In today’s modern beauty world, the demand for long-lasting, convenient, and easy-to-use lip products continues to rise. COVERGIRL – the renowned cosmetics brand – has met this need with their Outlast Lipstain line, particularly in shade 45 Brazen Raisin. As a beauty expert, I’ve had the opportunity to thoroughly experience and analyze this product, based on both personal experience and feedback from many different users.
Lip stains are becoming increasingly popular due to their long-lasting color and lightweight feel on the lips. COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain with its vegan formula and marker-like tip design promises to deliver a fresh and effective lip makeup experience. The Brazen Raisin shade – a warm, deep reddish-brown – is particularly versatile, complementing many skin tones and suitable for various occasions.
This review will dive deep into analyzing every aspect of the product, from packaging and design to color, formula, staying power, and the overall feel when using it. I hope this information will give you a comprehensive view and help you decide whether COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain in Brazen Raisin is the right choice for your makeup collection.
Product Name: COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain
Shade: 45 Brazen Raisin
Weight: 0.06oz (approximately 1.7g)
Category: Lip stain
Key Features:
- Marker-like precision tip for accurate color application
- Vegan formula
- Thin, smooth satin stained finish with long-lasting effect
- Transfer-proof
- Paraben-free
DESIGN AND PACKAGING
COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain has a simple yet convenient design, similar to a premium marker pen. The lipstain has a compact body that’s easy to hold and carry in your purse or everyday makeup bag. The cap is designed to be secure, helping to protect the tip from drying out and limiting air exposure, although based on some feedback, there have been cases where the product dried out quickly even when the cap was carefully replaced.
The tip is designed like a marker with a pointed end, allowing for precise lip lining and application. This is a major advantage of the product, especially for those who are new to lipstick or unfamiliar with using traditional lip liner pencils.
While the packaging isn’t particularly luxurious or eye-catching, it accurately reflects the essence of the product: simple, practical, and effective. However, some customers have complained about receiving products with damaged seals or packaging that shows signs of being previously opened, raising hygiene concerns, especially for a lip product.
COLOR AND PIGMENTATION
Brazen Raisin (45) is a warm, deep reddish-brown that brings a subtle and elegant beauty. This shade complements a wide range of skin tones, from fair to tan, and particularly enhances the beauty of medium to deep skin tones.
The color saturation is medium to high, allowing you to easily adjust the intensity according to your preference. With a thin layer, Brazen Raisin creates a natural, subtle lip color effect. When applied in multiple layers, the color becomes more intense and vivid, suitable for special occasions or evening events.
A notable point is that the color may appear slightly deeper when it dries compared to when first applied. Additionally, depending on one’s natural lip color, the stain may appear slightly different on different people. For those with naturally deep pink lips, Brazen Raisin will create a deep, alluring reddish-brown color.
According to feedback from many users, the color is highly rated for its beauty and ability to complement various skin tones. Some users even claim this is the “perfect” shade they’ve been searching for.
FORMULA AND INGREDIENTS
COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain has a vegan formula, free of parabens, reflecting the growing trend towards environmentally friendly and health-conscious beauty products. This is a significant advantage for consumers who are mindful about the ingredients in the products they use.
However, it’s worth noting that this formula can cause lip dryness for some users. Many have reported that they need to use lip balm or moisturizer after applying COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain to avoid dryness and chapping. This is a fairly common characteristic of lip stains, as their formulations typically contain fewer moisturizing ingredients to ensure long-lasting color.
Some users also mention the scent of the product, suggesting it’s not particularly pleasant. Fortunately, this scent usually only lasts for the first few minutes after application and disappears once the stain is completely dry.
In terms of texture, the stain has a light liquid consistency, similar to marker ink. When first applied, it has a certain amount of moisture and needs time to dry completely (about 10-15 seconds). After drying, it leaves a thin, smooth layer of color on the lips with a subtle stain effect.
USER EXPERIENCE
Application Method
Applying COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain is quite simple and intuitive thanks to the marker-like tip design. For best results, you should follow these steps:
- Prepare your lips: Exfoliate your lips by gently rubbing them with a damp cloth or using a dedicated lip scrub. Then, apply a thin layer of lip balm and wait for a few minutes, then blot excess oil with a tissue.
- Line your lips: Use the pointed end of the stain to precisely line your lips. You can start from the center of your upper lip (Cupid’s bow) and draw outward to both sides, then line your lower lip.
