There was a moment there where matte lipstick could have just been a passing fad—but not so! Shine-free formulas have since been solidified as a true stalwart of the makeup world. But like all things, even the best matte lipsticks have their downsides, and there’s one that immediately comes to mind: a rough, chalky feeling and emphasized dry patches were, until recently, the hallmarks of any matte formula.
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But trust now that those days are over, and matte formulas can now be just as moisturizing as their glossy counterparts. These 7 choices, from the higher-end options to the best drugstore matte lipsticks around, have all the intensely pigmented, satiny-finish payoff of their predecessors, with none of the struggle.
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1. Elizabeth Arden Beautiful Color Moisturizing Matte Lipstick
This formula truly lives up to its name, and because it's so moisturizing, the color manages to stick around for a long time without flaking off. Not to mention the fact that it feels like a balm going on—what could be better? (Elizabeth Arden $25)
2. MAC Lipstick in Russian Red
This classic blood-red matte shade has long been heralded as a universally flattering tube of magic—which, considering it's under $20, is pretty remarkable. It's not for the faint of heart, but it will get you attention. (Nordstrom $17)
3. Marc Jacobs Beauty Kiss Pop Lip Color Stick
Aside from the fact that the chubby, crayon-like packaging is pretty darling, these long-lasting lipsticks, which are allegedly kiss-proof, have smooth, long-lasting pigment that feels like you're wearing a cream formula. (Marc Jacob $28)
Maybelline Color Sensational Creamy Matte Lip Color
Good luck hunting these down in your local drugstore, because it's been a couple years since their release and somehow they're still always sold out. If that isn't a testament to their greatness, wait until you get them on your lips. The bold color, velvety texture, and impulse-buy price are downright unbeatable. (Drugstore.com $6)
NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
These pencils are exactly what they sound like: soft, supremely velvety, suede-like pigment that goes on and stays on. It doesn't get much more matte than this. (NARS Cosmetics $26)
NYX Matte Lipstick
A cut above your run-of-the-mill drugstore brand, these lipsticks are very high quality for a very, very low price, not to mention the excellent shade range (45 of 'em, for what it's worth). You'll never want for anything else. (NYX Cosmetics, $6)
Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate Moss Lipstick
Everything Kate Moss touches turns to gold, so it's only natural that her collaborative lip color collection with this Brit favorite drugstore brand is fantastic. With a well-rounded offering of nudes, pinks, and reds, these mattes look and feel great. (Drugstore.com, $6)
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com