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

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.
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