There’s a tragic little outline left behind, clinging to the edges of your lips like it's staging a slow, dramatic exit. Worse still, it decides to ghost the moment you take your first sip of coffee. Been there? We have too. There is just something about velvet; there is no end that looks polished and a little adventurous. It's bold without screaming, without having to shout, "I spent an hour getting ready." The only caveat? Most matte lipsticks are about as hydrating as a desert wind, and don’t even think about eating.
One sandwich and the whole illusion crumbles. So, naturally, we went on a mission. We wanted matte lipsticks that could handle life—real life. Think meetings, meals, coffee runs, awkward hugs, and maybe even a surprise kiss or two (a girl can dream). And guess what? They do exist.
First, let's settle a classic debate: matte or creamy? Creamy is cosy, sure. Hydrating, easy, and all that jazz. But it slips. It smudges. It ghosts you halfway through a sentence. Matte lipsticks, on the other hand, are ride or die. They stick around.
Today's sources have travelled far from the latest, chalky disasters of Gadgadas. Many of them now manage to combine stay-put power with actual comfort. And some? Even come with built-in sun protection. Yep. SPF in your lipstick. We’re here for it.
After far too many cracked lips and mid-day meltdowns (both literal and emotional), we got serious. Here are the non-negotiables for a matte lipsticks that works as hard as you do:
Long wear without the dryness: Because we’d like to eat lunch and still look fabulous.
Comfortable finish: No crusty lips. No tightness. Just smooth, pillowy pigment.
Bold pigment: We want colour that stays rich from morning coffee to evening cocktails.
Transfer resistance: Our mugs, boyfriends, and face masks have seen too much.
Bonus SPF: Because yes, your lips can sunburn too.
Alright, let’s talk about the MVPs. These matte lipsticks didn’t just survive our days—they thrived.
1. Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink This drugstore legend delivers high-end performance. It stays locked in through everything—ramen, rain, and rushed commutes. It's a powerhouse. The shade range? Chef's kiss. From soft nudes to dramatic reds, there’s one for every mood.
2. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution It’s luxury in a tube. The formula is creamy yet matte (weird but wonderful), and it fades elegantly instead of flaking. Pillow Talk may be the cult shade, but honestly, they all hit.
3. Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint This means business. Fat, stained and unexpectedly intense. It doesn't just avoid food – it dares to try food. In addition, the applicant makes it easy to get the sharp, clean line.
4. MAC Powder Kiss Liquid Lipcolour Want matte without sacrificing moisture? This is your jam. It blurs, it cushions, it flatters. And MAC? They know how to make shades that pop across all skin tones.
We layer SPF on our face like pros, but our lips? Often left exposed. Matte lipstick with SPF are basically beauty's hidden gems. Ideal for sunny days, city strolls, or just existing outside.
Some SPF-rich picks worth checking out:
Fresh Sugar Tinted Lip Treatment SPF 15 – More of a satin finish, but close enough. Plus, your lips will feel like clouds.
Colorescience Sunforgettable Lip Shine SPF 35 (food) – high SPF, high style.
Revlon Super Lustrous Matte Lipsticks SPF 15: Budget and reliable.
Even the best matte lipsticks needs a bit of prep to really shine (ironically). Here are our go-to tricks:
Exfoliate first – Because matte will cling to every dry flake like drama to reality TV.
Hydrate and blot – Balm it up, let it sink in, then blot. It preps your lips without interfering with wear.
Line your lips – not just to define, but to help the colour grip.
Build in layers – one thick coat? Recipe for regret. Thin layers are your best friend.
Set it (if you're serious) – old-school trick: tissue + translucent powder. Works like a charm.
If you’re still reading, we know one thing: you love a matte moment as much as we do. And honestly? We get it. Matte lipsticks are more than just a beauty product. They’re armour. Attitude. A little tube of bold energy that says, “I’ve got this.” Whether it’s a date, a deadline, or just your third coffee of the day, it shows up with you and refuses to quit. Even better? You don’t have to search the high street endlessly.
Debenhams beauty section is an actual treasure trove. From long-wearing classics to waterproof matte lipstick with SPF, you’ll find shades and formulas that match your mood and your lifestyle. They've got all sorts of exciting offers and packages. Let's face it; you can never have just one waterproof matte lipstick. Well, this bold colour will not bring shame to you, though it may make you dominant. And maybe you can chew that burrito with absolute fearlessness.
1. What is the best waterproof matte lipstick?
Charlotte Tilbury’s Matte Revolution is queen. And for SPF protection, Revlon Super Lustrous Matte is a go-to.
2. Which is better, matte or creamy lipstick?
Both have their perks. Creamy is great for hydration and quick touch-ups. But if you want staying power and a refined finish? Matte’s your girl. Especially if you hate reapplying every hour.
