Matte vs. Cream Lipsticks: Which Should You Choose?

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Author Name: Mia Barnes
Date: Friday July 8, 2022

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Different types of lipstick have their benefits and drawbacks. Before leaning into one, you should analyze what works best with your skin and daily routine. Matching makeup to yourself rather than adhering to every trend is essential. Here’s everything you need to know about the matte vs. cream lipsticks debate — and hopefully, it’ll help you see which works best for you.

When You Should Wear Matte Lipsticks

Matte lipsticks are perfect to use when you just want to pop a bit of color onto your face. In the matte vs. cream lipsticks debate, matte lipsticks tend to be more understated and can be as colorful or as muted as you like. They’re perfect for a nighttime look or for wearing in colder weather.

One of the best things about matte lipsticks is that you don’t have to use any lip liner with them, as they don’t run the way that cream or gloss lipsticks would. The only downside is that matte lipstick reveals any imperfections in your lips. If you’re worried about showing off chapped lips, keep them moisturized when you’re not wearing any lipstick.

When You Should Wear Cream Lipsticks

Cream lipsticks are a bit different. Those on the cream side of the matte vs. cream lipsticks debate will often say they prefer cream lipsticks because of how pigmented the color is and how shiny it becomes with lip gloss added on top of it. Cream lipsticks are tougher and thicker than other lipsticks, so you can bet they stay glued to your lips longer.

The great news is that cream lipstick is also hydrating, but it may be a bit thicker than what you’re used to. If you’re worried about it being too thick, especially in warmer months, opt for a lip gloss instead. Lip liner is also a must for anyone who doesn’t want their cream lipstick smearing throughout the day.

What Do Most People Prefer?

Trends have been leaning toward a more natural look for a while now, but that doesn’t mean that makeup is out. Makeup can be moisturizing and protect your skin, and it can also boost your self-confidence because it’s an art that takes skill to master. In that case, you should wear lipstick whenever you want — during the day or on a night out in town.

Matte lipstick has ruled in makeup trends for years, but as fashion and trends of the 2000s come back, glossy lips might be the next big thing to pay attention to. In the matte vs. cream lipstick war, the winner alternates depending on the trends that ebb and flow into society. Regardless, in 2022, people who wear makeup can wear what they want without either matte or glossy lips looking outdated.

Matte vs. Cream Lipsticks: Who Wins?

There may not be a true winner in the matte vs. cream lipsticks war. As trends emerge, different variations of lips will become stylish, and others will find themselves outdated. In 2022, trends seem to be diverting from the matte lip that has dominated the beauty industry for the last several years and leaning toward the glossy lip you can pair with cream lipstick. 

Still, you can pull off whatever style of lip you want. The most important part of beauty and fashion is that you’re wearing what you want and what makes you feel good rather than what everyone else says you should wear.

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