In the crowded world of lip care products, finding that perfect balance between moisture, shine, and color can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Today, I’m diving deep into one of the beauty industry’s longtime favorites: the Maybelline New York Baby Lips Crystal Lip Balm in Crystal Kiss. As a beauty expert who’s tested countless lip products, I’m excited to share my thoughts on this cult classic that continues to maintain a dedicated following despite the constant influx of new competitors in the market.
The Baby Lips line has been around for over a decade now, establishing itself as a drugstore staple that promises to deliver both hydration and a hint of color. The Crystal Kiss variant specifically offers the additional allure of a subtle sparkle, positioning itself in that sweet spot between a practical lip balm and a glamorous lip gloss. But does it truly deliver on its promises? Let’s find out.
First Impressions
Packaging and Presentation
The Baby Lips Crystal Lip Balm comes in Maybelline’s signature colorful twist-up tube, making it immediately recognizable and convenient for on-the-go application. The packaging is straightforward and functional, though it’s worth noting that several customers mentioned receiving the product without its original cardboard backing or retail packaging. While this doesn’t affect the product itself, it’s something to be aware of when purchasing online, especially if you’re buying it as a gift.
Scent and Flavor
Upon first application, you’ll notice a pleasant, subtle citrusy scent that most users find refreshing and not overwhelming. One reviewer specifically described it as having a “delicately citrus-y taste,” which adds to the overall sensory experience without being distracting. Unlike some competitors that can leave a strange aftertaste (as one reviewer humorously compared to “🍃”), the Crystal Kiss variant seems to hit the right note for most users.
Performance
Hydration and Moisture
The primary function of any lip balm is to provide moisture, and the Baby Lips Crystal formulation receives mixed reviews in this department. Many users praise its hydrating properties, with one customer specifically noting how it “fixes [horrible chapped lips] immediately” during harsh winter months. Another described it as “super moisturizing and glides on.”
However, some users feel it falls short in the hydration department, with one reviewer suggesting that those with severely dry lips might want to “get some chap stick” instead. Another mentioned having to “keep reapplying it all day” to maintain moisture. This suggests that while it provides decent everyday hydration, it might not be the best choice for extremely dry or cracked lips that need intensive repair.
Texture and Feel
The texture appears to be one of the strongest selling points of this product. Numerous reviews praise its lightweight, non-sticky consistency. One satisfied customer mentioned that their fiancé appreciates that it “leaves no trace” when kissing, unlike traditional sticky glosses. Others describe it as feeling “soft,” “smooth,” and “light,” making it comfortable for daily wear.
The balm strikes an impressive balance by providing shine without the tacky feeling associated with many lip glosses. As one user put it, it’s “never sticky at all [and] goes on very smooth,” which explains why many have remained loyal to the product for years.
Color and Appearance
The Crystal Kiss shade is described as having a “subtle hint of color” with a beautiful shimmer effect. The color itself appears to be a soft pink with sparkle, though one user noted receiving a peach-toned variant instead of the expected pink. Most users appreciate the sheer application that enhances natural lip color rather than masking it.
The subtle sparkle is frequently mentioned as a distinctive feature, with one reviewer calling it “perfect fairy glamour.” Another described it as a “lightweight natural looking frosted shine.” This makes it versatile enough for everyday wear while still providing a touch of glamour that elevates it above a basic lip balm.
However, those looking for more pigmented color might be disappointed, as several reviewers mention wishing “the color was more pronounced” or noting that it’s “way more sheer than expected.”
Longevity
In terms of staying power, this isn’t a product that promises all-day wear, and the reviews reflect this reality. Users generally need to reapply throughout the day to maintain both moisture and shine. One customer specifically mentioned that “the ‘all day thing’ is not really true,” indicating that the product’s marketing might oversell its longevity.
That said, for a lightweight balm with shine, the need for reapplication is expected and doesn’t seem to deter loyal users who appreciate its other qualities.
Value for Money
The Baby Lips Crystal Lip Balm is positioned as an affordable drugstore option, though pricing when purchased online can vary significantly. Several reviewers noted paying considerably more on Amazon than they would in retail stores, with one mentioning spending “about 3x the original cost.”
Many long-time users lament that the Crystal Kiss shade has become difficult to find in physical stores, forcing them to turn to online retailers despite the markup. This scarcity seems to have created a situation where devoted fans are willing to pay premium prices for what was originally designed as a budget-friendly product.
Despite the potential price increase, most users still consider it a worthy investment due to its unique combination of qualities that they haven’t found in other products, even after “trying every hyped up high end gloss out there.”
Potential Concerns
Authenticity and Packaging Issues
A recurring theme in the reviews involves concerns about product authenticity and packaging. Multiple customers reported receiving the lip balm without original retail packaging or safety seals, raising questions about whether the products are genuine Maybelline items or potentially used items being resold.
