As a beauty expert with years of experience testing and reviewing various makeup products, I’m excited to share my in-depth analysis of the COVERGIRL Outlast All-Day Lip Color With Topcoat in Blushed Mauve. This iconic two-step lip color system has remained a staple in many makeup collections for over two decades, with some loyal users reporting they’ve been using it for 10-15 years or more. But does it live up to its “all-day” promise? Let’s find out.
Product Overview
The COVERGIRL Outlast All-Day Lip Color With Topcoat comes as a dual-ended system:
- One end contains the liquid lip color (the matte stain)
- The other end features a clear topcoat for moisture and shine
This particular shade, Blushed Mauve, is described by users as a “fresh rose color” that offers a natural look while still providing noticeable color. It’s positioned as a versatile neutral that can work for various skin tones and occasions.
First Impressions and Packaging
The product comes in a sleek dual-ended tube that’s portable and easy to slip into a makeup bag. Some users have noted that the tubes are quite small for the price point, which might be a consideration for those who use the product daily. The packaging is functional but not particularly luxurious – it’s a straightforward drugstore presentation.
One recurring complaint is the occasional packaging defect, with some users reporting difficulties opening the clear gloss component. This seems to be a manufacturing issue that affects a small percentage of products.
Application Experience
Proper Application Technique
One of the most important insights gathered from long-term users is that the application technique is crucial for success with this product. As one enthusiastic user with 19 years of experience using this product notes:
“Most don’t know how to use this lip color. Don’t put it on like chapstick! Don’t put this on like lipstick! Paint it on like you are creating art. I first do a slight outline then color in the lines. Let it dry for a minute. Then put on the top coat.”
This precision application method seems to be the key to achieving the legendary long-lasting results the product promises. Users who apply it incorrectly often report disappointing results.
Texture and Feel
The liquid lip color has a relatively thin consistency that dries down to a matte finish. It’s important to let it dry completely (about 30-60 seconds) before applying the topcoat. Some users report that without proper application, the product can feel “cakey” or dry.
The topcoat adds shine and moisture, though it needs to be reapplied throughout the day. Some users find the topcoat “sticky,” while others describe it as “silky smooth.” Many users mention that they substitute the included topcoat with their own lip balm or gloss for a more comfortable wear.
Color and Finish
The Blushed Mauve shade is consistently described as a versatile, natural-looking color. One user who described herself as “pale” found it to be “the most natural lip color” she had ever found in a long-lasting formula. The color is described as having slight plum undertones with a hint of sparkle, making it suitable for both everyday wear and more formal occasions.
When applied correctly, the finish is a natural-looking stain that doesn’t look overly “made up.” The topcoat adds dimension and shine, creating a more polished final look.
Performance and Longevity
Staying Power
The standout feature of this product is undoubtedly its longevity. Numerous users confirm that it truly delivers on its “all-day” promise, with many reporting that it lasts through:
- Eating and drinking
- Coffee and water consumption
- Kissing
- An entire workday (including 12-13 hour nursing shifts)
Some users even report waking up with color still on their lips the next morning. This remarkable staying power is the primary reason many users have remained loyal to the product for years or even decades.
However, experiences do vary. A small number of users report more modest wear time of 4-8 hours, with the product requiring touch-ups after meals. The consensus seems to be that greasy foods are the biggest challenge to this product’s longevity.
Transfer-Resistance
Another highly praised aspect is the product’s minimal transfer. Users note that it doesn’t come off on cups, glasses, or even on their partners when kissing. This makes it particularly appealing for special occasions or long workdays when constant touch-ups aren’t practical.
Reapplication Challenges
While the longevity is impressive, reapplication can be tricky. As one user explains:
“You can not reapply over the old color! You must have a clean palate upon which to paint your color! If you want to reapply, rub as much as you can off, then reapply. A darker color works best. If you try putting it on on top of the top coat, it will get clumpy and crumbly and comes off.”
This is an important consideration for those planning to use the product for events where touch-ups might be necessary.
Comfort and Moisture
The comfort level of this product appears to vary significantly between users. Some report that it’s comfortable to wear all day, while others find it drying without frequent reapplication of the topcoat.
