I should start by clarifying that no matter how long-lasting a lipstick is, its comfort is equally important. After all, what good is a long-wear lipstick if it’s not comfortable to wear? Nobody wants a formula that dries out their lips and leaves them looking like a shrivelled prune by the end of the day, especially if the stain is difficult to remove. Of the many lipsticks I tested in preparation for this piece, comfort was a very important factor. So, while all five are intensely pigmented and have unique formulations, they last an exceptionally long time and remain pleasingly wearable throughout.
Nars Powermatte High-Intensity Lip Pencil
The first product on the list truly earns its top spot. Nars Powermatte High-Intensity Lip Pencil (€30 from Brown Thomas) is the newest addition to the Powermatte range, which also includes the Powermatte Lipstick and Powermatte Lip Pigment – both excellent in their own right, but this iteration is my favourite. More crayon than pencil and so buttery smooth on application, you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s not matte at all – it all but glides on to the lips and feels very moisturising. It partially sets after a few minutes but never fully dries down, which means your lips stay comfortable (and flooded with colour) without looking or feeling dry or flat. Available in 10 shades.
Maybelline Superstay Vinyl Ink Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick
A light-handed application is required for the second entry on this list: Maybelline Superstay Vinyl Ink Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick (€14.99 from Boots). This formula is very fluid, almost wet – so the slightest amount of pressure delivers an instant burst of intense colour. Too much on the initial approach will result in the colour looking overly thick – it sets so quickly that it almost layers on top of itself – a look we definitely want to avoid. Once it’s set, however, it could be there for days. This is long lasting with a capital L. A special mention goes to the narrow applicator, too – it allows for ultra-precise application, meaning you can easily shape and define your lips without the need for lip liner.
Lisa Eldridge Velvet Muse True Velvet Lip Colour
Unsurprisingly, one of the best formulas on this list comes from award-winning make-up artist, and arguable beauty industry legend, Lisa Eldridge. Who knows more about finishes, quality, and long-lasting formulas than she does? Probably no one. Velvet Muse True Velvet Lip Colour (€32 from lisaeldridge.com) ticks all the lipstick-related boxes – everything impresses, from the weighty, luxurious magnetic closure packaging to the highly pigmented, beautifully smooth colour pay-off. This is a gem to wear and to own. More interestingly, it’s a matte with a slight sheen, adding a touch of definition – no flat, dry pout in sight. Available in 15 shades.
NYX Professional Makeup Shine Loud High Pigment Long Lasting Lip Shine Lip Gloss
Worthy of inclusion not just for its longevity but also because it essentially offers two lip products in one – perfect for both matte and gloss lovers, or anyone who enjoys a combined finish. NYX Professional Makeup Shine Loud High Pigment Long Lasting Lip Shine Lip Gloss (€16.99 from Boots) – potentially the longest ever name for a beauty product – features a creamy, comfortable, pigmented formula on one side, and a glossy finish on the other. Application is smooth, and once it’s on, it’s not going anywhere. On the downside, it can be tricky to find, with many online retailers stocking only one or two shades (despite more being available). However, if you manage to track one down, it’s definitely worth the spend.
Dior Rouge Dior Couture Lipstick – Velvet
Probably the most traditional matte on this list, Dior Rouge Dior Couture Velvet Lipstick (€51 from Arnotts) delivers the classic matte look and feel – without the dryness. It’s creamy and silky, almost like a smooth, dry cream when applied, and the colour pay-off is stunning. The wear time is borderline ridiculous: you could eat through several meals, drink, talk nonstop, and somehow it’s still there, though slightly less bold than when first applied. Available in 16 shades.
This week I’m loving ... Dr Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturising Eye Cream
One of my favourite skincare lines for restoring dehydrated, stressed and generally worn-out skin, is Ceramidin from excellent Korean skincare brand Dr Jart+. The latest addition to the stable is Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturising Eye Cream (€38 from Space NK). It’s lightweight and lovely, and immediately melts into the skin, and the ceramides and panthenol loaded formula help to strengthen the skin barrier and improve moisture levels in the delicate under-eye area.
