Lip Lab by BITE offers a custom lipstick service in which you can choose from a huge menu of colors, finishes and fragrances. The service costs $55 for one lipstick, $80 for two. I opted for the bespoke service, $150, which includes two lipsticks completely tailored to my likes (shade, scent and finish) plus a prep kit including Bite's lip scrub, lip mask and lipstick primer.
Image courtesy Hannah Savin
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Customizing my lipsticks
I tend to favor mauvey-nude shades of lipstick because I find it so hard to pick more vibrant shades that actually flatter my skin tone. So today, I decided to go outside my comfort zone and create custom red and berry shades. My lip lab artist had me select from the following finishes: sheer, glossy, matte and the brand's signature, Amuse Bouche. I selected the matte finish because Bite's formula is incredibly creamy and comfortable on the lips. Next, I described my ideal shades to my artist and she went to work mixing up a variety of pigments.
Image courtesy Hannah Savin
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Perfecting the lipstick shades
After mixing up the pigments, you get to sample the creation and both you and your artist decide if it needs any tweaking. When both of your shades are exactly as you want, you get to choose your fragrance. BITE offers cherry, mint, vanilla, mango, violet, coconut, wild berry and fresh citrus. Even better, you get to name your lipsticks and get the tubes engraved. I named mine after myself and my boyfriend.
Image courtesy Hannah Savin
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How the BITE lipstick is made
Once the shades and scents are hand-mixed in jars, they enter a centrifuge to thoroughly blend the mixture. That mixture is poured into a mold that sits atop a freezer for about five minutes to solidify the lipstick bullets. Your artist then pops out the bullets and inserts them into their respective (engraved) tubes. Everything is wrapped up in adorable packaging and you are on your way. They recommend waiting at least two hours before using your lipsticks so they are fully formed.
Image courtesy Hannah Savin
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My takeaway from the Lip Lab
I was in and out of the lip lab in under an hour. It was ample time to work with my artist to create two lipstick shades that I really love and will actually wear. One of my favorite features of the lipstick is the custom fragrance — I chose wild berry for my magenta-berry shade and mango-citrus for the warm red hue. Choosing the scents to complement your shades and your personal taste is such a luxurious extra step that is guaranteed to make you smile.
The lip lab also hosts special events like birthdays, bachelorette parties and corporate events. I can't wait to return and bring my mom, grandma and best friend with me. If you struggle with picking a signature lipstick shade or are looking to get that perfect red, it's definitely worth a trip to the Lip Lab by BITE.
