Essence What a Tint Lip & Cheek Tint

On a rainy Saturday in Brooklyn, I grabbed Essence What a Tint Lip & Cheek Tint before leaving. I needed something easy that could last through coffee, the subway, and cold weather without needing a mirror. For just $4.99 and a small 0.16 oz size, it promised a natural look for lips and cheeks. It seemed perfect for a simple makeup day.
By the time I got to Prospect Park, the tint had turned into a soft, believable rosy stain. It worked well under a balm, didn’t pill, and kept my cheeks looking fresh. This experience set the stage for my review: it’s practical, affordable, and great for everyday beauty.
This review will cover how it performs, its ingredients, how to apply it, and how long it lasts. I’ll also share its pros and cons and compare it to other products. Essence: What a Tint Lip & Cheek Tint is vegan and cruelty-free. It’s made in the Czech Republic and is designed to give a long-lasting, natural look for both lips and cheeks.
Key Takeaways
- Essence: What a Tint Lip & Cheek Tint is an affordable, multi-use tint priced around $4.99.
- Works well as a subtle lip tint and cheek tint for a natural, long-lasting flush.
- Vegan and cruelty-free, made in the Czech Republic, and PETA-recognized.
- Compact 0.16 oz size makes it easy to carry for touch-ups.
- Great for quick, low-maintenance makeup looks and layering under gloss or balm.
Quick Overview of Essenc: What is a Tint Lip & Cheek Tint
The Essence: What a Tint Lip & Cheek Tint is a compact way to add color. It has a soft, rosy tint in three shades. The 0.16 oz tube has a glide-on formula that layers for richer color.
It’s a multi-purpose stick for both lips and cheeks. It simplifies your everyday makeup routine. The packaging is travel-friendly, and it costs $4.99, making it affordable.
The formula gives a soft, long-lasting stain. It resists stickiness and blends easily for subtle ombre effects. You can build intensity with short strokes or dab for a sheer flush.
Product at a glance
Soft, rosy tint in three shades; size 0.16 oz; glide-on application; buildable coverage; ombre and layering options; budget price $4.99.
Who it’s for
Ideal for anyone who loves a smooth, non-sticky tint for a natural makeup look, this product is beginner-friendly, travel-ready, and made with natural ingredients that are cruelty-free and vegan.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Lip and cheek tint |
| Shades | Three soft, rosy shades |
| Size | 0.16 oz |
| Finish | Natural, buildable stain |
| Key appeal | Multi-purpose for on-the-go makeup |
| Price | $4.99 |
| Claims | Cruelty-free, vegan-friendly, clean formulation with natural ingredients |
Key Features and Benefits of the Lip Tint and Cheek Tint
Essence What a Tint is a budget-friendly choice for a simple makeup kit. It stands out because it combines color with a light feel. It’s perfect for quick makeup routines and supports clean beauty values.

Multi-purpose and easy to use
This product works for both lips and cheeks, saving space in your bag. Just apply a small amount to your cheeks or lips. Blend it out with your fingers or a brush for a natural color.
You can adjust the coverage for different looks. For a subtle day look, use a light touch. For a bolder finish, apply more. Try ombré lips by coloring the inner lip and blending out for a soft effect.
Long-lasting stain and natural finish
It leaves a soft, rosy tint that feels light on the skin. The stain lasts all day, so you don’t need to touch it up often.
The result is a natural glow on your cheeks and lips. It’s perfect for everyday looks that don’t look cakey.
Clean and cruelty-free credentials
Essence is cruelty-free, as certified by PETA. This is important for many buyers. The product is also vegan and free from many harmful ingredients.
Made in the Czech Republic, it’s a clean beauty option. It’s a multi-purpose choice that doesn’t sacrifice ethics.
Ingredients and Clean Beauty Claims
This product combines pigment and skin-friendly actives for color with care. It has a mix of emollients and powders like mica, octyldodecanol, and iron oxides. It also includes hydrating humectants in some shades. Brands like Essence place it in the clean beauty category, highlighting choices for sensitive skin.
Next, we’ll look at the key components in the product and their benefits for lips and cheeks.
Main ingredient highlights
Glycerin and propanediol pull moisture into the skin. Panthenol and sodium hyaluronate make it softer. Zea mays (corn) starch and mica give a soft-matte finish. Iron oxides and pigment lakes ensure lasting color without oils.
