Little Lip Loves

Let me introduce you to my lip loves. If I'm feeling blue, or revolting, or slightly stressed, sometimes nothing makes me feel better than a slick of lipstick, and these are my staples.

I'm fairly careful when it comes to choosing lip products: nothing too garish; nothing that smells cheap and plastic-y; nothing that will make my teeth look yellow. I'm not bold enough for coral, pillar-box red or deep purple; my favourites are classic pinks; subtle, yet stunning.

After my last slightly serious and heartfelt post, I wanted to do something light, cheerful and a little different. I don't tend to focus on beauty very much on this blog, partly because I don't own many products and also because I really don't know what I'm doing most of the time! So, I thought I would share with you the products which grace my face on a daily basis.

(I've linked each sub-heading to the product page too, so you can take a look if you're intrigued!)

Revlon Colourburst Matte Balm in Elusive

I caved in and bought this lip product after the blogosphere pretty much exploded when they launched. They were everywhere. How could I resist a product which has so many rave reviews? After a little deliberation I opted for the very pretty Elusive. It's a sweet pink; a little lighter than I usually go for, but a favourite with many reviewers. I was a little unsure at first as it was slightly more of a 'candy pink' than I expected, but it grew on me very quickly and now I often reach for it for a little delicate pop of lip colour. The staying power is fantastic, and although I'll admit it is slightly drying for me, it doesn't damage my lips. I am definitely glad I fell for the hype with this one; I can see why it was so popular!

Clinique Chubby Stick Intense in Roomiest Rose

I suppose you could call the the 'original' lip crayon. I was given this as a present two Christmases ago by my parents, who chose the colour after I vaguely mentioned that they looked amazing. It is a bright, deep pink, which looks really gorgeous on. It's definitely not subtle, but it is really beautiful. I save this for when I'm lacking a little colour, or really want to be bold. It works really well wih a simple black eyeliner, and perhaps a little black dress! The formula is fantastic; it stays on for ages and is so silky and smooth I don't even need to use balm beforehand. It looks so sleek too, with beautiful packaging as always! This is my first Clinique product, a collection which I hope to expand soon. This product is quite a bit more expensive than the Revlon version - hence why it was a gift! - but I have used it a lot and I have to say it's well worth it. I'd love to treat myself to another one.

Rimmel London Apocalips Lip Lacquer in Celestial

Again, another product which was popped into my Boots basket after hearing all about it on the Internet. I'm not usually a lip-gloss girl but this is more of a liquid lipstick; it's smooth to apply, and gives a great slick of colour. It's not sticky, slimy, or drying. I love the applicator and find it so easy to use. I opted for Celestial, another of my standard simple pinks. It's a little more dusky than the others so far, and is very subtle without being a nude. I haven't heard much about them since their launch over a year ago but I still reach for this countless times in a week; it may even be worth investing in another colour!

Maxfactor Lipfinity Lasting Lip Tint in 04 Berry Burst

This is my all-time favourite. My saviour in times of blandness. My little trick up my sleeve. I first bought this a few years ago, tempted by the promise of long-lasting lip colour, and I was blown away. I have worn it to everything; many of my student events, plenty of family dinners, and even a couple of romantic evenings out. I have a feeling the thoughts on this may be mixed, but I love the felt-tip style pen applicator. It was a little strange at first, but it gives you real precision as you really do get to draw it on. The ink can be a little tacky for a couple of seconds but once it's dry you can layer it up for the impact you want. This colour comes out as a borderline deep pink / tinted red, which is perfect; especially if red is a little too daring! This is one of the only lip-products I've ever used up and repurchased, which says a lot. It's been a staple in my makeup bag for years and if they ever do discontinue it I will be very, very upset.

If I could tell you which one of these products to go for first, it would be the Maxfactor option. Yes, it's a few years older than the more recent products, but it's incredibly easy to use, has a gorgeous colour, and gives me so much confidence.

What are your little lip loves? Let me know if you love (or loathe!) any of my favourite lip products. I'd love to hear your thoughts.