As a beauty expert who has tested countless lip products over the years, I’ve developed a certain skepticism toward products that claim to last “all day.” We’ve all been there—applying a supposedly long-lasting lipstick in the morning only to find it completely disappeared after your first cup of coffee. But every so often, a product comes along that delivers on its promises and earns a permanent spot in makeup routines across America. The Covergirl Outlast All-Day Lip Color With Topcoat in the shade “Wine to Five” (#538) is one such product, and today I’m taking a comprehensive look at this drugstore icon that has maintained a loyal following for over two decades.
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
The Covergirl Outlast All-Day Lip Color is a two-step lip color system consisting of:
- A liquid lip color that dries to a transfer-resistant finish
- A clear moisturizing topcoat that adds shine and hydration
The particular shade I’m reviewing—”Wine to Five” (#538)—is a sophisticated, medium-toned burgundy with neutral undertones that works beautifully across various skin tones and with a wide range of outfits. It’s become something of a cult favorite shade in the Outlast line, with many users specifically seeking out this color even as other shades have been discontinued.
LONGEVITY: DOES IT REALLY LAST ALL DAY?
The primary selling point of this product is its longevity, so let’s address this right away. Based on hundreds of user experiences, this lip color genuinely delivers impressive staying power that exceeds most competing products on the market, including some high-end options.
Many loyal users report the color lasting through:
- Full workdays (8+ hours)
- Multiple meals
- Coffee and other beverages
- Even overnight (for those who forgot to remove it before bed!)
One particularly enthusiastic user demonstrated its resilience through a New Year’s Eve celebration in Los Angeles, complete with “dinner, drinks, and sooooo many kisses,” waking up the next afternoon with the lip color still intact.
That said, there are some factors that affect its longevity:
- Oil-based foods tend to break down the formula faster
- The matte shades (like Wine to Five) generally last longer than the shimmery options
- Proper application technique significantly impacts wear time
Overall, while it may not truly last a full 24 hours under all conditions, 6-8 hours of solid wear is a reasonable expectation, with many users experiencing even longer lasting power.
APPLICATION & TEXTURE
The application process requires some attention to detail:
Step 1: Color Application The liquid color comes with a doe-foot applicator that allows for precise application. Users recommend:
- Applying in thin layers rather than one thick coat
- Using a Q-tip for outlining lips for more precision
- Allowing the color to dry completely before applying the topcoat (usually 30-60 seconds)
Step 2: Topcoat Application The clear moisturizing balm adds shine and comfort, preventing the dry feeling common with long-lasting lip colors. Some users describe it as similar to Vaseline in texture, and it needs to be reapplied throughout the day to maintain comfort.
One consistent piece of advice from long-term users: less is more with the color coat. Applying too much can lead to a “cakey” feeling or uneven fading.
COMFORT & FEEL
Long-lasting lip colors are notorious for their drying effects, and the Covergirl Outlast is not entirely exempt from this issue. User experiences vary widely:
- Many report that with regular application of the topcoat, the formula feels comfortable all day
- Some find it moderately drying despite the topcoat
- A small percentage experience significant dryness, particularly with daily use
The consensus seems to be that while it’s not as hydrating as a traditional cream lipstick, it’s considerably more comfortable than most other long-wear formulas on the market. The balm topcoat is essential to maintaining comfort, and some users need to apply it more frequently than others.
Some long-term users mention that removing the product at night is crucial to prevent lip dryness, suggesting that an oil-based makeup remover works best.
COLOR PAYOFF & APPEARANCE
“Wine to Five” (#538) receives consistent praise for its versatility and flattering tone. It’s described as:
- A neutral burgundy that “matches everything”
- Suitable for fair to medium skin tones
- Appropriate for both office wear and special occasions
- A “rich color” with good pigmentation
Several users with fair skin and either blonde or red hair specifically mention that this shade complements their coloring beautifully. It seems to hit the sweet spot of being noticeable without being overpowering.
The finish is initially quite bold but typically tones down within an hour of application to a more natural-looking stain. When the topcoat is applied, it transforms from a matte to a glossy finish, offering versatility in the final look.
TRANSFER RESISTANCE
One of the most appreciated qualities of this lipstick is its remarkable transfer resistance once set. Users consistently praise how it:
- Doesn’t leave marks on glasses, cups, or straws
- Stays put during kisses
- Remains intact under face masks (a more recent benefit)
- Doesn’t smudge or feather outside the lip line
This quality makes it particularly valuable for special occasions, professional settings, or any situation where lipstick transfer would be problematic.