Some shades include cranberry extract and fermented radish root filtrate. These are natural extracts and preservative supports. The product also uses phenoxyethanol, 1,2-hexanediol, and ethylhexylglycerin as preservatives for safety.
Formulation notes and avoided ingredients
Essence calls this line paraben-free and free from silicones and oils. Labels often say it’s paraben-free and microplastic-free. Some say it’s fragrance-free, but check the ingredients list for parfum (fragrance) in certain shades.
The product is animal by-product-free and gluten-free. It avoids alcohol and microplastics. Yet, it includes preservatives for safety, even with clean beauty claims.
| Ingredient or Claim | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Glycerin, Propanediol | Humectants | Hydration and smooth application; common in shades with water-based formulas |
| Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate | Skin conditioning | Provide moisture retention and a plumping effect on the skin surface |
| Mica, Corn Starch (Zea Mays) | Texture and finish | Light-diffusing particles for a natural, soft finish |
| Iron Oxides, CI Colorants | Pigments | Stable colorants for long wear; combinations vary by shade |
| Phenoxyethanol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin | Preservatives | Protect formula from microbial growth; used in small, regulated amounts |
| Paraben-free, Oil-free, Silicone-free claims | Marketing & formulation positioning | Useful for shoppers seeking clean beauty; verify each shade’s ingredients list for full details |
| Parfum (Fragrance) | Scent | Present in some shade formulas; may be absent in others—check label if sensitive. |
How to Apply: Tips for Best Results
Essence: What a Tint glides smoothly on skin and lips. Start with a small amount and build up slowly to avoid heavy patches. Below are simple, practical application tips that work at home or on the go.
Application for lips
For a natural stained look, swipe the lip tint across your lips. Then, use your fingertip to blend the edges. If you want an ombre lip, dab a bit of tint in the center and press outward with a clean finger.
Layering increases intensity without looking cakey. Wear the tint alone for a soft wash of color. Or apply a clear gloss on top for shine and extra staying power.
Application for cheeks
Dot a tiny amount of cheek tint on the apples of your cheeks. Quickly blend with your fingers for a fresh, skin-like flush. The formula builds well, so less is better at first.
For longer wear and an even finish, use a buffer or stippling brush to blend toward the cheekbones. Lightly blot if the color reads too bright.
Practical travel tips: fingers work best for quick blending; a buffer brush gives control when you need longevity. Avoid piling on product at once to prevent patchy results. These application tips help you get the most from both the lip tint and cheek tint every time.
Shade Range and Wear Performance
Essence offers a modest shade range for What a Tint! Lip & Cheek Tint, aimed at everyday looks. The line lists three available shades that lean rosy and fresh. Expect the hair to buildable color depending on how many layers you apply.

The available shades use different colorant lakes such as CI 16035, CI 42090, and CI 45410 in some formulas. A few shades include a light fragrance. If you prefer a simple list, look for names shown by retailers like Ulta and Essence pages for exact matches.
Longevity
This tint works as a stain, so wear performance favors a natural finish that mimics a flushed look. You will notice a soft matte-to-satin effect instead of a glossy film. For longer wear, apply thin layers and blot between coats.
What to expect on the lips and cheeks
As a lightweight, water-containing formula, some shades include glycerin or sodium hyaluronate to help with comfort. This helps reduce dryness on the lips while the tint builds color. Because it stains, the color remains as a tint instead of a thick cream.
Performance varies by skin type and activity. On calm days, the longevity holds well with minimal touch-ups. During meals or heavy sweating, you may need to reapply. Overall, wear performance leans toward natural, effortless color instead of heavy coverage.
Pros and Cons of Essence What a Tint Lip & Cheek Tint

Here’s a quick look at the good and bad points of the essence what a tint lip & cheek tint. It’s easy to see the value, how it wears, and its formula without reading a lot.
Pros
- It’s very affordable, usually around $4.99, and comes in a small 0.16 oz size perfect for travel or trying out.
- The 2-in-1 formula works on both lips and cheeks, making your routine simpler.
- It’s a soft, buildable rosy stain that gives a natural glow for everyday.
- It’s clean beauty, vegan, and cruelty-free, with no gluten, parabens, microplastics, animal products, or added oils.
- Many shades have hydrating ingredients like glycerin, panthenol, and sodium hyaluronate for comfort.
- It’s recognized as cruelty-free by PETA and others, showing the brand’s commitment.
