Let me confess: I’m not really a lipstick girl. Don’t get me wrong, though—I never step out without something on my lips, because of hyperpigmentation.
But instead of lipsticks, I usually reach for lip crayons because they’re quick, fuss-free, and forgiving.
Lipsticks, on the other hand, always feel like more work.
Still, there’s something undeniably glamorous about bold red lipstick. After days of scrolling, swatching online, and obsessing over undertones, I decided to take the plunge with Maybelline Creamy Matte Lipstick in Rich Ruby.
Contents
About the product
Color Sensational Creamy Matte Lip Color’s creamy matte finish is available in gorgeous hues. Achieve statement-making color with our supremely sensational matte lipstick. Precious oils leave a sensuous finish. Available in a collection of eye-catching shades.
How to apply
- Apply lipstick in the center of your upper lip and follow your mouth contours.
- Glide the lipstick across the bottom lip.
Price
₹299 for 3.9 gm | Buy it on Amazon
My Experience with Maybelline Creamy Matte Lipstick in Rich Ruby
Packaging and first impressions
The packaging is basic: silver bullet with a clear mauve-toned cap, shade label at the bottom.
It’s sturdy, travel-friendly, and won’t fall apart in your handbag. It’s functional rather than fancy.
If you’re the kind of person who organizes lipsticks in a pretty acrylic holder, this one will sit in neatly but won’t exactly scream luxury.
The shade
Rich Ruby is a warm, bright red. It’s bold, unapologetic and attention-grabbing.
I bought it online, by just checking out some swatches. Not a great idea. I generally do not wear such bright shades, and this one is little too bright for my taste.
The shade looked darker in the videos I saw online. I wanted something similar to the classic Hollywood red.
It’s not my everyday red, but if you’re into vibrant, confidence-boosting shades, this one delivers.
Pigmentation
This lipstick is unfailing when it comes to color payoff. One swipe and you’ve got full-throttle pigment.
Honestly, it’s almost too much for me, so I just apply a little and spread it with my fingers. I dab a tiny amount and blend it out with my fingers for a softer, blurred look. If you love bold, opaque lips, you’ll be thrilled.
Formula
Maybelline Creamy Matte, like the name suggests (duh), has a creamy formula. It’s not completely matte, but only semi-matte. However, it gives a non-drying finish.
Maybelline Ruby Red glides on effortlessly, feels feather-light, and doesn’t parch your lips (thank you, sesame oil and honey in the formula). It’s perfect if you hate the “desert-dry” matte look.
But the catch is, because of the creamy slip, it never fully sets. If you’re a matte lover like me, you’ll likely find yourself reaching for a tissue and some powder to tone down the sheen.
Staying power
Here’s where it loses its points. The lipstick lasts about 3 to 4 hours, tops for me. Add a meal or even a coffee, and it starts fading, especially in the inner lip area. And no, it’s not transfer-proof.
Maybe if it had been a matte formula, it would have stayed on longer. The creamy texture makes it prone to smudging. On the flip side, when it’s time to remove it, you’ll still need a proper makeup remover.
Other things
At Rs. 299, this lipstick is a steal. Maybelline offers more than 30 shades in this line, from soft nudes to deep hues, it’s got something for everyone. Honestly, variety is one of its biggest selling points.
I’m picky about smells, and this lipstick has a faint chemical scent that lingers. It’s not overwhelming, but not exactly pleasant either. Given how much conversation there has been around heavy metals and chemicals in lipsticks, it’s worth noting.
Pros
- Easily affordable
- Travel-safe packaging
- Creamy, moisturizing formula and texture
- Super pigmented
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear
- Huge shade range
- Widely available
Cons
- Transfers easily
- Doesn’t stay long enough
- Chemical scent
- Semi-matte (not true matte)
Maybelline Creamy Matte Lipstick in Rich Ruby
-
Rating
Final Word
I don’t hate it, but I have tried better formulas. I do want to try some other shades of the line—some muted ones are really attractive. Plus, I like the fact that it is very pigmented, so a single swipe gives you a deep color. Although I wish it was a bit more matte, and that the scent wasn’t so chemical-heavy.
Maybelline Rich Ruby delivers the wow factor in a swipe, but only if you’re ready to commit to touch-ups.
