The Perfect Lipstick

Finding the Perfect Lipstick

Becky and I have been searching for the perfect long-lasting lipstick. One that is non-drying and feels moist on our lips.

We don't want it to come off on our coffee cups and teeth or to dry out our already dry lips or bleed into those little lines that form despite our best efforts.

Finally, we want it to be simple to apply. No long waits between multiple coats of primer, color and top coat. I know we're asking a lot.

I surveyed all my friends and most couldn't recommend anything even close. However I did get two recommendations that the users think almost meet our requirements: L'Oreal Infallible Never Fail Lipcolour; and Revlon ColorStay Overtime Lipcolor.

I've tested them both and have to say I'm pretty impressed with both.

L'Oreal comes in the cleverest case you could imagine. Kudos to the engineers! The case is rectangular, 2 ¾ by 1 ½ inches. It is shiny silver plastic and one side serves as a mirror. It's not a great mirror, but it serves in a pinch.

The product has two tubes (liquid color and topcoat like a lip balm), one on each side of the case. You push each tube up and remove the applicator to apply. I like that the tubes do not come completely out, so you're not fumbling with lots of bits and pieces.

Revlon's presentation is much more mundane - a simple two-sided wand - liquid color on one end and liquid topcoat on the other.

However as they say, "The proof is in the pudding." Presentations aside, here's my report on the performance of these long-lasting lipsticks.

L'Oreal Infallible Never Fail Lipcolour

L'Oreal's range of colors is quite good - from pinks to browns to purples.

Step 1 - marked with a big "1" on the tube's top - is the color. It is liquid and applies with a sponge tip. Directions say to wait two minutes for it to dry before putting on Step 2. Step 2 is a clear topcoat very like a lip balm.

The color is long-lasting, perhaps 6 to 8 hours, depending on how frequently you eat, drink or bite your lips. You can reapply the clear moisturizing balm as needed. And it is needed. My lips felt and looked quite dry within a half hour of application.

There was minimal color transfer to eating utensils or teeth. Nice.

Revlon ColorStay Overtime Lipcolor

Revlon's color range is more limited - fairly dark tones with browns predominating. For me that's fine, because the whole point is to add long-lasting color to lips that have faded some with age.

2011 Update: Be sure to check out the newer pale shades of Revlon Colorstay Overtime Lipstick. Fashions change and Revlon now has L'Oreal Infallible beat on the range of appropriate lip colors for Ageless Beauties,

Color goes on first with a sponge applicator. A brief wait for drying is needed though the package directions don't mention that. Then comes the liquid topcoat applied with a brush.

This combo leaves the lips looking and feeling moist. Even when the topcoat wears off, my lips still feel moist. If you like the glossy look, you can reapply the topcoat as needed. There is absolutely no color transfer.

What I love most about Revlon ColorStay is that it lives up to its name. The staying power is incredible. I apply it once in the morning and, if I don't remove it with Revlon ColorStay Eye and Lip Makeup Remover, there is still color on my lips the following morning!

It does come off in the shower, which is good in case I want a different color for the new day.