NARS Afterglow Balm Swatches: A Detailed Guide to Shades and Finishes

The NARS Afterglow Balm is a fan-favorite for its ability to provide a natural, healthy glow with just a hint of color. These balms are not only hydrating but also buildable, allowing for a sheer or more intense finish depending on your preference. In this guide, we will dive deep into the different shades available, their undertones, and how they look on various skin tones. Whether you're looking for a subtle tint or a bolder look, NARS Afterglow Balms offer a versatile option for every makeup lover.

1. What is NARS Afterglow Balm?

NARS Afterglow Balm is a tinted lip balm that offers a sheer wash of color while keeping your lips hydrated. Infused with Monoï Hydrating Complex, this balm smooths and softens lips, providing long-lasting moisture. Unlike traditional lipsticks or glosses, the Afterglow Balm offers a more natural finish, making it ideal for everyday wear or as a base for other lip products. The balm’s versatility is a key selling point, allowing users to layer it for more pigment or keep it subtle for a no-makeup makeup look.

2. Swatching the NARS Afterglow Balm Shades

NARS offers a range of shades in their Afterglow Balm collection, each with its unique undertone and finish. Below is a breakdown of the most popular shades and how they appear on different skin tones.

• Orgasm: A peachy pink with golden shimmer, this shade is a classic NARS hue that is universally flattering. It adds a soft glow to the lips without being overpowering, making it a perfect everyday shade.

• Dolce Vita: This dusty rose shade is a cult favorite. It provides a natural, your-lips-but-better color that suits almost every skin tone. Dolce Vita is especially flattering on medium to dark skin tones, offering a subtle yet noticeable tint.

• Fast Lane: A cool-toned mauve, Fast Lane is perfect for those who prefer a more understated look. The shade adds a hint of color while maintaining a natural appearance, making it ideal for light to medium skin tones.

• Turbo: For those who want a bolder look, Turbo offers a sheer red tint that can be built up for more intensity. This shade is perfect for evening wear or when you want to add a pop of color to your makeup look.

• Wicked Ways: A deep berry shade, Wicked Ways is perfect for fall and winter. It provides a rich, vampy look without being too heavy, making it suitable for both light and dark skin tones.

3. Texture and Finish

One of the standout features of the NARS Afterglow Balm is its texture. The balm glides on smoothly, offering a silky feel that is neither too thick nor too thin. The finish is what truly sets it apart—a perfect balance between glossy and natural. The balms are not sticky, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods.

The balms also contain antioxidants to protect the lips from environmental stressors. This makes them not only a cosmetic product but also a beneficial addition to your skincare routine. Whether you wear them alone or layer them over a lipstick, the NARS Afterglow Balm ensures your lips stay hydrated and protected.

4. Longevity and Wearability

While the NARS Afterglow Balm offers a beautiful finish, it is important to note that, like most tinted balms, it is not the longest-wearing product. The color tends to fade after a few hours, especially after eating or drinking. However, the balm is easy to reapply and does not require a mirror, making it a convenient option for touch-ups throughout the day.

Despite its sheer nature, the balm does leave a slight stain on the lips as it wears off, ensuring that you don’t lose all color between applications. This subtle staining effect is particularly useful for those who prefer a more natural look without the need for constant reapplication.

5. How to Choose the Right Shade

Choosing the right shade of NARS Afterglow Balm depends on your skin tone and the look you want to achieve. Here are some tips:

• Light Skin Tones: Opt for shades like Orgasm or Fast Lane for a natural, everyday look. These shades complement the cool undertones of light skin and add just the right amount of color.

• Medium Skin Tones: Dolce Vita and Turbo are great options for medium skin tones. They offer enough pigment to enhance your natural lip color without overpowering it.

• Dark Skin Tones: Wicked Ways and Turbo are ideal for darker skin tones. The deeper hues of these balms stand out beautifully, offering a rich, luxurious finish.

6. Application Tips

To get the most out of your NARS Afterglow Balm, here are some application tips:

• Layering: For a more intense look, apply multiple layers of the balm. Start with one layer for a sheer wash of color, and then build up the intensity as desired.

• As a Base: Use the balm as a base for your lipstick. The hydrating formula will keep your lips moisturized, and the tint will enhance the color of your lipstick.

• On Its Own: For a no-makeup makeup look, wear the balm on its own. It provides just enough color to brighten your face while keeping your lips looking natural and healthy.

• With Lip Liner: Pair the balm with a lip liner for a more defined look. Choose a liner that matches the shade of the balm for a seamless finish.

7. Final Thoughts

The NARS Afterglow Balm is a versatile product that caters to a wide range of preferences. Whether you’re a fan of subtle, natural looks or prefer a bolder lip, there’s a shade and application method for everyone. The balm’s hydrating formula, coupled with its buildable color, makes it a must-have in any makeup collection. If you’re looking for a product that can do it all—moisturize, tint, and protect—then the NARS Afterglow Balm is definitely worth considering.