Several users mention that they use alternative moisturizing products on top of the color instead of the provided topcoat. Popular alternatives include:
- Regular lip balm
- Chapstick
- Different glosses
- Vaseline for removal
Age and lip condition seem to be factors in comfort, with one user past 50 mentioning that it felt “cakey” on her dry lips. This suggests that proper lip preparation and regular use of the topcoat or alternative moisturizers are essential for comfortable wear.
Value for Money
The product is positioned as a drugstore option, making it significantly more affordable than high-end long-lasting lip colors. One enthusiastic user stated they “would pay $50 per box” because of how well it works, considering the current price an excellent value.
However, some users have noted concerns about the small size of the tubes relative to the price, feeling that they don’t last as long as expected with daily use.
Comparison to Other Products
Several users mention trying other long-lasting lip colors, including more expensive options, and finding that the COVERGIRL Outlast performs as well or better. One user who typically shops at Sephora was pleasantly surprised by the product’s performance at a fraction of the price.
The product seems to have a particularly strong following among people who:
- Work long shifts
- Need makeup that lasts through meals
- Want to avoid frequent touch-ups
- Dislike transfer onto cups and glasses
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional longevity (all-day wear for most users)
- Minimal transfer
- Natural-looking finish
- Affordable price point
- Wide range of shades available
- Versatile for different occasions
- Doesn’t require frequent reapplication
- Faithful color representation (color in tube matches lips)
Cons
- Can be drying for some users
- Topcoat needs frequent reapplication
- Challenging to reapply over existing color
- Small tube size for daily users
- Requires specific application technique
- Occasional packaging defects
- May feel cakey on dry or mature lips
- Some users find the topcoat sticky
Who Is This Product Best For?
Based on user experiences, this product would be most suitable for:
- People with normal to oily lips
- Those who need makeup to last through long days
- Individuals who dislike frequent touch-ups
- People who want minimal transfer onto cups, glasses, etc.
- Those seeking an affordable long-lasting lip color
- Anyone who prefers a natural-looking finish
It might be less ideal for:
- People with very dry lips
- Those who prefer one-step application
- Individuals who frequently change their lip color throughout the day
- People who prefer a very moisturizing lip product
Tips for Success
To get the most out of this product, consider these tips gathered from experienced users:
- Apply with precision – outline first, then fill in
- Let the color dry completely (about 30-60 seconds) before applying the topcoat
- Don’t rub lips together after application to avoid getting color on teeth
- Keep the topcoat or alternative lip balm handy for reapplication throughout the day
- Remove completely before reapplying color
- Use Vaseline or oil-based makeup remover for easy removal
- Consider using your own lip balm instead of the included topcoat if you find it sticky
- Apply a thin layer rather than a thick one for best results
Special Considerations
Discontinued Colors
A recurring frustration among loyal users is that COVERGIRL frequently discontinues popular colors. Several users mentioned specific shade numbers that were discontinued, with one particularly lamenting the loss of #880, calling it their “all-time fav.” This is worth considering if you tend to become attached to specific shades.
Application Learning Curve
The product requires a specific application technique that differs from traditional lipstick. New users should expect a brief learning period to master the application process.
Conclusion
The COVERGIRL Outlast All-Day Lip Color With Topcoat in Blushed Mauve is a remarkable product that delivers on its core promise of long-lasting, transfer-resistant color. Its staying power is truly impressive, with many users confirming that it lasts through eating, drinking, and even sleeping. The Blushed Mauve shade offers a natural, versatile color that works for various skin tones and occasions.
While it does have some drawbacks, particularly related to potential dryness and reapplication challenges, these seem to be outweighed by the benefits for most users. The incredible loyalty of its customer base – with many reporting use for 10, 15, or even 20+ years – speaks volumes about the product’s reliability and performance.
For those seeking a long-lasting lip color that doesn’t break the bank, the COVERGIRL Outlast All-Day Lip Color With Topcoat in Blushed Mauve is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to master the specific application technique and keep the topcoat handy for touch-ups throughout the day.
Final Rating: 4.2/5 Stars
This product earns a strong 4.2 out of 5 stars for its exceptional longevity, minimal transfer, affordable price point, and the natural-looking finish of the Blushed Mauve shade. The deductions come primarily from the occasional dryness issues, packaging concerns, and the learning curve required for proper application.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a special occasion makeup wearer, or simply someone who hates frequent touch-ups, this COVERGIRL staple deserves a place in your makeup collection. Just remember – it’s all about the application technique!
Buy on Amazon: Here
