Reader Query: Long Lasting Lipstick

Maria wanted to know: 

Hey! Can you please suggest lipsticks that stay all day long, except MAC?


Hey Maria,


Y U No want MAC? 


Haha, I'm kidding. I can understand that MAC can be expensive and not easily available at times. So I'll keep this list limited to easily available drugstore products. 


There are three important things that impact how long a lipstick will last: Method of Application, the color itself and finally your skin type. 


Method of Application: 


First of all, I don't think there are any lipsticks that last all day long, unless you are willing to put in a bit of effort into applying them properly. So just swipe & head out of the door will not work. Here's how I apply my lipsticks when I want them to last longer (ps: I learnt a bit of this from the great Lisa Eldridge): 



1. First of all I apply MAC Lip Prep + Prime. You can instead use a face primer in a thin layer Or else a lip liner in the same shade as your lipstick. Let it dry a bit and set till it feels a bit sticky. 


2. Next apply a very thin layer of the lipstick. You can either use a lip brush for this or else just straight from the bullet, apply in a dab, dab motion. Rub your lips well together to ensure that the lips have an even layer of the lipstick. 

Stop your lipstick from melting off!

3. Take a tissue and blot the lipstick to take off the excess. 


4. Now repeat step 2. Apply another thin layer. Repeat step 3 of blotting. Do this cycle 3-4 times, till you have 3-4 thin layers of the lipstick on you. 


That's it! This should last you at least till you eat a meal. Food generally has oil & liquids that does break down the lipstick. You will have to touch it up. Especially if you eat soup. Finger foods are still okay. If you are drinking liquids, use a straw, if possible. 


Color / Type of the lipstick: 


1. If the lipstick says glossy, sheer, creamy finish it won't last as long as a matt lip color. The emollients in the glossy, moisturizing lipsticks itself melt the color off lips.

2. If the lipstick is red or a deeper shade of pink it will last longer. As compared to a natural pinky brown. Simply because that deep shade has more pigment, and also it is more visible on the lips. When the natural shade begins to fade, sometimes it seems like it has worn off, but actually it hasn't.

Skin type: 


Generally I have observed that lipsticks lasts longer on those with dry skin as opposed to girls with combination or oily skin. Obviously there is little that you can do about this.

Suggestions: 


Ok, now for some recommendations:

1. Inglot Freedom System lipsticks: They are easily available at Shopatmajorbrands.com They often have sales, so try & pick them up then. They have a ton of colors and have good lasting power.

2. Colorbar Velvet Matt lipsticks: Their prices have been hiked to Rs. 250, but they have some very good shades. Some have lower lasting power like Pretty Please 1, but most of them seem to last a while.

3. Lakme Absolute Matt lipsticks: I personally don't like any of the shades except for Peach Carnation, but you could look other shades in case you find them interesting. :)

4. Revlon Colorburst Lipsticks: The darker ones in this range have way more staying power, but the lighter ones work too, provided you follow the application tip given above.


Ummm, that's it. I can't think of anymore to be honest. I hope this helps you Maria!