Dynamic duos dress up lip color

Drug Store News, Jan 17, 2005 by Antoinette Alexander

High-shine gloss that promises to moisturize and protect lips has been edging out lipstick, prompting several manufacturers to marry the two in a dual-ended wand to bolster sluggish lip color sales.

Of the color cosmetics segments, lip gloss is expected to experience the greatest growth, climbing 37.3 percent by 2008 to $404.8 million, according to Euromonitor International's "Market for Cosmetics and Toiletries in the USA 2004" report. Meanwhile, lipstick sales are expected to climb only 12.6 percent to $1.95 billion by 2008.

Targeting shoppers who like the high-shimmer look and silky feel of gloss, but who want to emphasize lips with a dash of color, Almay is launching this month its Truly Lasting Color Lipcolor. Almay TLC, available in 12 shades, features long-lasting--up to 12 hours--lip color on one end and conditioning gloss infused with nutrients like vitamins A and E on the other end. The suggested retail price is $9.99 each.

Also this month, Bonne Bell will begin offering its new dual-ended Lip Lites 2 in such flavor combinations as Latte Whirl/Whip Burgundy and Vanilla Shine/Sugar Bronze. The suggested retail price is $4.50.

Revlon has given its dual-ended ColorStay Overtime Lipcolor a touch up by offering new ColorStay Overtime Sheer Lipcolor. One end of the wand features a sheer, natural-looking lip color, while the other contains a tinted, shimmering top coat infused with liquefied pearls. Available this month, Sheer Lipcolor retails for $9.99 each.