Try it: Smashbox Limitless Lip Stain & Colour Seal Balm

I’m a huge fan of lip stains, but they can be a bit hit and miss when executed by even the most respected of brands. This is mainly because even though they give a beautiful, long lasting effect and strong colour, I have often found that they leave my lips rather dry looking and feeling. Not the ideal result! However, Smashbox seems to have solved that issue with the launch of their rather clever Limitless Lipstain & Color Seal Balm. This innovative two in one product has a stain on one end that delivers highly pigmented, feather resistant eight-hour colour, and on the other end an emollient balm that can be worn alone or on top of the stain for a super-sized burst of hydration. The vibrant tint of each colour – there are six - is designed to mimic the look of photo gels on set in Smashbox’s LA studios and really does pop.

For optimal results, I recommend that you use a lip exfoliant first to slough off dry dead skin – I love the ones by Sara Happ - then to ensure the colour lasts for up to eight hours, make sure your lips are dry and clean of any other products. Next up simply fill in your lips with the stain and allow it to dry completely. Finally, apply the balm to refresh the colour. For a less saturated look, simply apply the balm alone for a sheer wash.
To get the most use out of this product, be sure to cap the stain immediately after use – too easy! I’ve been trialling this is the super vibrant Guava shade and am now dying to get my hands on Nude, because when you get a stain this good one is simply not enough!