FADING PATTERN
How a long-wear lip color fades can be as important as how long it lasts. The Outlast in Wine to Five has mixed reports:
- Many users report even fading throughout the day
- Some mention that it can wear unevenly, particularly in the inner portions of the lips
- A few note that it may flake when dry if not properly maintained with the topcoat
The consensus seems to be that it fades more gracefully than many competitors, but proper application (thin layers) and maintenance (regular topcoat application) are key to preventing uneven wear.
REAPPLICATION CONSIDERATIONS
An interesting aspect of this product is that traditional touch-ups don’t work well with the formula. Users consistently advise:
- Complete removal and reapplication for best results if significant touching-up is needed
- Using the topcoat balm as a mild remover before reapplying
- Avoiding layering additional color over partially worn areas
This characteristic may be seen as either a drawback or a benefit, depending on your makeup routine preferences. It’s certainly something to consider if you’re accustomed to quick touch-ups throughout the day.
REMOVAL
Several users mention that while the staying power is impressive, removal requires specific techniques:
- Oil-based makeup removers work best
- Ponds cleansing cream is specifically recommended by some long-term users
- Regular face wash may not be sufficient for complete removal
The fact that it requires intentional removal is generally viewed positively—it won’t disappear until you want it to.
VALUE & ACCESSIBILITY
At a typical price point of $10-12 in stores, the Covergirl Outlast represents excellent value compared to similar long-wearing formulas from high-end brands that may cost 2-3 times as much. Several users specifically mention that it outperforms more expensive competitors like Lipsense.
A recurring theme in the reviews is availability issues—many loyal users mention difficulty finding the Wine to Five shade in local stores and appreciate being able to purchase it online. Some expressed concern that this specific shade might be discontinued, which would be a significant disappointment to its dedicated fan base.
LONGEVITY OF THE PRODUCT ITSELF
Multiple users mention that each tube lasts approximately six weeks with regular use, representing good value. However, there was one complaint about receiving a dried-out product that only lasted two days, suggesting some quality control or storage issues may occasionally occur.
The topcoat balm typically needs replacement more frequently than the color portion for most users.
PACKAGING & DESIGN
The product features a dual-ended design with:
- The liquid color in a tube with a doe-foot applicator
- The clear balm in a twist-up stick format
While the packaging is functional, some users mention that the balm portion can become soft in warm weather, causing it to fall off the applicator. The overall design is practical rather than luxurious, which is expected at this price point.
THE LOYAL FAN BASE
Perhaps the most telling aspect of this product’s quality is the remarkable loyalty of its users. Many reviews mention:
- Using this specific shade for 5, 10, 15, or even 20+ years
- Panic when they can’t find it in stores
- Recommending it to friends and family members
- Refusing to try other lipsticks after discovering this one
This level of dedication is rare in the constantly evolving beauty market and speaks volumes about the product’s consistent performance.
POTENTIAL DRAWBACKS
To provide a balanced review, here are the most commonly mentioned drawbacks:
- Can be drying for some users despite the topcoat
- May wear unevenly, particularly in lip creases
- Requires more careful application than traditional lipsticks
- Can’t be easily touched up without complete removal
- Some users found the formula transferred to their teeth during application
WHO WOULD BENEFIT MOST FROM THIS PRODUCT?
Based on user experiences, this product is ideal for:
- Those who need truly long-lasting lip color
- People who dislike frequent touch-ups
- Individuals who are bothered by lipstick transfer
- Anyone looking for a versatile, flattering shade that works for both professional and social settings
- Those who prefer a two-in-one system offering both matte and glossy finish options
It may be less suitable for:
- People with very dry or sensitive lips
- Those who prefer a one-and-done application without carrying a topcoat
- Anyone who prefers to gradually touch up their lipstick throughout the day
CONCLUSION
The Covergirl Outlast All-Day Lip Color With Topcoat in “Wine to Five” has earned its status as a cult favorite through consistent performance and remarkable staying power. While no lip product is perfect for everyone, this one delivers on its core promises better than most alternatives at any price point.
What’s particularly impressive is how this drugstore staple has maintained a loyal following for decades in an industry where new formulations constantly emerge. The endurance of both the product on the lips and its popularity in the market speaks to a winning formula that truly meets a consumer need.
If you’re tired of lipsticks that disappear by lunchtime, leave marks on everything they touch, or require constant monitoring and touch-ups, this time-tested formula deserves a place in your makeup collection. Just be prepared to stock up if you fall in love with it—as many users have discovered, finding your perfect shade consistently can become a treasure hunt as popular colors like Wine to Five become harder to find in local stores.
In the world of long-wearing lip colors, the Covergirl Outlast stands as proof that sometimes the most reliable performers aren’t the most expensive or trendy options, but rather the quietly consistent products that continue to deliver year after year.
Buy on Amazon: Here
