I was put off by MAC for a very long time, but slowly over the last 18 months peer pressure from other BR members has seen me crumb and at this moment in time I own 7 MAC lipsticks, 6 of which are making this review (Viva Glam is under the MAC Viva Glam review)
Shades in this review: Salon Rouge, Cyber, Heroine, Smoked Purple, Ruby Woo, Sushi Kiss.
Packaging for the MAC lipstick range is very chic and timeless, even with their limited editions they don’t alter the actual shape of the bullet just the colouring and effects. The lipstick feels heavy and worth its price tag which in comparison to some of the other brands out there is quite reasonable. The easy twist up and down mechanism with the wording MAC on the lid and silver barrel inside keeps the theme constant. Formula wise no matter if it is a sheer or matte finish lipstick always goes on creamy and has a faint vanilla scent to it which is an awesome touch. They are all long lasting to the point of eating or drinking they aren’t claiming to be kiss, drink or eat proof so expect to take this lipstick with you to top up a couple of times throughout the day.
Salon Rouge: (Limited Edition comes in a sparkly black case with black barrel inside instead of silver) Deep blue based red, sheer effect Cyber: Darkest blue purple in a satin finish Heroine: Bright purple in a matte finish Smoked Purple: Deep black purple in a matte finish Ruby Woo: Blue based red (the perfect red in my opinion) in a retro matte finish Sushi Kiss: Coral salmon pink/orange in a satin finish
These are awesome and I can’t wait to collect more of them, they look great on my vanity table all together. Out of all the formulas even the matte wasn’t drying on my lips, none of them feathered and none of them dragged. The lipstick itself can become quite soft when left in direct sunlight so store these in a suitable location if you don’t want a melted mess during the summer months
Awesome product! Love the large range of shades and finishes!! Some of my cult favourites include Russian Red - a bluish based red in a matte finish, Ruby Woo - a retro matte vivid blue based red, lady danger - matte vivid orange red, snob - satin light neutral pink and vegas volt - amplified creme full power coral..Basically the finish is about whether it is matte, slightly shimmery, more creamy, slightly glossy etc. Apply straight from the bullet or with a brush if you prefer. Drier lips should avoid the matte as it will show dryness up more. Smaller lips will suit the lighter shades. You don't need to use much - a little goes a long way. Gloss can also be added on top if desired. Lasts about 3-6 months for me. The more matte the finish the longer it will last generally - and this can be hours! $40 probably seems high but the quality is the proof of its worth and if your a MAC fan like me 6 empties will get you a free lipstick from the top 20!
Tips: Use a lip liner base to help with long wear! Use gloss if desired on top. Dry lips avoid matte finish, small lips stick to lighter shades.