Folha tests red lipsticks from R$39 – 12/22/2023 – Equilíbrio

One of the biggest makeup classics, red lipstick gains even more strength when the end of the year arrives — nothing more Christmassy, ​​after all, than crimson tones.

But lipstick, previously that classic bullet shape, has evolved and now exists in different tones, textures, durations and effects and for all budgets. In a sea of ​​options, it’s not always simple to decide which one to bet on, especially for those just starting out in the world of red mouths.

“What makes a good red lipstick is the ability to pigment the lips evenly, without stains, delivering the same texture throughout the lip”, says Vanessa Rozan, founder of Liceu de Maquiagem. “The color needs to have depth and vibrancy and the formula needs to be long-lasting, without drying out the lips.”

A Sheet tested eight lipsticks available in Brazilian shopping malls and pharmacies. The most talked about products on social media and relevant launches on the national market were included in the test. Multipurpose products and glosses were not included in the evaluation.

The test is part of the reviews section Sheet Proof, which offers the reader a purchase and usage guide. Facial moisturizers, sunscreens and foaming products have already been covered. This is the third time that a cosmetic has been part of the tests. The result is not a ranking, but a list of recommended products at the end of each test.

The lipsticks were evaluated based on criteria collected from makeup artists consulted for the report. Texture, durability, comfort on the lips and practicality in application were the aspects that guided the test. Packaging and price also factored into the bill.

Five journalists from the newsroom participated in the evaluation. Sheet, not all regular users of red lipstick: Bárbara Blum, 28, reporter for the nucleus Todas; Fernanda Mena, 46, special reporter; Geovana Oliveira, 25, reporter for Equilíbrio; Sílvia Haidar, 41, deputy editor of Saúde e Equilíbrio and Vitoria Macedo, 23, reporter for Todas.

Bruna Tavares (R$ 39.90)

The product is sold as a long-lasting matte finish liquid lipstick. According to makeup artist Carol Zaia, who works at multi-brand Sephora, the estimate is 8 hours for a lipstick to be considered in this category, something more easily achievable for liquids and mattified products. For Fernanda Mena, the texture on the lips was dry and the smell was sickening. The lipstick gained points for the gloss-style applicator. “The shape of the applicator is incredible, it fits perfectly on the lips and makes application very easy”, says Geovana Oliveira. Sílvia Haidar, who rated the durability as good, notes that it is worth using makeup remover when removing it.

Contains 1g Matte Velvet Lipstick (R$ 59.90)

One of the bullet lipsticks in the test was highly rated for its versatility. Despite having a matte finish, application is easy and it glides well in the mouth. “The pigmentation is not very strong”, says Vitória Macedo. It is not one of the longest lasting, but the evaluators saw this as a positive and strong point for a product aimed at everyday use. “On a daily basis, I prefer to reapply rather than end up with smudged lipstick,” says Oliveira.

Fenty Beauty Fenty Stunna Lip Paint Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick (R$ 185)

The product is one of the flagships of singer Rihanna’s makeup line — she even used Uncensored red in her presentation at the 2023 Super Bowl — and is sold as long-lasting. In general, the assessment is that it stays in the mouth for a long time. But its application is not the simplest, as it comes in a very oily and quick-drying liquid format, which can cause stains that are difficult to control.

“It feels like it’s going to run down your lips,” says Mena. Haidar reinforces the recommendation for a makeup remover to take care of the corrections. “On the other hand, this more oily texture respects all the details of the lips”, says Oliveira, who felt her mouth was beautiful and voluminous.

Kylie Cosmetics Lipstick and Pencil Kit (R$ 299)

Another liquid lipstick that is sold as long-lasting, this choice from model and influencer Kylie Jenner —the youngest of the Kardashian clan— comes in a kit with a pencil, but is short-lived. “The lipstick runs out of the applied limits easily. The pencil helps, but doesn’t solve it”, says Mena. Oliveira notes that, in addition to the longevity leaving something to be desired, the matte effect of the product dried out his mouth too much and caused discomfort. After only a short time of use, it is possible to notice creases on the lips. According to Zaia, a makeup artist at Sephora, red lipstick has the power to highlight defects in the mouth in general and requires a lot of hydration before use.

MAC Locked Kiss Comfortable Matte Lipstick (R$ 229)

On the brand’s website, MAC lipstick says it maintains its color for 24 hours. The dry texture is what provides this security and helps it not to smudge around the edges. Oliveira, in his test, reapplied it only once, after eating. “Of those evaluated, it is the product that transferred the least to cups and food”, he says. Mena, on the other hand, comments that the lipstick didn’t last long on her, less than 2 hours.

NARS Powermatte Lipstick (R$ 209)

Delicately packaged, NARS lipstick is a little insecure when applied, although it is an ideal size for carrying in small bags. The texture, more dry, guarantees durability and little transfer. For Macedo, it is good for building layers. “It doesn’t feel so stiff on the lips and glides well when applied,” he says.

Sephora Collection Matte (R$ 89)

Another good bet for everyday life, Sephora’s lipstick won points for comfort. “It has a matte effect on the mouth, but with the feeling of a creamy lipstick”, says Haidar. It doesn’t have the durability of its competitors, but the mouthfeel throughout the day is comfortable.

Vic Beauté Sensa Lipstick (R$ 115)

The creamiest and most moisturizing in the review, it was also the one that lasted the worst. Nothing that a touch-up can’t solve, according to the evaluators, who valued the feeling of softness — without sticking, notes Mena — provided by the light texture. The floral scent of the product also attracts positive attention, avoiding cloying odors. Makeup artist William Cruzes indicates that, for creamier lipsticks, using a contour pencil can help prevent smudging throughout the day.

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