Hey makeup lovers! Today, let's dive deep into the Superstay Matte Ink City Edition from Maybelline. If you're on the hunt for a long-lasting, matte liquid lipstick with a vibrant color payoff, this line might just be your next holy grail. We're going to cover everything from the shades available to the formula, application tips, and overall staying power. So, grab your favorite snack, and let's get started!

What is Superstay Matte Ink City Edition?

The Superstay Matte Ink City Edition is a collection of liquid lipsticks designed to give you a bold, urban-inspired look that lasts all day. Maybelline promises a flawless matte finish that stays put for up to 16 hours, which is a pretty big claim! This edition is particularly known for its range of shades that reflect the vibes and energy of different cities around the world. Think edgy, modern, and totally Instagrammable.

Key Features to Consider

When we talk about the Superstay Matte Ink City Edition, several features make it stand out in the crowded world of liquid lipsticks:

• Long-lasting Formula: The most hyped feature is its impressive staying power. It's designed to withstand eating, drinking, and all the hustle of your day without budging.
• Intense Color Payoff: You get a vibrant, highly pigmented color in just one swipe. The shades are rich and true to their descriptions, ensuring you get the bold look you desire.
• Matte Finish: If you love a velvety matte finish, this lipstick delivers. It dries down completely matte without feeling overly drying (though proper lip prep is key!).
• Unique Shade Range: The City Edition offers a curated selection of shades inspired by urban landscapes, from deep reds to edgy nudes, ensuring there's a color for every mood and occasion.
• Arrow Applicator: The precise arrow applicator is designed for easy and accurate application, helping you achieve a crisp, clean lip line effortlessly.

Shade Range: Colors Inspired by the City

The Superstay Matte Ink City Edition boasts an impressive array of shades, each drawing inspiration from the unique atmosphere of different cities. Let's explore some popular colors:

Exploring Popular City-Inspired Shades

• Concrete Jungle: A cool-toned grey-ish nude, perfect for achieving that understated yet edgy look. It’s versatile enough for both daytime and evening wear.
• Ruler: A bold and empowering deep berry shade that commands attention. It embodies confidence and sophistication, ideal for making a statement.
• Explorer: A warm terracotta that brings a touch of earthiness to your look. It’s perfect for those who love a natural yet polished appearance.
• Voyager: A deep plum shade that exudes mystery and allure. This shade is perfect for evening events or whenever you want to add a touch of drama to your look.
• Amazonian: For those who prefer a touch of vibrancy, this bright coral shade is a fantastic choice. It’s lively and energetic, perfect for spring and summer looks.

Each shade is designed to capture the essence of urban life, offering a diverse palette to suit various skin tones and style preferences. With names that evoke a sense of adventure and metropolitan chic, the City Edition invites you to express your individuality and explore new makeup horizons.

Application Tips for Flawless Lips

To get the most out of your Superstay Matte Ink City Edition lipstick, proper application is key. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving flawless, long-lasting lips:

Achieving Long-Lasting Perfection

1. Exfoliate Your Lips: Start by gently exfoliating your lips to remove any dead skin. This creates a smooth canvas for the lipstick and prevents it from clinging to dry patches. You can use a lip scrub or a soft toothbrush for this step.
2. Hydrate Your Lips: Apply a thin layer of lip balm and allow it to absorb fully before applying the liquid lipstick. Hydrated lips ensure the matte formula doesn’t feel too drying and help prolong wear.
3. Outline Your Lips: Use the precise arrow applicator to carefully outline your lips. This helps define the shape and prevents the color from bleeding. If desired, you can also use a lip liner in a similar shade for extra definition.
4. Apply a Thin Layer: Apply a thin, even layer of the Superstay Matte Ink to your lips. Avoid applying too much product, as this can lead to a sticky or patchy finish. The formula is highly pigmented, so a little goes a long way.
5. Allow to Dry: Give the lipstick a few minutes to dry completely. Avoid pressing your lips together during this time to ensure a smooth, matte finish. Once it’s dry, you’re good to go!
6. Touch-Ups (If Needed): While the formula is long-lasting, you may want to touch up after eating a particularly oily meal. Apply a thin layer to the center of your lips and blend outwards for a seamless finish.

