Skincare
Smooch Away! These 7 mask-proof lipsticks won’t smudge
Nov
We get it — you’re busy. There are practically a million other things you’d rather do than stare down your own reflection and realise, once again, your lipstick has smeared halfway across your face. Who did you see! How embarrassing! Look no further for a fuss-free, smudge-proof pout.
The best thing about matte lipsticks is that they make your lips look plump, have a feathery light feel, and rarely smudge under a face mask. The look might go back to as far as the ’30s, but it’s still as current today and it’s incredible how transformative a swipe of a good matte lipstick can be. Because of their texture and finish, these products are also perfect for wearing under face masks. Unlike glossy or shimmery iterations, the formula here adheres to the lips much better and is versatile enough to be blurred out at the edges or worn boldly.
Matte lipsticks of the past might’ve gotten a bad rap for being extremely drying for the lips, but times have changed and so have formulations.
From budget friendly picks to bougie versions from Hermès, here are the best options that beautifully pigmented, long-lasting and comfortable enough for all-day wear, so you won’t have to worry about reapplications throughout the day
Burberry Kisses Matte Lip Colour (HK$270)
Chances are you have a favourite Burberry lip colour by now. The new Burberry Kisses Matte takes this relationship to new heights by transforming the brand’s classic colours into a rich luminous matte that’s just as comfortable and pigmented as its other iterations. The long-lasting formula — infused with hyaluronic acid — stays in place for up to eight hours too, and imparts a delicate rose scent for a total sensory experience.
NARS Air Matte Lip Color Lipstick (HK$260)
You’d be hard pressed to find another matte lip colour that describes itself as “cushiony”, but that’s exactly how NARS’ latest feels. The lightweight lippie sees a Colour Diffusion Complex that creates a soft-focus finish with a creamy feel, so you can build and blend it into your lips to achieve any look. Its custom-designed applicator also ensure you get a matte lip without any mess. You can pick from one of NARS’ iconic shades here, or try a new one like Surrender or Dusty Rose, both pretty nudes that are on trend now.
Guerlain KissKiss Tender Matte (HK$280)
Formulated with shea butter and rose petal extract, Guerlain’s latest takes away the familiar feeling of tightness usually associated with matte lipsticks. Hyaluronic acid is also added to leave lips looking and feeling plumper. Expect a soft, second-skin finish with this one.
Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick (HK$230)
We’ve waxed lyrical about the magic of Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk lipsticks. Now, you can get it in a matte formula for all-day wear under masks. This nourishing lipstick contains antioxidant Lipstick Tree and orchid extracts to soothe and hydrate, while 3D glowing pigments create the illusion of fuller lips. If you already have chapped lips but don’t want the slip and slide of balmy formulas, this one’s for you.
Rouge Dior (HK$330)
Best described as couture for your lips, Rouge Dior is enriched with red peony and pomegranate flower extracts to keep your lips plump and comfortable all day. While we’re big fans of the satin and velvet finishes, the matte versions are just as luxurious for your lips, and come in a range of colours for any look, whether it’s full-on glam or casual chic.
Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet (HK$305)
Described to be “as soft and comfortable as velvet”, Chanel’s take on the matte lipstick promises second-skin comfort, but with a matte yet luminous finish. The highly pigmented formula comes in six shades of reds and pinks, all packaged in chic black and gold casings for extra flair.
Rouge Hermes Matte Lipstick (HK$570)
Launched in tandem with the colder months is Hermes’ limited edition Rouge Hermes Autumn-Winter 2021 collection, this time in three matte shades to convey the beauty of winter. All three are beautiful, but our pick is the Rose Magenta, a cool, dense pink that’s just as intense as it is striking. The moisturising formula here lends a velvety and powdery finish to your lips, and can give you strong, defined lips or a softly blurred one.
