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Sometimes, I just can't resist a cheap thrill. There are times when it's because I need to add a little extra to my total in order to utilize a coupon or discount code, or to get free shipping. Other times it is because I've had a rough day and just need a little pick me up. There's almost always an excuse for me to get a little cheap thrill when it comes to makeup. So then it's no surprise that when I happened upon the Essence display at my Ulta, I couldn't help but toss a few items into my basket.
Essence is a drug store brand from Europe, produced in Germany. Their introduction into the US market appears to be exclusively through Ulta at the moment. But here's the kicker - most of the items sell for between $1.99 and $4.99. The XXXL Shine Lipgloss is one of the $1.99 items, and over the past few months, I've picked up about a half dozen or so shades. Overall, I find them to be consistent, so I'm going to review it from a product perspective, and not any particular shade.
I'll start with the positives:
-the gloss is generously sized at 0.1 fl oz/5ml - for $1.99, that's a pretty great deal
-the finish is really high gloss/shine - it really gives that "wet" gloss finish
-application is smooth and even; even those with shimmer/glitter don't feel gritty
-the range comes in a fair variety of colors - most people will be able to find a shade that appeals to them
On the flipside, there are some hefty negatives:
-lack of pigmentation; while in the tubes, shades range from sheer/cleer to plums and berries, nothing goes on the lips with anything more than a slight tint. Wearing these on their own don't provide a lot of color, however, they are nice to accentuate a coordinating color family lippie underneath
-it doesn't last particularily long on the lip
-there is a super sweet, cloying, fruity scent; scent doesn't normally bother me, but this one lingers long enough that I'm sure it will bother some people
I think the old addage "you get what you pay for" applies here. I can see this product being nice younger girls. I think parents will be okay with the lack of pigmentation, and it's an inexpensive way to let little ones have a little play makeup.
I'm awarding Essence XXXL Shine Lipgloss 3 shiny flowers. In the US, Essence products can be found at some Ulta stores and online at Ulta.com
Reviewed by Katgirl625
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