Painted lips are a Vixen must have. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect shade, pause to think about the kind of finish you want. Avoid the frustration of choosing unflattering lipsticks by learning all you need to know about the most common formulas. The makeup authority MAC Cosmetics teaches makeup novices how to ‘speak’ lipstick through their range of finishes from matte to a glaze. We’ve chosen to break down the four most common lipstick finishes for every occasion.
Matte
Matte lipstick offers no shine but delivers the best color payoff. Matte formulas aren’t creamy and smooth, in fact most women find them to be drying. Matte lips tend to flatter older women more as there is no shine and sparkle to pool in fine lines. MAC’s Ruby Woo is a favorite among Vixen’s like Tracee Ellis Ross, Rihanna and June Ambrose.
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Satin
Satin finish lippies are great for Vixens seeking color payoff without the unflattering drying effect of a matte formula. You’ll find the lipstick glides on a lot smoother, but still delivers major pigmentation. MAC’s Rebel (bottom right) is a must have satin shade, dab it on for a light wash or build up the color with a few more coats. Bonus: Once the color fades it leaves behind a berry stain.
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Frost
Kim Kardashian is notorious for rocking MAC’s Angel; the baby pink color is a favorite for nude lips especially when paired with a gloss. But tread cautiously when donning frosty colors, the color vanishes quickly and leaves behind glitter. Also, frosty formulas can be quite drying and pink and purple colors can suck the life out of your face. If you aren’t afraid to go bold, you’ll love frosted lipsticks.
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Cremésheen
Cremesheens are the most luxurious formula of them all. Since the finish is so glossy wear time is significantly decreased. Use a cremesheen to achieve a perfect nude lip or choose a bold color in the hydrating formula.
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