What They Say: "A healthy, mineral-based lipstick created to transform lips and pleasure the senses: Rouge Appeal's innovative sensorial feel, smooth, creamy texture, lasting softness and alluring colour melts into lips and defines and shapes for a supple lush, lasting result every time."

Jen's Experience: I was shocked at how bright the colors are when I first took a look at the Rouge Appeal line of lipsticks from Clarins, but pleasantly surprised when I saw the brightness turn into slightly more sheer, pretty shades once applied. A lot of lipsticks are a bit heavy for the summer months, but the bright colors of these lipsticks matched with the nice ly moisturizing but not too thick texture make them perfect for wearing out when you know you'll be spending time in the sun. My favorite shades of the bunch? Guava (03), a pink that works perfectly with my skin tone and Russet (03), a bronzy-nude color that is sure to work for a variety of skin tones.

Retail Price: (Clarins.com or your local department store)

Rating:

About the Summer 2008 Collection: "The season's most alluring getaway looks with a beautifully edited makeup collection of heat-baked sands, golden browns, sunset bronzes and an array of khakis."

On the new Rouge Hydrabase shades: "Long-lasting ROUGE HYDRABASE Creme Lipstick delivers deeply moisturizing colour in two new limited-edition shades: Leopard, a golden coral, and Rose Flamingo, a bright pink."

On the new Rouge Allure shades: "Iconic ROUGE ALLURE Luminous Satin Lip Colour offers lustrous colour and ultra-wearability in two new heat-seeking shades: Naïve, a pink nude, and Curious, a nude brown."

Jen's Experience: I tested out two of Chanel's new shades for summer, Rouge Allure in Curious and Rouge Hydrabase in Leopard, and I have to tell you, fair DeLush readers, I am really in love with these colors. My favorite of the two is the Rouge Allure in Curious. It's a nude color that looks great with pale skin, great with bronzer, great with a little make-up or a more dramatic look. It looks especially gorgeous with a coordinating gloss on top. Basically, this is the kind of perfect color that I like to stockpile and stash tubes in my purse and my desk at work.

The Rouge Hydrabase in Leopard looks more like a red against my pale skin, so I have gotten less wear out of it than the other shade, but that doesn't mean it isn't a fantastic shade. Those looking for a red that isn't too overwhelming might consider checking it out. I don't really like the formula for the Hydrabase as much. Despite the name, I don't feel like it hydrates quite as well as the Allure, but it does last an awfully long time, and that does mean a lot in my book.

Retail Price: $26.00 - Rouge Hydrabase, $30.00 - Rouge Allure (both available at Chanel.com or your local department store)

Ratings:
Rouge Hydrabase -
Rouge Allure -

What They Say:

• 75% of women noticed fuller lips after 2 weeks (based upon two weeks of continuous use)
• Smooths appearance of fine lines by 26%(Average change based upon 8 weeks of use)
• Increases moisture by 26%(Average change based upon 8 weeks of use)
• With refreshing organic spearmint and vanilla flavor
• New packaging reduces waste by 33%

Jen's Experience:When I think of Aveda, I generally think about hair products, or maybe skin care products. But rarely would I think I could walk into an Aveda store and pick out a great lipstick. But as it turns out, Aveda has made an excellent lip color that I am excited to tell you about.

The colors I used in the Nourish-Mint lines were all shades of red. I find that with deeper pigmentations, I often have a problem with dry lips, and nothing looks worse than parched lips with a lot of color. This lipstick, though, really does the trick with the hydration. The moisture even seems like it lasts longer than the color! On that note, I do wish the color lasted longer or maybe just wore a little more evenly. For all the great things about it, I did find that the edges of my lips retained the color for longer, leaving a ring of color if I don't watch it and reapply every 1-2 hours. But the colors themselves, when applied are really pretty with my skin tone and surprisingly pigment rich. The cases, while minimal, are at least made out of plastic so you can throw them in your purse. You can also buy a reusable outer case if you are wanting something a little more substantial.

Despite the fact that the wear isn't the best I've seen, I really like the yummy taste, great colors, and especially the hydration of these lipsticks. I'm definitely going to have to consider Aveda as an option when I'm looking for cosmetics as well as hair and skin care from now on.

