As a beauty enthusiast and lipstick aficionado, I’ve tried countless formulas over the years. But when MAC introduced their Powder Kiss Lipstick line, promising a moisturizing matte finish, I knew I had to put it to the test. After weeks of wear and careful analysis of customer reviews, I’m excited to share my thoughts on this innovative lip product that’s been making waves in the beauty community.
The Promise of Powder Kiss
MAC Cosmetics has long been a staple in many makeup bags, known for their high-quality products and extensive shade ranges. With Powder Kiss, they aimed to solve a common problem: the drying effect of traditional matte lipsticks. The brand promised a “zero-shine” matte look without the discomfort, offering moisture and a soft-focus effect. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive in!
First Impressions
Upon first application, I was struck by the unique texture of the Powder Kiss lipstick. It glides on smoothly, almost like a balm, but with more grip than your average moisturizing lipstick. The finish is unlike anything I’ve experienced before – truly matte, but without that tight, dry feeling that often comes with long-wearing formulas.
The packaging is classic MAC – sleek, black, and sturdy. It feels luxurious in hand, and the bullet itself has a slightly rounded tip that makes application a breeze, even without a mirror.
Color Payoff and Finish
One of the most intriguing aspects of Powder Kiss is its buildable color. Many users, myself included, found that you can achieve different looks depending on how you apply it. For a subtle wash of color, a light swipe does the trick. But if you’re after more intensity, you can easily build it up without the lipstick becoming cakey or patchy.
The finish is where this lipstick truly shines (or rather, doesn’t shine). It creates a soft-focus effect on the lips, blurring fine lines and giving that coveted “blotted” look that’s been trending on social media. It’s matte, but not flat – there’s a dimension to it that keeps your lips looking natural and healthy.
Comfort and Wear
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – comfort. Matte lipsticks have a reputation for being drying, but Powder Kiss seems to break that mold. The overwhelming consensus from users is that this formula is incredibly comfortable to wear. Many reviewers mentioned forgetting they even had lipstick on, which is high praise indeed!
The moisturizing claims seem to hold up, with several users noting that their lips felt hydrated throughout the day. This is a game-changer for those of us who love the look of matte lips but hate the feeling of parched, cracked skin.
Longevity
When it comes to wear time, Powder Kiss performs admirably, though it may not be the longest-lasting formula on the market. Most users reported several hours of wear before needing to touch up, which is impressive for such a comfortable formula. It’s worth noting that, like many moisturizing lipsticks, it may not stand up to heavy eating or drinking without some transfer.
However, one of the unique benefits of this formula is how gracefully it fades. Instead of leaving an unsightly ring around your lips, it tends to wear away evenly, leaving behind a pretty stain. This means you can go longer between touch-ups without worrying about your lipstick looking messy.
Shade Range
MAC is known for their extensive color offerings, and Powder Kiss doesn’t disappoint. From everyday nudes to bold reds and deep berries, there’s something for everyone. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular shades:
- Teddy 2.0: A warm, peachy nude that’s become a fast favorite for many. It’s described as a more subtle, blurred version of the classic Velvet Teddy.
- Devoted to Chili: A warm red that’s perfect for those who want a bold lip without the intensity of a true red.
- Mull It Over: A beautiful peachy-pink that works well for a natural, everyday look.
- Stay Curious: A soft red that’s been praised for its wearability and flattering tone.
- A Little Tamed: A lovely pinky-nude that many users describe as their perfect “my lips but better” shade.
- Sultriness: A deep, warm rose that’s great for those who want a bolder look without going full vampy.
Many users noted that the colors can look different on the lips compared to in the tube or online swatches. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing – several reviewers were pleasantly surprised by how the colors adapted to their skin tone. However, it’s something to keep in mind when choosing your shade. If possible, try to swatch in-store or look for reviews from people with similar skin tones to yours.
Special Features
One of the unique aspects of Powder Kiss that came up in several reviews is its versatility. Some users mentioned using it not just as a lipstick, but also as a cream blush. The soft, blendable formula lends itself well to this dual use, making it a great option for creating a cohesive monochromatic look.
Another feature that stood out was the scent. While MAC lipsticks typically have a vanilla fragrance, Powder Kiss has been described as having a light, chocolatey scent. Most users found this pleasant, though a few mentioned it was stronger than they expected. If you’re sensitive to fragrances, this might be something to consider.
Comparisons to Other Formulas
Many long-time MAC fans compared Powder Kiss to other formulas in the brand’s lineup. Several mentioned that they preferred it to the traditional Matte formula, finding it more comfortable and modern-looking. Others noted that while they still loved their Retro Matte lipsticks for certain occasions, Powder Kiss had become their go-to for everyday wear.
