Clinique’s beloved Chubby Sticks have evolved. For those who adored the moisturizing formula of the original lip balms but craved more intense color payoff, the new Clinique Chubby Sticks Intense deliver precisely that. This new line offers vibrant, opaque shades with the intensity of lipstick, all while retaining the comfortable, non-drying feel that made the originals so popular.
The Intense Upgrade
The essence of the Chubby Stick remains: a user-friendly, crayon-like applicator that provides a smooth, moisturizing application. However, the Chubby Sticks Intense amplify the color saturation significantly. Infused with shea butter, mango seed butter, and jojoba seed oil, these lip colors provide a rich, creamy feel that prevents the dryness often associated with highly pigmented lipsticks. Each swipe delivers a solid, impactful color, a stark contrast to the more subtle, buildable hues of the original Chubby Sticks.
[From left to right: Grandest Grape, Broadest Berry, Mightiest Maraschino.
Exploring the Shades
Three shades were tested: Grandest Grape, Broadest Berry, and Mightiest Maraschino.
- Grandest Grape is a deep berry plum shade with strong purple undertones. This sophisticated color is ideal for those seeking a bolder look or for evening wear.
- Broadest Berry offers a more subdued, “antique rose” hue. It presents a neutral blend of warm brown and dusky pink, making it a versatile and office-appropriate choice that can complement a wide range of complexions.
- Mightiest Maraschino stood out as a personal favorite. This vibrant red shade leans towards a pinkish cerise on application, offering a striking and energetic look reminiscent of classic Hollywood glamour.
Left to right: Chunky Cherry (Original) vs. Mightiest Maraschino (Intense), Whole Lotta Honey (Original) vs. Broadest Berry (Intense).
A comparison with the original Chubby Sticks revealed a dramatic difference in pigmentation. Even with a single, heavy swipe, the Intense versions provided significantly more opaque coverage, making the original shades appear almost washed out in contrast.
Performance and Wear
The formula of the Chubby Sticks Intense was impressive, offering enhanced pigmentation without sacrificing creaminess; in fact, it felt even smoother than the originals. Wear time was excellent, with shades lasting over four hours, and Mightiest Maraschino maintaining its color for up to six hours. While there is some transfer, a pleasant stain remains on the lips, preventing a complete fade. The convenient twist-up application continues to be a standout feature, offering ease and precision unmatched by traditional lipstick bullets.
A Balanced Approach to Boldness
Clinique has skillfully balanced intense color with wearable shades. While vibrant options are available, the line also includes versatile neutrals and berries, making bold lip colors accessible for everyday wear. These lipsticks avoid appearing garish, offering a desirable combination of high pigmentation and a comfortable, moisturizing formula.
Conclusion: The Chubby Revolution Continues
While the original Chubby Sticks remain perfect for effortless daily wear due to their semi-sheer finish and forgiving application, the Chubby Sticks Intense are the go-to choice for those seeking a significant color impact. They brilliantly deliver an extra hit of pigmentation while maintaining the beloved creamy, moisturizing feel. With the continued innovation from Clinique, these Intense Chubby Sticks have the potential to redefine the modern lipstick collection, offering the best of both worlds: striking color and exceptional comfort. Embrace the chubby revolution and discover these enduring shades.