2 // NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream
3 // Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm
4 // Jordana Modern Matte Lipstick (see swatches here)
5 // City Color Be Matte Lipstick
It’s no secret that matte lips are taking Spring by storm this year. I’ve always favored a matte finish on the lips, but it can be a struggle to find one that meets all the requirements for a damn good lipstick. What requirements, you may ask? Mattes have a dry finish, so finding one that doesn’t suck all the moisture from your lips is a must. Of course, you’ll want your lipstick to have full-coverage color that will stay in place, too. And finally, we want it all on a budget, am I right?
I’ve tried many drugstore matte lipsticks, but these five come out on top as the ones that I genuinely enjoy wearing. Each of them apply smoothly, while delivering a matte finish that’s comfortable instead of drying. I’m a stickler for pigmentation, so you best believe these picks deliver strong, opaque color payoff that lasts.
A helpful tip for wearing matte lipsticks– whether drugstore or high-end– exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate. Even the most moisturizing matte lipstick will slightly emphasize dry patches and chapped lips. Use a lip scrub and prime the lips with a balm prior to application for the smoothest results.
One upside to the dry finish of matte lipsticks is that they tend to last longer with less chance of smearing. However, lip liner can help them apply easier and stay put within the lines. I prefer using clear lip liner since it will match every shade, like the e.l.f Lip Lock Pencil.
What’s your favorite matte lipstick?
Katie Garvin // From My Vanity
I am SUCH a big fan of matte, longwear lipsticks. Even though I don’t have the best lips for it (they tend to get dry often) I still love to wear them whenever I get the chance. I’m careful to keep my lips moisturizer and I always exfoliate before applying these lipsticks. 🙂 Definitely a helpful hint!
I really love the NYX lip creams! They’re not super long wearing, but they last a good amount of time. And the finish is so pretty!!
Miranda | SlashedBeauty.com
I agree… after eating I normally have to touch up the NYX lip creams, especially near the part of my lips. But the finish is gorgeous on both dramatic and neutral shades!
VanityRouge
I am learning to love matte lipsticks more and more, so I’m glad you posted this! The NYX are fabulous but I definitely need to try the others – especially Milani. 🙂
Miranda | SlashedBeauty.com
Yes those are sooo pigmented. I need more of the NYX ones pronto! 🙂