These didn't get as much attention as the Creme Puff blushes, though they were released at about the same time, but I remember Max Factor had a similar product before, though these definitely have a better pigmentation. These come in nine shades and I got the shade 30 Redefined Rose, which looks so gorgeous in the tube, but it's a different colour on my lips. I'm surprised that Max Factor showed restraint and called these balms because they get pretty intense if you layer them, though they still have that lip balm quality, but I'm sure most companies would exaggerate and call these sheer lipsticks.
Redefined Rose looks like a gorgeous warm pink in the tube, actually the shade looks similar to Nude-ist from Bourjois just pinker, while on my lips it's lighter and more neutral. This difference is kind of expected, since lip balms and sheer lip products rarely look on the lips like in the tube. It's gives me plenty of colour, but without being too much, so it's a great everyday colour. The pigmentation is surprisingly good considering the description - one layer is sheer, but several coats make it almost opaque. The finish it leaves is creamy to slightly glossy, in fact it reminds me a bit of Mac's Cremesheens, but the formula isn't as thick.
The formula is very comfortable to wear, as I expected, and it really feels like a very good lip balm. I find it more waxy than a regular lipstick and that actually helps with the staying power, so it manages to stay on well, especially if you apply a lot of layers. I can't tell you the exact amount of hours because each individual has different habits and I never check the time while testing these things. It survived a meal well enough, but then it was freshly applied.
The scent is not amazing as it does have this plastic note to it and it lingers, but it's not awful. I do think that people who are very sensitive to fragrance might have a problem with it.
The packaging is sleek and plastic. It's a thin tube that fits into any pocket, so it's very travel friendly.
This is going in my bag. It's a simple product that I can use either sheer or built-up, the colour is a nice pink, it's moisturising and because it's a bit more waxy, I have no fear it will melt in the heat. Plus the packaging is thin and sleek. It's not an amazing product, but practical and nicely pigmented for a balm.
These cost 8.49 € in drugstores.
Have a great day!
*The product was sent to me.