Cult of Pretty

So I got a little bit of grief on a post last week with regards to product claims, which reminded me to do a post on a lip “stain” pencil I’ve been loving - not just because the color is beautiful but also … bonus! my eyes are in the best shape of their lives on account of the rolling.

This post is not to criticize - in fact, this is my go-to lip product right now - I just want to share the role that copy and claims play in my feeling about a product.

And that is pretty much … NONE. I’ve been writing copy for my whole career in beauty, so when I see it on products I don’t think WOW what a claim! I think WOW who wrote that gem?? You might feel the same way about stuff in your profession … ex. if you’re a photographer you’re thinking Meh I wouldn’t have used that lighting set up … etc.

Tarte Lipsurgence Natural Lip Stain is a great product - the Amused shade is a perfect sheer bright pink that looks amazing with a tan - but here are some of the copy points:

• “For a natural flush that will stay all day.” - This is just not true in my experience, which is fine, I don’t mind reapplying because it feels like lip balm and the color is pretty foolproof if you don’t have a mirror.
• “LipSurgence™ technology … is clinically proven to increase moisture content by an astonishing 6000%.” - Ok, clinically proven means someone (Tarte or the ingredient manufacturer) spent money to ensure this is technically true, so believe it, however … Vaseline and many other products will boost the moisture level of your skin/lips/desk by beaucoup percent too and the bottom line is who cares??  Once you get into quadruple digits it’s just silly. But - it does moisturize well and feels great going on.
• “The result is naturally fuller, healthier lips without any irritation or stinging.” The fuller part is true due to plumping, and no irritation or stinging for me, but as for the healthier part … define health?

The bottom line? If you like a product and it works for you, I think that’s really all that matters (unless we’re talking about false claims about animal testing or unsafe ingredients).

Does this: Perfect pop of pink in a moisturizing, plumping balm stick … there’s also a MATTE version
Is this: Tarte Lipsurgence Natural Lip Stain
Get this: Above
Price: $24.00

What’s your feeling about beauty product claims?  Do you pay attention or ignore?

Image: Jason Levesque/Stuntkid

Fashion Week Survival Part 1 - The Kit!  This really applies to any hectic runaround period of your life.

Some of this is over on Holier than Now … but, here’s the beauty lowdown:

1. YSL Glossy Stain in Brun Cachmire ($32) | 2. Benefit Hello Flawless OxygenWOW - their amazing new sheer foundation ($34) | 3. Real Techniques Buffing Brush (in the Core Collection Set - $18) … I use this to blend in foundation and for cream blush.  It creates such a dewy, natural finish. | 4. Josie Maran Magic Marker Lip & Cheek Stain in Waltz ($19) | 5. Anastasia Highlighting Duo in St. Tropez ($26) … This is a super easy liquid highlighter and pan cream blush pair.  I just brush the buffing brush along the pan and then apply.  I use my fingers for the highlighter, along the top of cheekbones or inner eye corner. | 6. Benefit BADgal Mascara ($19) … I’m really loving this formula lately, it’s very dry - I know that sounds odd but it doesn’t clump and it’s very buildable. | 7. Benefit Stay Don’t Stray ($26) - like I’ve said before, life changing concealer and primer | 8.  YSL Volupté Sheer Candy Balm in Juicy Grapefruit ($30) | 9. False Lashes … trimmed to build corners only (there are a couple stuck side by side here).  I use an array of brands, Ardell is one ($3.49). | 10. Rohto Cool Redness Relief Eye Drops ($6.79) … Refreshing when your eyes are burning from too much good fashion. | 11. Bag behind is Stephanie Johnson, similar on sale on Yoox ($12).

I’m excited to say I’m partnering with Uber to get around for Fashion Week. You can read all about it on Holier, and sign up with promo code HOLIER for $10 off your first ride.  They operate in NYC, San Fran, Boston, Chicago, D.C., Seattle, Toronto and Paris.

2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11 c/o the brands