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.)
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.
The pink-nude hue is the perfect everyday color. The crayon itself glides on easily and stays for up to eight hours.
Looking for the perfect red? This one is super flattering with a warm brick-red hue.
This mauve lipstick has been tested on 50 skin tones, which is proof that it's universally flattering. It leaves a satin finish.
Have you heard? Barbiecore is the thing right now. So why not double-down on it with this bright pink.
This lipstick is like a nude but a little more dramatic. The formula contains shea butter, so it leaves a creamy and moisturizing finish.
Brown lip colors have made a comeback, and these updated hues just look so good. This liquid lipstick requires a two-step application: First, you swipe on the color, and second, you apply the conditioning balm for extra hydration. The product stays for up to 24 hours.
For that classic Old Hollywood red lip, this lipstick comes in clutch. It's a bright and bold red with a super-matte finish that doesn't feel drying or heavy.
Okay, yes, this is a lip gloss, but hear me out—this glossy color will plump your lips like whoa. The Moon hue is the perfect nude pink.
This deep rust-brown color lends some sophistication to your makeup look.
If you want to try something different than a classic brick or scarlet red, give this hue a try. It has orange and brown tones for more a grounding red.
I love wearing a deep wine hue for fancy nights out. It just makes me feel so glam. This liquid lip color has a vinyl-like finish that stays on for up to 16 hours.
A rosy-mauve color, this crayon lipstick is perfect if you like a nude lip but want a hint of color.
More Maybelline Products to Shop
There's a reason this foundation is highly rated—it refines pores and leaves a beautiful natural-looking matte finish.
You've probably seen this mascara go viral on TikTok. But good news: It lives up to the hype because it volumizes and lengthens your lashes without flaking or smudging.
This pencil makes filling your brows in so easy—it features a precise teardrop tip and a spoolie brush on the other end to blend and define.
You really don't need to buy an expensive primer when you have this option. It blurs pores, smooths the skin, and leaves a matte finish.
Use this versatile concealer to target dark circles, redness, blemishes, and fine lines.
Even a liquid-liner newbie will find this product easy to use. The pen doesn't skip or slip—it just glides on.
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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 andBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , 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.
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