theBalm Cosmetics

I really like this creamy lip stain. I have this in Salut, which is a MLBB shade - a neutral mauve shade on me (AAB/NC25). It applies like a gloss with excellent coverage and appears to wear down to a stain. Has a doe foot wand attached to the cap and the trim on the labelling represents the shade inside. Feels really nice on my lips. Smooth and creamy, not sticky.

Another surprise hit from Thebalm! I love the timebalm concealer in lighter than light (reviewed separately) but thought, I draw the line at a cream foundation. The packaging of both products, both the box and the cheap plastic container, are off putting to me. I only bought the concealer as it was recommended - I bought it just to see - ended up loving it. So eventually, I decided to do the same with this. It's been discontinued from Superdrug here in UK so it was priced £2!

What made me most curious was the inclusion of linoleic acid. I've noticed that skincare with this ingredient work well for me. I also saw vitamin C and have now read it actually has vitamins A,C and E. However I was scared by the fact it does include talc and wax and in the past these sorts of creme foundations have always looked slick and heavy. This one is a little on the heavy side for me (my eternal HG is ELDW) but I have been impressed with how it looks like skin and it matches well (lighter than light isn't truly that light but it's good for ELDW Shell/ MAC nw15) and it sets so there doesn't seem to be much transfer (ELDW is the only foundation I've ever tried which has zero transfer.)

I'm not sure if it's causing breakouts so I'll come back to this if I realise this is the culprit. But from using it a few days I think it's a great foundation if your inclination is towards these heavy duty cake foundations. Coverage can be easily built without it looking theatrical. (I think I may travel with this as it's annoying having to pour out a sample of ELDW every time I travel.)

All in all I'm impressed.

love it so much ❤️❤️❤️

It makes stains on my face, looks uneven and muddy. Maybe I have too light complexion for this one? Love the package and the amount of this product that you get for this price. Unfortunately, it just does not look good on me.

I must say this is a hidden gem surprise! It has great coverage, and I like the fact that it comes in cool toned pinky shades. It leaves a very natural non cakey finish. I only need a thin layer and "lighter than light" suits my skin exactly. I am not the palest so the name is slightly over exaggerated.

I do agree the packaging is flimsy but I keep mine in a cabinet and so far it's held up fine. I apply it with my finger and it just blends right in. I actually prefer this to some of my high end - albeit my overall eternal favourite is still Lancôme effarcernes. But, this is my favourite ever pot concealer and I've tried a few (benefit, Youngblood, Bobbi brown, illamasqua)

I recommend this and I have already purchased a backup. I was able to get these on clearance but I think even at full price they represent good value as a pot will last a long time. Mind you, I'm sure by 2/3 in, I'll possibly throw it, as these pot things often go rather hideous when they're that used up.