My latest Rent the Runway purchase included a sweet little gift bag with some free samples from their advertising partners, including a Neutrogena Revitalizing Lip Balm in Fresh Plum. I must say this is a clever marketing strategy because I don't think I would have tried this lip balm otherwise! But I'm so glad I did, because it's become my new favorite.

What they say: Revitalizing Lip Balm SPF 20 ($8.99) helps make lips softer, rosier and healthier-looking, even after you take it off! This sheer tinted balm with exclusive ion2complex™ instantly moisturizes lips, leaving them looking fuller and more defined. In just one week, it helps improve lips' texture and restores the look of rosiness. SPF 20 helps protect lips and keeps them looking healthy.

What I thought: This is the perfect my-lips-only-better balm, subtly adding natural-looking color and lasting moisture. Fresh Plum reminds me of Clinique's Tenderheart shade, which I used to wear obsessively in high school, a neutral hue that deepens the natural color of your lips.

I love that the color is noticeable but not so deep that you can't apply this balm without using a mirror. You can also build the color up a bit for more impact, but nothing overpowering.

I like the all black packaging, too, and the oval shape - never seen that before. The balm has a pretty soft consistency and I'll probably use it up quickly but I'm not too concerned about that. It's not sticky and it won't "travel" into your mouth (yuck) like some glosses do.

The scent is super light and reminds me of strawberries.

In terms of staying power, you will need to reapply after meals. In my experience, glosses either keep your lips moisturized but come off easily, or they actually dry out my lips and come off easily. This balm falls into the first camp.

As far as the "revitalizing" features, I didn't necessarily find this to be the case, but my lips weren't in awful shape to begin with. Honestly I could do without the SPF, too (can it really be healthy to put octinoxate and oxybenzone on your lips every day? Wouldn't you consume small quantities? I dunno.)

The bottom line: A pleasant surprise, Neutrogena's Revitalizing Lip Balm is a great everyday balm that makes lips look prettier and naturally enhanced. I'll definitely be buying this lip balm and can't wait to try the other colors soon.

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