I always need to apply lipbalm before applying lipstick, so I thought this Jemma Kidd Ultimate Lipstick Duo, €18, a double-ended lipbalm and lipstick in one, was pretty ingenious when I first laid eyes on it. Not much bigger than a standard lipstick case, there's a smooth lipbalm at one end and then the lipstick at the other. Both are on the small side, but still big enough to apply easily in one swipe.
The comprehensive instructions that come in the box (I'd never seen instructions for applying lipstick before and was curious as to what they could say) go through the options of applying balm and then colour for a sheer, moisturising finish; colour alone for a stronger and more long-lasting look or blotting the balm off before applying the colour if your lips need some hydration.
The colour I have is called Ingrid, and it's a very pretty coral shade. Not too strong for daytime wear, this brightens up my face as soon as I apply it. The balm has a delicious vanilla scent and applies smoothly and the lipstick also has a very smooth consistency and is well pigmented - one swipe of this is all I need and it lasts well without drying my lips out.
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Definitely the ideal product for a night out when all you want to carry is a tiny clutch, the Ultimate Lipstick Duo is available in 16 shades and can be found at Space NK at Harvey Nichols, Dundrum.
