theBalm Hot Mama Shadow/Blush: Review, Swatches and Dupe

Hot Mama Blush and Eyeshadow by theBalm Review

 By Contributor: Shilpa

While less known in our part of the world (read India), theBalm is a hugely popular cosmetics brand in the US. Known for their retro, sexy packaging and super fun, quirky names they have some amazing cheek, eye and lip products. My induction to the brand happened in Turkey where they had this sale and I just couldn’t resist picking multiple products from their portfolio! But my absolute favorite turned out to be the sample that I got with my purchase, and not the 3 full sized products I bought. As you may have guessed, it is that lovely sample we will review and swatch today, which is the Hot Mama blush/eye shadow.

theBalm Claims: An all-in-one essential, this smart shadow, beautiful blush and subtle highlighter is tucked inside a go-anywhere compact. This pinky-peach _hue adds a splash of color to your cheeks and a hint of shimmer to your lids, while illuminating your finest features.

My Review:

I am an absolute sucker for beautiful packaging and the more distinctive, the better. I feel like a curator when I pick up stuff with quirky, stand out packaging. And that is 50% of the reason why I couldn’t resist these babies when I set my eyes on them. A couple of swatches and I was hooked! The packaging closure is magnetic and fastens securely, making it a dream to travel with. The full size pack also has a built-in mirror inside, making touch ups easy peasy!

The blush powder itself has subtle shimmer (not of the disco ball variety), is finely milled and goes on beautifully to the cheeks, making me look naturally fresh and radiant. The color is a pretty peach and adds a healthy, happy glow to the face. I believe it will flatter all kinds of warm, yellow Indian skin tones.

It isn’t super pigmented but is buildable, lasts about 4-5 hours. I am sure it will last more with a primer, but I cant be made to put in so much effort. Can also be used as an eye shadow. I read somewhere that this is considered a dupe for NARS Orgasm.

What Works about theBalm Hot Mama Shadow:

• Gorgeous peachy shade
• Subtle shimmer
• Two in blush and eye shadow
• Convenient, travel friendly packaging
• Built in mirror

What May Not Work about theBalm Hot Mama Blush:

• Not in India, what else?

Price: $20

VNA Rating: 4.5/5 (Deducted 0.5 due to absolute non availability in India)

Dupe: NARS Orgasm Blush

Recommendation: theBalm Hot Mama is a subtle peach pink blush and eyeshadow. I am re-purchasing before I run out of the samples they gave me! It is my everyday go-to blush, need I say more?

Have you tried Hot Mama? Share your views with us.