Long-Wear Lipsticks: A Disappointing Illusion of Longevity

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By: Emma Rivers

Updated: Oct. 26, 2023

Originally Published: May 31, 2023

Across various platforms, countless videos showcase individuals flaunting their vibrant lip colors, then gleefully rubbing their fingers across their mouths to demonstrate the seemingly unyielding nature of the product. My curiosity led me to discover a brand called LipSense, a multilevel marketing enterprise that promotes lipsticks claiming to resist smudging or transferring for up to 18 hours. That’s quite a claim!

However, the steep price of LipSense raised my eyebrows. The initial investment for a basic trial was quite hefty, as purchasing the lipstick required also acquiring their gloss, totaling a staggering $55. As often seen with MLMs, alternative products are typically available at regular retail outlets for a fraction of the cost. Thus, I embarked on a mission to find similar options that wouldn’t break the bank or force me to resort to instant noodles for dinner.

I navigated through the makeup aisles during my grocery trips, discovering a plethora of long-wear lipsticks from various brands, all boasting wear times of 16 hours or more. I chose six lipsticks, each priced under $15—an amount I could justify discarding if they didn’t meet my expectations. I committed to testing each one from breakfast until bedtime.

Product Reviews:

1. L’Oreal Infallible Pro-Last Color Lipstick, Heaven to Henna
   This was my least favorite, primarily due to my poor color choice for my skin tone. As with many others, this lipstick required a two-step application. Although it applied well, the feeling of product on my lips was overwhelming, leading to a reluctance to eat or drink much. By day’s end, my lips felt dreadful, and very little color remained.
2. Revlon ColorStay Ultimate Liquid Lipstick, Ultimate Orchid
   This lipstick was unique in that it didn’t require a sealing step. It applied as a matte liquid, and the color was bold. However, by bedtime, my lips were dry and peeling, with color left only in unsightly clumps.
3. Revlon ColorStay Overtime Lipcolor, Relentless Raisin
   Initially, this was my favorite shade, giving me a dark, elegant vibe. It sealed with a clear gloss, but by bedtime, it looked as if I had only lip liner on—definitely not a flattering look. My lips felt terrible.
4. Rimmel Provocalips 16hr Kissproof Lipstick, I’ll Call You
   This product took the title for worst performer. It barely lasted an hour, leaving my lips patchy and dry. I had to quickly remove it before a Mother’s Day event, resulting in no end-of-day photo.
5. Maybelline New York Superstay 24, 2-step Lipcolor, so Pearly Pink 110
   For those that lasted the entire day, this one felt the worst. My lips were both dry and peeling, with a gummy texture and unattractive white lines. I was eager to remove it. This product is often touted as a dupe for LipSense.
6. CoverGirl Outlast All-Day Lip Color, Your Classic Red
   Surprisingly, this lipstick performed the best. Despite its bold color, it faded more evenly than the others, leaving me with less dryness and peeling.

While all the tested lipsticks remained intact and didn’t transfer when I kissed my family, by the end of each day, the discomfort made me reluctant to engage in any more lip contact. Perhaps we should reconsider the desire for lip colors that promise such extended wear. Achieving a solid eight hours with one application, especially while engaging in daily activities, is quite commendable.

In the end, I would likely reapply every few minutes to avoid the unpleasant feeling of dried and peeling lips. The only product I might repurchase is the CoverGirl Outlast, as it held up best amid my trials. However, I have no intention of investing in LipSense. Reports suggest it suffers from similar end-of-day discomfort, attributing the issue to a buildup of wax from previous lip products. This claim feels dubious; skin naturally sheds and renews without the need for such explanations.

In terms of recommendations, I prefer hydrating lipsticks and balms for daily wear. Products like Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter offer rich pigmentation while moisturizing, and L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lip Balm provides sheer color with hydration. Ultimately, lowering expectations for long-lasting wear can lead to a more enjoyable experience.

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Summary

Long-wear lipsticks often fail to deliver on their promises, resulting in dry, uncomfortable lips. While some options perform better than others, the discomfort and peeling often outweigh the benefits. Hydrating lip products are recommended for daily use.