L'Oreal | Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick: Review and Swatches

Disclaimer: The products featured were provided for review.

Just when I thought that the liquid lipstick formulation cannot be further improved upon (i.e. Maybelline Stay Matte, L'Oreal Infallible Pro Matte), L'Oreal creates a new contender called the Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick ($13.99 for 7 ml). Boasting 18 flattering shades, this range promises a super pigmented, barely-there formulation that's comfortable and lightweight. I've got six shades from the collection to share with you today. So to read my review and see some swatches, click......

L'Oreal | Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick

Packaging:
The L'Oreal Rouge Signature comes in a frosted lipgloss tube. The applicator has a flexible neck and the doe-foot has a tapered, paddle shape that makes it very easy to precisely apply the liquid lipstick. If you look closely, you'll notice that the doe-foot has subtle grooves running along its length to help the applicator hold more product. Although these cost only $14, you are getting the same level of technology in packaging as you would with the higher end L'Oreal brands (ex. YSL, Shu Uemura).

Formulation:
Described as a lip "ink" that's two times thinner than a traditional lipstick, the L'Oreal Rouge Signature is a lightweight liquid lipstick with a thin, gel-like consistency. Pigmentation varies by shade and the formulation spreads easily, leaving an initial wet and hydrating sensation on the lips. Within 10 to 20 minutes, the lipstick fully sets to a matte finish but the color is not completely transfer-proof as is with most liquid lipsticks. A small amount will fade with eating and drinking and I've noticed that the color tends to migrate when my hair flys onto my lips and then grazes my cheeks or chin. With that said, the Rouge Signature will last through a meal without significant patching or fading. Depending on the shade, the lips will actually be left with a stain even when the surface pigments smudge off.

L'Oreal | Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick

Despite the decent but not amazing wear, the formulation has its strong points. Unlike most liquid lipsticks on the market, the L'Oreal Rouge Signature is not drying. The formulation feels quite nourishing for at least a couple of hours and the breathable, flexible finish never feels heavy or mask-like. See below for a description of the six shades I have here.
*Please Note*: For most of the lip swatches below, I did not wait long enough for the finish to fully set. However, please note that these liquid lipsticks will completely dry to a matte finish.

414 I Rule: This is a nicely-pigmented soft mauve-pink. The color is very flattering and office-friendly. Additionally, this shade leaves behind a surprisingly bright pink stain.

L'Oreal | Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick in "414 I Rule"

416 I Create: This is a soft rosy nude. The pigmentation is decent but I unfortunately made the mistake of swatching it right after "414 I Rule" so the pink stain left behind muddled the true color. The shade actually looks warmer and less pink as it appears in the swatches below.

L'Oreal | Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick in "416 I Create"

416 I Empower: A soft peachy nude, this shade is definitely sheerer in comparison to the rest. I noticed some settling and the finish is just a touch patchy.

L'Oreal | Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick in "418 I Empower"

426 I Am Worth It: Without a doubt the best-formulated shade out of the bunch, this is a bold and flattering pink-based red. The pigmentation is through the room and the wear time is extra impressive.

L'Oreal | Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick in "426 I Am Worth It"

430 I Stand: This is a unique light brown with just a hint of mauve or rose. The formulation is a touch sheer but the color is mostly buildable to an even finish.

L'Oreal | Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick in "430 I Stand"

432 I Dare: A deep cheery brown, this shade is decently pigmented but slightly patchy. The shade is way too dark for my comfort but I can see it looking quite stunning on deeper skin tones.

L'Oreal | Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick in "432 I Dare"

Overall, this is a liquid lipstick I would recommend. The liquid lipstick category is oversaturated as is but the L'Oreal Rouge Signature definitely offers something unique that's worth checking out. My personal picks are "414 I Rule", "416 I Create", and "426 I Am Worth It". Have you spotted the L'Oreal Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick in stores? Have you tried any shades? Share with me in the comments below!

L'Oreal | Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick

Availability:
L'Oreal is available in Canada at drugstores and mass market retailers nationwide.

Share: