There were two key highlights in my high school chemistry class. One was the litmus test. Yes, that’s correct. It was a highlight. That syllabus was designed to inspire. Snoozing… The other highlight? When a classmate burnt her eyebrows completely off during a routine bunsen burner experiment… It’s not that funny… Okay, it’s a little bit hilarious. And actually it’s okay to laugh. The eyebrow-free girl certainly is. All the way to the bank. Word on the alumni circuit is she became a successful runway model.
Anyway, recently YSL launched a very fabulous new range of Glossy Lip Stains. Which apparently combine staying power with a glossy finish. I love a good lipstick/gloss combo and I’m always looking for the next best lip. Trend. I’m not looking to trade my current set for a trout pout anytime soon… So, I decided to conduct a highly useful (to lip colour lovers) lip-xperiment in my own ‘lab’ (kitchen).
The lip-xperiment? Lipstick vs Glossy Lip Stain.
Specifically MAC Mineralize Rich Lipstick in ‘Lady At Play’ (so apt, so true) vs YSL’s shiny new Glossy Stain Number 9. If you don’t know your MAC shade names/YSL numbering system off by heart (you should, there might be a test later), these lippies are both traffic stopping reds. See below…
What does high school chemistry have to do with a red lip you ask?
Well… To test the lip staining vs lip sticking power of these two divine red devils, I employed two litmus colour change ‘tests’. Using very scientific apparatus, like… A bagel.
Litmus Test 1 – Drinking.
It’s 9am. So I’m drinking tea. Keep it real peops.
MAC Lipstick: Duck egg blue tea-cup rim has changed colour to bright fire engine red.
YSL Glossy Stain: Three cups of tea in, lip stain still on. My lips. I also have the shakes. I thought this was the low caffeine tea.
Litmus Test 2 – Eating.
MAC Lipstick: Previously pale blonde bagel now looks like a (half eaten) red velvet version.
YSL Glossy Stain: Lips still stained, especially around my lip-line. In fact I look like I washed the bagel down with a large cup of… Blood. Am considering applying nail polish remover to remove… Kidding. That would also remove my lips.
Here’s the When To:
YSL Glossy Stain Number 9 glides on like a gloss and takes itself very literally when it comes to the ‘stain’. Use in the following scenario: lip colour reapplication is impossible. Because… A handbag didn’t go with your outfit. The only accessory you brought to the party? Your personality.
MAC Lady at Play Lipstick is a truly fabulous creamy lipstick. But it’s more ‘slick’ than ‘stick’. It slicks off under heavy duress. Like… Eating your lunch. Use in the following situation: limited glassware, many thirsty guests, you need a foolproof way to identify which glass is yours… (Especially since the guy in the corner sporting heavier concealer than Liberace and drinking the same coloured beverage as you? Is attempting to conceal a cold sore…)