The Perfect Matte Lip
Written By Shreya Wadkar
Recently, matte lipsticks have been making a huge comeback. There's a world of possibilities with this opaque, gloss-free formula, from subtle and understated to a bold, statement lip. Matte lipsticks are perfect for any occasion, whether that may be a beauty pageant night to showcase a bright, friendly smile or to complete a casual day-to-day look. The formula for a matte lipstick isn't easy to perfect, but I have a few brands that will give you the perfect matte lip.
Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
These lip pencils are truly incredible. While it is high-end, the finish is well worth it. As stated in the name, this product is actually a big, crayon-like pencil, which allows easy application. It glides on smoothly and easily without dragging along the lips. While some matte lipsticks have the tendency to dry out the lips and have the potential to appear cakey, this lip pencil really does have a velvety feel on the lips. It is enriched with Vitamin E, which makes it amazingly moisturizing, and it lasts for hours without feathering or bleeding. The range of colors in this line is amazing too-- there are 19 beautifully pigmented shades to choose from. From the subtle nude called Belle de Jour to the classic red called Cruella, which is perfect for the winter months, you won't be disappointed with your options. It can also be layered with other lipsticks to create a multi-dimensional, bold look if you're looking to make a statement on the pageant stage. All in all, I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a quality lip product with lots of possibilities.
Maybelline Color Sensational Creamy Mattes
Maybelline has a relatively new line of matte lipsticks that are definitely more affordable, but still deliver a great matte finish. Unlike the Nars Lip Pencil, this line is comprised of proper lipsticks. At ten shades, the line is about half as small the above line, but there is still a great variety in shades. There are a couple nudes such as the Daringly Nude, a couple bright, fun purples and pinks, and a few deep reds such as Divine Wine for the upcoming season as well. So, no matter your skin-tone and undertones, you'll be sure to find a flattering shade in this line. Once again, as the name states, these truly do have a creamy texture similar to that of regular, glossy lipsticks, which is always a plus because it won't leave your lips feeling dry. This formula is nourishing and applies smoothly, with no need to worry about it smudging or rubbing off easily. The color pay-off of this line is also incredible. Every shade is opaque and beautifully pigmented. You certainly won't be disappointed with this line.
BONUS - Tips for applying matte lipsticks:
When applying a matte lipstick, it's important to properly prep your lips beforehand to ensure long-lasting wear and a beautiful finish. It all starts the night before, by applying a thick lip balm to soak in and moisturize those lips, leaving them smooth and soft. Before applying the lipstick, be sure to exfoliate your lips with a sugary lip scrub to get rid of dry skin that can make even the best of lipsticks appear flaky and unflattering, and then apply a light layer of lip balm. Give this a few minutes to absorb, because the formula in matte lipsticks may cause the product to slide around on your lips and rub off when combined directly with lip balm. Once you've let the lip balm absorb, apply your matte lipstick for the center of your upper lips and outward, tracing the shape of your lips, then applying it on your bottom lip. Finally, be sure to blot off any excess lipstick to ensure it doesn't bleed out or end up on your teeth.
Tell us about your favorite shades of matte lipstick for this fall and winter!
