Henne Organics Tinted Lip Balm Does the Most, but Requires the Least Amount of Effort
Value: 19/20
Functionality: 20/20
Ease of Use: 20/20
Aesthetics: 20/20
Accessibility: 20/20
TOTAL: 99/100
Tinted lip balm is something I’ve always enjoyed wearing, but now that I’m home most hours of the day, it’s the only thing I put on my face with any regularity apart from sunscreen.
This one, from Henne Organics, is my ultimate favorite. No contest.
The balm comes in four shades, though Azalea, which is a bright pink, is the one I wear most. It gives me a flattering hint of color in a matter of swipes. Two to be exact. And because it’s so subtle, I never have to find a mirror to apply it. I just glide it over my lips, step back and admire the way it brightens up my face just before my next video call.
The buttery texture feels good and has a nice slip to it that’s somehow never slick or sticky. The shine is more of a soft sheen, and the sheen catches the light in a way that makes my lips look plush, and not like I’ve just had something greasy for lunch.
There is no overpowering scent or fragrance to confuse your taste buds. Perhaps you'll pick up on the faintest hint of coconut—if you have the nose of a hound—which makes sense, given there’s an abundance of (organic!) coconut oil in the formula. Add to that some castor seed, jojoba and avocado oils and it is the rare balm that keeps my lips moisturized beyond the few minutes after I apply it.
Plus, look at that packaging. So sleek, so simple, so...Scandinavian. The black tube has a weight to it that feels substantial in your palm and makes even the messiest purse or makeup bag look polished by association.
I will note that this isn’t a long-lasting color. By any stretch. Like the flower it’s named after, the shade blooms beautifully on your lips, but goes away quickly, leaving behind just a whisper of pink. You will need to reapply often but I’m OK with that because I honestly enjoy the experience of using this stuff, and, after years of trying every lip product out there, I know the stains and lipsticks that are meant to last and last are typically drying.
If you're looking for an everyday, any occasion balm, this is it.