Ask Elle: MAC Lipstick Finishes 101

For this week's Ask Elle: Amanda wants to know,

"I want to buy my first MAC lipstick. Which one should I get?"
Amanda, I get this question often! With over 187 shades to choose from, the better question is which MAC finish would you like? Some are sheer, some are matte, and so on, so today I'll explain MAC lipstick finishes.
See also: MY MAC LIPSTICK COLLECTION

from l-r
Oblivion, Flamingo, Twig, Creme Cup
Amplified: Creamy, smooth, pigmented and a little shiny--this is my favorite finish since the color payoff is so wonderful.
Lustre: Sheer to medium coverage and very lightweight--this is very shiny but not sticky. Despite owning 3 in this finish, I usually skip this one.
Glaze: Not pictured because I do not own any of these--this is the closest to a lip gloss. Sheer, lightweight with a lot of glide. A semi-pearl finish.
Satin: Creamy with medium to full coverage--this has a satin shine to it.
Cremesheen: Creamy balmy formula with a medium coverage--semi-glossy

from l-r
Flat Out Fabulous, Angel, Strange Journey



Retro Matte: Very intense color and very matte--these last all day but can be very drying. Ruby Woo is the most famous shade from this finish. You recently saw the color I am wearing in this Raspberry Lips post.
Frost: Smooth with medium coverage with a semi-glossy pearl finish--I know the term "frost" sounds like something old school, but it's really a nice finish.
Matte: Creamy with high-color payoff--no shine and one of my faves

For more info visit MACCosmetics.com
See also: My MAC Lipstick collection and

video My Cinderella MAC Haul
What's your favorite lipstick? Leave your beauty questions below to be featured on a future Ask Elle
Extra Elle:

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