Hourglass Phantom Blur Balm review: The luxe lip balm that gives a soft matte finish

Hourglass Cosmetics' new Phantom Blur Balm collection includes five flattering shades with a soft-focus matte finish.placeholder image
Hourglass Cosmetics' new Phantom Blur Balm collection includes five flattering shades with a soft-focus matte finish. | Hourglass

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.

Hourglass Cosmetics has expanded its bestselling Phantom collection with five new Blur Balm shades promising the comfort of a nourishing balm with a modern soft-matte finish. I put them to the test.

If you prefer an understated, classy look when it comes to lip colour you have to try Hourglass Cosmetics' new Phantom Blur Balm range.

The soft and silky formula is a joy to apply thanks to a nourishing blend of hyaluronic acid, conditioning oils, and emollients that feel more like a treatment than a traditional matte lipstick.

These beautiful balms, £36, give your lips a refined, soft-focus finish that looks effortless and modern.

They're available in five colors spanning warm beige, pink mauve, and rich berry brown tones. My favourite for daytime wear is Whisper and if you're looking for something a little bolder try Mirage. You can also choose Echo, Enigma and Spell.

Hourglass's new Phantom Blur Balms deliver rich colour with a comfortable, soft-focus finish that lasts for hours.placeholder image
Hourglass's new Phantom Blur Balms deliver rich colour with a comfortable, soft-focus finish that lasts for hours. | Hourglass

They have great staying power, even with just one layer, and leave your lips feeling wonderfully hydrated for hours.

Hourglass founder Carisa Janes said: "I wanted to reimagine the modern matte lip - a unique, blurring formula that combines comfort and wear, with a cashmere-soft finish that feels as good and addictive as it looks. A nourishing, balm-like texture that smooths, softens, and perfects the lips without heaviness and dryness of typical matte formulas. A thoughtful range of shades that enhance lips’ natural tone and create soft-matte finish for effortless everyday wear."

These high-performance balms are encased in sleek matt metallic tubes that look and feel luxurious. All five shades are must tries!

Telling news your way
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice