Summer Fridays — Vanilla Beige. 🤎

Okay, so let's talk more about the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm in Vanilla Beige, because it's truly become a staple in my routine! When I first saw everyone raving about it, I was on the fence, wondering if it was just another hyped-up product. But after finally taking the plunge and getting my hands on the Vanilla Beige shade, I can confirm: the hype is real! First off, the *packaging*. It's sleek, minimalist, and feels really luxurious in hand. The tube itself is sturdy, and the applicator is perfectly angled for a smooth, effortless glide across the lips. I really appreciate that it feels substantial, not flimsy, which is what you'd expect from a premium product. The subtle tan color of the balm is gorgeous – it's that perfect "your lips but better" shade, adding a touch of warmth without being too opaque or lipstick-like. As shown in the swatch on my hand, the color is subtle yet noticeable, enhancing natural lip tones beautifully. Now, onto the formula itself. This isn't just any lip balm; it's a *lip butter balm*. The texture is incredibly rich and creamy, melting seamlessly onto the lips without any stickiness. It instantly feels nourishing and hydrating, thanks to ingredients like shea and murumuru butters. I've found it keeps my lips feeling soft and moisturized for hours, even through eating and drinking. It has a lovely subtle vanilla scent that isn't overpowering, which is a huge plus for me. Many of you might be wondering how it stacks up against other popular high-end lip products out there. While I didn't directly compare it to every single one, I can tell you that it holds its own beautifully. Compared to my beloved Dior Lip Oil, the Summer Fridays offers a thicker, more 'balmy' feel, providing a slightly more locked-in hydration. The Dior is fantastic for a glossy, lighter feel, but for deep nourishment, Summer Fridays wins. And against Topicals Slick Salve, which I also adore for its repairing qualities, the Summer Fridays provides a more cosmetic feel with that beautiful tint, making it perfect for everyday wear when you want both care and a touch of color. For those curious about alternatives like the popular Sophia Katseye lip gloss, the Summer Fridays balm offers a similar luxurious feel and a beautiful, natural finish, but with a focus on deep hydration rather than just shine. It’s a great option if you're looking for a balm that does more than just sit on top of your lips. I love reaching for this balm on no-makeup days or as a perfect topper for a nude lip liner. It gives my lips a plump, healthy look that's just irresistible. The fact that I paid $26 (after taxes!) and already know I'll be repurchasing it speaks volumes. It's rare to find a product that lives up to its claims and truly provides value for the price. If you're looking for a luxurious, hydrating, and subtly tinted lip balm, especially if you're a fan of natural-looking makeup, the Summer Fridays Vanilla Beige is absolutely worth the investment. It’s definitely earned its spot on my list of top lip balms from Sephora!