If there’s one thing I hate, it’s constantly reapplying lipstick after everything: taking a drink, eating food, kissing your partner, etc. Not to mention, you have to ensure your lipstick is always close at hand for those essential top-ups throughout the day.
While there are some occasions where this isn’t the end of the world, for an evening out, for example, when it’s your go-to lippy for all-day wearing, constantly needing to ensure it hasn’t smudged or rubbed off is a pain.
That’s why there’s one lipstick I discovered at 13 that I’ve sworn by ever since because it simply does not budge no matter what, and it lasts all day and night, no matter what. And, the best part, it’s a bargain.
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Meghan Coon)
The Maybelline Superstay lipstick in soft taupe has been my must-have for over ten years, and I’ve never found a lipstick to compete with it. I’ve tried plenty of nude shades that are close to it in the shade—I prefer a cool tone or neutral colour myself—but the longevity is unmatched with this Maybelline essential.
Boasting over 24 hours of wear, which it easily lives up to and surprises, it’s the perfect lipstick to reach for no matter the occasion. Going out for coffee? It won’t come off on the cup and disappear after the first sip. Cocktails with the girls? It stays put even after a round of shots. Enjoying a nice dinner out? You could eat a burger or chicken wings (something that would normally banish any lippy), but this lipstick does not budge. And with Valentine’s quite close on the horizon, it’s worth mentioning this gem doesn’t budge even if you’re having a smooch.
Retailing for £10.99, though currently £9.99 on Amazon, this gem comes in a wide range of shades. My two personal faves that I’ve been opting for time and time again are Soft Taupe (a cooler-tone beige-pink that’s perfect for every day) and Caramel Kiss, which I got my hands on for days where I fancy a dash of colour.
Available in most high street stores, including Boots, Superdrug, Branded Beauty, and on shelves at most major supermarkets, my favourite shade (soft taupe) tends to sell out on physical products, so Amazon is my go-to place where I know it’s in stock nearly all the time.
Not breaking the bank, this two-in-one wonder isn’t just your ordinary lipstick. It’s a liquid formula with a doe foot applicator, and it does dry down matte (something I love), but it also comes with a top-coat balm, which adds a dewy shine if you prefer a glossier finish. This balm is also handy thanks to the fact it’s attached to the lipstick and can be easily reached when you fancy wearing it atop the lipstick or as an ordinary lip balm.
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Meghan Coon)
The only downside I’ve found is that when choosing a brighter or darker colour, this lipstick does dry fairly quickly and requires a steady hand. You need precision when applying it; if you make a mistake, you must act fast to ensure no marks or stains are left in its wake.
The only other fault some may experience is that it really does not move. I’ve found it typically lasts closer to 40 hours, depending on what you’re doing. If you’re eating, drinking, or if you tend to pick or chew your lips, it may last less than that. Taking it off with your ordinary make-up wipe can be quite challenging.
This isn’t something I personally mind, as I wear it daily, and haven’t found that it dries out my lips if I leave it on. Still, if you frequently change your lipstick colour or don’t like leaving makeup on, this may prove a tad difficult at the end of the day. That being said, most makeup cleansing balms I’ve tried do a good job of removing most of them, making it easier to remove the rest with a wipe or cotton pad.
You can currently pick up this must-have lipstick in my go-to soft taupe hue for £9.99 from Amazon, or you can shop the same shade range at Boots, Superdrug, Branded Beauty, and most supermarkets.