- Fill in with color: After lining, use the flat side of the tip to evenly fill in your lips with color.
- Let it dry: Wait about 10-15 seconds for the stain to dry completely. During this time, avoid touching your lips or pressing them together.
- Adjust the intensity (optional): If you want a lighter color, you can use a damp tissue to lightly blot, creating a more natural stain effect. If you want a deeper color, you can apply another layer.
- Apply lip balm (optional): To avoid dry lips, you can apply a layer of clear lip balm or moisturizer on top after the stain has completely dried.
Some users say they prefer to use their finger to blend the stain after application, helping to create a natural “blurred lips” effect and reducing the intensity of the color. However, note that the stain can color your fingers, so you should wash your hands immediately after using this method.
Feel on the Lips
COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain is highly rated for its lightweight feel. After drying, the stain feels almost imperceptible on the lips, completely different from traditional lipsticks with their thick and heavy textures.
However, as mentioned earlier, some users feel the stain can cause dry lips, especially after a few hours of wear or for those who already have dry lips. Therefore, maintaining lip moisture before and after using the stain is very important.
In the first few minutes after application, the stain may feel slightly tacky, but this feeling disappears once it’s completely dry. Some users, especially those with sensory issues, appreciate this characteristic of the product, as the stain feels almost weightless on the lips once dried.
Staying Power
This is one of the most discussed aspects in the feedback about COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain. Opinions about the stain’s staying power vary widely, from very satisfied to disappointed.
Many users report that the stain has good staying power, lasting for many hours without needing touch-ups. In particular, it doesn’t easily come off with light eating, drinking, or talking. Some even claim this is the most long-lasting lip stain they’ve ever used.
However, quite a few users complain that the stain doesn’t last as long as advertised, sometimes fading within an hour or less. Several factors can affect the staying power of the stain, including:
- Lip moisture: Lips that are too dry or too moist can both reduce the stain’s staying power.
- How lips are prepared before application: Exfoliating and removing excess oil from the lips can help the stain adhere better.
- Drying time: If the stain isn’t allowed to dry completely before eating, drinking, or talking, it may fade faster.
- Type of food and drink: Oily food and hot beverages can make the stain fade more quickly.
An important point to note is that when using lip balm or lip gloss over the stain, its staying power can be significantly reduced. Some users point out that any moisturizing product can cause the stain to smudge and fade more quickly.
Product Durability
A common issue mentioned by many users is the durability of the product, particularly how long it lasts before drying out. Many complain that the stain dries out very quickly, even after just a few uses, despite careful capping and proper storage (tip pointing downward).
Some users even received products that were already dry from the start, making them unusable. This is a major disappointment, especially considering the price of the product.
However, there are also users who report using the product for an extended period without any issues. This could be due to differences in manufacturing batches, storage conditions, or even the age of the product before it reaches consumers.
PROS AND CONS
Pros:
- Convenient design: The marker-like tip makes applying lipstick precise and easy, especially when lining the lips.
- Beautiful color: Brazen Raisin is a warm, deep reddish-brown that complements many skin tones and is suitable for various occasions.
- Lightweight feel: After drying, the stain feels almost imperceptible on the lips, ideal for those who dislike the heavy feel of traditional lipsticks.
- Transfer-proof: The stain rarely leaves marks on cups, glasses, or clothing after it’s completely dry.
- Vegan formula: Aligns with conscious consumption trends and environmentally friendly practices.
- Affordable price: Compared to many high-end lip products, COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain is reasonably priced and accessible to a wide range of users.
Cons:
- Can cause dry lips: Many users complain about dryness and chapping after using the stain, requiring additional lip balm application.
- Product durability: The stain can dry out quickly, even after just a few uses.
- Inconsistent staying power: Opinions about the stain’s staying power vary widely, from very good to very poor.
- Unpleasant scent: Some users dislike the scent of the stain, although it disappears after drying.
- Can accentuate lip lines and dry patches: The stain tends to cling to dry areas on the lips, making them more noticeable.
- Hygiene concerns when purchasing online: Some users received products with damaged seals or packaging showing signs of being previously opened.
COMPARISON WITH OTHER PRODUCTS
COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain, particularly in the shade Brazen Raisin, can be compared to other lip stain products on the market:
- Compared to Korean lip stains (like Etude House, Peripera, Tony Moly): Korean lip stains typically have brighter colors, focusing on red, pink, and orange tones. COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain in Brazen Raisin offers a deep, warm reddish-brown, more suitable for Western makeup styles. However, Korean lip stains often have better moisturizing formulas and more diverse textures (gel, water tint, cream tint).
