The best lipsticks for summer: Keep the shimmer subtle with sheer balm-tint hybrids

Cha cha balm, £14.50 benefitcosmetics.co.uk

A velvety matte lipstick can feel out of place in the summer months, but that doesn't mean you have to resort to a gloopy gloss as there is an abundance of sheer, lightweight and conditioning formulations on the market thanks to balm-tint hybrids which can be layered up to create a more intense colour.

I've never understood the appeal of a frosty finish – call me old fashioned but I think baked goods are the only thing that benefit from a dusting of icing sugar – so I for one am glad that most of them keep the shimmer subtle.

Jungle Queen

£20, Lipstick Queen, spacenk.com

Remember when leopard print was a fashion no-no? Now we're all feeling so feline, literal Lipstick Queen, Poppy King, has devised the perfect shade to wear with the print – a gorgeous orangey-coral.

Colour burst in lovesick 020

£7.99, Revlon, boots.com

Lovers of berry colours shouldn't just keep them for the winter months – this tempting shade will stay put for ages, and while not as nourishing as others, will last if you apply lip balm on top.

Cha cha balm

£14.50 benefitcosmetics.co.uk

For those who don't want to go completely au naturel at the beach, this tinted balm will nourish while leaving just a hint of colour – the juicy shade may look adventurous in the tube, but is very flattering when on.

Sugar tinted lip treatment in cherry

£18, Fresh, fresh.com

With sugar and an SPF15, this will gently smooth as it protects, plus load your lips with a punchy pigment – like a grown up cherry chapstick. Perfect for anyone who feels naked without red lipstick.

Lip balm crayon in 01 my pink

£18, clarins.co.uk

For fans of the natural look – this pale pink shade adds just a hint of long-lasting colour, while the delicate sheen is much more modern than a high-shine gloss.