips, using fingers or a lip brush.

--Appearance--
A sexy, rich colour in the pot, but turns sheer and transparent on the lips. Can be worn over lipstick to vamp up existing colour, or alone for simple winter care while keeping a natural look.

--Scent--
A really natural, fruity smell. Almost smells good enough to eat! (But don't.)

--Texture/consistency--
Luxurious; not sticky, gloopy or runny.

--Longevity--
Its staying power is average, but its effects can be felt long-term, with dry skin being sent packing. One tiny tub also lasts months, even years, and it doesn't seem to degenerate with age, meaning you can keep a pot for as long as you like.

--Value for money--
This is Body Shop doing what Body Shop does best: bringing people a little luxury in their day-to-day products. You COULD use Nivea or Vaseline, but somehow, I don't want to. This is just such an utter pleasure to use, and even better, it's been a Body Shop staple for many years, showing their complete commitment to developing the product and making it stay the distance. This may even be my favourite lip balm range of all time, even beating Elizabeth Arden's 8 Hour care for lips. Go and buy it now - and if the quality of these is anything to go by, why not add an extra £1 to your budget and get their Christmas versions (vanilla spice and cranberry, which were brought out as body butters last year)?

Nivea Repair and Protection Lipcare

RRP: £2.49 for 4.8g

--What does the promo say?--
"NIVEA Lip Care Repair & Protection provides effective care and protection for dry, chapped lips. The soothing formula with skin conditioning panthenol, calming bisabolol, protective vitamin E and UV filters helps prevent dryness and chapped lips."

--Packaging--
Very in keeping with the Nivea brand and easily identifiable as part of a set when compared to the other Nivea lip care types. As well as the trademark Nivea logo, the product information appears on the pale mint-green lid in white, to match the white twisty base. All of the products in the range have this design along with their own pastel colour for the lid. It's distinctive, and of a good portable size too, measuring about 8cm in length.

--Application--
As normal - pull off the lid, smear lightly onto the lips.

--Appearance--
On the lips it resembles Vaseline - sheer but not shiny. The stick itself is yellower than Vaseline, but has the same degree of shine.

--Texture--
Smooth, but not too slidy or sticky.

--Scent--
Slightly of vanilla, though sadly there is no taste.

--Longevity--
Not great - unlike the Body Shop's lip balms, you have to reapply this frequently.

--Value for money--
You certainly can't argue with the low price, especially since it definitely banishes dry skin. However, the frequency of reapplication that's needed lets it down slightly, and it's not in any way luxurious. It's definitely a good everyday product, but if you want something with a little more wow-factor, push your price range up a bit and go for Body Shop.

Body Shop Lipscuff

RRP: £7.50

--What does the promo say?--
"A moisturising lip care product that gently exfoliates the lips to help remove dead skin cells, leaving the lips feeling smooth, soft and conditioned which evens the surface of the skin to better absorb lip colour, making it last longer. Dermatologically tested."

--Packaging--
Sleek, unisex and very very handy. Has a silver lid and a black base, with the Body Shop logo burnished onto the slanted top of the lid.

--Application--
As you would a normal lip product: pull off the lid and apply directly to the lips.

--Appearance--
The stick itself is green, but on the lips it appears an off-white colour, which surprisingly doesn't look weird. It does, however, perhaps because of the exfoliate-y bits (crushed fig stone granules apparently), appear slightly uneven in application.

--Texture/Sensation--
Scrubby, but nice, and you get the simultaneous feelings of exfoliation and moisturisation (thanks to the marula oil) for quite a long time. The menthol also makes your lips feel slightly tingly.

--Scent--
Mmmmm minty. Tastes good too.

--Longevity--
Pretty good - it does last for hours - but you will need to reapply after eating.

--Value for money--
It is pretty expensive as far as lip care goes. However, I've seen nothing else like it, and it really is an absolute Godsend on those cold wintry days when a normal lip balm just won't cut it and you need that dry skin gone FAST. The speed at which it makes your lips smooth and kissable again is probably worth your £7.50 by itself.

perfect partners
Body Shop Lip Care
Body Shop Lip Gloss Dot, £5.50
Body Shop Lipstick and Concealer Brush, £8