Hey beauties! Today I’m excited to dish all about one of my new favorite lip products – the MAC Glow Play Lip Balm. As someone who is always on the hunt for the perfect everyday lip, I had high hopes for this moisturizing, sheer wash of color. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
First off, can we talk about the packaging? The Glow Play Lip Balm comes in the classic sleek black MAC tube, but with a fun twist – the cap is color-matched to the shade inside! It’s a small detail but I love how it makes it easy to find the color I’m looking for in my stash. Plus it just looks so cute and eye-catching.
Now on to the good stuff – the balm itself. MAC describes it as a “gotta-have, feels-good lip balm with a hint of lush colour.” And that is totally accurate. The texture is a dream – it’s buttery smooth and glides right on without any tugging or pulling. It feels cushiony and soothing on the lips, and it really locks in moisture. My perpetually parched lips drink this stuff up!
The finish is a glossy sheen that catches the light beautifully, but it’s not at all sticky or tacky feeling. It really mimics the look of naturally juicy, healthy lips. And the shine lasts a decent amount of time before gradually fading to more of a natural sheen.
Let’s talk about the color selection, because it’s good. There are 10 shades total, ranging from the palest milky nude to vivid berry tones. They all have that beautiful glistening finish that defines the line.
Because the Glow Play balms are on the sheerer side, they are pretty forgiving and easy to wear, even for a color-phobe like me! With one swipe, you get a subtle tint that enhances your natural lip color. But you can also build up the color by applying a couple coats if you want more impact. The pigmentation level is actually impressive for a balm formula.
I have 3 shades so far and I adore them all. The first is “That Tickles”, a light peachy nude that is described as a “bare, but better” shade. This is the one I toss in my bag and reach for constantly for a quick, foolproof swipe of polish. It’s so flattering and goes with literally any makeup look.
Next is “Grapely Admired”, a soft muted plum. This one has slightly more color payoff and its cool undertones make my teeth look super white. It’s a great option for when I want a little mood boost without committing to a full-on statement lip.
Finally, I had to grab “Rouge Awakening” which is a punchy red with soft warm undertones. I was a little intimidated by this one in the tube, but on the lips it transforms into the sexiest sheer cherry tint. It makes me feel instantly pulled together, and the shiny finish keeps it from looking too serious. The perfect daytime red!
I love that all the shades are super wearable and easy to simply swipe on without a mirror. They are the ultimate no-fuss, low maintenance lip for those rushed mornings or midday touch-ups. And the colors are def work and school appropriate while still letting your personality shine through.
Another huge plus for me is that they don’t settle into or emphasize lip lines. The glossy finish actually smooths over texture and makes my lips look plump and juicy – no crusty butthole lips here! They wear away evenly and gracefully, never leaving that awful ring of color around your mouth.
Let’s circle back to the lip-loving ingredients, because this is super important to me, especially in a product I’m wearing daily! The Glow Play balms are loaded with nourishing oils like coconut, argan, and jojoba to condition lips and lock in hydration. There’s also antioxidant vitamin E in there to protect against free radicals and environmental damage. We love a multi-tasking moment!
I was nervous they would have an overpowering fake fruity scent or taste, as many tinted balms do. But they are actually quite subtle in the fragrance department. It’s more of a soft, natural vanilla-y scent that dissipates quickly after applying. Personally, I’m into it and find it really pleasant! But if you are super sensitive to scents, rest assured this one is pretty innocuous.
The wear time isn’t the longest, because this is ultimately a balm, not a stain. I do find myself needing to reapply after eating or drinking. But the slip and shine lasts a good 2-3 hours on me, with the tint hanging on slightly longer. I actually don’t mind reapplying though, because it’s such a joy to use! It’s the perfect excuse to whip this baby out multiple times a day for a little moment of luxury.
I know $19 is on the pricier side for a lip balm, but I truly think you get what you pay for with this product. The packaging feels luxe and substantial, the formula is packed with quality ingredients, and you get a decent amount of product – 3.6g to be exact. It’s not one of those situations where you’ll use it up after a week!
To me, it’s well worth the splurge for a lip balm you’ll actually get excited to use every day. We’re talking about the lips here – they deserve the best! I can totally justify it as a little treat for myself.
If I had to nitpick, my only gripe is I wish they were SPF. Since they are a great option for daily wear, it would be amazing to have that added sun protection in there! I think MAC really missed an opportunity there. But since most of us reapply lip SPFs throughout the day anyway, I can deal with layering a clear one under this.
So what’s the final verdict? If you couldn’t tell already, I’m kind of obsessed! The Glow Play Lip Balms check off all my boxes – easy to apply, super comfortable, insanely flattering, and just a delight to use. I’ve been reaching for them constantly and will definitely be picking up more shades.
Whether I’m heading to a workout class, to the office, or out for girl’s night, I know I can count on these trusty balms to perk up my look while also keeping my lips happy and hydrated. Honestly, I feel naked without one of them on! They are a permanent addition to my everyday makeup menu.
So to all my no-makeup makeup lovers out there, RUN, don’t walk to pick up a MAC Glow Play Lip Balm! And to my bold lip queens, don’t sleep on these either. They are the perfect product to reach for on days when you don’t feel like doing the most, but still want a little something on your lips. Trust me, you need at least one shade in your collection!
In these trying times, we could all use more simple pleasures and little moments of joy in our lives. And this small but mighty balm delivers that in spades. It turns an ordinary, utilitarian part of your routine into a luxurious experience you actually look forward to.
I hope my MAC Glow Play Balm review was helpful and inspired you to give these lil guys a shot! Let me know in the comments what shade is calling your name. And if you already have one, I wanna hear your thoughts! You know I love to geek out about beauty products with you all.
Thanks so much for reading! Now get out there and get your glow on, loves.
Xoxo,
Jenna
To summarize:
- Glistening, sheer wash of buildable color
- 10 wearable shades ranging from nudes to brights
- Buttery smooth, non-sticky texture
- Cushiony & moisturizing formula with nourishing oils
- Smoothing, plumping glossy finish
- Easy to swipe on, even without a mirror
- Low maintenance, fuss-free application
- Subtle, pleasant vanilla scent
- 2-3 hours of wear, easy to reapply
- Luxe packaging with color-matched cap
- A bit pricey at $19 but worth the splurge
- Missing SPF but still a stellar everyday balm
The MAC Glow Play Lip Balm is a standout product that delivers the perfect marriage of skincare and makeup benefits. Its ability to enhance your natural beauty while pampering your lips makes it a must-have staple in any beauty lover’s collection. With its range of universally flattering shades, luscious texture, and goof-proof application, this balm has quickly become my go-to for an effortless polished pout. If you’re looking to simplify your routine without sacrificing style, treat yourself to a Glow Play Balm and get ready to experience your best lip days yet!
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