IF I could only have one lip product, it would be lip liner – nothing else gives you the same staying power or precision.
A string of new launches has put liners centre stage. Here I put three to the test.
Budget
4
MAYBELLINE Lifter liner (£6.99 for 1.2g, lookfantastic.com): This liner has an almost gel-like consistency, which makes it easy to apply as it doesn’t drag on the skin – particularly important if you have fine lines around your mouth.
However, as a result of the pencil being quite soft, you do use it up quite quickly and have to resharpen it after almost every use.
Once on your lips, the colour lasts well, and it doesn’t feel uncomfortable or drying.
It’s probably the best budget lip liner I’ve tried, and I’ll definitely be buying more shades.
Mid-range
4
FENTY Beauty Trace’d Out Pencil lip liner (£19 for 1.24g, boots.com): The pencil of the new Fenty liner is a bit harder than the Maybelline one, so it requires slightly more effort to apply.
It dries quite quickly once you’ve added it, which means it doesn’t smudge and lasts a really long time – much longer than the other two I put to the test.
Because of this, it can be hard to remove at the end of the day, especially if you’ve used a darker colour, but it’s well worth it for not to have to reapply after eating or drinking.
It’s my new favourite.
Luxury
4
DIOR Rouge Dior Contour lip liner (£26 for 1.2g, johnlewis.com): I was instantly drawn in by the idea of the brush on the opposite end to the pencil, but I don’t find I actually use it much in reality as the formula is easy to blend with your lips or finger.
Again, it doesn’t drag or feel drying on lips.
It also comes with a sharpener in the box, so you get what you’re paying for, although if you purchase multiple shades you’re going to end up with more sharpeners than you really need.
I can’t knock it, but you can get others that are just as good for less.
Pick of the week
4
EVEN if you’re not into beauty, chances are you’ve probably heard of Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask (£21).
I can’t walk down the street without seeing at least one person applying lip balm from the colour-pop tub.
Today, the brand launched Laneige Bouncy & Firm Eye Sleeping Mask, £28, which promises the same hydrating and firming benefits for the eye area. I predict another instant sell-out.
Shop now at boots.com