- The formula is non-sticky and layers well under balm or gloss without feeling tacky.
Cons
- There are only three shades, which might not fit everyone’s skin tone.
- Some shades have perfume and synthetic colorants, which might be a problem for those sensitive to fragrances.
- The stain is light and might need to be reapplied or layered for longer wear or more coverage.
- The small size means you’ll need to buy it more often, even though it’s cheap.
- Ingredients can vary by shade, so it’s important to check the exact list to avoid allergies or sensitivities.
The table below summarizes the key points to help you quickly compare the essence of what a tint lip & cheek tint’s performance and value.
| Feature | Benefit | Limitation |
|---|---|---|
| Price and Size | Very affordable and travel-friendly 0.16 oz packaging | Small volume means you’ll need to buy it often for daily use |
| Multi-use Formula | Works on lips and cheeks, making your routine simpler | It might not replace products you need for full coverage |
| Finish and Texture | Buildable, natural-looking stain with a non-sticky feel | It’s light and might need layering for full intensity |
| Clean and Ethical Claims | Vegan and cruelty-free with PETA recognition | Ingredients can vary by shade; some include fragrance and synthetic dyes |
| Hydration | Contains glycerin, panthenol, and sodium hyaluronate in many shades | Not all shades have the same hydrating ingredients |
| Shade Range | Soft, universally flattering rosy tones | Only three shades limit options for diverse skin tones |
| Wear Time | Comfortable for daily wear and touchups | Not as long-lasting as heavy-duty stains for all-day wear |
Comparison to Similar Lip and Cheek Tints
Here’s a quick comparison to see where Essence What A Tint! stands. It’s compared to other lip and cheek tints from drugstores and high-end brands. We focus on price, how well it works, and if it’s cruelty-free.
How it stacks up on price and performance
Essence What A Tint! costs about $4.99 for 0.16 oz. This makes it cheaper than many other brands. For example, Maybelline and L’Oreal are pricier.
The tint gives a soft, buildable stain that lasts a bit. It’s good for those who like light tints. But some tints last longer or have different textures, which might matter to some.
Clean beauty and cruelty-free differentiation
Essence What A Tint! is vegan and cruelty-free, with PETA’s approval. This makes it better than brands without this certification.
The formula is free from parabens, microplastics, gluten, oils, and animal by-products. It’s a cleaner choice. But some shades have fragrance and synthetic colors. If you want something completely fragrance-free or natural, you might need to look elsewhere.
In summary, Essence What A Tint! is great for those watching their budget but want a product that’s cruelty-free and clean. If you need a wide range of shades or something completely fragrance-free, you might want to explore other options.
| Product | Price (approx.) | Size | Performance | Clean / Cruelty-free notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essence What A Tint! | $4.99 | 0.16 oz | Buildable stain, light-to-moderate longevity | Vegan, PETA-listed; no parabens, microplastics, gluten |
| Maybelline Cheek Heat | $9.99 | 0.27 oz | Creamy gel, medium wear | Not fully cruelty-free; fragrance in formula |
| NYX Professional Makeup Soft Matte Lip Cream (used as tint) | $7.00 | 0.27 oz | Strong pigment, longer wear on lips | Brand improving clean claims; not all products vary gan |
| Rare Beauty Soft Pinch | $22.00 | 0.24 oz | Buildable, cushiony finish, good longevity | Cruelty-free; limited fragrance; premium formulation |
| Flower Beauty Lip + Cheek Stain | $10.99 | 0.20 oz | Liquid stain, varied shade range | Some clean claims; not all shades are fragrance-free |
Real-World Use Cases and Makeup Looks
Use this tint for a quick, polished look when you’re in a rush. Its small size makes it perfect for busy mornings, travel, or quick touch-ups. Just a little bit can transform your look from bare to camera-ready in seconds.
Every day, natural glow
Apply a small dot to the apples of your cheeks and blend with your fingers. This gives a soft, natural flush. It’s great with SPF and tinted moisturizers for an everyday glow.
For your lips, one swipe gives a subtle rosy stain. It’s perfect for minimal makeup days. The look is effortless and fresh, fitting both casual and professional settings.
Layering and versatility
The formula is easy to build up. Add more layers for deeper color or wear it under lipstick or gloss. For an ombre lip, apply tint at the inner lip and blend outward for a modern look.