Several reviewers expressed discomfort about using or gifting an unsealed lip product, with one emphatically warning: “BUYER BEWARE! THIS IS NOT IN A SEALED OR CARDED PACK.” Another mentioned that their product arrived with “a self made, typed, sticker label being put over the lid and base” during the COVID-19 pandemic, raising additional hygiene concerns.
While these issues may be more related to specific sellers rather than the product itself, they represent important considerations for online shoppers.
Skin Sensitivity
While most users report no adverse reactions, one reviewer mentioned that when they tried using the product as a blush (apparently inspired by a demonstration on a TV show), it caused their cheeks to “immediately breakout.” This suggests that while the formula is generally gentle enough for lips, those with sensitive skin might want to avoid repurposing it for other areas of the face.
Unique Features and Use Cases
Versatility
Beyond its primary use as a lip balm, some users have found creative ways to incorporate this product into their beauty routines:
- Using it as a topper over lipstick for added shine
- Applying it before bed as an overnight lip treatment
- Wearing it under masks during the pandemic since it “didn’t make a mess inside”
- Some even attempted using it as a cream blush, though with mixed results
Appeal Across Demographics
The reviews suggest this product has wide-ranging appeal, from young users drawn to its sparkle and hint of color to more mature users who appreciate its hydrating properties and the way it doesn’t settle into fine lines. One user specifically mentioned having “no lines over my top lip” when using this product, suggesting potential anti-aging benefits.
Men are occasionally mentioned in the reviews as well, with one customer noting that even their “fiancé likes it” despite men typically avoiding lip products that leave residue.
Long-term Results
Few reviewers discuss the long-term benefits of consistent use, focusing instead on immediate effects. However, the significant number of long-time users (some mentioning using it for 4-10 years) suggests satisfaction with ongoing results. One loyal customer mentioned they “simply won’t buy any other lip product anymore,” indicating sustained positive experiences with few downsides.
Comparison to Alternatives
Several reviewers compared the Baby Lips Crystal to other lip care options:
- Compared to traditional Chapstick, one user noted that it lacks the “waxy feel and smell” they dislike
- Despite trying “every hyped up high end gloss,” one customer keeps “coming back to this classic”
- It’s repeatedly described as a good alternative to lipstick, providing “the perfect replacement” with its sheer color without the heaviness
Who Should Buy This Product?
Based on the collected reviews, the Maybelline Baby Lips Crystal Lip Balm in Crystal Kiss is ideal for:
- Those seeking a lightweight, non-sticky alternative to traditional lip gloss
- People who prefer subtle enhancement over bold color
- Individuals who appreciate a hint of sparkle in their everyday lip products
- Anyone looking for basic hydration with a touch of glamour
- Those who prioritize comfort and natural-looking shine
It might not be the best choice for:
- People with severely dry or cracked lips needing intensive repair
- Those looking for highly pigmented color
- Users who prioritize long-wearing formulas that don’t require frequent reapplication
- Individuals concerned about receiving sealed, authenticated products when shopping online
Final Verdict
The Maybelline New York Baby Lips Crystal Lip Balm in Crystal Kiss has maintained its popularity for good reason. It occupies a unique niche in the beauty market by successfully bridging the gap between practical care and aesthetic enhancement. Its lightweight feel, subtle sparkle, and non-sticky formula make it a standout option for everyday wear.
While it may not provide the intense hydration needed for severe dryness or the color payoff of a lipstick, it excels at what it aims to be: a comfortable, slightly elevated lip balm that enhances rather than transforms. The product’s longevity in the market despite countless new competitors speaks to its effective formula and dedicated fan base.
For those new to the product, the biggest challenge may be finding an authentic version at a reasonable price, given its seemingly limited availability in physical retail locations. However, for many users, the extra effort or cost is justified by a product they haven’t been able to replace despite trying numerous alternatives.
Overall, the Baby Lips Crystal Lip Balm earns its place as a beauty staple that continues to deliver simple pleasure and practical benefits in an increasingly complicated beauty landscape. Its enduring popularity in a market obsessed with novelty may be its most impressive achievement of all.
Rating: 4.2/5 stars
Pros:
- Lightweight, non-sticky formula
- Pleasant subtle scent
- Beautiful shimmer effect
- Comfortable for everyday wear
- Provides basic hydration
- Versatile for various uses
- Suitable for many age groups and skin types
Cons:
- Limited availability in retail stores
- Authenticity concerns when purchased online
- Not intensely hydrating for severely dry lips
- Requires frequent reapplication
- Color may be too sheer for some preferences
This review is based on compiled user experiences and expert analysis of the Maybelline New York Baby Lips Crystal Lip Balm in Crystal Kiss.
Buy on Amazon: Here