Retail Price: $14.00 (Aveda.com)

Rating:

What They Say: "Stop searching for "something close" to your cherished shades - we can produce discontinued shades for the Lips, Cheeks, Eyes & Face or help you create your own from scratch! All formulas remain in our personal files for easy re-ordering.

If you would like us to re-create your favorite discontinued shade, we ask that you send us a dime sized sample. We analyze your shade for color, texture and coverage and create a formula that remains in our permanent files!

You can have us create your own shade ~ from a splash of nail color in a baggie, a piece of fabric, a paint chip, a photo from a magazine, two lips colors blended together to create the ideal shade... anything!"

Jen's Experience: I mentioned last week that I talked to Trae Bodge at 3 Custom Color about my biggest beauty challenges, and in addition to concealer, I mentioned that I am always in search of a red that doesn't look like too much against my pale skin and blonde hair. I learned from her that with my cool skin tone but blonde hair, that I can get away with a little bit of warmer colors in my make-up wardrobe than I usually gravitate towards. And then she mixed me the absolute most perfect red for me right there on the spot!

The color is perfect for me to wear to work or even out shopping; I just love the way it just works with my skin and hair. The lipstick itself is really long-lasting and wears evenly, so I don't have to keep checking the mirror to make sure that I don't look like a clown (this is a problem that I have frequently with my other reds). If you live in the New York area or are visiting, I would highly recommend making an appointment at the 3 Custom Color studio to get your own custom lipstick. Another option for those who are in love with a color but it's been discontinued or it's just very hard to find: they will blend you the color and texture of your favorites. It's super easy to order if it's already in their database, but you can also send them a small amount and they'll formulate a replica.

Retail Price: $45.00/2 tubes (Get more details at threecustom.com)

Rating:

What They Say: "'Oh-so-slick' stained gloss for sirens. Relish a deep wash of color drenched in liquid shine to liven up your lips!"

Alissa's Opinion: I was expecting a sheer gloss when I first opened this tube, but was surprised to find that it is more like a liquid lipstick (hence the name). The pigment was thick and opaque with a lot of shine. The formula felt uncomfortably sticky on the lips and the color didn't last very long. I wouldn't say that there is anything extraordinary about this product other than the name. It was adequate, but I probably wouldn't choose it again.

Retail Price: $20.90 (Quixtar.com)

Rating:

What They Say: "A hybrid of gloss and lipstick, chic colour and intense shine combine for creamy full coverage that feels soft and lightweight on lips."

Jen's Experience: There's a new offering in the Chanel lip color offerings, and I have to say, this might just be the best yet. When I first ripped open the package and applied it, I thought, "wow, this is like lip color and gloss all in one", and as it turns out, that's exactly what they were aiming for! The coverage is like a lipstick, super-saturated color that really pops. But unlike your average Chanel lipstick, they have a lot more shine. Both of the colors I tried, Plum Souffle and Madeleine, were on the pink side, and were great with my fair skin.

I was really impressed with the wear; it lasts for hours without drying out my lips, making it great for work or a night out. While this may be a little more expensive than your average lipstick, or gloss, it's less expensive than buying one of each from Chanel. Easier to apply, too. This is one of the best new lip products I've tried in ages.

Retail Price: $32.00 (CHANEL.com or your local department store)

Rating:

What They Say: "Our newest lipstick combines rich color, comfortable, long-lasting wear, and a soft, creamy shine. Glides on smooth, wears all day, and leaves lips soft and moisturized. Available in shimmering and matte shades."

Melissa Says: This truly is one of the more comfortable lipsticks I've used. It's incredibly creamy and supple, and manages the extra moisture without feeling tacky or sticky. The shades tend to wear a tad sheer, which is actually nice for building color. They also give lips a pretty shine.

The formula wears well - a few hours without fading away or feeling like you want to swipe on a quick touch-up; I'm not sure if personally I'd term it a super long-wear lipstick in terms of non-transference, etc., but of course, worn with lip liner these will have even more staying power.

Retail Price: $22.00 (at bobbibrowncosmetics.com or at a retail location near you)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "Tight on time? Take minutes off your makeup routine with Bobbi's new Lip Crayon. It's easy to use, it's great on the go, and it will make you look better - instantly.