Try pairing the tint with a light bronzer or highlighter over blended cheeks for dimension. This trick makes the product versatile for both day and night looks.
| Use Case | Technique | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Minimal morning routine | Dot on cheeks, swipe lips once | Quick, everyday glow, low effort |
| Work-to-evening transition | Layer tint, add lipstick top coat | Longer wear, richer color without redoing the base |
| Travel and touch-ups | Use a fingertip to blend for fast fixes | A portable on-the-go beauty product that saves time |
| Monochrome makeup looks | Match tint to neutral eyes and bronzer | Polished, cohesive appearance with minimal products |
Conclusion
Essence: What a Tint Lip & Cheek Tint is a great choice for those on a budget. It’s a multi-use stain that adds a soft, buildable flush to both lips and cheeks. It’s also cruelty-free and clean, earning PETA recognition.
The formula avoids many controversial ingredients. This makes it a smart choice for everyday use and travel kits.
This tint is affordable and vegan-friendly. It also has ingredients that help it stay hydrated on your skin. It lasts a long time, considering its price, and is easy to apply to both cheeks and lips.
Keep in mind, it only comes in a few shades. Some shades have perfume or synthetic dyes, which might not be good for very sensitive skin. Despite this, it’s a good buy for those looking for a clean, cruelty-free tint that lasts.
FAQ
What is Essence What A Tint! Lip & Cheek Tint?
Essence What A Tint! Lip & Cheek Tint is a versatile stain from Essence Cosmetics. It adds a soft, rosy tint to lips and cheeks. It’s a buildable, glide-on formula in a compact 0.16 oz size, sold for about .99. It’s seen as an affordable, travel-friendly makeup option.
Is this product vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes. Essence Cosmetics is known for being cruelty-free, and the What A Tint! product is vegan and cruelty-free. Essence doesn’t test on animals, and the product is made in the Czech Republic.
How many shades are available, and what finish should I expect?
There are three shades available, giving a soft, rosy-stained finish. You can expect a natural, matte-to-satin flush. It’s sheer at first, but can be built up for deeper color.
How do I apply it to my lips for an ombre look?
Start by dabbing a small amount on the inner lips and blend outward with your finger. This creates a soft ombre effect. You can add more for a stronger color or wear it alone under gloss or lipstick.
What’s the best way to apply it to cheeks?
Dot a small amount on the apples of your cheeks and blend quickly with your fingers. For a more even finish, use a buffer or stippling brush. Start light, as this formula is buildable.
Does this tint dry out lips or skin?
Many formulas include hydrating ingredients like glycerin and panthenol. These help keep your skin comfortable. But, as a stain, it might feel drier than creamier balms with heavy layering or long wear.
Are there any ingredients I should watch for if I have sensitivities?
Yes. The product is free from parabens and animal by-products, but some shades have fragrance and synthetic colorants. Check the exact shade’s ingredient list if you’re sensitive to fragrance or colorants.
How long does the color last on lips and cheeks?
The tint is long-lasting and lasts all day for many users. Its longevity depends on your skin type, activity level, and how much you layer. It’s a lasting stain, not heavy coverage, so touch-ups might be needed.
Is the product safe, and what preservatives does it contain?
The formulas include preservatives like phenoxyethanol and 1,2-hexanediol. These help preserve the product and keep it safe from bacteria.
How does Essence What A Tint! compare to other lip and cheek tints?
It’s very affordable at about
0.99 for 0.16 oz. It’s known for being cruelty-free and vegan. It’s a good choice for those who want a natural look without spending a lot. It has a limited shade range and small size, which might be a drawback for some.
Is this product good for beginners and travel?
Yes. It’s perfect for beginne
rs and travelers. It’s easy to use, compact, and affordable. It’s great for a quick, natural look on lips and cheeks.
Can I use this under the foundation or over it?
Apply it after foundation for best results if you’re using full-coverage face products. This prevents it from getting displaced. For sheer bases, you can layer it over or under, depending on the intensity you want. Blending quickly helps achieve an even finish.
Are there any environmental or formulation claims I should note?
Essence markets this tint as free from parabens and animal by-products. It’s vegan and cruelty-free. But some shades contain fragrance and synthetic colorants. Always check the label if you prefer fragrance-free or all-natural products.
What are the main pros and cons to consider before buying?
The pros include its affordability, multi-use convenience, and natural color. It’s also clean-beauty and cruelty-free. The cons are its limited shade range, small size, and possible fragrance or synthetic dye content in some shades.