There are few items more essential to your handbag than a multipurpose balm. This skin-saving hero can double as a lip balm, cuticle cream, cheek highlighter and fly-away tamer for unruly tresses.
Sure, there are plenty of balms to choose from, but this one, in particular, is a personal favourite. Since it was first created by Elizabeth Arden herself 88-years-ago, the 8 Hour Skin Protectant ($28; myer.com.au) continues to top best-seller list around the world. In fact, according to the brand, one of these products sells every minute.
My love affair with 8 Hour Skin Protectant started on an overseas holiday, between the flight, the surf and the sun nothing could soothe my cracked lips until a friend lent me hers to try, and I’ve been hooked ever since. In summer, I apply it to sunburn and dab a little on my cheekbones for a two-second highlighter. In winter I use it on my hands, elbows and any dry patches.
What makes 8 Hour Skin Protectant so effective is its ingredients; petrolatum, a skin-soothing beta-hydroxy and vitamin E. Today it’s available in a fragrance-free version too for sensitive skin.
According to beauty folklore, Miss Arden named the product after a loyal client used it to treat her child’s skinned knee and eight hours later the skin was all better. No wonder this apricot coloured balm has earnt a rep as a miracle cure-all.
This article originally appeared on InStyle Australia