Back in January, after observing the huge trend of matte liquid lipsticks for long enough, I decided to get up to speed and order the latest release – Mac Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolour. I picked up two shades, a peachy nude, Back In Vogue and a rich cranberry red, Dance With Me. My initial thoughts were really positive… I don’t mind the packaging – I find it pretty standard for Mac, the shade range is also good and the price point is OK at £21 each.
I first swatched each shade on my wrist to see what the colouring and texture was like. I was impressed on first swatch as both were very pigmented, smooth and opaque which is what I would look for in a liquid lipstick. I then went to try them on the lips, both applied with ease although I would recommend using a lip liner to ensure absolute precision as once they dry, they really set. I would describe the formula as a creamy mousse and the applicator felt smooth and easy to navigate.
They don’t take long to dry however, I found they were unbelievably drying and uncomfortable on the lips. I really didn’t like the way they set as they settled into fine lines and dry areas. After applying, I went to remove the swatches on my wrist with makeup remover and it was almost impossible, I had to scrub at my arm with cleansing oil and stains still remained, especially with Dance With Me – imagine the the trouble I had removing that from my lips!
I found the Mac Retro Mattes to be hard to remove, far too drying and have an unattractive fading throughout the day – three things I cannot bare in a lipstick and so these get an unfortunate thumbs down from me. They have sat in my makeup drawers since first swatch and I fear that is where they shall stay.
Have you tried these? That did you think? I’d love to know!
EKD X
I’m with you – I just cannot get into the matte lip products. I think the beauty world is divided into two kinds of makeup-lovers: those who love matte lip products and those who do not. I am in the latter category.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes I completely agree, I just don’t think they are for us! xxx Emily
LikeLike
I appreciate your honesty. It’s hard to find a good matte lipstick that isn’t drying. I think Revlon’s lipstains are pretty good. They look like a stain but feel like a chapstick. Good luck!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much! I know, I think the best I have found have been Charlotte Tilbiry matte lipsticks, liquid lipsticks are difficult really. Thank you I will check those out! Xxx Emily
LikeLike
Oh no that’s such a shame, they are very pretty shades 💕
LikeLiked by 1 person
I know, the shade range is so good! I wanted to love them so badly! xxx Emily
LikeLiked by 1 person
Its so annoying when that happens, especially when they are fairly pricey ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah thats what I think, glad I shared my review to save other people from making the mistake, if thats not what they’re looking for! xxx Emily
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes honest reviews are the best ones 💕
LikeLiked by 1 person
So glad you agree! xxx Emily
LikeLiked by 1 person