NEW Lip Crayon: The Look of a Lipstick With the Ease of a Pencil. Bobbi's new Lip Crayons offer the luxurious feel of lipstick and the ease of a crayon-inspired pencil. Non-drying formula has a smooth, creamy feel and color that lasts all day. Wear alone or pair with your favorite gloss.

Each pencil comes with a complimentary custom sized sharpener. Introduced in two NEW raspberry-inspired shades are ideal for creating Bobbi's Pink Raspberry Looks."

Melissa Says: You definitely would have a hard time messing up this application - it really can't get any easier than this. The formula in the pencil is super-soft and smooth going on, is somewhat sheer and is very "smooshable" initially (making it even harder to not get it right even without a mirror). It also has a slight mint scent, which generally becomes unnoticeable a short while after application.

Even though I like the look and feel of this lip crayon (it really is quite comfortable and stays that way), it doesn't last as long as I had hoped. In my case, I found that it did transfer to my cup, though quite a bit of the pigment would remain intact. However, the shade wouldn't last all day; in fact, it would faithfully wear off after about 3 hours. I think the length of wear may depend on how sheerly you apply it.

If you're looking for something that definitely stays put for hours on end, this isn't what you're looking for; however if you're desiring ease, comfort, and convenient portability, you may really love it.

Available in Pink Raspberry (a medium raspberry pink) and Wild Raspberry (a deep raspberry pink).

Retail Price: $22.00 (at bobbibrowncosmetics.com or a retail location near you)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say:

• Minimizes the appearance of fine lines by as much as 71% in as little as 2 weeks.
• Creamy, conditioning, concentrated moisturization.
• Available in a wardrobe of beautiful finishes including satins, shimmers and metallics."

Melissa Says: I'm not sure about the 70% reduction in fine lip lines, but I did notice a moisturizing quality to this lipstick that in itself helps to hydrate enough to make lips look a bit smoother while you're wearing it. However, I can't say it's the most hydrating lipstick I've ever used. The pigment, however, lasts quite a while (though it's not transfer-resistant) and is highly concentrated. For some reason, I don't really care for the scent of the lipstick when I apply it, but it's not something I smell once the tube is put back away.

Overall, I thought this was a decent high-pigment, comfortable lipstick, but it's not necessarily among my ultimate faves.

Retail Price: $17.55 (at Quixtar.com)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "Every Antiquitease adores her finery, including this petite purse of woven cream fabric with metallic thread and an ivory crown motif on the handle. Each contains three lipcolours of one colour scheme. Fabulously authentic in look and feel." 

Jen's Experience: Here's another fabulous collection from M•A•C this holiday season. Each gift set contains two lipsticks and a lip gloss in an antique-inspired clutch. The sets come in four color families: pink, coral, tan and plum. I tested the plum and coral shades, and I am absolutely thrilled with the shades; I wear them pretty much every day. The lipsticks look great on their own, as do the lip glosses, but I really adore wearing the two together. I think the clutches don't really do the products justice -- they'd be nicer if the handle was metal like some of the other Antiquitiease items -- but this would make a great gift for friends (although I'd be more inclined to keep this one for myself!).

Retail Price: $32.00 (MACCosmetics.com or your local M•A•C counter)

What They Say: "A modern take on M·A·C's famed matte texture: new Mattene Lipstick. Creamier, softer, moister yet still long-wearing, velvety and matte - with no compromise. Diehard M·A·C fans will think of this as vintage matte yet more wearable.

With its streamlined design, this new slimline lipcolour, features the traditional glamour properties of a matte lipstick - intense colour and semi-matte velvety finish - while offering a creamier, softer, more glide-on application. Non-caking, non drying. Moisturizing and incredibly wearable yet absolutely matte. "

Jen's Experience: I remember that years ago, it took me a long time to make the transition from wearing mostly matte lipsticks to the glosses that have ruled the make-up counters for years. Now that the pendulum is swinging back towards the matte lipsticks, I have to admit that I had a terrible compulsion to layer a swath of my glossiest gloss on top of these to give it the shine I had gotten used to.

