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
Yes I completely agree, I just don’t think they are for us! xxx Emily
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.
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
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!
So glad you agree! xxx Emily
Yes honest reviews are the best ones 💕
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
Its so annoying when that happens, especially when they are fairly pricey ❤
I know, the shade range is so good! I wanted to love them so badly! xxx Emily
Oh no that’s such a shame, they are very pretty shades 💕