As a makeup enthusiast with over a decade of experience testing various lip products, I was intrigued when COVERGIRL reintroduced their Outlast Lipstain line. Many makeup aficionados might remember these products from their previous iteration around 2013, when they were part of a “Twilight Just Bitten” collection. Now they’re back with updated packaging and promises of long-lasting, transfer-proof color. Today, I’ll be diving deep into the 65 Natural Blush shade to determine whether this product lives up to its claims.
- Product Name: COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain
- Shade: 65 Natural Blush
- Format: Pen-like marker applicator
- Finish: Satin stained finish
- Claims: Smooth application, precise pen-like tip, transfer-proof
- Formula: Vegan
- Quantity: 0.06oz
- Price Point: Budget-friendly (under $15)
First Impressions and Packaging
The COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain comes in sleek, slim marker packaging, a notable departure from the chubby marker with a semi-transparent cap from its 2013 iteration. The new design features a completely opaque matte exterior that gives the product a more sophisticated look. While some might miss the visibility offered by the previous transparent cap, the current packaging does save space in makeup bags and offers a more modern aesthetic.
When first opening the product, I was eager to test both the applicator and the formula. The pen-like tip is designed for precision application, promising the ability to both line the lips and fill them in with ease. The marker format suggests a lightweight, non-sticky formula that should absorb into the lips rather than sitting on top like traditional lipsticks.
Application Experience
Applicator Design and Functionality
The pen-like tip is one of the product’s highlight features, designed to provide precise application similar to a lip liner. This design theoretically allows you to define the edges of your lips while also filling in the center—a potential two-in-one product.
In practice, I found the application somewhat inconsistent. The first few swipes often require multiple passes to deposit color, suggesting the product may need some “warming up” before it flows smoothly. Some users reported their pens arriving partially dried out, requiring significant pressure or numerous passes to achieve visible color.
For those who received perfectly functioning pens, the applicator does offer good precision, making it possible to define the lip line without additional products. Several reviewers mentioned using this specifically as a lip liner rather than a full-lip product, with positive results.
Formula Consistency
The consistency of the formula appears to vary from pen to pen. At its best, the product applies smoothly and deposits an even layer of pigment. At its worst, it can apply patchily, clinging to dry areas and emphasizing texture in the lips.
A common theme among negative reviews is the formula being dried out upon arrival. This issue significantly impacts performance, making application streaky and uneven. When functioning properly, however, the marker tip delivers a stain-like effect that can be built up for more intense color.
Color Payoff and Buildability
The color payoff for Natural Blush is surprisingly intense—perhaps too intense for those expecting a subtle tint from the “natural” name. Many users were caught off guard by the deep berry or maroon-like tone, which appears much darker on the lips than the packaging suggests.
The product is buildable, allowing you to layer for deeper color, but this also risks emphasizing any patchiness in the application. A light hand is recommended for those seeking a genuinely natural look, though achieving consistent coverage with minimal product can be challenging.
Wear Experience
Comfort and Feel on Lips
The COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain has a distinct feel on the lips that divides users. Upon initial application, the formula dries down quickly, which eliminates tackiness but can lead to a drying sensation. This dryness was one of the most frequently mentioned downsides in user feedback.
For those with naturally dry or textured lips, the formula can accentuate fine lines and dry patches, creating a less-than-flattering appearance. Even users who regularly exfoliate and hydrate their lips reported that the stain clung to imperfections and created a patchy look.
Some reviewers mentioned a slightly sticky residue after application, though this was less common than complaints about dryness. The formula doesn’t have the heavy or waxy feel of traditional lipsticks, which some users appreciated.
