Revlon Romantic Just Bitten Balm Stain Swatch & Review

My addiction to the new Revlon Balm Stains is still going, and I picked up 2 more shades this week. For those of you who are having trouble locating them, don’t forget to check the new releases section and the permanent Revlon product displays because some stores (including my Ulta) have already updated their displays.

Romantic is a bright clear red that took me several tries to find in stock. The packaging shows a blood red color, but when swatched it looks more like a primary red with no strong blue undertones. This is perhaps my one criticism of the new Balm Stain line… I wish that Revlon had placed a clear window on the top of the cap like they do with their other lip products because the packaging doesn’t reflect the exact color of the product.

Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Romantic (freshly applied)

Here is Romantic freshly applied. I prefer to do one thin layer for base color and another one for glossiness. The pencils, as you probably know, are mint-scented and I happen to like that a lot. I haven’t experienced any kind of irritation from these pencils, nor did I find them particularly hydrating or drying.

Their texture is somewhat hard, but the precise crayon point means I can always stay within my lip line. I’m not sure how that will change as I use them more… as in, will I be able to keep the point, or will they dull out? As far as I know, there is no way to sharpen these, but you can bring up more product by twisting the silver part of the tube.

Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Romantic (worn off)

I find that if you apply the stain and then blot, you’ll get a natural look that doesn’t last as long. After a few hours, you’ll only have a tinge of color on your lips. If you apply a full layer, you’ll get much more lasting power.

Bottom Line

These are great products and I’m excited to see a drugstore brand introducing an innovative new formula instead of mimicking  expensive brands. Considering the price and how easy it is to get additional discounts, I will probably buy all of the colors. Bravo, Revlon!