We know monochrome makeup is supposed to be easy, but devising the right mix products that look uniform in shade and texture takes work. Ditto for finding a singular product that performs on lips, cheeks and eyelids without instantly fading or feeling too powdery or sticky. But this gel changes everything: the buttery texture feels like a luxury balm on lips, delivers a no-budge wash of color on lids and sinks into cheeks with a few taps of the fingers. It's at once non-drying and non-greasy and unlike many multi-use makeup products, is shine free, finally making monochrome fuss-free.
We've long relied on this multi-purpose balm (made with papaya, olive oil and aloe vera) to hydrate cuticles, lips and cracked skin. But when the brand launched tinted versions of the balm this year, they suddenly became a face-brightening staples: we've used darker shades as glossy eyeshadow and contour and brighter shades on cheeks and lips. And since the tinted versions pack the same formula as the original, the balmy finish doubles as a highlight, but doesn't feel sticky on skin.
Nearly every lip gloss on the market delivers a sheer wash of color. But what makes this one so different is the elegance with which it performs. The glassy formula feels more substantial than a balm, but isn't thick or sticky. Thanks to the inclusion of sustainably sourced, ultrafine diamond powder, the high-shine formula magnifies lips like a plumping serum might, but without the burn.