Once I was used to them, I really started liking these lipsticks, not just for the nice moist texture and long wear that they provide, but also for the great color selection. While some colors just didn't work for me (Immodest and Night Violet were just a bit much for my pale skin color), but the selection includes a few great pinky-browns that are good with just about any outfit. For those looking for a great matte lipstick that has a great feel that lasts, these are worth checking out. My personal faves? Flattering and Composure.

Retail Price: $14.50 (MACCosmetics.com or your local department store)

Rating:

What They Say: "A long wearing lipstick and lip gloss all in one. The secret is a blend of patent-pending polymers that provide long-lasting wear with rich pigment that glides on like your favorite lip gloss. The tip of the pen is contoured to provide easy, precise application - hugging every curve of you lip. ...boasts extended wear time while keeping lips feeling soft and smooth - never dry!"

Melissa Says: A whole new way to make my lips prettier opened up with this product. This stuff smells sweet when you apply it, goes on super-easy and smooth (thanks to the perfect rounded tip that gives a great edge every time), and it feels so very light and comfortable. As if that weren't enough to make me love it, it can be applied sheer or layered for a deeper effect, and the color STAYS PUT, for hours.

Unlike typical "long-wear" lip products, this doesn't look or feel dry, and the "gloss" part of the product doesn't actually make it shiny or wet-looking, but keeps your pout moist and comfortable. I have never tried anything like this before, and as a lip product ADDICT, this is one that I'm more than happy to give my thumbs-up to. Honestly, I love it.

Retail Price: $18.00 (at sephora.com until the Stila Cosmetics site is finished being updated)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "Multi-faceted creamy color provocatively clings to the curves of your lips for luxurious, lasting comfort. An exceptional blend of Micro silk powders™ creates a sensual, finely woven veil of rich color that glides onto the lips - dressing them like silk. Available in a palette of 18 signature shades with 3 must-have fashion top coat lip accessories to be layered for a matte, satin, or sparkling effect.

* High color cream lipstick
* Exquisite silk finish
* Luxurious lasting comfort"

Melissa Says: Not only is this formula (which I had never previously tried) incredibly soft and moisturizing, but these two shades (55 & 56) for fall from Armani's 2007 Leather Collection are beautiful and versatile. The deep red-burgundy has a gorgeous sheen that adds depth and is a perfect choice for a polished and sophisticated look, while the soft nude beige is a shimmer-free neutral to partner with fall's smoky eyes or your usual look.

This lipstick feels very comfortable and creamy, yet not thick or heavy. It's not particularly longer-lasting than other popular lipstick formulas, but then again it's not touted as long-wear by nature. Personally I had no issue with the wear and only needed to touch up once in a while. From the sleek casing to the contoured shape and super-soft feel, this lipstick fits right in with the glamour of the season.

Retail Price: $25.00 (online at giorgioarmanibeauty-usa.com or go here to locate a select retailer near you)

DeLush Rating:

About the Rouge Allure: "It combines fabulously wearable, lustrous colour and sensational comfort and is subtly etched with the world-renowned CHANEL logo. "

Jen's Experience: I have used some of the Rouge Allure lipsticks in the past with good luck. The colors are very rich and apply very true to color, so you don't have to wonder what the color will look like or layer it on to get the color in the tube. On the other hand, the color doesn't last as long as some of my other lipsticks, so it does require frequent reapplication throughout the day. The shade I tested, Rose Blossom, is a limited edition color that is part of Nordstrom's anniversary collection. This one is a less frosted version of the Hydrabase shade I tested earlier this year, and for that, I'm quite thankful. If you're in the market for a nice bright pink to wear with your Chanel Eyeshadow Quads or other grays in your wardrobe, hurry to your Nordstrom counter before this limited run is sold out.

Retail Price: $30.00 (Available only at Nordstrom counters)

Rating:

About the Ultra Wear Lipcolour: "Base Colour Coat: Innovative fluid texture delivers long-lasting performance, comfortable application and perfect adherence to lips - without transferring or feathering. Dries quickly, too. Top Gloss Coat: Clear gloss's soft, non-tacky texture provides high shine and comfort throughout the day."