Longevity Claims vs. Reality
Perhaps the most controversial aspect of this product is its longevity. COVERGIRL markets this as a long-lasting stain, but user experiences varied dramatically on this front:
- Some reported the color fading within an hour
- Others found it lasted through a morning (3-4 hours)
- A handful of devoted fans claimed 5+ hours of wear
- Few if any reported it lasting truly “all day”
The product seems to be particularly vulnerable to:
- Eating and drinking (especially oily foods)
- Application of lip balm or gloss over the top
- Talking and general lip movement throughout the day
When the product does fade, some users noted it leaves behind a light stain that continues to provide some color, though not as vibrant as the initial application. This residual tint is what truly qualifies it as a “stain” rather than just a matte liquid lipstick.
Transfer Resistance
The transfer-proof claim holds somewhat true, but with caveats. After the initial dry-down period (approximately 1-2 minutes), the product does resist minor transfer when drinking from a glass or giving a quick peck. However, it’s not completely transfer-proof, especially when eating oily foods or when pressure is applied.
The transfer resistance comes at a cost—the drying formula that prevents transfer is the same quality that many users found uncomfortable on their lips. This tradeoff between comfort and performance is common among long-wearing lip products but feels particularly pronounced with this formula.
Color Analysis: Natural Blush (65)
Despite its name suggesting a subtle, flesh-toned pink, Natural Blush (65) presents as a deep berry or mauve-tinted color that appears significantly darker on the lips than in the packaging. This discrepancy between name and actual shade was a frequent point of confusion among users.
When applied lightly, the color can give a “just-bitten” look that some users found appealing. However, building up the color to achieve even coverage often results in a much deeper, more dramatic shade than most would consider “natural.”
For those with fair to light skin tones, this shade reads as a bold lip rather than an everyday neutral. Medium to deep skin tones may find it more wearable as an everyday shade, though still more pigmented than the name implies.
The shade does have a flattering depth that can enhance many skin tones when applied carefully, but potential buyers should be aware they’re getting a richer berry shade rather than a true nude or soft pink as “Natural Blush” might suggest.
Versatility and Use Cases
Layering Potential
One method many users discovered to mitigate the drying effects of the formula is layering with other lip products. The stain can serve as a base layer that extends the wear time of more emollient products applied on top.
Some effective combinations include:
- Applying the stain, then topping with clear or tinted lip balm
- Using the stain as a base for sheer lipstick or gloss
- Applying the stain only to the center of the lips and blending outward for a gradient effect
Be aware that adding moisturizing products on top will reduce the longevity and transfer resistance, essentially trading wear time for comfort.
Specific Scenarios Where It Performs Well
The COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain performs best in certain contexts:
- For photographs and short events where longevity isn’t crucial
- As a lip liner beneath other lip products
- For creating a subtle “blotted lip” effect when applied sparingly
- When a non-glossy, non-lipstick finish is desired
- In situations where minimal touching up is possible
It’s less ideal for:
- All-day wear without touch-ups
- Those with very dry or textured lips
- Anyone seeking a truly natural, nude shade (despite the name)
- Comfort-focused lip product users
Comparison to Other Lip Products
vs. Traditional Lipstick
Compared to traditional lipstick, the COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain:
- Is lighter weight and less creamy
- Leaves less product buildup on the lips
- Has less immediate transfer
- Typically doesn’t provide the moisture or comfort of cream lipsticks
- Offers a different, more diffused finish
vs. Other Lip Stains
In the lip stain category, this product falls somewhere in the middle of the pack:
- It’s more affordable than high-end Korean or French lip stains
- Has less staying power than some premium stain products
- Offers better precision than many liquid or gel-type stains
- Is more drying than newer-generation cushion or water-tint formulations
vs. Liquid Lipsticks
The differentiating factors from liquid lipsticks include:
- A lighter-weight feel on the lips
- Less complete coverage (more diffused or natural-looking)
- Less dramatic cracking or flaking as it wears
- Generally less longevity than premium liquid lipsticks
- Similar or worse drying effects compared to many liquid formulas
Value Assessment
At its price point (typically under $15), the COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain represents a budget-friendly option in the lip stain category. However, value depends heavily on:
- Whether you receive a properly functioning pen that hasn’t dried out
- How well the formula works with your particular lip texture and hydration level
- If the shade meets your expectations despite potential name/color discrepancies
For those seeking an affordable entry into the stain category or a precise application tool, it might represent decent value—provided you receive a fresh product. However, the inconsistent quality control suggested by many reviews indicates a risk factor in the purchase.
