Max Factor Lipfinity Lasting Lip Tint

Lip Tints have most certainly seen their star rise these past 12 months. Whilst higher end companies such as Givenchy and MAC have already shown their love for a lip pen, 2011 sees the formula conquer the world of chemist cosmetics as both Revlon and Maybelline prepare the UK launch of their own respective versions.

One brand that's already hot on topic is Max Factor, who launched their own range of long lasting, sweet smelling stains back in October.

Presented like a felt tip pen, the non transferrable water based formula is applied via a hard, medium sized nib - a quick, simple and fool proof process, even if it does feel a bit strange. My only criticism would be that for tracing the lip line the tip feels a little bit too large, and for that reason would probably benefit from coming to more of a finer point.

Royal Plum Lip Tint Swatched

Available in 5 shades (3 currently on sale, 2 to be released next year), I've been checking out colour No6 - Royal Plum. A mixture of deep pink and red, the tone is both vibrant and bold when applied to the lips offering a massive blast of colour. These tints apply semi-sheer and are quickly built up to produce vivid, stunning results - making them absolutely ideal for party make up.

Royal Plum Lip Tint applied to heavily pigmented lips

With a sweet taste reminiscent of fondant fancies, Lipfinity Lasting Lip Tints are hard wearing to say the least. Drink, eat, kiss, swim, rub your hands all over your face - seriously, nothing will cause this matte effect baby to budge (the colour eventually fades when the tint dries out). It took me 3 cleansing wipes and a facial exfoliator to remove the swatch from my arm, and even now I still have a slight stain. These tattoo like credentials might't be everyone's cup of tea, but with New Year shindigs just around the corner, wearing this on your lips you know you'll be entering 2011 with a colour just as bold and beautiful as it was last year.

And yes, like all lip stains this formula is very drying, so if you fancy checking it out then make sure to apply a balm before and after application..!

Max Factor Lipfinity Lasting Lip Tint is available at selected chemists and boots.com for £7.99.

*this product was a free sample obtained by the Beauty Bite*