What They Say: "A two-in-one lip-conditioning and exfoliating stick. On one side, a botanically-derived natural exfoliator, on the other a lip conditioner that moisturizes, nourishes, and soothes the lips. Use to smooth and prep the lips prior to lip colour. Streamlined application: applies flat-on. Features M·A·C's signature vanilla flavour."

Melissa Says: While in theory this is a great idea (as was the dual-ended sugar-based exfoliator and balm combo I tested recently), but in this case it falls just short of perfection. True, the exfoliating side is effective, and the balm side has a yummy scent and leaves lips feeling amazingly soft and nourished. There's just one flaw.

The directions for utilizing the exfoliating side tell you to smooth it over your lips, then rub it with your fingers in a circular motion until all of the dead skin is removed and your lips are smooth, then wipe it all off with a tissue or wet washcloth. While the teeny-tiny black granules combined with moisturizing ingredients are effective, a few of them can tend to travel wayward and can even make their way into your mouth if you're not incredibly careful, and once they do that, between the teeth here or there isn't far behind. Now, this isn't necessarily a given; if you're doing this in front of the mirror, you'll likely be able to avoid this situation, but the possibility takes this product from wonderfully perfect to just really good...except for one thing that makes it less than perfect.

Decide for yourself if you'd like to give this pampering lip product a try.

Retail Price: $14.50 (currently sold out online, but look for it at a retail location near you)

DeLush Rating: