The name of the balm is accurate to a T; it is sheer and matte. The color is gorgeous and looks like my lips but better (I have median/neutral skin for reference). If you want a bold color you def have to build it up, but otherwise, this provides a nice tint of color. It is relatively transfer-proof as the description says. The only con I can note about this is that it is drying; make sure your lips are moisturized before applying this.