Beauty

FACE OFF: LIP SCRUB

sorry tlc, we’re forgoing the “no scrubs” policy for these yummy new lip exfoliants.

by jazzi mcgilbert

Snowflakes floating in the winter air may be pretty, but flaky, wind-chapped lips? Er, not so much. Since I have a preference for super duper dark lipstick (Nars' Le Train Bleu specifically), dry lips make me seriously pouty for all the wrong reasons. My zero-tolerance policy when it comes to chapped mouths means I diligently test every miracle promising balm, gloss, or cream that lands on my desk--but nothing beats prepping with a good tub of lip scrub. And this season, they're not the sugar exfoliators of yore; both Sara Happ and Lush Cosmetics introduced some very sweet flavors--such as Red Velvet, Blood Orange, Popcorn, and Bubblegum--to the menu. Needless to say, I just had to dig in.

The Product: The Lip Scrub by Sara Happ in (limited-edition) Blood Orange or Red Velvet, $24

The Promise: "Not just another lip scrub--the perfect one," in unique flavors from Creme Brulee to Green Apple and Red Velvet.

The Result: Seriously long-lasting, buttery soft lips and a satisfied dessert craving. This one both performs and tastes better than anything I've concocted at home. The Blood Orange is perfectly sweet and subtly citrus (my favorite) and the Red Velvet is a yummy treat. I applied at night and thanks to the jojoba oil, my lips stayed smooth well into the morning after.

Use It: If you'll pay a premium for impressive attention-to-detail, from the packaging (these come ready-to-gift in cute boxes with bows) to the formula.

Buy It: Get one for $24 or the gift set for $40 at NordstomThe Product: Lush Lip Scrub in Popcorn or Bubblegum, $9.95

The Promise: All-natural sugar and salt scrubs for under-the-mistletoe and stroke-of-midnight kisses.

The Result: More novelty than finesse, the scents are seriously bold. These flavors don't taste as natural as their ingredients (sugar, sea salt, cold pressed organic jojobo oil) would suggest, but these get the lip-sloughing job done…and make it a bit more fun, to boot.

Use It: If Lip Smackers dominated your Caboodles and you're not prone to Jelly Belly-aches. They're kid-friendly, NYLON approved.

Buy It: Get them for $9.95 at Lush.

The Lip Scrub by Sara Happ in Blood Orange - $24

Lush Lip Scrub in Bubblegum - $9.95

Lush Lip Scrub in Popcorn - $9.95

The Lip Scrub by Sara Happ in Red Velvet - $24