Hey beauty lovers! After seeing SO many mixed reviews about this affordable tinted lip balm, I just HAD to try it myself and give you my complete thoughts. I’ve been using the CoverGirl Clean Fresh Tinted Lip Balm in “You’re the Pom” for several weeks now, and I’ve got PLENTY to say about it!
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The packaging is pretty cute – it comes in a pink twist-up tube that feels sturdy and has a cap that actually CLICKS when it closes (always a plus in my book!). The bullet size is generous, definitely more product than you’d expect for the price point.
When I first saw “You’re the Pom” online, I was expecting something bright and pink-toned based on the product images. In reality? It’s definitely more of a warm red with orange undertones. If you’re shopping online, be aware that the color might not match exactly what you see in the pictures!
COLOR & PIGMENTATION
Let’s talk about the pigmentation – this is NOT your average tinted balm! I was genuinely surprised by how much color this delivers. One swipe gives you a noticeable wash of color, and you can build it up to almost lipstick-level coverage with a few more swipes.
The “You’re the Pom” shade is a warm-toned red with definite orange/coral undertones. It’s more of a blood orange or pomegranate color than a true red. For reference:
- If you’re pale-skinned with cool undertones, this might be too warm/bright for everyday wear
- If you have medium to deep skin, this gives a beautiful natural flush
- If you have warm undertones, this will likely complement your complexion beautifully
Several reviewers with fair skin and blue eyes mentioned this is perfect for fall/winter or evening wear, but might be “a bit much” for daily use. Others said they apply it just to the inner parts of their lips and blend outward for a more subtle effect.
FORMULA & FEEL
The texture is where this product really stands out – it’s definitely not just a colored chapstick! The formula contains hyaluronic acid, which gives it a smooth, balmy consistency without being sticky or oily.
How it feels:
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Not sticky AT ALL
- Smoother and less oily than similar products like Baby Lips
- Waxy enough to create a light protective barrier
The balm glides on easily and feels comfortable, but I need to address a big point of contention in the reviews: is it actually moisturizing? The answer is… it depends.
Some reviewers found it extremely hydrating and perfect for winter. Others said it wasn’t moisturizing enough on its own and they needed to layer it with another lip product. A few even found it drying! My experience falls somewhere in the middle – it feels comfortable while on, but doesn’t provide deep, long-lasting moisture for severely dry lips.
If you’re looking for intense hydration, you might want to use a lip mask at night and this during the day, or layer a clear balm underneath.
WEAR TIME & PERFORMANCE
For a tinted balm, the staying power is actually impressive! The color lasts about 2-3 hours before needing a touch-up, and even after eating or drinking, it leaves a subtle stain behind. You’ll need to reapply after meals, but that’s expected with any balm formula.
One thing I appreciate is that it doesn’t settle into lip lines or get patchy as it wears off. The fade is pretty natural looking, unlike some lip products that wear off in a weird ring around your mouth (we’ve all been there!).
The finish is natural to slightly dewy – not matte, not super glossy. It gives your lips a healthy, juicy look without being overly shiny.
VERSATILITY
This product is surprisingly versatile! Some creative uses I found in reviews:
- Apply to cheeks as a cream blush (the formula works great for this!)
- Layer under clear gloss for more shine
- Apply with fingers for a sheer wash of color
- Build up for a bolder, lipstick-like finish
- Pair with lip liner for more definition
COMPARISON TO OTHER PRODUCTS
Several reviewers compared this to more expensive options:
- Many found it comparable to Clinique Black Honey (the Blissful Berry shade specifically)
- Some said it’s similar to Buxom lip balms but at a fraction of the price
- Others mentioned it’s less sticky than Nivea tinted balms
- A few compared it favorably to Korean tinted lip balms
WHO IS THIS PRODUCT FOR?
Based on the reviews and my experience, this is perfect for:
- People who want color AND comfort in one product
- Those who find traditional lipsticks too drying
- Anyone looking for a buildable formula (from sheer to medium coverage)
- Budget-conscious shoppers who want quality without the high price tag
- Those who prefer fragrance-free lip products
This might NOT be for you if:
- You want a truly sheer tint (this is more pigmented than you might expect)
- You need intense, long-lasting hydration for very dry lips
- You’re looking for a product with SPF (this doesn’t have sun protection)
- You want a true matte finish
VALUE FOR MONEY
For a drugstore price, you get:
- A generous amount of product
- Quality packaging that won’t break in your bag
- A formula with hyaluronic acid
- Vegan and cruelty-free certification
Considering similar products from mid-range brands can cost $20-30, this is an INCREDIBLE value.
THE DOWNSIDES
To be completely honest, there are a few cons:
- The color range is limited (they should definitely expand!)
- No SPF protection
- The tube appears to contain more product than it actually does (a common complaint)
- No scent or flavor (some see this as a pro, others prefer flavored balms)
- Color accuracy in online photos is questionable
FINAL THOUGHTS
After using this regularly and reading through hundreds of reviews, I can confidently say this is a standout drugstore lip product. The CoverGirl Clean Fresh Tinted Lip Balm in “You’re the Pom” delivers beautiful color, decent moisture, and a comfortable feel at an affordable price point.
Is it perfect? No. But for less than $5, it performs impressively well compared to options costing 5-6 times as much.
While “You’re the Pom” might not be for everyone due to its warm undertones and higher-than-expected pigmentation, it’s worth trying if you’re looking for an everyday lip product with a bit more oomph than a traditional balm.
I find myself reaching for this constantly – it’s perfect for grocery runs, Zoom calls, and those days when I want to look put-together without the fuss of precision application. I’ve already added the Blissful Berry shade to my cart and can’t wait to try more colors from the line!
RATING: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
PROS:
- Great color payoff
- Comfortable, non-sticky formula
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Amazing price point
- Fragrance-free
- Buildable coverage
- Contains hyaluronic acid
- Leaves a nice stain even after wearing off
- Secure packaging
CONS:
- Not deeply moisturizing for very dry lips
- Limited shade range
- No SPF
- Online color representation isn’t always accurate
- Packaging suggests more product than it contains
Have you tried this or any of the other shades? Let me know your experience in the comments below!
This review is based on personal experience and aggregated customer feedback. Individual results may vary depending on skin type, application method, and personal preferences.
Buy on Amazon: Here
