Matte lipsticks have definitely had a mini-comeback recently, and we can see why! Matte lip products are opaque, long-wearing and effortlessly chic, if you find the right match for you.
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Cosmetic companies, both affordable and luxury, have undoubtedly improved their shine-free lipsticks; moving away from uncomfortable, tacky and dry formulas of the past in favour of richly pigmented and transfer-resistant miracles that are perfect if you’re a low maintenance, no-fuss type of beauty. Here we’ll share with you our top recommendations on the best matte lip products to get you up to speed with the emerging trend.
Lime Crime Velvetine
If you’re already a lover of the bold, matte lips then you probably already have one (or several) of these in your collection. The wet, liquid formula that reaches full opacity in just one swipe is perfect if you want your lips to look flawless for hours – completely transfer-proof and incredibly long-wearing. Lime Crime is renowned for producing vibrant, unusual colours and the Velvetine line is no exception with shades ranging from classic red and pink, to matte brown and even black. Be warned though: although the product dries down quickly, it sets to an ultra-matte finish that is difficult to remove and can leave your lips feeling tight as the day rolls on.
$20 USD, available from Lime Crime
Rimmel Kate Moss Lasting Finish Matte Lipstick
If you’re hesitant to make the switch from hydrating to matte lipsticks, then this is the ideal product for you. The sweet smelling formula is one of the most moisturising and comfortable that I have come across yet. However, I would personally describe this collection as having more of a satin-matte finish as they don’t really dry down all the way. Although not the longest-wearing product, it leaves behind a flattering stain to the lips, and doesn’t look thick when you reapply it again.
$12.95, available from Priceline
NYX’s Soft Matte Lip Cream
If you ever see me with matte lips, it’s probably thanks to these gems! Although not as long-wearing or kiss-proof as some products, they are so extremely comfortable and opaque that I can get over the obligatory middle-of-the-day lipstick touch-up. US-based brand NYX has released an impressive range of shades in the line (which are adorably named after major cities), most of which are appropriate for everyday. I particularly adore the shade Istanbul, which is a mid-toned dusty pink that brightens up the face and works on many different skin tones. If you’re new to non-glossy lips, I couldn’t recommend these enough.
$12.95, available from Target
MAC Cosmetics Lipstick
MAC releases their signature vanilla-scented lipsticks in various finishes and their matte formula just happens to be one of my favourite formulas. They’ve struck a beautiful balance between providing full, rich colour on the lips and remaining comfortable. Obviously, there’s plenty of shades to choose from and are a great little investment if you feel you haven’t found that same balance in any other lipstick.
$36, available from MAC Cosmetics
Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm
What can I say? Revlon has always been an affordable brand that makes damn good lip products. The retractable, thick chubby stick is perfect for precision and creating smooth lines. Plus the formula is on point – long-wearing, moisturising and leaves behind a convenient stain to the lips. And maybe I’ve been indulging in too many festive candy canes lately, but the minty scent of the product just makes it even more pleasant to use! Bear in mind though that like many other comfortable matte lipsticks, these do not completely dry down to preserve that hydration to the lips.
$17.95, available from Priceline
Images via ko-te.com, limecrime.com, target.com.au, priceline.com.au
