I’ve loved Torriden’s serums for years, so when they dropped a lip essence with ceramides — and in this packaging? You better believe I bought it on sight. 

The shape is smooth and minimalist, and the keychain-style packaging made it feel like the kind of lip balm I’d want to carry everywhere.

And then… I used it.

To be blunt: the texture was a letdown. I was expecting something rich and cushiony, but this just felt like an oily layer that coated my lips and stayed on the surface. 

It didn’t absorb, didn’t soften flakes, and didn’t help when my lips were actually dry. It looked shiny, yes — but that’s about it.

I don’t hate it, but I don’t use it during the day anymore. 

Instead, I’ve been using it only at night, and here’s my honest routine:

1. I start by gently exfoliating with a damp towel or soft brush — just enough to remove flakes.

2. Then I apply a layer of any hydrating toner or mist (yes, even on my lips).

3. While my lips are still slightly damp, I squeeze out the Torriden lip essence and smooth on a thick layer like a sleeping mask.

4. I don’t press my lips together too much — just let it sit like a barrier.

And surprisingly? This method kind of works. I wake up with soft lips, and the balm’s greasy finish helps seal everything in overnight, even if it doesn’t hydrate deeply by itself.

So is it my favorite? 

No. 

Would I repurchase? 

Probably not.

But if you already have it and you’re not loving it, try it as a nighttime lip wrap instead of a daytime balm. It’s not a total fail — just not the multitasker I hoped it would be.

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