Most women will agree that the easiest and quickest way to pull together a polished look is with a pop colour. Even Elizabeth Taylor once said “put on some lipstick and pull yourself together”. There’s just something so transformative about the power of lipstick that works as an instant confidence boost. But with so many lipsticks out there on the market, which should make it into your makeup arsenal? We take five formulas to the test to review their staying power, hydration and finish; to aid you in your quest for the can’t-live-without lipstick. May the best bullet win.
shu uemura Rouge Unlimited
Wearability: This ultra-smooth formula almost glides on like gloss more than a traditional lipstick. It goes on better than it stays on, but that’s not too surprising given this texture.
Finish: Lacquer, wet-look
Hydration: 8.5/10 — No cracked or flaky lips at all.
Highlight: The sultry, melty (in a hot way) effect makes lips look so kissable
Price: HK$230
Chanel Rouge Allure Liquid Powder
Wearability: The ultra-intense matte liquid lipstick is one of the best stains on the market. Acting as almost a semi-permanent tattoo, the colour really doesn’t budge. But because it is a creamy liquid, it takes a few layers to get that super solid colour to stay.
Finish: A powdery, blurry matte
Hydration: 8/10
Highlight: The seamless coverage helps to hide lip lines and wrinkles so lips appear super smooth
Price: HK$290
La Bouche Rouge Lipstick
Wearability: The application of La Bouche Rouge requires ninja precision. The colour is so pigmented that it leaves no room for error and touch ups get messy. That being said, this lipstick won’t budge and will stay on for more than 6 hours.
Finish: Ultra matte
Hydration: 4/10– It’s super matte finish will dry you out so prime before you apply.
Highlight: The interchangeable bullets are good for the environment and your lipstick wardrobe space. The leather lipstick case is made from premium vegan leather which is both chic and durable.
Price: HK$1,585 (includes a leather case and two lipstick refills)
Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick
Wearability: This glides on relatively easily and packs an instant pigmentation punch. It’s long lasting and buildable. The colour and coverage is intense as it is, but for a more dramatic effect, an extra layer will do the trick.
Finish: Matte and velvety
Hydration: 6.5/10 — For a matte lipstick, it does alright.
Highlight: The square angle tip allows for precision lip line and cupid’s bow definition.
Price: HK$270
NARS Afterglow Lip Balm
Wearability: Though technically not a lipstick, the NARS Afterglow was born as a balm with a juicy tint and made to endure for hours and protect the lips.
Finish: Sheer with a slight shimmer
Hydration: 9.5/10
Highlight: Lips are smooth, supple and healthy. It’s gives that effortless no-makeup makeup flushed lips look. And of course, the ever so subtle gold shimmer.
Price: HK$250
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Dara Chau
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