Hey makeup lovers! Today, we're diving deep into the world of NYX and their XXL Matte Lipstick in the shade "Straps Off." If you're anything like me, you're always on the hunt for that perfect matte lipstick that doesn't dry out your lips, lasts for hours, and looks absolutely stunning. Well, buckle up, because we’re about to find out if this NYX offering lives up to the hype. I will share my personal experiences, application tips, longevity tests, and comparisons with similar products, so you get a complete picture of what this lipstick is all about.

What is NYX XXL Matte Lipstick Straps Off?

So, what exactly is the NYX XXL Matte Lipstick in Straps Off? To start, it's part of NYX's XXL line, which promises extra long-lasting wear and an intensely matte finish. The shade "Straps Off" is often described as a nude or neutral color with warm undertones. This makes it super versatile for everyday wear or for pairing with a bold, dramatic eye look. The formula is designed to be transfer-proof, meaning minimal smudging or fading, even after eating and drinking. One of the key selling points is its promise of comfort. Many matte lipsticks can feel like cement on your lips, but NYX claims this one is different, offering a smooth, flexible feel that moves with your lips rather than against them. The packaging is sleek and simple, with a clear tube that lets you see the shade inside. It comes with a standard doe-foot applicator, which is designed to make precise application easy. The goal here is to give you a matte lip that looks flawless without sacrificing comfort or longevity. It's about finding that sweet spot where you can rock a bold look all day without constantly worrying about touch-ups or dry, cracked lips. This lipstick aims to provide full coverage with just one swipe, delivering intense color payoff that truly makes a statement. The formula is also infused with ingredients that help to keep your lips hydrated, preventing the dreaded dryness that often comes with matte lipsticks. It's created to be lightweight, so you won't even feel like you're wearing anything on your lips, which is a major plus for all-day wear. And the best part? It's cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using a product that aligns with your values. Essentially, the NYX XXL Matte Lipstick in Straps Off is designed to be your go-to matte lipstick for any occasion, providing long-lasting color, comfortable wear, and a beautiful matte finish that enhances your natural beauty.

First Impressions

Alright, let's talk about first impressions, because that's always a big deal, right? When I first picked up the NYX XXL Matte Lipstick in Straps Off, the packaging immediately caught my eye. It's simple but chic, and you can see the actual color of the lipstick, which is super helpful. The doe-foot applicator felt soft and precise, which gave me confidence that I could get a clean application. The first swipe was impressive. The color payoff was intense – one layer was all I needed for full coverage. The shade "Straps Off" is a beautiful, warm nude that I think would look great on a variety of skin tones. It's the kind of nude that doesn't wash you out but instead enhances your natural lip color. What really stood out, though, was the texture. Unlike some matte lipsticks that feel dry and chalky immediately, this one felt smooth and almost creamy. It glided on effortlessly, and I didn't feel any immediate tightness or dryness. Now, I know initial feel isn't everything, but it was definitely a promising start. I made sure my lips were prepped with a little bit of lip balm beforehand, just to give it the best chance. As I applied it, I noticed that it had a slight sweet scent, which was pleasant but not overpowering. I also appreciated that it didn't bleed or feather around the edges, which is a common issue with some liquid lipsticks. The color looked even and consistent, with no patchiness or streaking. Overall, my first impressions were really positive. The color was gorgeous, the application was smooth, and the initial feel was comfortable. But the real test was yet to come: How would it hold up throughout the day? Would it live up to its claim of being long-lasting and transfer-proof? Only time would tell, but so far, so good.

Application Tips

Now, let's get into some application tips to ensure you get the most out of your NYX XXL Matte Lipstick in Straps Off. First off, exfoliate! Matte lipsticks can accentuate any dryness or texture on your lips, so starting with a smooth canvas is crucial. Use a gentle lip scrub or a soft toothbrush to buff away any dead skin. Next, hydrate. Apply a thin layer of lip balm and let it sink in for a few minutes before applying the lipstick. This will help prevent your lips from drying out and keep the lipstick looking smooth. When you're ready to apply the lipstick, use the doe-foot applicator that comes with the product. Start by outlining your Cupid's bow and then trace the rest of your lip line. This will create a defined shape and prevent the color from bleeding. Fill in the rest of your lips with the applicator, using smooth, even strokes. One layer is usually enough for full coverage, but if you want to build up the intensity, you can apply a second thin layer after the first one has dried completely. Avoid applying too much product, as this can make the lipstick feel heavy and uncomfortable. If you accidentally apply too much, use a clean lip brush or your fingertip to gently blot away the excess. For a super precise application, use a lip brush to apply the lipstick, especially around the edges. This will give you more control and help you create a clean, crisp line. If you make any mistakes, don't panic! Use a small amount of concealer on a fine-tipped brush to clean up the edges and create a perfect lip line. To make the lipstick last even longer, try blotting your lips with a tissue after applying the first layer, and then apply a second layer. This will help the color adhere to your lips and prevent it from transferring. Finally, avoid rubbing your lips together after applying the lipstick, as this can disrupt the formula and cause it to wear unevenly. Let the lipstick dry completely for a few minutes before eating or drinking. Follow these tips, and you'll be rocking a flawless matte lip that lasts all day!

