NYX Professional Makeup Smushy Matte Lip Balm

Most Helpful Critical Review

Cute, casual everyday balm

BRUTALLY HER, BRUTALLY HONEST: This is the only lip balm I've ever really used, so I'm judging it based purely on what it does, not how it stacks up. ○ Packaging: 8/10 It's cute! It's small enough to fit in my pockets and I think the round cap is a nice touch. It sort of reminds me of what Rare Be...auty has going on. It could be easily accessible to open for those that struggle with such things. I can see how impractical it might be considering if you want to store it but I personally don't have a problem with it. ○ Application & Texture: 7.5/10 It glides on. I like the silicone application. It's very soft, slightly slick at first. Then it sets down into a semi-matte, velvety finish. Not glossy, not shiny, just soft and smooth. If your lips are already in good shape, it feels nice and comfy. If they're flakey or cracked, it will highlight that a bit. ○ Scent: 7/10 It smells sweet, like some sort of bubblegum. Very candy-like. Personally, I don't mind it, but it is strong at first and it lingers for about 10-15 minutes. If you don't like scented products near your nose, this might be a problem. ○ Hydration: 6.5/10 This is not your emergency, overnight, lip-saver balm. It's not ultra nourishing. It gives a soft layer of moisture and prevents lips from feeling dry for a while, but if your lips are chapped, this won't fix that. After a couple hours, I feel like I definitely need to reapply OR need to top up with something thicker or more hydrating. ○ Finish & Look: 8.5/10 It's clear, but NOT glossy. It gives a soft, blurred look like a filter on Snapchat or TikTok. Feels low maintenance and natural, which I love. I've worn it alone and under lipgloss, and it plays well with both. ○ Lasting Power: 5/10 Stays on for 2-3 hours if you're not eating or drinking. After that, it kind of fades without making a mess. No weird residue, just… gone. Reapplying is easy. ○ Overall Rating: 7/10 • Pros: Lightweight, velvety texture, clear matte finish, cute packaging, reapply-friendly • Cons: Not deeply moisturizing, weird shape to store, strong scent, not great on chapped lips It's cute, it's trendy, and it feels nice. Just don't expect miracles if your lips are struggling. For me, it's a solid "everyday casual balm" NOT a treatment, but something to toss on when I want my lips to feel soft and look a little more polished.