The Fenty Beauty x Arcane collaboration has sparked significant interest, particularly with the release of limited-edition lip glosses. One of the most sought-after shades is Kaboom, inspired by the character Jinx. This holographic black gloss was incredibly popular and quickly sold out, making it a coveted item for fans and beauty enthusiasts alike.
The Fenty Beauty x Arcane Collection
The second collaboration between Arcane and Fenty Beauty builds upon the success of their initial partnership. This major collection, launched on Monday, October 27th, features four exclusive Gloss Bombs, each retailing for $22, and a Hydra Vizor Mystery Box for $44. Both product lines draw inspiration from the two-season show created by Christian Linke and Alex Yee.
The 2023 collection was a remarkable success, selling out rapidly after its release. The new Gloss Bomb shades include:
- Risky Rulin: A sparkling warm gold inspired by the character Mel.
- Rogue On Riche$: A shimmering peach nude inspired by Caitlyn.
- Rebel Rais’r: A vibrant holographic pink inspired by the character Vi.
- Kaboom: A holographic black inspired by the character Jinx.
Each shade is designed to feature sparkling reflex, imparting a juicy, light-catching effect on the lips.
Focus on Jinx's Shade: Kaboom
The reviewer acquired the Kaboom shade, Jinx’s signature color, driven by a desire for a holographic black gloss. Although not a player of League of Legends or a viewer of Arcane, the appeal of this unique finish, coupled with a past regret of missing out on the Major Flex (Roblox collab) gloss, prompted the purchase shortly after the release on Sephora.
The packaging of the Fenty Beauty x Arcane collaboration is noted as a significant feature. The reviewer keeps the gloss housed in its original box, considering it a "nice little collector’s piece" that would appeal to fans of League of Legends and Arcane. Closer inspection reveals intricate designs on the inside of the packaging, enhancing its collectible value.
Formula and Color Analysis of Kaboom
Regarding the formula and color of the Kaboom gloss, it is described as very thick and somewhat sticky. The finish is initially sheer but can be built up for more opacity. A noteworthy characteristic is its color variation depending on the lighting; it can appear as a warm black or a cool black. A close-up picture in warm lighting highlights this aspect.
The lip gloss is also scented, with a fragrance reminiscent of vanilla or cake, complemented by hints of peach. This scent profile differs from another Fenty Gloss Bomb Cream shade the reviewer owns, which has a scent closer to champagne.
A swatch of the gloss is highlighted as effectively capturing its sparkle, likened to a "galaxy."
Wear Test and Performance
The initial wear test involved applying the gloss directly to the lips. Two sets of photos were taken: one with flash and one without. In the photos without flash, the gloss appeared more sheer, with a visible black tint on the corners of the mouth. The reviewer observed that the gloss seemed to rub off in the center of the lips during wear, indicating a need for reapplication after eating or drinking.
For a subsequent test, the Kaboom gloss was paired with the Fenty Traced Out lip liner in Coal Blooded. The intention was to replicate a combination similar to the previously missed Major Flex gloss. While the lip liner did tend to "melt" slightly under the gloss, even with Fenty brand glosses, the combination was considered successful. The reviewer noted that the Rimmel Stay Gloss seemed to cause more melting of the lip liner compared to the Fenty gloss, which held in place slightly better.
Without flash, the combination with the lip liner appeared even darker. The reviewer expressed an interest in trying the gloss with Sugarpill Zero matte lipstick in the future, praising it as another excellent black lipstick.
The reviewer reflects on how this product would have been a dream come true during their teenage years, fulfilling a desire for a holographic black gloss. The gloss is recommended for its shine, galaxy-like sparkles, and versatility, whether worn alone as a sheer black gloss or over other black lipsticks.
Additional Collection Details
In addition to the lip glosses, the collection includes a mystery box featuring Fenty's Hydra Vizor Moisturizer Sunscreen. This sunscreen is packaged in one of four collector’s cases, inspired by the characters Vi, Jinx, Caitlyn, and Mel. The Hydra Vizor sunscreen offers SPF 30 and is formulated with niacinamide, known for its skin-benefiting properties such as strengthening the skin barrier, reducing inflammation, and improving skin appearance.
The Arcane series itself is based on the highly popular multiplayer online battle arena video game, League of Legends, often referred to as League. Arcane is considered a spin-off series inspired by the game and has significant ties to the music industry.