Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm: The Luxe Lip Hybrid Reviewed

A comprehensive review of the Hourglass Phantom Glossy Lip Balm, covering formula, wear, packaging, and user verdicts.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 30, 2025

A comprehensive review of the Hourglass Phantom Glossy Lip Balm, covering formula, wear, packaging, and user verdicts.

Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm: Is the Viral Lip Hybrid Worth the Hype?

The Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm has captured the attention of beauty enthusiasts and social media influencers alike. With its luxurious gold packaging and promises of glossy, hydrated lips, it’s no wonder this product is flying off shelves. This review takes an in-depth look at the formula, texture, longevity, shade range, and overall value, synthesizing both editor insights and real-world experiences.

Overview: What Is the Hourglass Phantom Glossy Balm?

The Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm by Hourglass is positioned as a hybrid product, blending the hydrating benefits of a balm with the high-shine finish of a gloss. Retailing around $35-$36, it appeals to those seeking effortless color, comfort, and a touch of luxury in their lip routine.

Dual-action formula: Balm meets gloss in one product.
Luxe packaging: Gold, pen-style tube for easy application and reapplication.
Infused with a Conditioning Complex: Designed to hydrate and soften.
Available in multiple shades: New shades have been introduced for 2025.

First Impressions: Packaging and Application

The reflective gold tube is undeniably chic and stand-out on any vanity or in a handbag. The twist-up mechanism is easy to use, but caution is advised not to over-click; once the product advances, it won’t retract, making it important to dispense only what is needed. One minor flaw is its tendency to attract fingerprints, though most users don’t find this a dealbreaker.

Ergonomic, pen-style format facilitates precise, mirror-free application.
The stick format means no messy fingers or applicators.
Compact enough for on-the-go touch-ups.

Formula & Sensation: Balm Meets Gloss

What sets the Hourglass Phantom apart is its ultra-silky formula. It glides effortlessly over lips, smoothing over texture and fine lines, and provides a luxurious, hydrating feel without being heavy or sticky. After application, a cool, minty tingle refreshes without irritation, attributed to Hourglass’s Conditioning Complex.

Non-sticky texture: A significant draw for those averse to traditional glosses.
Minty cooling sensation: Adds a fresh twist to each application.
Sheer to buildable pigment: Comfortable color that can be intensified with additional strokes.
Long-lasting hydration: Even after the shine fades, lips remain nourished.

Shade Range: Options for Every Mood

Hourglass offers this balm in a growing selection of shades, from mauves and reds to pinks and nudes. The pigment is described as sheer but sufficiently buildable for a noticeable wash of color. For those seeking more definition, pairing with a lip liner is recommended.

Shade Name	Description	Best For
Impulse	Deep red, buildable intensity	Bold & classic lip look
Secret	Soft mauve	Everyday wear, subtle flush
Additional shades	Pinks, beiges, berries introduced for 2025	Tailored to different skin tones and preferences

Note: All shades deliver a dewy, juicy finish, but coverage remains on the lighter side with visible tint.

Performance: Wear Time & Longevity

This balm prioritizes comfort and hydration over staying power. Users commonly report that the formula wears about an hour before requiring reapplication, and it doesn’t survive meals or drinks well. As one reviewer put it, “if you snack and sip, expect to touch up frequently.”

Transfer potential: The product transfers easily; expect it to wear off quicker with eating/drinking.
Easy reapplication: Thanks to the stick format, applying more is hassle-free and can be done without a mirror.
Residual hydrating effect: Lips feel moisturized, even after the glossy layer fades.

User Verdicts: Editor & Consumer Perspectives

What do beauty editors and customers say about the Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm? Across several firsthand reviews, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with special appreciation for the comfort, finish, and nourishing formula. Below are insights from editors and community members:

Emma Walsh, Beauty Editor: “It applies so silky smooth and has this minty tingle I can’t get enough of. I use one swipe for a hint or build for more drama. No dramatic volumizing, but I’m hooked on the finish and comfort.”
Erin Jahns, Beauty Director: “This is the perfect compromise for those who like gloss but hate stickiness. It gives your lips fullness and glassiness, and actually feels moisturizing—a rarity for glosses.”
Consumer reviews: Many liken the formula’s finish to a “juicy, glassy lip,” praising the balm for making lips look smoother and feel softer. The lightweight texture and minty cool are consistent highlights. Some wish for longer-lasting wear, but don’t mind because touch-ups are so simple.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Luxe packaging Hydrating, nourishing formula Non-sticky and comfortable Easy, mirror-free application Sheer yet buildable color options Cooling sensation is refreshing	Short wear time (requires frequent reapplication) Product cannot retract after twisting up Transfers easily to cups, utensils, etc. High price compared to other balms Packaging attracts fingerprints

How Does It Compare to Other Lip Products?

Many users compare the Hourglass Phantom Glossy Balm to other balmy gloss formulas. It’s noted to be less sticky than traditional glosses, more hydrating than standard balms, and easier to apply than liquid glosses.

Better than sticky tube glosses: No tackiness, lightweight feel.
Comparable to trending balm-gloss hybrids: Stands out for its silky finish and elegant packaging.
More expensive than drugstore alternatives: Price is justified by formula and finish, but may not be for everyone.

Best Application Tips

Apply lightly: Start with one swipe for a subtle tint; build up for more color.
Pair with lip liner: For additional definition and longer wear.
Reapply as needed: Touch up easily without a mirror throughout the day.
Store carefully: Don’t twist up more than needed, as product doesn’t retract.

Is It Worth the Price?

At over $35, this gloss-balm hybrid is priced at the luxury end of the spectrum. Those seeking long-lasting pigment may find the wear time disappointing, but fans of hydration, glossiness, and top-tier product feel may consider it a worthwhile splurge. Many reviewers—both editors and consumers—suggest trying at least one shade to see if you fall in love with the formula.

If comfort, hydration, and a high-gloss finish are your priorities, the balm delivers in every aspect except longevity.
If you prefer long-wear color, you may need to look elsewhere or combine this balm with other products.
The elegant packaging and lip-smoothing effect justify the higher cost for many beauty lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes the Hourglass Phantom Glossy Balm unique?

It combines the moisturizing properties of a balm with the shine of a gloss in a luxurious gold tube, featuring a non-sticky, buildable formula and a refreshing minty sensation.

Does the balm actually plump the lips?

While it instantly gives lips a fuller, juicier look due to its glossy finish, most users report only subtle plumping rather than dramatic volumization.

How long does it last on the lips?

Wear time is typically up to an hour without eating or drinking, and frequent reapplication is required. However, hydration persists even after the gloss is gone.

Are there alternatives to this lip balm?

Other balm-gloss hybrids exist, but Hourglass stands out for its luxury packaging, ultra-comfortable formula, and instantly smooth finish.

Can I use the balm without a mirror?

Yes. The stick format and sheer pigment make it easy to apply on the go, even without a mirror.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy It?

If you love the look of glossy, juicy lips but hate sticky formulas, or desire an elevated everyday lip product that feels as good as it looks, the Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm is worth investigating. While the wear time is short and the price high, the hydrating formula, stunning finish, and convenience may tempt you to add more than one shade to your collection. That unmistakable hint of luxury sets it apart in a crowded market.

Best for: Those seeking comfort, hydration, elegance, and effortless shine.
Not ideal for: Those who prioritize lasting pigment or want budget lip color.

Your lips deserve a little luxury—and with the Hourglass Phantom Glossy Balm, that’s exactly what you’ll get.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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