Giorgio Armani #523 Flash Lip lacquer ($29.00 for 0.22 fl. oz.) is a vivid, pink-red with cool, blue undertones finished with an incredibly shiny, glossy sheen. Burberry Pink Sweet Pea (LE, $27.00) is pinker, shimmery. NARS Mexican Rose (P, $24.00) is more muted. NARS Norma (P, $26.00) is redder. MAC Impassioned (LE, $15.00) is similar. See comparison swatches.

It had semi-opaque color coverage–there was a light translucency that let the natural lip color come through slightly. The consistency is less like a traditional gloss, as it has a very gel-like feel that is cushy and plush, lightly tacky. It’s very comfortable to wear, and it’s actually somewhat hydrating while worn. This particular shade lasted six hours on me, which is definitely longer than the average gloss wears for on me. That juicy glossiness that makes lips look plumper lasts for hours and hours, too. The formula is scent- and taste-free.

Giorgio Armani #523 Flash Lip lacquer

Giorgio Armani #523 Flash Lip lacquer

Giorgio Armani #523 Flash Lip lacquer

Giorgio Armani #523 Flash Lip lacquer

Giorgio Armani #523 Flash Lip lacquer

Giorgio Armani #523 Flash Lip lacquer