A New Collaboration from M.A.C. Cosmetics That Brings Back Nostalgia
M.A.C. Cosmetics has always been a go-to for makeup lovers, but it’s been a while since I felt the urge to check their website for new releases. However, their latest collaboration has brought me back to the days of excitement over a new product launch. In celebration of National Lipstick Day, the brand partnered with two celebrities—model Alex Consani and rapper J.T.—to release limited edition lip combo kits. These kits are designed to be versatile and easy to use, offering a complete lip look without needing other products from your collection.
Each kit includes a variety of lip formulas in shades that both Consani and J.T. favor. Consani's selection features a lip pencil in Whirl, the Macximal Silky Matte Lipstick in Warm Teddy, and the Squirt Plumping Gloss Stick in Clear. However, J.T.'s bundle caught my attention immediately. It includes nostalgic items like the Chestnut Lip Pencil, the Macximal Silky Matte Lipstick in Lipstick Snob, and the Clear Lipglass. The combination is not only stylish but also practical for everyday wear.
As a limited edition, J.T.’s collection has already sold out online, thanks to the buzz on social media platforms like TikTok. While it's no longer available at most online retailers, you can still find it at select freestanding stores. The good news is that all the products included in the kit are part of M.A.C.'s permanent collection, so you can purchase them individually if you missed the drop.
If you're thinking about visiting your local M.A.C. store, I highly recommend it. I've been wearing this lip combination non-stop, and I don't plan on stopping anytime soon. Here are some of the standout products from the collaboration:
- MAC M·a·cximal Silky Matte Lipstick in Lipstick Snob
- MAC Lip Liner Pencil in Chestnut
- MAC Clear Lipglass Lip Gloss
The Formula: What Makes These Products Stand Out
The main highlight of J.T.’s kit is the Lipstick Snob lipstick. This light, neutral pink comes in M.A.C.'s "macximal" matte formula, which delivers a high concentration of pigment without any shine. Compared to the brand's retromatte formula, which can sometimes feel dry, this version glides smoothly onto the lips without tugging. It also has excellent staying power, making it ideal for long days.
Another key product in the set is the Clear Lipglass. Known for its thick and tacky texture, this gloss is a bit controversial among users. Some may find it challenging, especially if they have long hair, as it can stick to strands. However, I believe it's one of the glossiest lip products on the market, and its viscosity ensures long-lasting wear. I recommend trying it in person at a M.A.C. counter before purchasing, as it's best to experience the product firsthand.
The Chestnut Lip Pencil is another staple in the collection. This deep brown shade enhances lighter lip colors, giving them a more refined appearance. It works well with the Lipstick Snob, transforming the pink into something more sophisticated.
Application Tips for the Perfect Look
When applying the kit’s products, I start with the lip pencil, outlining my lips using an overlining technique. I then blend the liner out to create a soft gradient. Next, I apply the Lipstick Snob to the center of my lips and pat it in with my fingers. I avoid applying too much, as it can overpower the lip liner.
Finally, I add the Clear Lipglass to the center of my lips and blend it outward. This helps keep the colors from blending too much and allows me to control where the gloss ends up.
Wear Time and Longevity
This combination is one of my longest-wearing lip looks. I usually get around three hours of perfect wear before needing to eat, and even then, the color only fades slightly in the center. I typically reapply the lipstick and gloss myself to keep the look fresh, not because the formula becomes uncomfortable or patchy.
M.A.C. has truly mastered the art of comfortable, long-wear lip products. Their attention to detail and quality make these items a must-have in any makeup bag.
Additional Recommendations from M.A.C.
Beyond the collaboration, there are several other M.A.C. products that I always recommend. These include:
- MAC Skinfinish Sunstruck Matte Bronzer Powder in Matte Deep Golden – A favorite bronzers for warm summer months.
- MAC Powder Blush in Melba – One of the best powder blushes on the market.
- MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Powder Highlighter in Global Glow – Ideal for those with neutral undertones.
- Hyper Real Serumizer – A top-tier skin prep product that I consider a personal favorite.
- Strobe Beam Liquid Blush – A recent favorite with the shade Unsweetened being my go-to choice.
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