Drugstore Delight: Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink

Between buying presents and attending parties—and all the primping and little extras in between—the holiday season can be a very expensive time of year. So isn't it wonderful when you find an affordable lipstick that you can rely on for added drama in day-to-night looks, one that stays on through cocktails and dinners? Well, look no further than Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink ($11.99 at London Drugs).

I had the pleasure of discovering this liquid lipstick at the recent London Drugs #LDBeauty event in Whistler, where I walked away with 'Pioneer', the classic red in the shade range, as a PR sample. (10 shades are available altogether.) I wore it that very night to dinner, and again to another blog event, then again last weekend. This shade is a deep cherry red and a bit on the cool side, the exact sort of red I like.

The teardrop-shaped applicator with reservoir tip allows you to precisely line and fill in lips. For the best results, do an exfoliating lip scrub and remove any traces of scrub or lip balm beforehand. Resist the urge to press your lips together as soon as you apply—this will give the formula the best chance to set.

Once Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink sets, it will stay on your lips as though it's been tattooed on. The colour will remain vivid without fading for up to 16 hours, staying put through meals without kissing off on drinking glasses, napkins, or your date. On the lips it feels like a near-invisible veil of velvety colour—there's no slip but it's very comfortable to wear, even for someone prone to dry lips like I am. All you have to do is sit back and let the compliments roll in, which they have been doing every single time I wear this lipstick from friends and strangers alike. Talk about a true Drugstore Delight.