elf Hydrating Core Lip Shine At a Glance At A Glance
The e.l.f. Hydrating Core Lip Shines are a shiny lip balm with a sheer wash of color.
• Shades: 8 available at $7 each.
• Packaging: Retractable bullet with a melting heart-shaped core.
• Key Ingredient: Vitamin E to nourish, condition, and moisturize.
• Finish: Soft shine with a sheer tint of color.
The latest balm on the chopping block is the elf Hydrating Core Lip Shine line. I am reviewing and swatching all eight shades to assist you in finding the right hue for you. Plus, we will find out together if these are any good and meet their claims before you buy.
Details & Claims
We are going to start by discussing where you can buy this collection. Most drugstores that carry the brand will have these lip balms. Besides going to elf Cosmetics directly, you can check out Ulta, Target, and Amazon.
See On elf CosmeticsSee On UltaSee On TargetSee On Amazon
Next are the claims. They state that the formula is a melting balm with a heart-shaped core that moisturizes the lips. You should get a sheer tint of color with a soft shine. The key ingredient is Vitamin E that nourishes, moisturizes, and conditions.
Swatches & Shades
Here is a breakdown of the eight shade names with their color descriptions:
- Joyful – pink rose
- Happy – dusty rose
- Blissful – caramel brown
- Delightful – mauve
- Lovely – light red
- Cheery – coral
- Ecstatic – deep berry
- Giddy – orange

Joyful

Happy

Blissful

Delightful

Lovely

Cheery

elf Hydrating Core Lip Shine Ecstatic

Giddy

Review
I am providing a close-up of the core so that you can see it is clear. These do provide a sheer tint, or wash, of color. A soft shine is present, but nothing glossy like a lip gloss. These are not heavy or sticky, but they feel moisturizing. Ultimately, they are lip balms and they look, wear, and feel just like other lip balms in elf’s lineup.
Do I think that you need to own all of the shades from all three collections? No, it comes down to the swatches and key ingredients that speak to you. These balms do clearly meet their claims and are a perfectly good choice.
I want to throw in that these are not meant to be long wearing. Just like any balm, these will transfer and wear off, so you may re-apply as desired. Lately I find myself reaching for tinted balms when I am short on time, and they are perfect for work at home video calls!

Pros and Cons
Pros
- Clear core and sheer tint create a soft, natural look
- Provides light shine without a glossy finish
- Moisturizing, non-sticky, and lightweight feel
- Comfortable to wear throughout the day
- Easy to reapply as needed
- Meets its product claims
- Ideal for quick routines and work-from-home days
- Offers variety across multiple shades and collections
Cons
- Not long wearing
- Transfers easily like most balms
- Not necessary to buy all shades—choose based on ingredients or tone preference
Frequently Asked Questions
What is e.l.f. Hydrating Core Lip Shine?
e.l.f. Hydrating Core Lip Shine is a tinted lip balm with a heart-shaped moisturizing core that delivers sheer color and lasting hydration in one swipe.
How is Hydrating Core Lip Shine different from a regular lipstick?
Unlike traditional lipsticks, Hydrating Core Lip Shine combines sheer pigment with nourishing skincare ingredients for a balm-like texture and glossy finish, offering comfort and shine rather than full coverage.
What shades are available in the Hydrating Core Lip Shine range?
The Hydrating Core Lip Shine shades include Delightful, Joyful, Lovely, Blissful, Ecstatic, Cheery, Happy, Giddy, and Delight. Each shade provides a subtle tint with a moisturizing feel.
Shop The Balms
The range of eight shades suits mosts tastes and skin tones. However, they are not unique to the brand or to the drugstore. If you are interested in them, you cannot go wrong. Do you have a favorite shade (or two)? Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.










One Response
These look ever so lovely!
Danielle | thereluctantblogger.co.uk