I write about lipstick a lot on this site and my collection is bursting at the seams, but the issue that arises time and time again is the lack of comfort and longevity that most offer. Although there are some great products that make the whole experience more enjoyable (my pick of five long-lasting and comfortable winter red lips is here!) what we all need is a little helping hand to boost the performance of EVERY lipstick. Clarins Instant Light balm and Natural Lip Perfector glosses are already some of my personal favourites, so when a handy little extension landed on my desk I definitely had high expectations. Launching just in time to catch the last couple of months of hardcore winter lipstick wearing, their new Instant Light Lip Perfecting Base has been developed specifically to help all textures apply better and last longer.
This transparent base for lips is rich in plant extracts and shea butter to reinforce the lipid layer of lips, smoothing out lines and preventing bleeding. A jojoba, sunflower and mimosa wax complex traps water molecules to provide moisture, while hyaluronic acid and collagen have been included to provide a youthful plumping effect. Essentially this is like a mattifying balm which helps prep the surface of lips with a thin layer of waxes to prevent lipstick from budging, sinking into creases or drying out throughout the day. Although you could use any old lip balm, this has been developed specifically for ageing lips and doesn't compromise t...