The product: Maybelline Matte Ink in “The Un-Nudes” in 60 Poet, 65 Seductress, 75 Fighter, 85 Protector, 90 Huntress, 95 Visionary, and 100 Philosopher

I wear these lipsticks on and off, if by “on and off,” one means “constantly.” There is nothing I hate more than not knowing what my face looks like at any given moment, which means that bold colours are usually out of the question for me – unless liquid lipsticks are involved.

I’ve talked about the Maybelline Matte Ink formula before. It was introduced to me at the end of 2017, and became a staple for me by February of 2018. I even added to my collection for Valentine’s Day – Pioneer is the perfect red.

Maybelline Matte Ink swatch in Huntress

The Maybelline Matte Ink formula

I’ve reviewed the Matte Ink formula before, but I have a couple updates to add. To begin, the things that stay the same!

The doe-foot applicator on these dispenses just the right amount of product, and its shape makes it easy to apply. These lipsticks are best applied in 1-2 light layers, and should dry within 90 seconds. (Some shades are stickier; some more matte.) The formula smells slightly sweet but the scent fades quickly, and they’re not significantly drying.

I can get 3 hours of super-comfortable wear out of these, or 7 with a bit of tightness. They last through meals and drinks, and hold up with about 70% reliability to hardcore makeout sessions.

Maybelline Matte Ink swatch in Philosopher

However. The formula is, when compared to other liquid lipsticks, slightly tacky. My Smashbox Always On Liquid Lipstick, for instance, feels significantly drier than these. It’s not a bad thing, but it’s noticeable enough that even my partner has mentioned it: “it’s like not even your lips want you to stop kissing me!”

He’s also mentioned that he can feel them on my lips, like a thin, plastic-y film. Again, it’s not a dealbreaker–and we both prefer these to regular, messy lipsticks–but it’s notable.

Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink lipstick review, swatches: 60 Poet, 65 Seductress, 75 Fighter, 85 Protector, 90 Huntress, 95 Visionary, and 100 Philosopher

The Maybelline Matte Ink Un-Nude shades

I loved the formula of the four Matte Inks I tried originally, but the shades weren’t really my colours. (Other than Voyager, which is basically my jam.) This time around, though, I already knew I loved the formula – so it was the shades that knocked me off my feet.

The Un-Nudes are fascinating: I have here four brownish nudes and three purpleish “nudes.” And they’re also just a little bit genius.

Greys and purples aren’t going to look “nude” on every skintone, but they can look “un-nude” on some complexions. The best example that I can give you of this is Maybelline Philosopher, which balances on a line between colourful and natural against my cool skintone. It’s a wonderful lilac shade that brightens my entire complexion when I wear it.

Unlike many traditional nudes, these violets don’t draw the eye by being out of sorts with my colouring.  Instead, they enhance it – while adding an interesting twist.

Maybelline Matte Ink swatch in Seductress

Maybelline Matte Ink in Huntress is another standout, with dark purple tones that read grey against my skintone. It’s a great alternative to black for those who want a greyscale look, but aren’t ready to commit to something as dark as a true black. (The softer shade makes the mouth look a little larger, too.)

For traditional warm nudes, I’ve turned the most to Maybelline Seductress and Protector. Seductress is quite warm, and looks a little “Instagram” on me, while Protector is more of a nude for a dark skintone. On me, it’s a statement lip; a dark mix of chocolate and red clay.

Maybelline Matte Ink swatch in Protector

The Maybelline Matte Ink verdict?

My stance on the Maybelline Matte Inks remains the same: these are my favourite liquid lipsticks on the market. Other brands do them slightly better, but not at this price point – which is something that I factor into my purchases.

For an “Un-Nude,” I recommend Maybelline Philosopher for those with fair skin – but I think I want to try a few more kiss-proof formulas before the hunt is done. If you have a favourite, leave it in the comments below!

Availability:$9.49 USD/$11.99 CAD. Permanent at Ulta, Walgreens, Target, and most major drugstores and mass market retailers.

Maybelline Matte Ink swatch, review – Huntress

The eye makeup in this post – Lise Watier ELLE palette with black liner and Esqido Unisyn Love & Peace lashes