Indulge in the ultimate luxury matte lipstick showdown! This comprehensive ranking and review dives deep into ten high-end brands, comparing their texture, pigmentation, longevity, and overall value. From the richly pigmented hues of Gucci to the creamy comfort of Hermès, we meticulously tested each lipstick to determine the ultimate champion. We’ve considered everything from the subtle nuances of the formula to the luxuriousness of the packaging, leaving no detail overlooked. Prepare to discover your next holy grail matte lipstick.This in-depth analysis examines key factors like moisturizing ingredients, shade range, lasting power, and price point. We’ve ranked each lipstick based on a balanced assessment of its strengths and weaknesses, offering a nuanced perspective to help you make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize comfort, color payoff, or value, this review will guide you toward the perfect luxury matte lipstick to elevate your makeup routine.
Pros And Cons
- Nice ingredients (jojoba esters and vitamin E)
- Many beautiful, classic colors
- Doesn't provide rich color or longevity
- Lightweight and sheer
- Slight silicone texture
- Packaging could be upgraded
- Rich, creamy texture
- Good pigmentation
- Many good hydrating ingredients (vitamin E, cacadu plum extract, vitamin C, licorice root extract, squalane, glycerin, jojoba)
- Good value
- Needs more shades
- Packaging is cute but not as luxurious as some others
- Competitive price ($36 for 3.5g)
- Velvety feel
- Richly pigmented
- Unique and beautiful shades
- Luxurious packaging
- Not as moisturizing as some others
- Could use more humectants
- Richly pigmented
- Smoother than Dior and Chanel
- Cool shade range including classic reds, nudes, and unique colors
- Gorgeous gold packaging
- Doesn't hydrate lips
- Feels gritty over time
- Doesn't wear as well as other luxury lipsticks
Read more: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk: 5 Must-Have Products
Pat McGrath MatteTrance Lipstick: Last Place
While Pat McGrath MatteTrance lipsticks boast gorgeous shades and surprisingly good value (often found on sale), they unfortunately landed last in my ranking. The texture is the biggest drawback; it lacks the creamy, velvety feel of the other lipsticks tested. A slight grittiness also detracts from the overall experience.
Despite beautiful pigmentation, the thin texture and lack of moisturizing ingredients (like humectants) lead to dryness and discomfort over time. While the packaging is acceptable, it feels slightly dated compared to other luxury brands.
Ultimately, the texture and lack of long-lasting comfort outweigh the positive aspects. If you prioritize value above all else and are willing to compromise on texture, they might still be worth a look, but there are better options out there.
Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet Lipstick: A Decent, But Not Outstanding Choice
Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet lipsticks are decent quality, but didn't quite make it to the top of my list. They do have moisturizing ingredients like jojoba esters and vitamin E, but the color payoff and longevity weren't as impressive as others.
The formula feels lightweight and slightly sheer, with a subtle silicone-like texture common in velvet lipsticks. While comfortable, it lacked the richness and saturation I look for in a matte lipstick.
The shade range could also be improved; many shades are classic but uninspired. The packaging, while elegant, lacks the modern features (magnets, etc.) found in competitors at this price point.
Dior Rouge Dior Lipstick: Reformulated, But Not Revolutionized
The reformulated Dior Rouge Dior lipsticks, while improved, didn't significantly surpass the original formula in my testing. The notable changes include a magnetic closure and refillable case, but the formula felt very similar to the Chanel.
With 42 shades (plus additional satin options) the shade range is impressive. However, the formula itself didn't wow me. While still a high-quality product, it wasn't substantially different enough to justify the price increase.
Ultimately, if you already own numerous velvet lipsticks, you might not feel compelled to buy these. The upgrades are nice, but not game-changing.
Gucci Rouge à Lèvres Satin Lipstick: Rich Pigmentation, but Comfort Issues
Gucci Rouge à Lèvres Satin lipsticks boast richly pigmented, smooth formulas and a fantastic shade range, including unique, fun colors beyond classic nudes and reds. The luxurious gold packaging is a definite plus.
However, these lack hydrating ingredients, leading to a slightly gritty feel after several hours of wear. The lack of moisturizing elements negatively impacts long-term comfort and overall value despite the beautiful color.
While the packaging and color selection are fantastic, the comfort aspect ultimately holds these back from a higher ranking.
