When these Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balms launched, they were an instant hit. And even a few years later, they are still hugely popular and one of my personal favorite lip formulas to wear. Hourglass makes a ton of my makeup staples such as their Vanish Concealer, their Translucent Powder and their Vanish Blush Sticks just to name a few. But the Volumizing Glossy Balms are truly amazing. They are a 3-in-1 hybrid lip formula that blends a lip balm and a gloss with a subtle plumping effect. I have almost all of their shades so I thought I would do a review blog post with swatches for reference in case you are looking to try the formula or want to add more colors to your collection. I also have an ongoing Hourglass discount code that gets you 10% off sitewide! Use code: MAREE at checkout.
Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm Review
Glossy balm/lipstick hybrids have been gaining popularity over the past few years and I am so happy they have. Most of these formulas are super moisturizing but still provide a ton of pigment. The Hourglass Glossy Balms are richly pigmented but feel very comfortable with no stickiness or tackiness. The color range is stunning and the plumping effect is minimal so there is no discomfort. It’s hard to even pick a favorite shade at this point because I love and wear almost every color.
Texture
A creamy and hydrating formula that glides effortlessly on your lips. They stay quite glossy and smooth on the lips and don’t bleed or feather.
Longevity
Though these do claim to be slightly long-wearing, for me they last about 5+ hours before beginning to fade slightly. The richer or deeper the color will obviously last longer than the nude shades.
Ingredients
There is a conditioning complex that nourishes the lips and the menthyl lactate is what provides that instant cooling sensation upon application. While they are designed to be plumping, it is very subtle and not uncomfortable.
Color Range
The color range is amazing and there is something for everyone in this line-up.
Price Point
Hourglass is definitely positioned as an approachable luxury brand so these are a tad bit pricier than some of my other lip formulas. They are $36 each (but you can use my discount code: MAREE for 10% off!)
Packaging
I love the gold tube and twist up application. However, my only complaint is because they are so soft and creamy, the product will spill over the edge of the lipstick onto the black tube. I will have to twist up a bit more to finish my application which can be a tad messy. Overall not enough of a deterrent to keep me from repurchasing again and again.
Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm Swatches
You can see from the swatches on my arm that the formula is super glossy and hydrating! But on the lips they are a tad more subtle and the glossiness makes your lips look smooth, full and hydrated which I love. I wanted to share my absolute favorite shades but I really struggled to pick so I will list my top 3. Crave is the most rich warm pink that gives just enough color. Mist is a great no makeup makeup lip color that you can throw on and go. And Slip is the everyday neutral rose that looks great on almost anyone. Here’s a rundown of all the colors and a quick description of each:
- Reveal – True Pink
- Wish – Warm Peach
- Crave – Warm Pink
- Rouse – True Chestnut
- Entice – Bright Fuchsia
- Haze – Burnt Rosewood
- Lucid – Coral
- Lure – Deep Berry
- Mist – Pale Pink
- Slip – Rose
- Thrill – Bright Red
- Trace – Beige
- Rise – Cool Beige
- Sense – Peachy Beige
- Desire – Cool Pink
- Impulse – Deep Red
Where to Buy Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balms?
- Hourglass (discount code: MAREE)
- Sephora
- Nordstrom
- Ulta Beauty
- Beautylish
- Space NK
- Bloomingdale’s
- Neiman Marcus
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