When it comes to beauty, every generation has its thing. Speaking from experience, Gen Z’s is officially lip products. Is it because of selfie culture? The Kylie Jenner lip kits that launched at a formative age? The competitive trade market of delicious Lip Smackers that lasted throughout childhood (ugh, bring that back)? Whatever the reason, it’s all about the pout these days—and as a Gen Z-er myself, I’ve definitely bought in.

I have enough lippies to last a lifetime, but it takes exactly zero convincing for me to try the latest formula, shade, or finish (they all have their time and place, after all). So imagine how excited I was when I came across Monika Blunder Beauty—a brand I’d somehow never heard of, despite its top-tier reputation—at QVC's Master Beauty Class. Launched in 2020 by celebrity makeup artist Monika Blunder, the line focuses on consciously created, botanical-based products that pack a makeup-artist-worthy punch of pigment.

I couldn't wait to get my hands on her products to see if they'd get the Gen Z stamp of approval. I ordered the crayon, lip oil, and tint, and immediately put them to the test—and in just a few weeks, they’ve earned a permanent spot in my daily rotation.

My Monika Blunder Beauty Review: Lips Edition

Kissen Lush Lipstick Crayon — $29

This lipstick crayon is the definition of effortless. With ingredients like jojoba seed oil and shea butter, the formula glides on smoothly (no tugging, no dryness) and feels surprisingly creamy for how long it lasts. I snagged it in Warm Nude, and it's become my go-to neutral for everyday wear. My favorite way to apply it: a light, blotted-on layer for a lived-in effect—though it builds beautifully if you prefer a bolder look—paired with a slightly darker lip liner for a little extra definition.

Sweet Talk Lip Oil — $29

A swipe of this took me by surprise—in the best way. I chose Pink Mauve expecting a sheer wash of color, but this oil brings major pigment. While the shade is a bit brighter than what I usually go for, I've found myself reaching for the fun and fresh tint on a daily basis. It's that just-had-a-popsicle kind of flush (but in an intentionally cool way), and unlike most lip oils that seem to disappear in five minutes, this one’s shine actually sticks around. Plus, I swear it makes my lips look plumper.

Botanical Balm Hylauronic Lip Tint — $23

I don’t say this lightly: I am *in love.* From the second I tested this lip tint, I knew it was different—it’s deeply hydrating (shoutout to hyaluronic acid, a skincare VIP), but without that slippery, too-glossy feel. I got the clear shade, and now I’m eyeing the colors because I can’t. Get. Enough. It's the kind of product I want to throw in my bag and use all day, and I'm starting a petition for Monika Blunder to produce it in tube-and-wand form, um, immediately.

So back to Gen Z. No matter your age, there's something to take from the beauty trend that 20-somethings are loving. If you ask me, it's the simple joy of discovering a new formula that makes you feel like you, with a little extra color and shine. And the three new Monika Blunder Beauty MVPs now living in my overflowing lip collection? They all fit the bill.