I admire the bravado of women who wear fully pigmented lipstick on a date. One beauty editor does it on a regular basis because she only drinks out of straws and avoids oily entrées at all costs. She’s also mastered the art of making sure the food doesn’t touch her lips while she’s eating. That’s what I call dedication, but it’s only worth it if you’re really feeling your #lewk. Or if you really want to make an impression on your date.
Fortunately, lipstick formulas have improved to the point where you neither have to be brave nor fussy to ensure that they don’t end up on your teeth, chin or—heaven forbid—your date. The secret here is liquid lipsticks but beware: Not all formulations are created equally.
The right long-wearing liquid lipstick hugs your lips comfortably (wear a waxy balm underneath for better added moisture), dries to a perfectly matte finish, and stays on even after you finish a plate of aglio e olio spaghetti.
Here are my top picks:
NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream
A cult product among beauty addicts, this affordable long-lasting matte lipstick is so comfortable, you forget that you’re even wearing it. Minimal touch-ups needed. At P390, it is unbeatable. It has also an extensive color selection. Even more exciting is that they’ll soon be launching their Liquid Suede Cream Lipsticks this month.
Available at SM Store in SM Makati, Aura, Megamall, Mall of Asia, North Edsa, Fairview, and SM City Cebu, and Abreeza Davao.
MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolour
If you manage to get your hands on a tube of this, consider yourself lucky. At a shoot recently, social media personality and photographer Kimi Juan lamented that stocks had run out, and for good reason: It’s everything you love about MAC lipsticks, but in an incredibly matte finish and long-wearing formula.
Available at all MAC counters nationwide.
Make Up For Ever Aqua Rouge
Here’s a fun Valentine’s Day dare: Apply Make Up For Ever Aqua Rouge in Burgundy, make out with your boyfriend (or husband, if you’re committed), and see how much damage is done. Surprise! There isn’t any.
This product requires a two-step application process: The liquid lipstick is applied with a foam applicator, then the color is sealed with a clear gloss applied with a polyester brush. The result is a lip color that is legitimately waterproof and smudge-proof, but has the high shine of a gloss.
Available at all Make Up For Ever counters nationwide.
The Balm Meet Matt(e) Hughes
A matte lip liquid lipstick like this one will require some extra steps before application to ensure comfort and longevity. Before swiping, exfoliate your lips with an old toothbrush or lip scrub to remove dead skin, then moisturize with lip balm (my favorite is La Mer’s The Lip Balm). Take the time to do this, so you can achieve a smooth, plush and striking pout that will last you past dessert.
Available at www.sephora.ph.
3CE Lip Lacquer
The problem with liquid lipsticks that most users complain about is the sticky feeling after application. This lipstick by Korean brand 3 Concept Eyes has a gel-based texture that feels creamy upon swiping, which eventually dries to a soft, matte finish. Just make sure that the product dries properly on your lips before eating (or leaning in for that kiss), and you’re good to go.
Available at www.sephora.ph.
OFRA Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick
Almost every makeup artist I know has a tube of this liquid lipstick in her kit (no matter which brand they represent!) and with good reason. Not only is this product affordable (it’s just P850!), it also has a wide range of colors, and the pigmentation and long-wear formulation is impressive. Plus, if makeup artist Krist Bansuelo thinks this product is good enough for Toni Gonzaga on her wedding day, I’m sure it’ll work for you on date night!
Available at www.calyxta.com.