- Compared to Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink: While Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink is not a lip stain in the strict sense, it’s also known for its long-lasting color. SuperStay Matte Ink has a thicker texture, better staying power in many situations, but feels heavier and stickier on the lips. COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain is much lighter and creates a more natural effect.
- Compared to Benefit Benetint: Benefit Benetint is a famous stain product that can be used for both lips and cheeks. Compared to COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain, Benetint is significantly more expensive and has a more liquid consistency, requiring a more skilled application technique. However, Benetint typically has better staying power and doesn’t dry the lips as much as COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain.
- Compared to the previous Outlast Lipstain version from COVERGIRL: Some long-time users of COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain say the current version is not the same as the one they used before. The older version is said to have better staying power and product durability. However, the new version may have been improved in formula to align with vegan and environmentally friendly beauty trends.
OVERALL RATING AND RECOMMENDATIONS
After examining all aspects of COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain in shade 45 Brazen Raisin, my overall rating is 3.5/5 stars. This is an affordable lip stain with many notable advantages such as convenient design, beautiful color, lightweight feel on the lips, and vegan formula. However, the product still has some limitations such as potential dryness, low product durability, and inconsistent staying power.
Recommendations for different types of users:
- You should buy if you:
- Prefer lipstick with a lightweight, almost imperceptible feel
- Are looking for a warm, deep reddish-brown shade that complements many skin tones
- Appreciate the convenience of a marker-like tip design
- Prioritize vegan cosmetic products
- Have a limited budget but still want a good quality product
- You should carefully consider if you:
- Have dry or easily chapped lips
- Need extremely long-lasting lip color (8+ hours)
- Are sensitive to cosmetic scents
- Don’t want to apply additional lip balm after lipstick
- You should not buy if you:
- Require moisturizing lipstick
- Dislike dry feeling on your lips
- Prefer lipstick with thick, glossy, or moist texture
- Have very wrinkled lips or frequently experience dryness and chapping
Tips for effective use:
- Prepare your lips thoroughly: Exfoliate and moisturize your lips before using the stain for best results.
- Allow the stain to dry completely: Wait about 10-15 seconds for the stain to dry completely before pressing your lips together or eating and drinking.
- Use clear lip balm: Apply a layer of clear lip balm after the stain has dried to avoid dry lips.
- Create a gradient effect: Apply the stain to the inner part of your lips and blend outward to create a natural gradient effect.
- Store properly: Cap the stain tightly and store with the tip pointing downward to prevent it from drying out quickly.
- Experiment with different techniques: Use your finger to blend the stain or a damp tissue to reduce the intensity of the color, creating a more natural stain effect.
CONCLUSION
COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain in shade 45 Brazen Raisin is an affordable lip stain with many notable advantages. It aligns with the current trend of natural, lightweight makeup that’s gaining popularity today. Despite some limitations, with its reasonable price and overall good quality, this product is still worth trying, especially if you’re looking for a warm, deep reddish-brown shade for fall/winter or everyday makeup occasions.
However, thorough lip preparation and using lip balm after applying the stain are crucial for the best experience with this product. If you have the means, purchasing in-store rather than online might be a better option to ensure product freshness and avoid hygiene concerns.
The COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain provides a good introduction to the world of lip stains for those who haven’t tried this category before. Its marker-like application makes it user-friendly, and the beautiful Brazen Raisin shade is versatile enough to complement many looks and skin tones. While it may not be perfect in every aspect, for its price point, it delivers solid performance and offers a convenient option for those seeking a lightweight, long-lasting lip color.
For those particularly concerned about the drying effect, pairing this stain with a good quality lip balm can significantly enhance the wearing experience without compromising too much on longevity. And for those who find the color too intense, the ability to create a blotted, more subtle stain adds to the product’s versatility.
In the increasingly crowded lip product market, COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain in Brazen Raisin stands out as a practical option that balances quality, convenience, and affordability. While luxury brands may offer more refined formulations or premium packaging, this product proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve beautiful, long-lasting lip color.
Whether you’re a makeup enthusiast looking to expand your collection or someone seeking a reliable everyday lip product, COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain deserves consideration. Its imperfections are outweighed by its strengths, particularly for those who prioritize a lightweight feel and longer wear time over moisturizing properties or premium packaging.
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