worth it or flop? part 2!

Okay, let's dive deeper into the Summer Fridays Limited Edition Birthday Cake Lip Butter Balm! When I first saw this, I was so excited because who doesn't love anything birthday cake flavored? It comes in a sleek tube, containing a generous 0.5 oz of product, and retails for $24. The packaging itself feels luxurious, and the applicator is smooth and easy to use. First impressions: The scent is absolutely divine – a sweet, comforting vanilla birthday cake aroma that isn't overpowering. The texture is incredibly lush and balmy, gliding on effortlessly. It feels instantly hydrating, thanks to those key ingredients like shea and murumuru seed butters. These emollients are fantastic for nourishing dry lips, making them feel soft and supple. Now, let's talk about the look. The swatch on my hand reveals a beautiful light pink with a delicate light pink shimmer. On the lips, it translates into a subtle, glossy tint that enhances your natural lip color without being too opaque. The shimmer isn't glittery or gritty at all; it just gives a lovely, healthy sheen that makes your lips look fuller and more hydrated. I've found it perfect for everyday wear when I want a little something extra without committing to a full lipstick. It wears comfortably for a few hours, and while it's not transfer-proof, it fades gracefully, leaving a nice conditioned feeling behind. Considering the hype and the price, many of you might be wondering how it stacks up against other Summer Fridays offerings, especially the popular Summer Fridays Lip Oil or even the original Lip Butter Balms. The Birthday Cake Lip Butter Balm sits nicely in between. While the Lip Oils offer a more sheer, high-shine finish and a lighter feel, the Birthday Cake balm provides more comforting hydration and a slightly thicker, more protective layer. If you're looking for intense shine and a barely-there feel, the Lip Oil might be your go-to. But if you crave rich moisture with a hint of color and shimmer, this limited edition balm is a winner. For those who enjoy building a 'Summer Fridays duo' in their routine, pairing the balm for hydration and the oil for an extra glossy top coat is a fantastic combination! And for those of you debating between this and Rhode Lip Balm shades, there are some distinct differences. Rhode's lip treatment is known for its thicker, more occlusive texture, focusing heavily on repair and long-lasting wear with a very high shine. It's often praised for its ability to heal chapped lips. The Birthday Cake Summer Fridays balm, while hydrating, has a slightly lighter, more buttery feel and offers that beautiful shimmer, which Rhode doesn't typically feature in its main line. If you prioritize intense repair and a super glossy finish without shimmer, Rhode might be more up your alley. But if you're drawn to delicious scents, a comfortable balmy texture, and a subtle shimmery tint for everyday glam, the Summer Fridays Birthday Cake Lip Butter Balm is a delightful choice. Ultimately, whether it's 'worth it' comes down to your personal preference for scent, finish, and hydration needs, but for me, it's a sweet treat that brings a smile to my face every time I apply it!