Protect your phone and the environment

Are these viral lip products legit?

By Gianna Roux STAFF REPORTER

Glossier Wild Fig Balm Dotcom

Glossier’s Wild Fig Balm Dotcom is back in rotation, and is well worth a try. The fresh and sweet scent of a juicy fig is addictive, and I find myself reapplying it every time I need a pop of color and shine. The new packaging is plastic rather than aluminum, and many fans are not too fond of the cheaper look. However, the applicator is an upgrade from what it used to be. I paid $21, but I would recommend buying it in person for $14 to avoid shipping costs. Overall, I would give

My pursuit to find an environmentally friendly phone case led me to Pela, a brand that created the world’s first compostable phone case.

This Canadian based company prides itself on their sustainability factor. With their push to change the phone industry altogether, they use 30% fewer carbon emissions, 34% less water and 80% less waste production in creating their compostable cases when compared to larger companies that use cheap plastics. Additionally, they donate a percentage of every sale towards ocean cleanup and preservation organizations.

Knowing that I could make a small difference for our environment led me to purchase two phone cases: the Honey Sun and Moon Case and the Clear Herbarium Case with London Fog ridge. While it did take a few extra days to ship since they are based in Canada, it was definitely worth the wait, as the package was completely plastic- which shows the amount of time and effort that went into making these products.

The only issue I had with this purchase was the price. The phone cases are on the expensive side, typically ranging from $59.95 to $69.95, but they often have a buy one get one free sale. To me, the price is worth it since environmentally friendly products are marketed to be long-lasting. Ultimately, I would give Pela 5 out of 5 stars. The price can seem a little steep, but the great quality and positive impact you will make with this phone case should outweigh any skepticism you have about this brand. Not only do they sell phone cases, they even sell Airpod and Airtag cases, smart watch bands and card holders. I will forever recommend this brand to anyone looking to make a small impact on the environment in their day-to-day lives.

For how popular this product is, I was surprised to find out how mediocre it was. Benefit’s Cheek and Lip Benetint in the shade rose is way overpriced for $21, especially when compared to its lack of tint ability. Inside the bottle the color is a dark red, but when applied I was not pleased with how pink my lips looked. It is very cute when used as a cheek tint, but on my lips it blends horribly and has a very bitter taste, which is why the product deserves 2

Clinique Black Honey Almost

Although this product is the most expensive at $23, Clinique’s Black Honey Almost Lipstick is worth the price. The minimalist packaging and perfect angle of the applicator makes this almost lipstick almost flawless. The smooth and shiny formula leaves a beautiful deep red finish that lasts on your lips, and it is very buildable. The diversity of this lipstick is unbelievable, as I have seen this product used on many different skin tones, always looking gorgeous. Black Honey has been popular for many decades, and the 5 star product definitely will be for many more.