By Terry: Baume de Rose

5/19/13

While I've been known to be a Dr. Hauschka Lip Balm devotee, I'm also known for cheating on my products in the endless search for the next best thing. First I cheated with La Mer, and fell in love (post to follow). What could be better? I found myself confronted with the same, pricey lip balm by various beauty bloggers and Barneys, whom I blame for a large number of my beauty splurges. Could this $60 pot of lip balm be all I've heard? I broke down and ponied up. 

The packaging is gorgeous, which explains a portion of the hefty price tag. The beautiful frosted jar with a silver reflective screw top is substantial. Once open, the light pink hue and rose scent is inviting and luxurious. I'm a fan of jarred lip balms, as I generally find the formulas to be more effective. 

The texture of this balm is rich and silky, with a little going a long way. I've been slathering it on with abandon at night to take advantage of its anti-aging properties. I awake with soft, supple lips. For the first time, I haven't found the need to reapply in the middle of the night. I've also started rubbing the balm into my nails and cuticles (as indicated), and I've experienced fewer hangnails while my cuticles are also in great shape. Win/win!

I've taken to applying a thin layer of the balm under lipstick with positive results. No feathering, and my lipsticks glide on with ease. Since my lips are well hydrated, I find that I'm reapplying lipstick less often. It also makes my lips plump and shiny when worn alone. What can I say? Alongside La Mer and Dr. Hauschka, this has become a go-to balm. Is it worth the money? Well that all depends on your preferences. 

My verdict? Definitely a keeper.

Available at Barneys, beauty.com, C.O. Bigelow, & Bloomingdales.