MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolours

As a part of their permanent line, MAC recently launched their Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolours, jumping on the liquid lipstick trend. Initially releasing 15 shades, the collection has a broad range of reds, pinks, purples and vampy colours, but very few nudes. The shade 'Lady Be Good' (described by MAC as a 'mid warm tone nude'), is arguably the most popular shade, still selling out in stores and online months after its release. MAC describes their liquid lipsticks as "a lip colour that provides a splash of colour in a liquid-suede finish that lingers", of which I have to agree.

In the beauty community these lipsticks have become subject to a substantial amount of scrutiny, however I find them comfortable, long wearing, non-drying, and their shade range is decent. I managed to get my hands on 3 shades - 'Lady Be Good', 'To Matte with Love' and 'Oh Lady'. I find myself reaching for 'Lady Be Good' often (as it is the most wearable), but 'To Matte with Love' ('bright raspberry') and 'Oh Lady' ('deep wine') are beautiful pops of colour that I often wear on special occasions.

In terms of the formula, I find that the opacity and colour-payoff varies between nude shades and bright shades. For example, 'To Matte with Love' applies evenly and I find that I only need one layer for it to look bright and even. However, 'Oh Lady' (a vampier colour) looks somewhat patchy and uneven with one layer. In comparison, 'Lady Be Good' also looks reasonably opaque with one layer, and lasts longer on the lips than brighter colours. 'Oh Lady' and 'To Matte with Love' are bright and vibrant with applied correctly, however I did not find them as long-wearing, and didn't really leave any sort of stain or colour on the lips.

From a financial perspective, these babies will set you back AUD $46. Retrospectively, I would have tried to find cheaper dupes for the brighter colours as they were somewhat disappointing given their price. However I found that 'Lady Be Good' is a somewhat unique nude that lasts long, is comfortable to wear, and suits my skin tone well - and I do not regret spending $45 on it.

Worth the $ : 5/10 (Lady Be Good - 10/10)

Pigmentation : 8/10

Packaging : 6/10

Comfort : 8/10

From L to R: Lady Be Good, To Matte with Love, Oh Lady.