Following these steps will help you achieve a flawless, long-lasting lip look that stays vibrant and comfortable throughout the day. Remember, the key to a perfect matte lip is proper preparation and application!

Pros and Cons: Is It Worth the Hype?

Like any makeup product, the Superstay Matte Ink City Edition has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's weigh the pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right lipstick for you:

Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages

Pros:

• Exceptional Longevity: The primary selling point is its impressive staying power. It truly lasts for hours without significant fading or transfer, making it ideal for long days and events.
• High Pigment Intensity: The colors are vibrant and highly pigmented, providing full coverage with just one swipe. This ensures a bold and impactful look.
• Matte Finish: If you love a matte lip, this lipstick delivers a smooth, velvety finish that looks modern and sophisticated.
• Affordable Price: Compared to other high-end liquid lipsticks, the Superstay Matte Ink is relatively affordable, making it accessible to a wide range of makeup enthusiasts.
• Wide Availability: Maybelline products are widely available in drugstores and online, making it easy to find and purchase your favorite shades.

Cons:

• Can Feel Drying: Some users find the formula drying, especially with prolonged wear. Proper lip preparation with a hydrating balm is essential to combat this.
• Difficult to Remove: Due to its long-lasting formula, removing the lipstick can be challenging. An oil-based makeup remover is recommended for thorough and gentle removal.
• Tacky Texture: Applying too much product can result in a sticky or tacky texture. It’s crucial to apply a thin, even layer to avoid this issue.
• Not Transfer-Proof: While it boasts long wear, it’s not entirely transfer-proof. Some transfer may occur when eating or drinking, though the color remains largely intact.

Overall, the Superstay Matte Ink City Edition is a solid choice for those seeking a long-lasting, highly pigmented matte lipstick. However, it’s important to consider the potential for dryness and the need for careful application to achieve the best results.

Alternatives to Superstay Matte Ink City Edition

If you're not entirely sold on the Superstay Matte Ink City Edition, or if you're simply looking to explore other options, here are a few noteworthy alternatives that offer similar benefits:

Exploring Similar Options

• NYX Professional Makeup Soft Matte Lip Cream: Known for its comfortable, non-drying formula, the Soft Matte Lip Cream provides a velvety matte finish with a wide range of shades. It's a great option for those who prefer a more hydrating matte lipstick.
• L'Oréal Paris Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick: This liquid lipstick offers a lightweight formula with intense color payoff and a comfortable matte finish. It's designed to feel weightless on the lips while delivering long-lasting color.
• Revlon ColorStay Matte Lite Crayon: Combining the convenience of a crayon with the long-lasting power of a matte lipstick, the ColorStay Matte Lite Crayon is easy to apply and provides a comfortable, non-drying wear. It's perfect for on-the-go application.
• Milani Amore Matte Lip Crème: This lip crème delivers a highly pigmented, transfer-resistant matte finish that lasts for hours. It's enriched with moisturizing ingredients to keep your lips feeling soft and hydrated.
• ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip: A cult favorite known for its affordable price and extensive shade range, the Ultra Matte Lip offers a bold, long-lasting matte finish. While it can be drying, it's a great option for those who want intense color without breaking the bank.

Each of these alternatives offers a unique combination of features, allowing you to find the perfect matte lipstick to suit your preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize hydration, ease of application, or a wide shade selection, there's an alternative out there for you.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Lipstick For?

So, who should run out and buy the Superstay Matte Ink City Edition? This lipstick is perfect for:

Determining the Ideal User

• Those Who Need Long-Lasting Color: If you have long days, attend events, or simply want a lipstick that stays put without constant touch-ups, this is a great choice.
• Matte Lipstick Lovers: If you adore the look of a velvety matte finish, you'll appreciate the smooth, modern look this lipstick provides.
• Budget-Conscious Beauty Enthusiasts: Compared to high-end options, this lipstick offers excellent value for its price, making it accessible to a wide audience.
• Bold Color Advocates: With its highly pigmented shades, this lipstick is perfect for those who love to make a statement with their lip color.

However, if you have extremely dry lips or prefer a more hydrating formula, you might want to explore the alternatives mentioned earlier. Ultimately, the Superstay Matte Ink City Edition is a reliable and affordable option for those seeking a long-lasting, matte liquid lipstick with intense color payoff. Just remember to prep your lips properly and apply a thin layer for the best results!