Toya's Take: I have to admit that I am not a fan of long-lasting lip products. I have found that they make my lips feel really dry and, while they do last longer than regular glosses and lipsticks, as they claim, the extended wear isn't worth the nasty texture, in my opinion. I didn't find this lippie to be any different. The color was a nice, neutral rose, but other than that, this is no big whoop. The product is long-lasting and will stay on your lips much better than your ordinary gloss, but be prepared for dryness throughout the day.

Retail Price: $32.00 (Chanel.com or your local department store counter)

Rating:

The alchemy of gold transformed and the manipulated by M.A.C. artistry into the next wave. Metallic glam as eight limited edition pigments radiate the power, glory and versatility of this key element. Playing their part in this new gold rush, four lipstocls and finished to reflect the trace-colour of each gold-tinged pigment...applied with the 249 large shader and 239 eye shader brushes that accompany this collection, this is metal as it should be worn. Feel the rush."

Jen Says: The perfect complement to this season's metallic accents, this line from M.A.C. is an excellent way to transition to your fall look. I tried the lipsticks and the pigments from this collection, and am excited to present my results. This gorgeous collection is nearly finished its run at M.A.C. counters, so if you're in the market for these products and shades, run to your nearest department store this weekend!

 

 

Pigment

What They Say: "Pigment is a highly concentrated loose colour powder that contains ingredients to help it adhere to the skin. Pigment comes in an excellent range of colours. Use to create a subtle wash of colour or an intense effect. Pigment does not streak or cake, is easy to blend and long-lasting."

Jen's Experience: For the most part, I haven't had good luck with loose eyeshadow, especially when it shimmers. No matter how careful I am with the brush, even applied with a little water, if it doesn't end up making my entire face sparkly during application, it ends up that way by the end of the evening. Well, this eyeshadow from M.A.C. completely exceeded all my expectations. Not only are the colors vivid but wearable, they apply so evenly and last an incredibly long time. I most commonly reach for Quick Frost, a creamy white with a soft green pearl, and Revved-up, an icy rose. But the more metallic shades -- Rushmetal, Gold Mode, Mauvement, Off the Radar, Copperized, and Cocomotion -- are also fun and not out of place even for work.

If you purchase these, be sure to invest in at least one of the M.A.C. shader brushes. I used #239 for detail work and #249 for the overall area. These brushes do an excellent job of holding the pigment so that it's delivered to the eye, rather than all over your face (and the bathroom counter). These pigments and the brushes are a combination that is truly the star of this collection.

Retail Price: $19.50 (MACCosmetics.com or your local department store)

 

 

Lipstick

What They Say: "Colour plus texture for the lips. Stands out on the runway. Simmers on the street! What made M·A·C famous. "

Jen's Experience: The lipstick colors in this collection are all fantastic, from rose-tinged coffee shades to a light gold shade. All of the colors have a bit of gold in them, but not so much that it looks to overdone for everyday use. Since the eyeshadows can be pretty intense when they're layered, it's nice to have such pretty shades that aren't too overwhelming. My favorite of the bunch is Fast Lane, the mauve with silver pearl lustre, which is perfect with my favorite Pigment shades, but also works well with charcoals. The other colors (Thrills, Frenzy, and Soft Lust) are more brown and gold and are a little out of my comfort zone, but it turns out they look great with a dewy foundation and a oood bronzer. Believe it or not, this is my first experience with M.A.C. lipstick, and while I like the shades, I am not as excited about the wear. I got one to two hours tops out of each. Still, I like them well enough to recommend picking up one of these coordinating shades when you're looking for the RushMetal Eyeshadow Pigments.

Retail Price: $14.00

 

Ratings:

Pigment
Lipstick

Smoke Signals: "Erotic, yes. Feminie, surely. Sexy, no doubt... This is the beauty, craft and subtle unfiltered sizzle of the modern bombshell. ...The match that ignites this new look: three NEW sensually shine-filled shades of lipglass. There is no smoke without fire. She's cool, and dangerous."

Melissa tried out the lip shades in this collection.

"In a way that made me very happy, the lip shades included in the Smoke Signals collection seem to be ready to make any woman feel prettier, with a touch of sultry. One wonderful thing is the subtleness of most of the shades, with the boldest colors being a match of deep yet wearable pouty burgundies. Like all of M•A•C's lip products, you can easily layer Lipglass on top of the lipstick shades for even more drama, or use either alone, depending on your coverage and texture preference. Below, you can see what each shade looks like on real lips! Enjoy Smoke Signals 2007."

