Combination products—like tinted face moisturizers that act as foundation or eyeshadow hues that work wet or dry—give consumers a bang for their buck. So when Smashbox came out with a lipstick that is said to work as a gloss as well as balm, I had to give it a try.

The brand’s Photo Finish Lipstick with Sila-Silk Technology ($22) range recently rolled out a set of four new summer hues, ideal for that casual afternoon barbeque or night out on the town. According to the company, its exclusive formula is enhanced with light reflecting polymers and silica for exceptional shine and flawless application.  Vitamin E, Tahitian flower and emollient Monoi butter provide hydration and plush, cushion-like comfort—which is a great way to describe the product.

I was first introduced to the product when Smashbox collaborated with Imitation of Christ for a limited edition dark red lipcolor (with super-cool packaging, of course). The brand followed up with a fun Petro Zillia SKU in hot pink that spring. But it’s the lipstick itself that is really noteworthy.

The formulation glides on as a standard lipstick but upon immediate wear, blends into a creamy, subtle gloss; a low-shine lipstick, so to speak. It also has decent longwear, too. In the Summer 2009 hues, the darkest shade, Marvelous, actually wears like a sheer blackberry—ideal to complement those seasonal gold tones; while the warm coral Spendid and pale pink Pout have a fun, 1960s, kind-of-mod sheen. Flawless is a timeless nude that will definitely go beyond the season.

More info: www.smashbox.com