Long-term Use Considerations
A significant concern with this product is its longevity in the packaging. Multiple reviewers noted that even when the product worked initially, it dried out after just a few uses (sometimes as few as three applications). This rapid deterioration significantly diminishes the value proposition.
The marker format, while convenient for application, may contribute to this issue as the tip is exposed to air each time it’s used. There’s no way to “reseal” the product to prevent evaporation of the formula between uses.
For those who do purchase this product, storing it tip-down might help maintain moisture in the applicator, though no reviewers specifically mentioned this resolving the drying issue.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Precise pen-tip applicator
- Quick-drying formula
- Some transfer resistance once set
- Space-saving sleek packaging
- Vegan formula
- Works well as a lip liner
- Can create a natural “just-bitten” look when applied lightly
- Leaves a light stain even after the main color fades
Cons:
- Often arrives or becomes dried out quickly
- Very drying on the lips for many users
- Color name is misleading (darker/deeper than expected)
- Inconsistent application and patchiness
- Emphasizes lip texture and dry areas
- Shorter wear time than advertised for many users
- Requires proper lip preparation to look decent
- Fades with eating, drinking, and applying balm
Who Should Buy This Product
The COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain in Natural Blush would be most suitable for:
- Those with naturally hydrated, smooth lips
- Makeup users seeking a deeper berry stain (despite the “natural” name)
- People who prioritize a non-transferring formula over comfort
- Those looking for a precise application tool for creating defined lip lines
- Makeup enthusiasts willing to layer products for optimal results
- Those seeking a budget-friendly lip stain option
- People who enjoy a “just-bitten” lip look
- Those who previously enjoyed the 2013 version (with awareness of formula changes)
Who Should Avoid This Product
This product would likely disappoint:
- Those with chronically dry or textured lips
- People expecting a truly natural nude or soft pink shade
- Those prioritizing all-day wear without touch-ups
- Makeup users who dislike drying lip formulas
- Those unwilling to use additional lip care products in conjunction
- People looking for a moisturizing lip product
- Those who prefer creamy, opaque coverage
Final Verdict
The COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain in 65 Natural Blush is a product with notable strengths and significant weaknesses. When functioning properly, it offers a unique application experience and finish that some users will appreciate. However, consistency issues, misleading color representation, and the drying formula make it difficult to wholeheartedly recommend.
For those intrigued by the concept and willing to work with its limitations, it can deliver an attractive stained effect at an affordable price point. The precise applicator also makes it a good option for those who struggle with traditional lip liners.
However, for many users, the trade-offs in comfort and reliability may not be worth the benefits. The frequent complaints about dried-out products suggest quality control issues that potential buyers should consider before purchasing.
Overall Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Strong points for concept, applicator design, and price point. Points deducted for formula inconsistency, misleading shade name, comfort issues, and longevity concerns.
Purchase Recommendations
If you’re determined to try the COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain in Natural Blush, consider these tips:
- Purchase from retailers with good return policies in case you receive a dried-out pen
- Have a good lip balm on hand to apply before or after (recognizing this will reduce longevity)
- Exfoliate lips thoroughly before application
- Try applying with a very light hand first to adjust to the intensity of the color
- Consider purchasing during sales or promotions to mitigate the risk of disappointment
Alternatively, if the concept appeals but the execution concerns you, consider exploring other marker-type lip stains from Asian beauty brands or higher-end Western brands that may offer improved formulations.
For those specifically drawn to the color described but concerned about the formula, traditional lipsticks or tinted balms in mauve-berry shades might provide a more comfortable alternative, albeit without the staining properties.
Whatever your choice, remember that lip products are highly individual in how they perform—what works beautifully for one person may be disappointing for another due to differences in lip texture, personal preferences, and application techniques.
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