Click to enlarge.

What They Say: "This is the first lipstick that's actually good for you: while tarte's long-lasting lipstick beautifies you on the outside, BORBA's nutraceutical blend beautifies you on the inside. This is the first-ever lipstick that will nourish, moisturize and rejuvenate lips.

Skinvigorating™ Benefits:
Tarte's naturally restorative ingredients:
• Jojoba nourishes, moisturizes and conditions skin
Borba's age-defying cocktail core:
• Acai & green tea extract help strengthen capillary walls, reduce epidermal irritation and enhance skin's clarity and radiance
• Grape seed extract & Vitamin C help accelerate production of natural elastin, protecting skin against free-radical damage & restore skin's clarity
• Vitamins A, E & K act as antioxidants to give you that healthy glow
• Lychee extract promotes long-term skin hydration and chamomile extract soothes skin and helps to counteract redness"

Melissa Says: I had high hopes for this lipstick, especially after hearing some good things about Tarte's Inside Out Gloss that came out a while ago. However, I wasn't really impressed here. The lipstick feels incredible going on - it's SO soft and smooth. Sadly, within minutes it felt like it was drying out or sinking away into my lips, leaving them not necessarily more moisturized. I will say that the pigment seems to stay on the lips a long while, but the staying power of this formula just doesn't live up to my previous experiences with many of Tarte's cosmetics.

This feels great going on and looks pretty, but unfortunately the moisture has no staying power and my lips end up feeling parched.

Retail Price: $22.00 (at tartecosmetics.com)

DeLush Rating:

About the Mineral Lip Sampler: "All Nine New Mineral Volumizing Lipsticks! Designed just for redheads in a convenient, mirrored case with dual applicator for perfect lips. Each shade is available in separate full size tubes."

Jamie’s Thoughts: "Lip products present an intimidating challenge for most redheads. We don’t have much natural color to our lips (at least the majority of us), so buying lip products can be terrifying – I usually find something either (a) too orange, or (b) too red. This palette of 9 lip colors is, like a lot of palette style makeup, simultaneously overwhelming and thrilling. All those options! What’s a girl to do? It took me a week to get the hang of mixing and matching these lippies – most with success, others, not so much. Here are the vital statistics that you’ll need to know:

Texture: Slightly gritty, use a balm first.
Color: Stain-like, apply sparingly – remember, you can always go back for seconds!
Mix & Match-ability: Fantastic – the “mushroom” shade is perfect for muting those brighter colors.
Staying Power: Above-Average
Tool Time: Brush/Sponge combo was difficult to use, and hard to clean
Volumizing: No visible difference here!

Truth be told, I’m not completely sold on this product. It would be great for travel (and any other moment when you can’t drag your entire lip care collection along with you), on the other hand, how important is convenience when it comes at the price of the feel of the product? While the range of colors is impressive, I think I’ll stick with my smoother, more comfortable lippies.

Retail Price: $19 USD (special price at JustForRedheads.com)

About the Advanced Waterproof Eyeliner: "Unique Expresso shade provides incredibly natural depth. Creating natural definition is a must for redheads. Now with the
JFR Advanced Liquid Waterproof Eye Liner you can have it all. New high definition eye liner brush."

Jamie’s Thoughts: Love the color, love the applicator, love the packaging. I usually find liquid eyeliner intimidating, but this product put me immediately at ease. The brush is easy enough to manipulate – just change the pressure when you apply, and you’ll get whatever you’re looking for, whether it’s a natural outline, or something more dramatic (think Amy Winehouse or Cleopatra).

As for the waterproof claims, those are totally accurate as well. This stuff didn’t budge, baby. Not only did it NOT move when I wet my face, but it also didn’t come off with just soap – I had to rub it off. This eyeliner isn’t going anywhere, which is good, because I plan on continuing to use it! A must-have for the upcoming sweaty summer, and tearful wedding season.

Retail Price: $13.00

About the Brush-a-Brow: "Designed for those with auburn hair. Adds a natural,warm auburn depth to brows. New long-wearing formula."

