I Wore This $8 Lipstick Instead of My $30 Favorite and Got Way More Compliments

If I had to choose my favorite type of makeup product, it would probably be anything lip-related. Lipsticks, glosses, stains, balms, tints—you name it; I'll wear it. More often than not, my go-to makeup look is a few swipes of mascara, minimal concealer, some blush, and a bold lip. I like to let my lip product take the stage because it can always be a dramatic look, but it's low-effort.

I have a rotating list of lipsticks that I use, but recently I decided to apply an $8 Maybelline lipstick instead of my usual $30 favorite for wedding, and I got the most delightful surprise of my life. I was raking in the compliments that night. People were telling me they loved my lip color, asking me where I got it from and then saying, "Oooh!" when I told them it was from the drugstore. And I'm not going to lie. I loved the attention. (It's my Leo Moon I think.)

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(Image credit: @sarahayang)

So what was the lipstick in question? Maybelline's SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick in Founder. It's a dramatic dark-berry red that is really complementary with all kinds of outfit colors and skin tones. And the liquid lipstick itself is a total win because it goes on smooth and stays put. And when I say it stays put, I really mean it—seriously, this thing can withstand cocktail hour, apps, and dinner. I only had to do a light touch-up when it was time to hit the photo booth. It leaves a sophisticated matte finish that really pulls your whole makeup look together, whether you're going for something a little more natural or going all out with smoky eyes or contouring.

In fact, Maybelline makes some pretty amazing lipsticks overall. If you're not into the matte look, the brand has some pretty satin finishes. And if you don't like liquid lipsticks, there are crayons and traditional tubes available, too. Want to browse some options? Take a look at some favorites below.

More Maybelline Products to Shop

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Managing Editor

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY and Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.