Some users drew comparisons to other brands’ soft matte formulas, like the popular Korean “velvet” lip tints. While the effect is similar, most found that Powder Kiss offered more coverage and a more traditional lipstick feel.
Potential Drawbacks
While the majority of reviews were overwhelmingly positive, no product is perfect for everyone. Here are a few potential drawbacks to consider:
- Staying Power: If you’re used to long-wearing liquid lipsticks, you might find the wear time of Powder Kiss to be less impressive. It’s a trade-off for the increased comfort and moisturizing properties.
- Color Intensity: Some users who prefer very bold, opaque color payoff found that Powder Kiss didn’t quite meet their expectations. The soft-focus effect means that even when built up, it never reaches the intensity of a traditional matte lipstick.
- Learning Curve: A few reviewers mentioned that it took them some time to get used to the unique formula. The buildable nature means you might need to experiment to find your perfect application method.
- Flavor: While most enjoyed the scent, a few users reported an unpleasant taste if the product got on their tongue. This seemed to be a minority experience, but it’s worth noting.
- Packaging Issues: A small number of users reported issues with the packaging, such as the bullet breaking or not twisting up properly. These seemed to be isolated incidents, but it’s something to be aware of.
Tips for Application
Based on user experiences and my own testing, here are some tips to get the most out of your Powder Kiss lipstick:
- Prep your lips: While the formula is moisturizing, starting with smooth, hydrated lips will give you the best result. Use a lip scrub and balm before application.
- Build gradually: For the most natural look, start with a light layer and build up as needed. This also helps prevent any patchiness.
- Use a lip liner: If you want a more defined look or are worried about feathering, a matching lip liner can help. Many users recommended MAC’s Lip Pencils as a perfect pairing.
- Try the blotting technique: For an even softer, more diffused look, try applying the lipstick and then gently blotting with a tissue. This enhances the “powdery” effect.
- Experiment with application methods: Some users preferred applying straight from the bullet, while others liked using a lip brush for more precision. Try both to see what works best for you.
- Don’t be afraid to mix shades: Several reviewers mentioned creating custom colors by mixing two Powder Kiss shades. This can be a great way to get your perfect match.
Who Is It Best For?
Based on the reviews and my own experience, Powder Kiss seems to be ideal for:
- Those who love the look of matte lips but hate the drying feeling
- People who prefer a more natural, “lived-in” lip look
- Anyone who wants a versatile lipstick that can be worn sheer or built up
- Makeup lovers who enjoy experimenting with different application techniques
- Those who prioritize comfort in their lip products
On the other hand, it might not be the best choice for:
- Those who prefer very intense, opaque color payoff
- People who need their lipstick to last all day without touch-ups
- Anyone who dislikes scented lip products
Value for Money
At $23 USD for 0.1 oz / 3 g, Powder Kiss sits at a mid-range price point for a high-end lipstick. Most users felt that the quality and unique formula justified the price, especially given how comfortable and versatile the product is. Several mentioned repurchasing their favorite shades, which is always a good sign.
The Bottom Line
After thoroughly testing Powder Kiss and analyzing hundreds of user reviews, I can confidently say that MAC has created something special with this formula. It successfully bridges the gap between matte and moisturizing, offering a modern take on lip color that fits perfectly with current beauty trends.
The soft-focus finish is flattering on all ages and skin types, blurring imperfections and creating a youthful, plump look to the lips. The comfort factor is impressive, making it a great option for those who want to wear bold colors but have previously found matte formulas too drying.
While it may not be perfect for everyone, Powder Kiss offers a unique lip experience that’s worth trying if you’re a fan of matte lipsticks or looking for something new to add to your makeup bag.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
If you’re new to Powder Kiss, I’d recommend starting with one of the more neutral shades like Teddy 2.0 or Mull It Over. These are versatile enough for everyday wear and will give you a good feel for the formula. If you’re feeling bolder, Devoted to Chili seems to be a universally flattering red that many users love.
Remember that the color may look different on your lips than in the tube, so don’t be afraid to experiment. And if you’re unsure, visiting a MAC counter to swatch in person can be helpful.
Powder Kiss has become a staple in my own makeup routine, and based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, I’m not alone. It’s a lipstick that feels modern and fresh, perfect for the current “no-makeup makeup” trend while still offering enough color payoff to make a statement when you want to.
In a world where we often have to choose between comfort and style, it’s refreshing to find a product that truly offers both. MAC’s Powder Kiss lipstick proves that you can have your cake and eat it too – or in this case, have your matte lipstick and smile comfortably all day long.
Whether you’re a longtime MAC fan or new to the brand, Powder Kiss is definitely worth checking out. It might just become your new holy grail lip product, offering the perfect balance of color, comfort, and style. Happy swatching!
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