“This is the only lipstick you need this winter”

If there’s one make-up product I collect more than any other, it’s lipstick. I could single-handedly open a lippie museum if I wanted to, so when Refy announced it was creating a lipstick, but not as we know it, I was intrigued.

Described as a “hydrating liquid lipstick with buildable satin colour”, I was already out of my comfort zone. I’m a matte, stain or sheer lipstick gal. A glossy finish seemed too messy to me, but maybe the extra hydration would prevent my lips from being as dry as toast afterwards.

The applicator was the first sign that this was unlike other products in my stash. It features a waterdrop-shaped cushion with a metal rollerball in the middle. It looked like it should be a gloss, rather than a lipstick. However, I found this soft applicator and its precise shape made it fool-proof to accurately trace the shape of my lips with minimal effort. I’ve always struggled with getting my lipstick in the right place, but this made it easier than ever.

To get the product out, you have to twist from the bottom. The first time takes a few turns, but once you’re ready to go, Refy recommends one twist for a sheer lip, two or three twists for medium coverage, and four if you want a bolder look. I was too eager on the first go and ended up having to wipe away excess product, but after that, it was as easy as butter on warm bread to apply.  

Credit: Charlotte Bitmead

I was shocked by how much I loved the glaze effect it delivered. My lips looked naturally plump, and it felt so comfortable to wear. Although it’s not transfer-proof – you will get some chic marks on your coffee cup – the shine gradually leaves you with a natural-looking stain that lasts far longer than I originally anticipated.

The most surprising part? Despite the glossiness, the formula didn’t bleed and gradually wore away naturally. My lips felt hydrated throughout and didn’t leave any cracked skin behind after removal either, making it ideal for the winter weather. 

It’s not going to last from dawn till dusk (nor does it claim to), but the ease of application and slim fit make it easy to apply on the go when you need a top-up. The cushiony applicator makes it satisfying and fun to apply, too.

Shade-wise, you can’t go wrong with any of them. Most of the range features rich, chocolatey tones, perfect for winter, with a tawny beige and deep red thrown into the mix. They’re all surprisingly wearable. I like that the applicator allows for a soft-focus finish to the edges of the lips, rather than looking too precisely drawn, adding to the effortless vibe the shades adhere to.