Packaging can make such an impact on perception. Try as we might to consider ourselves profound creatures who seek only substance, we've all been swayed by a tasty tidbit that just looked appealing (whether it was a hunky man, a moist slice of cake, a sleek sports car, or an extra sharp lipstick tube). Which brings me to the new Apple&Bee Certified Organic Lip Balms, which drew my attention as soon as my eyes fell upon the country chic round tins, which have a certain Baby Boom-ish quality to them (remember the adorable jars of jam?).
Not only are these lip balm tins adorable, they're packed with natural goodness thanks to the certified organic ingredients in their formula. The Apple&Bee Certified Organic Paw Paw and Sweet Orange Lip Balm ($11.95 AU at AppleandBeeShop.com) features: wound-healing paw-paw (otherwise known as papaya), which contains vitamin A and is rich in Alpha Hydroxy Acids that gently exfoliate and stimulate cellular regeneration; vitamin C, a natural antioxidant that protects the skin from UV exposure and free radical damage; sweet orange oil, which tones skin and promotes collagen production for smooth, firm, and supple skin; and beeswax, which boasts antibacterial and antiseptic properties.
You can also try the Apple&Bee Certified Organic Honey and Peppermint Lip Balm ($11.95 AU at AppleandBeeShop.com) which contains pure Australian honey, which helps lips retain moisture and boasts antiseptic and antibacterial properties, softening shea butter, cooling peppermint oil, and other natural waxes.
I had the opportunity to test out the Apple&Bee Certified Organic Paw Paw & Sweet Orange Lip Balm, and I quickly grew fond of the light, Vaseline-like consistency. The formula felt a bit greasy upon application, but it was quickly absorbed by the skin (within 5 minutes or less), leaving behind softer, smoother lips without the oily quality that often accompanies petroleum jelly-based products (like Vaseline).
In terms of it aroma, the lip balm doesn't smell like paw paw or sweet orange — in fact, it's practically odorless — and it's flavorless, so don't expect a Lip Smacker-like experience. Then again, licking your lips is counterproductive when the end goal is a kissable pout.
The Apple&Bee lip balms, then, proved to be as effective as the beloved Rosebud Salves — especially when it comes to soothing chapped, flaky, or otherwise irritated lips. I personally love applying the balm before putting on lipstick or mixing it with vibrant lip pencil shades for a stain-like effect.
Don;t be surprised if makeup artists start raving about this product soon!
