Beaut.ienomics: Seventeen Cheek and Lip Stain. Do I Spy a Benefit Dupe?

Cheek tints are tricky. I'll confess now that I'm not a major fan in general. I don't really like the fact that they stain the skin if you're not wearing foundation. I also don't like the fact that they're always marketed as  dual lip and cheek product because they're never pigmented enough for lips, and they're always very drying.

In short, think that they're far less versatile than they claim to be. For example, they just don't sit well on top of a foundation with more coverage. They're designed to create a natural flush, and hence look best when teamed with a sheer foundation and a really natural look.

So if you generally stick to natural everyday makeup and don't have a dry skin type, a tint is just right for you. If you prefer denser foundation or have slightly flaky skin, it really isn't going to look right.

So there's the caveat! When I go on to say that these are really nice, you'll know that I mean specifically for those with oilier skins who like the natural look!

If you're a fan of the Benefit Cheek Tints, you will genuinely like these. You'll especially like the price difference - these are €6.29 in comparison to Benefit's €34.50! I have two shades - Perky Pink and Coral Crush- to show you.

As you can see, they really just look like a natural flush on bare(ish!) skin with the coral shade being slightly warmer in tone. I'm not enthused by the sponge applicator - they're annoying and get very dirty if you apply them directly to the face, so I just dab it onto the apples of my cheeks with fingers - you need to work fast before the stain sets. It's also very important to blend properly - streaks will ruin the natural effect!

Overall, these are nice everyday staples for the more naturally inclined amongst us. Mammy would certainly approve - you'll look like you've just come in from weeding the lawn! By which I mean nicely flushed from exerting yourself just a little, not covered in mud.

When it comes to lips, these are a no-go. Not pigmented enough to make any real difference, they feel dry. Keep these on your cheeks, and all will be well.

Are you a fan of the stain, or do you, like me, just find them a bit odd and confusing? Tell us in the comments.