Hermès Rouge Hermès Lipstick: Exquisite, But Expensive
Hermès Rouge Hermès lipsticks are luxurious and richly pigmented, with noticeable longevity and a creamy texture. The formula includes moisturizing ingredients like squalane and vitamin E for long-lasting comfort.
The beautiful packaging matches the high quality of the formula; however, the extremely high price point ($75) significantly impacts the overall value. The shade range is also rather limited.
While the formula is exceptional, the price is a major barrier. It's a splurge item, perfect for special occasions or those seeking the ultimate luxury experience.
Tom Ford Lip Color Matte Lipstick: Impressive Ingredients, Limited Shades
Tom Ford Lip Color Matte lipsticks stood out due to their impressive ingredient list, featuring vitamin E, soybean extract, ceramides, and omega-6 fatty acids. This translates to a comfortable, hydrating formula.
However, the high price ($59) and limited shade range hold it back. While the quality is undeniable, the lack of color variety limits its appeal for those seeking diversity.
These lipsticks are a worthwhile purchase for those prioritizing luxurious ingredients and a comfortable feel, provided they find a shade they love within the limited selection.
Lisa Eldridge Velvet Matte Lipstick: Exceptional Value and Unique Shades
Lisa Eldridge Velvet Matte lipsticks offer excellent value at $36. The velvety texture is similar to Dior and Chanel, but with richer pigmentation, creating truer color payoff. Unique emollient ingredients provide a blurring effect.
While the formula is lovely, it could benefit from more humectants for added hydration. The packaging is luxurious for the price, and the shade range is remarkable, featuring distinctive and beautiful colors.
These are a strong contender, offering a great balance of quality, price, and unique shades. The slightly less moisturizing aspect is its only notable drawback.
Guerlain Rouge G Velvet Lipstick: Creamy Texture, But Shade Range Needs Improvement
Guerlain Rouge G Velvet lipsticks feature a superior creamy texture thanks to standout ingredients like mango seed butter. This leads to greater comfort and a less drying experience compared to others.
However, the shade range is limited, particularly in everyday nudes. The need to purchase the case separately increases the overall cost significantly. While the refill price is reasonable, the additional cost of the case should be considered.
Despite their comfortable texture and luxurious cases, the limited shades and additional cost for the case reduce its value proposition somewhat. The exceptional texture remains a strong selling point, though.
Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick: Creamy, Pigmented, and Versatile
Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution lipsticks are a personal favorite, offering a rich, creamy texture and impressive pigmentation for a reasonable $35. While the ingredient list is not groundbreaking, the formula's performance is exceptional.
The shade range leans towards classic, wearable colors, making them excellent for everyday use. The luxurious packaging, similar in style to Gucci, further adds to the overall experience.
While more unique shades would be welcome, the formula's comfort and versatility make these a top choice, especially for those seeking a daily go-to matte lipstick.
RMS Beauty Legendary Serum Lipstick: Second Place - Luxurious Comfort and Hydration
RMS Beauty Legendary Serum lipsticks surprised me with their unique formula. While named 'serum,' they offer a surprisingly rich, creamy matte texture with just a hint of shine. Exceptional hydration is provided thanks to an abundance of nourishing ingredients.
The high concentration of vitamin E, vitamin C (from Kakadu Plum extract), licorice root extract, and other moisturizing ingredients deliver noticeable benefits to the lips. The pigmentation is rich and the formula is incredibly comfortable.
The main drawbacks are the limited bright shade range (needing more nudes) and the slightly less luxurious packaging. Despite this, the formula’s exceptional comfort and moisturizing qualities easily earn it a top spot.
Prada Monochrome Soft Matte Lipstick: The Winner!
Prada Monochrome Soft Matte lipsticks take the top spot with their unique formula perfectly balancing creamy texture with a soft-focus matte finish. The formula is unbelievably smooth and comfortable, blurring lip lines without sacrificing pigmentation.
The shade range offers good variety, including nudes, reds, and pops of color. The packaging is chic and incorporates Prada’s signature elements. Although pricey ($50), the quality and overall experience justify the cost.
These lipsticks are ideal for everyday wear thanks to their easy application and comfortable formula. While not as intensely pigmented or long-lasting as some others, they deliver exceptional luxury and comfort, making them my top choice.