Premium beauty brand Laura Mercier has launched a new tinted blur balm, a balm-to-powder hybrid that promises a natural, matte finish with light-diffusing pigments to blur imperfections. The product, available in eight matte shades, also contains smoothing peptides, squalane, and vitamin E-rich camelina sativa seed oil for skincare benefits.
Beauty journalist Helen Wilson-Beevers, who typically favours full-coverage foundation, tested the balm over two days, wearing it for an evening out and a long day at work. She found the formula lightweight and silky-soft, without the greasiness often associated with balms. The balm created a matte, velvety effect that looked natural, even after applying several layers.
The product, presented in a gold compact with a mirror, costs £39. Wilson-Beevers noted that it did not cling to fine lines or settle in dry patches, offering a smoothing layer that could be built up for more coverage. She also found it effective as a gentle under-eye concealer when dabbed on with fingers, though it did not fully cover blemishes.
During testing, the balm stayed put throughout an evening out without sliding off. For daytime wear, Wilson-Beevers topped it up, which was easy due to the compact mirror and seamless formula. She described the balm as a multi-tasking product suitable as a lightweight base, concealer, finishing layer, or for contouring.
Wilson-Beevers, who has over 16 years of experience in beauty journalism, concluded that while she usually prefers full-coverage foundation, the tinted blur balm has earned a place in her daily make-up essentials. She praised its natural finish and smoothing, subtle coverage.
