How lip balm went from humble to haute

The most basic of all beauty buys has had a high-end, multipurpose makeover – going from bottom of the handbag to top of our wish list

IF THERE’S ONE product that goes unnoticed in the beauty world, it’s lip balm. You can get a great emollient that helps to keep your lips hydrated for just a few pounds, so there’s never really been a need to shout from the rooftops about how amazing they are.

Except, that is, when they’re elevated into the lip colour category and serve as a balm and lipstick in one. It’s why I always have a Dior Addict Lip Glow Color Reviver in every handbag: a soothing balm that adapts with your lips’ moisture level for a boost of custom colour as well as comfort, it is one of my all-time favourite products. This week Dior launches Rouge Dior Natural Balms, a range of 18 subtle, easy-to-wear everyday shades that provide the lips with 24 hours of hydration. The finish is velvety smooth (unlike the shine you get with the Lip Revivers).

I have also been loving the new Lip Serum Balms by make-up artist Ruby Hammer. An innovative hybrid formula that gives lips long-lasting hydration and a good amount of colour, too. There are three sheer

shades to choose from: Ruby Red, a suits-everyone cherry hue, Ruby Nude, a classic beige-y nude that works on all complexions, and FX, a clever pearl shade that can be used over any lipstick to add a boost of shine and nourishment.

Finally, a new find is the range of Tinted Balms by French brand Typology. Packed with hydrating hyaluronic acid, these coloured balms look chic in the tube as well as on the lips. My favourite of the five shades is Coral Orange – it works for both lips and cheeks and would suit all complexions. A lovely spring addition to your make-up bag.

They’ve been elevated to the lip-colour category and serve

as balm and lipstick in one