The Affordable Lipsticks

My theory is that the more pigment there is in the lipstick and it doesn't dry the lips too much, then the price goes up. Unfortunately, based on experience, even in the premium department stores, there are limited options when you're searching for both true comfort and color payoff.

However, there are some affordable brands which have a pretty good level of pigment already, with nice selection of colors, AND with great comfort / wearability which is clear with semi-matte and glossy lipsticks that are available in the nearest department stores or beauty distributor.

REVIEWS BELOW

Semi-Matte lipsticks are my second best picks when it comes to pigmentation which i love. They have a mid concentration of pigment which makes it a bit drying still so for me, the best ones should be able to balance both. Now if you've seen my year-end review of lipsticks, you will know that BYS, Maybelline and L'Oreal goes to the top of the list when it comes to this category. Nonetheless, there are new comers which we should look at:

Swatches of Affordable Semi-Matte Lipsticks - 2 coats, with flash

I know that there are other pigmented brands as well like Cover Girl but when it comes to the level of pigment, clearly as you can see above, Maybelline, BYS and Color Collection (click for reviews) are quite striking. When it comes to comfort (non-drying factor) on lips, I can say that Maybelline, L'Oreal Color Riche and Avon have high scores. Now, I am really impressed with how Avon is constantly improving their products (as compared to last year). I am really loving (as you can see below) the level of pigment yet creamy and comfortable texture that it has despite the light hues I swatched - which means high scores as well for pigmentation.

Avon Ultra-Color in Carnation* (right)
SRP: PHP 379
Availability: Avon sellers nationwide

Avon Totally Kissable in Caressing Coral* (left)
SRP: PHP 399
Availability: Avon sellers nationwide 

Swatch of Avon Totally Kissable Lipstick in Caressing Coral - 2 coats, with flash, photo with focus

Totally Kissable is more expensive by P20 but both provide rich, vivid color with nice texture and consistency. It doesn't dry the lips and even helps it as you can see it on my chapped lips below. The vanilla/warm scents of the two lipsticks are luxurious too! 

Swatch of Avon Ultra-Color in Carnation - 2 coats, with flash

Also, Maybelline released a new set of lipsticks called Color Show, which as the name suggests, has hues amplified. Versus the Color Sensational line which is already good, the new variants showcase brighter colors with the same qualities.

Maybelline Color Show in Red My Lips*
SRP: PHP 165
Availability:  Leading Department Stores, SM Stores

What I really like about Maybelline is how it is very affordable yet it gives that really intense rich color that appears creamy then dries to semi-matte finish. While it dries the lips a bit, it gives full-on color! The new scent is citrus and the transfer is just easy.

Swatch of Maybelline Color Show in Red My Lips - 2 coats, with flash

Now with glossy lipsticks and if you are into this, I suggest that you go with the ones with comfort and lasting and volumizing effect, then pigmentation. I don't want to constantly reapply every time after meals or drinks so when it comes to this attribute, I love all of below. But there are differences as well. ZA is nice with its lip care and luminous capabilities, which is also quite same with Japanese brand Pixy (more affordable) that I got from my BDJ Box. And then we have Mary Kay with good pigmentation and consistency and other added benefits.

Swatches of affordable glossy lipsticks - 2 coats, with flash

Pixy Silky Fit Lipstick*
SRP: PHP 325
Availability: Leading Department Stores

Swatch of Pixy Silky Fit in - 2 coats, with flash, photo with focus

Mary Kay released a new line of lipsticks which are a bit more expensive but are infused with age-defying skin care ingredients that help lips look plumper, feel firmer, and smoothes fine lines. With its stylish packaging, this innovative product has garnered Mary Kay the prestigious Art of Packaging Award from the renowned Pratt Institute in New York for excellence in packaging creativity, aesthetics, sustainability and functionality.

Mary Kay True Dimensions Lipsticks*
SRP: PHP 860
Availability: Mary Kay Independent beauty Consultants nationwide

But other than these, the product gives a very glossy yet full, volumizing effect that lasts.

Swatch of Mary Kay True Dimensions in Citrus Flirt - 2 coats, with flash and Iris blur to focus on lips

What affordable brands are currently at your makeup kit, ladies? Share them and I'll review them soon as well!