Jamie’s Thoughts: This product disappointed me immensely. The powder consistency was WAY too hard – when I put the brush to it, it crumbled away in every direction. Not good. Also, the bristles on the applicator brush were very stiff – stiff enough to brush the product through my eyebrow hair(s) and onto my face. The color was appropriate for my skin tone, but totally unpleasant to apply! What a shame.

Retail Price: $15.00

Ratings:
Mineral Lip Sampler
Advanced Waterproof Eyeliner
Brush a Brow

What They Say: "A new Lipstick combining creamy emolliency with a unique sheer colour pay-off. Finishes include cream, sparkling pearl and metallic. Provides the shine and moisturizing comfort of a gloss but with a smooth, non-sticky finish. Distinctive on and off. Comes packaged in its own stylish extra-long lipstick case."

Melissa Says: Well, my infatuation with all things M•A•C led me to the counter once again to fall for these shiny, sleek beauties. And while I *might* admit to testing all of the shades on my hand, making little dots in the order they were in the display so I could remember which was which, I still had a really hard time figuring out which shades to purchase. Honestly, almost all of them are sheer enough and neutral enough (yes! even the brighter ones!) to work perfectly with my coloring. (I settled on Bare and Lovey-Dove, by the way.) Okay, this part was good. They are beautifully glossy on your lips and feel like practically nothing. This was also fantastic.

However, there is one not-quite-so-fantastic thing that I have to tell you. The staying power of the pigment leaves a lot to be desired. Keep in mind that the shades are quite sheer to begin with (don't be fooled by the color in the tube), so that's part of it, I suppose. They are incredibly moistuizing, and with the darker shades you still get some pigment after the initial glossiness begins to wear away, but within the hour expect to see your color begin to fade. Of course, wearing lipliner can help extend the color. I hate to tell you not to give these a try, because they look incredible. If you don't have lots of problems with lipsitck disappearing and love a lighter feel, these can add a very pretty, sexy tint alone or a glossy look over liner. I don't regret the purchase, but you should know what to expect from these before you decide to fork over the dough.

Retail Price: $14.50 (at maccosmetics.com or go here to find a retail location near you)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "Laura Mercier Stickgloss cares for your lips while delivering colour in a sheer and sophisticated finish. Part Lip Balm, part Lip Colour and part Lip Glace, Stickgloss provides a sheer wash of colour, creates dimension and adds fullness to the lips. Stickgloss is ultra-hydrating and longer wearing than a traditional Lip Glace."

Jen's Experience: I picked this up when I was in New York for Fashion Week, and have been carrying it in my purse ever since. I chose a tint called Brown Sugar, a nice glossy, nude that looks great with my skin tone and is a great match with more dramatic eye make-up. This lip colour is really nicely moisturizing, and the moisturizing effects are long-lasting. Unfortunately, the color is not so much, an hour or two at best. Overall, it's not bad and it works pretty similarly to other glosses I have, but it's not something I would purchase again.

Retail Price: $20.00 (LauraMercier.com or your local Laura Mercier counter)

Rating:

What They Say: "12-hour color that loves your lips.

Treat your lips with TLC. Up to 12 hours of moisture-rich color. With a 99% moisture-rich topcoat infused with nourishing avocado and olive extracts, aloe, plus Vitamins A&E. Almay TLC provides incredible comfort and smoothness so lips stay beautiful and moisturized throughout the day. Available in 12 lip-loving shades ranging from soft shimmering neutrals to sweet brights.

For best results, apply Almay Truly Lasting™ Color lipcolor as follows:

1. Apply a thin, even coat of shaded lipcolor.
2. Wait until completely dry.
3. Brush on shiny topcoat to complete glossy look. Reapply topcoat throughout the day as desired."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Of all the long-last lip colors of this type, this one now stands out to me as a frontrunner. In addition to the fact that it doesn't dry out my lips at all, doesn't have NEARLY as strong a scent as many similar formulas and feels comfortable and light for hours, it's also relatively inexpensive and easy to find almost anywhere. I also liked the fact that the color was vivid yet just sheer enough that it didn't look painted on; it looks more like a normal lipstick shade than these long-last brush-on formulas tend to. It didn't bleed at all, either. The only thing I would note is that