β‘οΈ Quick Verdict - NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
- Best For: Matte lip finish, precise application.
- Strengths: Rich color payoff, comfortable wear, convenient pencil format.
- Drawbacks: May require lip balm for very dry lips, sharpening needed.
- Verdict: Excellent matte finish with easy application.
βοΈ Pros & Cons Explained
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Color Payoff & Finish | Users praise its highly pigmented, true matte finish. One-swipe color saturation is frequently mentioned. | Some users note that the matte finish can emphasize lip lines if lips are not prepped. |
| Comfort & Wear | Many find it surprisingly comfortable for a matte product, not overly drying. It wears well for several hours without significant transfer. | A subset of users with naturally dry lips report it can feel slightly dry over extended wear. Some touch-ups may be needed after eating. |
| Application & Design | The pencil format allows for precise lining and filling. It's convenient and portable. | Requires sharpening, which some users find inconvenient or wasteful. The product uses a fair amount of product per application. |
π§ Whatβs Included? & Why It Matters
| Key Component/Ingredient/Technology | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Unique Silicone Emollients | Contributes to the non-drying feel and smooth glide application, enhancing comfort. |
| Vitamin E | Provides antioxidant benefits and helps condition the lips, promoting a healthier feel. |
| Long-lasting, Non-drying Formula | Ensures extended wear time with high-impact color while minimizing discomfort often associated with matte finishes. |
| Tapered Pencil Design | Enables precise application for defining lip contours and filling in the entire lip, acting as both a liner and a lipstick. |
π° Is It Worth It? β Value & Cost Efficiency
| Aspect | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Longevity of Wear | Many users report good wear time, reducing the need for frequent reapplication throughout the day. | Some feel the product quantity diminishes quickly with sharpening. |
| Versatility | Acts as both a lip liner and a lipstick, potentially saving on purchasing two separate products. | Requires a specific sharpener for optimal use, which is an additional cost if not already owned. |
| Performance vs. Price | Users generally find the high-quality finish and comfortable wear justify the price point. | The amount of product might be less than traditional bullet lipsticks, leading some to perceive it as less cost-efficient per gram. |
βοΈ Alternatives vs NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
| Aspect | MAC Retro Matte Lipstick | NYX Suede Matte Lip Liner | NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finish Consistency | Intensely matte, can be very dry. | Matte but can be less smooth; sometimes patchy. | Consistent, velvety matte. |
| Application Precision | Requires a lip brush or very steady hand for sharp lines. | Good due to pencil format. | Excellent due to pencil format. |
| Comfort on Lips | Can feel very dry and accentuate lip texture. | Can be drying; less hydrating. | Relatively comfortable for a matte. |
| Longevity | Very long-wearing, minimal transfer. | Decent wear, but may fade unevenly. | Good wear, moderate transfer. |
| Color Range | Extensive and classic shade range. | Good variety, leans into trendy shades. | Diverse and iconic shades. |
π‘ FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Does the NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil need to be sharpened?
- Yes, it requires a cosmetic pencil sharpener with an opening wide enough for its jumbo size. NARS offers a specific sharpener, but other dual-blade sharpeners may work.
- Is this lip pencil drying on the lips?
- While it is a matte formula, many users find it less drying than other matte lip products due to its unique silicone emollients. However, individuals with naturally very dry lips may benefit from applying a hydrating lip balm underneath.
- How long does the NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil typically last on the lips?
- Its long-wearing formula can last for several hours without significant reapplication, especially if food and drink consumption is light. Some transfer may occur with eating or drinking.
π Positive Reviews - What Users Love
- The color payoff is incredible, one swipe gives full opacity, and the matte finish is so elegant without feeling heavy.
- I love how precise the pencil format is, making it easy to define my lips and fill them in perfectly.
- It's surprisingly comfortable for a matte product; it doesn't crack or feel overly dry even after hours of wear.
- The shades are beautiful and sophisticated, and they truly stay put without feathering.
- This is my go-to for a classic matte lip; it's reliable and performs consistently well every time.
π Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better
- The biggest con is that it requires sharpening, which feels wasteful and means I'm constantly buying sharpeners or losing product.
- While it's less drying than some mattes, my already dry lips still need a balm underneath for it to feel truly comfortable throughout the day.
- I wish there was more product for the price; it seems to run out faster than a traditional bullet lipstick.
- Some of the darker shades can be a bit tricky to apply perfectly without a very steady hand, especially if you're not using a separate lip liner.
- It does transfer, especially when eating or drinking, so don't expect it to be completely kiss-proof or smudge-proof.
π Key Details & Specifications
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Jumbo Lip Pencil |
| Finish | Matte, velvety |
| Key Ingredients | Silicone emollients, Vitamin E |
| Application | Can be used as a lip liner and/or full lip color |
| Sharpening | Requires sharpening (not twist-up) |
| Net Weight | 2.4g (0.08 oz) |
| Packaging | Pencil format with color-matched end |
| Benefits Claimed | Long-lasting, non-drying, high-impact color, precise application |
π Summary β Is This the Right Choice for You?
- The NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil delivers a luxurious, highly pigmented matte finish in a convenient pencil format.
- It stands out for its comfortable, non-drying wear compared to many other matte lip products, making it suitable for extended use.
- The precision of the pencil allows for easy application, acting effectively as both a liner and a lipstick.
- While it requires sharpening, which some users find a minor drawback, its performance in terms of color saturation and wear often outweighs this inconvenience.
- This product is an excellent choice for those seeking a sophisticated, velvety matte lip that prioritizes comfort and precise application, offering a strong balance between a rich finish and wearable texture.