Longevity Test

Okay, guys, this is where the rubber meets the road. The longevity test! We all want a lipstick that can keep up with our busy lives, right? So, how did the NYX XXL Matte Lipstick in Straps Off perform in terms of staying power? I applied the lipstick in the morning after my usual lip prep routine (exfoliating and moisturizing). I made sure to apply a thin, even layer and let it dry completely before heading out. Throughout the day, I drank coffee, ate lunch, and snacked. I consciously avoided reapplying the lipstick to really put it to the test. After about three hours, I noticed a slight fading on the inner part of my lips, but the color was still pretty vibrant overall. It wasn't patchy or uneven, just a subtle fading. After lunch (a sandwich, so nothing too messy), the fading was a bit more noticeable, but the outer edges of my lips still looked perfect. There was some transfer onto my coffee cup and food, but not as much as I expected. By the six-hour mark, the lipstick had faded considerably, especially in the center of my lips. However, it still looked decent, and I didn't feel the need to reapply immediately. There was no cracking or flaking, which was a major plus. After eight hours, the lipstick was mostly gone, but it had left a subtle stain on my lips, which was actually quite flattering. Overall, I was pretty impressed with the longevity of this lipstick. It definitely lived up to its claim of being long-lasting, although it wasn't completely transfer-proof. I would say it's a solid choice for a day at the office or a casual outing, but you might want to reapply it after a meal if you want to maintain that fresh, just-applied look. To maximize its staying power, I recommend using a lip liner to create a base and blotting your lips after each application. And remember, everyone's experience may vary depending on their eating and drinking habits, as well as their natural lip chemistry.

Pros and Cons

Let's break it down, shall we? Every product has its ups and downs, and the NYX XXL Matte Lipstick in Straps Off is no exception. Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons I’ve noticed:

Pros:

• Intense Color Payoff: One swipe is all you need for full coverage.
• Long-Lasting: It stays put for a decent amount of time, even through eating and drinking.
• Comfortable Formula: It doesn’t feel overly drying or tight on the lips.
• Beautiful Shade: "Straps Off" is a versatile nude that complements various skin tones.
• Easy Application: The doe-foot applicator makes it easy to apply precisely.
• Cruelty-Free: Always a plus for ethical shoppers.

Cons:

• Not Completely Transfer-Proof: Some transfer can occur, especially after eating or drinking.
• May Require Reapplication: Depending on your activities, you might need to touch it up throughout the day.
• Fading on Inner Lips: The color tends to fade on the inner part of the lips after a few hours.
• Exfoliation is Key: You need to exfoliate your lips beforehand to prevent the lipstick from accentuating dryness.

Alternatives to Consider

If the NYX XXL Matte Lipstick in Straps Off isn’t quite your cup of tea, or if you’re simply curious about other options, here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink: Known for its incredible staying power, this lipstick is a favorite among those who want a long-lasting matte finish. However, some people find it a bit drying, so make sure to moisturize your lips well beforehand.
• ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip: This is a budget-friendly option that offers a wide range of colors and a super matte finish. It can be a bit drying, so pair it with a good lip balm.
• Huda Beauty Liquid Matte Lipstick: This lipstick is known for its smooth, comfortable formula and long-lasting wear. It’s a bit pricier than the NYX option, but many people swear by its quality.
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick: Another high-end option, this lipstick offers intense color payoff and a long-lasting matte finish. It’s also known for being relatively comfortable to wear.
• L'Oréal Paris Rouge Signature Matte Lip Stain: This lip stain offers a lightweight, comfortable formula and a beautiful matte finish. It’s not as long-lasting as some of the other options, but it’s a great choice for everyday wear.

Final Thoughts

So, what's the final verdict on the NYX XXL Matte Lipstick in Straps Off? Overall, I'd say it's a solid choice for anyone looking for a long-lasting, comfortable matte lipstick. The color payoff is fantastic, the application is easy, and the formula doesn't feel overly drying. While it's not completely transfer-proof and may require some reapplication throughout the day, it still holds up pretty well compared to other matte lipsticks on the market. I especially appreciate that it's cruelty-free and comes at an affordable price point. If you're a fan of nude lipsticks and want something that will last through your morning coffee and lunchtime chat, I definitely recommend giving this one a try. Just remember to exfoliate and moisturize your lips beforehand to get the best results. Whether you're heading to work, a casual outing, or a special event, the NYX XXL Matte Lipstick in Straps Off is a reliable option that will keep your lips looking fabulous without sacrificing comfort.